bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic Consequences of Purine Nucleotide Imbalance inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Saint-Marc Christelle , Pinson Benoît , Coulpier Fanny , Jourdren Laurent , Lisova Olesia , Daignan-Fornier Bertrand
Published: July 2009

Coordinating homeostasis of multiple metabolites is a major task for living organisms, and complex interconversion pathways contribute to achieving the proper balance of metabolites. AMP deaminase (AMPD) is such an interconversion enzyme that allows IMP synthesis from AMP. In this article, we show that, under specific conditions, lack of AMPD activity impairs growth. Under these conditions, we found that the intracellular guanylic nucleotide pool was severely affected. In vivo studies of two AMPD homologs, Yjl070p and Ybr284p, indicate that these proteins have no detectable AMP, adenosine, or adenine deaminase activity; we show that overexpression of YJL070c instead mimics a loss of AMPD function. Expression of the yeast transcriptome was monitored in a AMPD-deficient mutant in a strain overexpressing YJL070c and in cells treated with the immunosuppressive drug mycophenolic acid, three conditions that lead to severe depletion of the guanylic nucleotide pool. These three conditions resulted in the up- or downregulation of multiple transcripts, 244 of which are common to at least two conditions and 71 to all three conditions. These transcriptome results, combined with specific mutant analysis, point to threonine metabolism as exquisitely sensitive to the purine nucleotide balance.
Chromosome Aberrations Resulting From Double-Strand DNA Breaks at a Naturally Occurring Yeast Fragile Site Composed of Inverted Ty Elements Are Independent of Mre11p and Sae2p
Authors: Casper Anne M , Greenwell Patricia W , Tang Wei , Petes Thomas D
Published: July 2009

Genetic instability at palindromes and spaced inverted repeats (IRs) leads to chromosome rearrangements. Perfect palindromes and IRs with short spacers can extrude as cruciforms or fold into hairpins on the lagging strand during replication. Cruciform resolution produces double-strand breaks (DSBs) with hairpin-capped ends, and Mre11p and Sae2p are required to cleave the hairpin tips to facilitate homologous recombination. Fragile site 2 (FS2) is a naturally occurring IR in Saccharomyces cerevisiae composed of a pair of Ty1 elements separated by ∼280 bp. Our results suggest that FS2 forms a hairpin, rather than a cruciform, during replication in cells with low levels of DNA polymerase. Cleavage of this hairpin results in a recombinogenic DSB. We show that DSB formation at FS2 does not require Mre11p, Sae2p, Rad1p, Slx4p, Pso2p, Exo1p, Mus81p, Yen1p, or Rad27p. Also, repair of DSBs by homologous recombination is efficient in mre11 and sae2 mutants. Homologous recombination is impaired at FS2 in rad52 mutants and most aberrations reflect either joining of two broken chromosomes in a “half crossover” or telomere capping of the break. In support of hairpin formation precipitating DSBs at FS2, two telomere-capped deletions had a breakpoint near the center of the IR. In summary, Mre11p and Sae2p are not required for DSB formation at FS2 or the subsequent repair of these DSBs.
Frequent rearrangement may explain the structural heterogeneity in the 11th genome segment of lapine rotaviruses — Short communication
Authors: Bányai Krisztián , Matthijnssens Jelle , Szücs György , Forgách Petra , Erdélyi Károly , van Ranst Marc , Lorusso Eleonora , Decaro Nicola , Elia Gabriella , Martella Vito
Published: July 2009

In rotaviruses, intragenic recombination or gene rearrangement occurs almost exclusively in the genome segments encoding for non-structural proteins. Rearranged RNA originates by mechanisms of partial sequence duplications and deletions or insertions of non-templated nucleotides. Of interest, epidemiological investigations have pointed out an unusual bias to rearrangements in genome segment 11, notably in rotavirus strains of lapine origin, as evidenced by the detection of numerous lapine strains with super-short genomic electropherotype. The sequence of the full-length genome segment 11 of two lapine strains with super-short electropherotype, LRV-4 and 3489/3, was determined and compared with rearranged and normal cognate genome segments of lapine rotaviruses. The rearranged genome segments contained head-to-tail partial duplications at the 3′ end of the main ORF encoding NSP5. Unlike the strains Alabama and B4106, intermingled stretches of non-templated sequences were not present in the accessory RNA of LRV-4 and 3489/3, while multiple deletions were mapped, suggesting the lack of functional constraints. Altogether, these findings suggest that independent rearrangement events have given origin to the various lapine strains that have super-short genome pattern.
First detection and dominance of Nosema ceranae in Hungarian honeybee colonies
Authors: Tapaszti Zsuzsanna , Forgách Petra , Kővágó Csaba , Békési László , Bakonyi Tamás , Rusvai Miklós
Published: July 2009

Microsporidiosis (nosema disease) of the European honeybee (
Apis mellifera
L.) is present in bee colonies worldwide. Until recently,
Nosema apis
had been regarded as the causative agent of the disease, which may have many negative effects on the colony and cause heavy economic losses in apicultures. Another microsporidium species,
Nosema ceranae
, was reported to infest the Asian honeybee (
Apis ceranae
), but both honeybee species are susceptible to both microsporidia. In the European honeybee
N. ceranae
was first detected in Spain in the year 2006. As it is difficult to distinguish
N. ceranae
and
N. apis
morphologically, a rapid and accurate assay has been developed to differentiate
N. apis
and
N. ceranae
based on polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) of the partial large subunit ribosomal RNA. The assay was tested on 38
Nosema
-infested bee samples, which were collected from geographically distant Hungarian bee colonies representing all regions of the country. Only one sample contained
N. apis
, and in the other 37 samples
N. ceranae
was detected, which indicates the dominance of
N. ceranae
in Hungarian apiaries. This is the first report on the presence of
N. ceranae
in Hungary.
Vitrification of cleavage stage mouse embryos by the cryoloop procedure
Authors: Klambauer Philip , Keresztes Zsuzsa , Kanyó Katalin , Varga Erika , Kriston Rita , Vass Nóra , Jávor András , Konc János , Solti László , Cseh Sándor
Published: July 2009

By decreasing the volume of the cryoprotective solution it is possible to increase dramatically the freezing speed and — at the same time — reduce the toxicity and osmotic side effects of cryoprotectants (CPA). The objective of our study was to vitrify Day-3 cleavage stage mouse embryos (n = 229) with the cryoloop technology using a new composition of vitrification media. Embryos were exposed to a 2-step loading of CPA, ethylene glycol (EG) and propylene glycol (PG), before being placed on the surface of a thin filmy layer formed from the vitrification solution in a small nylon loop, then they were rapidly submerged into liquid nitrogen. After warming, the CPA was diluted out from the embryos by a 3-step procedure. Survival of embryos was based on morphological appearance after thawing and continued development to expanded blastocysts upon subsequent 48-hour culture. Embryos of the two control groups were either treated likewise except that they were not vitrified, or cultured
in vitro
without any treatment. Our data show that a high percentage of embryos survived (92.7%) vitrification in the mixture of EG and PG combined with cryoloop carrier and developed normally (89.1%)
in vitro
after thawing. To our knowledge this is the first report of the successful vitrification of cleavage stage mouse embryos using VitroLoop vitrification procedure.
Comparison of traditional and modified (VitMaster) methods of rabbit embryo vitrification
Authors: Papis Krzysztof , Korwin-Kossakowski Maciej , Wenta-Muchalska Elżbieta
Published: July 2009

In spite of their cryobiological efficacy, minimum-volume vitrification methods suffer from the risk of microbiological contamination and are technically and/or manually demanding. In this study, the effects of a traditional, slightly modified vitrification method and vitrification using supercooled liquid nitrogen (VitMaster) applied for rabbit morula-stage embryos were compared. Embryos were equilibrated in a solution containing 1,2-propanediol (2.72 M) and glycerol (1.36 M) for 7 min and vitrified in 0.25-ml insemination straws after 1-min exposure to a vitrification solution containing additionally 1.0 M sucrose. Cooling was performed in ‘normal’ or supercooled liquid nitrogen. Regardless of the cooling method applied, highin vitrosurvival and development rates of vitrified embryos were obtained. All embryos were intact after warming, and 61 out of 65 (93.8%) and 23 out of 24 (95.8%) embryos developed to the blastocyst stage after 48-hin vitroculture of embryos vitrified in ‘normal’ or supercooled liquid nitrogen, respectively. The results suggest higher developmental ability of embryos vitrified in supercooled liquid nitrogen (91.7%vs. 83.1% of embryos vitrified traditionally developed to more advanced, expanding and/or hatching blastocyst stages).In vivosurvival rate, tested for the traditional vitrification system only, revealed that 36.8% of embryos developed to term. The results show promise for establishing a fully successful method for rabbit embryo vitrification.
β‐Receptor Selectivity of Carvedilol and Metoprolol Succinate in Patients with Heart Failure (SELECT Trial): A Randomized Dose‐Ranging Trial
Authors: Zebrack James S. , Munger Mark , MacGregor John , Lombardi William L. , Stoddard Gregory P. , Gilbert Edward M.
Published: July 2009

Study Objective. To determine whether metoprolol succinate (a β1‐selective β‐blocker) remains β1‐selective compared with carvedilol (a nonselective β‐blocker) during upward titration of doses in patients with American College of Cardiology (ACC) stage C heart failure.

Design. Prospective, randomized, parallel‐arm study.

Setting. General clinical research center.

Patients. Twenty‐five β‐blocker‐naïve adults with New York Heart Association functional classes II or III heart failure (i.e., ACC stage C).

Intervention. Patients received either immediate‐release carvedilol 3.125 mg twice/day or controlled‐release metoprolol succinate 25 mg once/day; doses were titrated upward by doubling the dose every 2 weeks until reaching a maximum tolerated dose or a goal dose of carvedilol 25 mg twice/day and metoprolol 200 mg/day. Before each dose titration, terbutaline (a β‐receptor agonist) was infused at 6 mg/kg over 1 hour for determination of β2‐blockade.

Measurements and Main Results. Patients were studied at baseline and after each dose titration of metoprolol succinate (at 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg once/day) and immediate‐release carvedilol (at 3.125, 6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg twice/day). Glucose and potassium concentrations were measured twice serially at baseline, every 10 minutes during infusion, every 15 minutes for the first hour after infusion, and every 30 minutes for the second hour after infusion. The median area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) was calculated for changes in glucose and potassium concentrations. As assessed by glucose AUC, there was no significant difference in the degree of β2‐blockade between metoprolol 200 mg and carvedilol 25 mg. In contrast to these data, the degree of β2‐blockade as assessed by potassium AUC was greater for carvedilol compared with metoprolol across all doses.

Conclusion. In this ACC stage C heart failure population, carvedilol was nonselective at all clinically relevant doses, whereas metoprolol succinate was β1‐selective at low doses and became progressively nonselective at higher doses.
Lack of Effect of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate on Pharmacokinetics of Hormonal Contraceptives
Authors: Kearney Brian P. , Mathias Anita
Published: July 2009

Study Objective. To assess the potential for a drug‐drug interaction between a representative hormonal contraceptive (norgestimate‐ethinyl estradiol) and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (tenofovir DF), a prodrug of tenofovir, when coadministered.

Design. Thirty‐day, open‐label, fixed‐sequence, pharmacokinetic drug‐drug interaction study.

Setting. Single clinical phase I center.

Participants. Twenty nonpregnant and nonlactating women aged 19–45 years who were taking a norgestimate‐ethinyl estradiol oral contraceptive.

Intervention. Each woman received norgestimate‐ethinyl estradiol alone on study days 1–22, followed by norgestimate‐ethinyl estradiol plus tenofovir DF 300 mg once/day for 7 days during two consecutive 28‐day contraceptive cycles.

Measurements and Main Results. Pharmacokinetic assessments were performed over 24 hours on study days 1 and 29 (corresponding to matching days [day 21] of the two contraceptive cycles). Serum or plasma concentrations of tenofovir, norgestimate and its active metabolite deacetyl norgestimate, and ethinyl estradiol were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry assays. Geometric mean ratios (90% confidence intervals) for the pharmacokinetic parameters for deacetyl norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol were estimated by using analysis of variance and compared with the no‐effect criterion for bioequivalence. The tenofovir pharmacokinetic parameters were compared with historical controls. Pharmacokinetic parameters for deacetyl norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol were unaltered by coadministration of tenofovir DF. The tenofovir pharmacokinetic parameters in subjects receiving norgestimate‐ethinyl estradiol were consistent with historical control data for tenofovir.

Conclusion. Tenofovir DF and norgestimate‐ethinyl estradiol are not involved in a clinically significant drug‐drug interaction; tenofovir DF did not affect the steady‐state pharmacokinetics of norgestimate or ethinyl estradiol, including the concentration at the end of the dosing interval. Both drugs were well tolerated when coadministered. Tenofovir DF is unlikely to affect the pharmacokinetics of hormonal oral contraceptives.
Pharmacokinetics of Concurrent Administration of Fosamprenavir and Atazanavir without Ritonavir in Human Immunodeficiency Virus‐Negative Subjects
Authors: McRae MaryPeace , Clay Patrick G. , Anderson Peter L. , Glaros Alan G.
Published: July 2009

Study Objective. To quantify the pharmacokinetics of amprenavir and atazanavir (administered as the prodrug fosamprenavir) alone and in combination in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐negative subjects.

Design. Randomized, open‐label, three‐way crossover study.

Setting. Research facility.

Participants. Eleven men and 10 women who were seronegative for HIV.

Intervention. Subjects were randomized to 14‐day treatment periods of fosamprenavir 1400 mg once/day, atazanavir 400 mg once/day, or fosamprenavir 1400 mg plus atazanavir 400 mg once/day; after a washout period of at least 21 days between each treatment, they received the other two treatments.

Measurements and Main Results. Subjects underwent 24‐hour pharmacokinetic sampling at baseline and on day 14 of each treatment period. Primary outcome measures were area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) for amprenavir and atazanavir. Atazanavir significantly enhanced the exposure of amprenavir. When fosamprenavir was given alone, the geometric mean of amprenavir's AUC was 20.2 μg·hour/ml (95% confidence interval [CI] 19.1–21.2 μg·hr/ml). When given in combination with atazanavir, amprenavir had an AUC of 39.8 μg·hour/ml (95% CI 38.7–40.9 μg·hr/ml). Similarly, the Cmax for amprenavir increased from 4193 ng/ml (95% CI 3927–4459 ng/ml) to 6621 ng/ml (95% CI 6427–6814 ng/ml) when given in combination with atazanavir. In contrast, AUC and Cmax for atazanavir significantly decreased when atazanavir was coadministered with fosamprenavir; AUC decreased from 17.6 μg·hour/ml (95% CI 16.6–18.7 μg·hr/ml) to 11.8 μg·hour/ml (95% CI 11.3–12.3 μg·hr/ml), and Cmax decreased from 2507 ng/ml (95% CI 2379–2635 ng/ml) to 1832 ng/ml (95% CI 1752–1911 ng/ml). Adverse events were assessed at each study visit and 1 month after the subjects completed the three treatments. Both drugs were well tolerated. One serious adverse event (grade 3 acute pancreatitis) occurred and resolved without further incident.

Conclusion. Atazanavir 400 mg/day plus fosamprenavir 1400 mg/day significantly decreased concentrations of atazanavir compared with standard dosing regimens of each drug alone. This dosing scheme is not a recommended combination of dual, fully active protease inhibitors.
Frequency and Severity of Harm of Medication Errors Related to the Parenteral Nutrition Process in a Large University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Sacks Gordon S. , Rough Steve , Kudsk Kenneth A.
Published: July 2009

Study Objective. To determine the frequency of medication errors, as well as the severity of harm resulting from these errors, related to the prescription, transcription, preparation, and administration of parenteral nutrition formulations.

Design. Prospective, observational study.

Setting. 471‐bed, academic teaching hospital.

Patients. All adult and pediatric inpatients receiving parenteral nutrition between November 1, 2002 and May 31, 2004.

Measurements and Main Results. The occurrence of incorrect prescribing practices, wrong formulation preparation, operational system errors, order entry errors related to automated technology, and incorrect administration practices were documented. In addition, the specific step in the drug process—prescription, transcription, preparation, and administration—at the time that the error occurred was noted. Harm scores, to assess the severity of the error in relation to the safety of the patient, were assigned based on the National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention (NCC MERP). The rate of errors with parenteral nutrition was then compared with the rate of errors with other high‐alert drugs, both at our institution and at a health care consortium. A total of 4730 prescriptions for parenteral nutrition were written during the study period; 74 (1.6%) were associated with a medication error. Of these errors, 1 (1%) occurred during the prescription process (and was detected before preparation), 29 (39%) occurred during the transcription process, 18 (24%) during preparation, and 26 (35%) during the administration process. Sixty‐seven (91%) of the 74 errors were considered nonharmful, as defined by NCC MERP, whereas 6 (8%) contributed to or resulted in temporary harm to a patient. The rate of errors was similar between our institution and the consortium, both for parenteral nutrition formulations and for other high‐alert drugs. The overall incidence of medication errors during the study was 15.6 errors/1000 parenteral nutrition prescriptions compounded.

Conclusion. Our results demonstrate that medication errors related to the prescription, transcription, preparation, and administration of parenteral nutrition formulations occur and occasionally result in harm. Health care institutions should develop quality assurance programs to document compliance with published safe practice guidelines for parenteral nutrition.
Ovarian hormones are not required for PRL-induced mammary tumorigenesis, but estrogen enhances neoplastic processes
Authors: Arendt Lisa M , Evans Lindsay C , Rugowski Debra E , Garcia-Barchino Maria Jose , Rui Hallgeir , Schuler Linda A
Published: July 2009

Epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that increased prolactin (PRL) exposure raises the risk of invasive estrogen receptor α (ERα)-positive breast cancer in women. However, the mechanism(s) whereby this occurs and the interactions with estrogen itself in this disease remain poorly understood. In order to investigate the role of ovarian hormones in the disease process, we employed a transgenic model neu-related lipocalin (NRL)–PRL in which transgenic PRL is directed to mammary epithelial cells by the PRL- and estrogen-insensitive NRL promoter, mimicking the endogenous PRL expression within the breast observed in women. This high local exposure leads to mammary lesion development and eventually carcinomas. Ovariectomy (ovx), shortly after puberty, did not alter the incidence or latency of PRL-induced mammary carcinomas, consistent with the independence of PRL from circulating estrogens as a risk factor for invasive breast cancer in women. However, chronic estrogen administration to ovx NRL–PRL females decreased the latency of both ERα-positive and -negative tumors. We identified multiple mechanisms that may underlie this observation. Elevated estrogen exposure cooperated with PRL to increase epithelial proliferation and myoepithelial abnormalities, increasing the incidence of preneoplastic lesions. Critical components of the extracellular matrix secreted by the myoepithelium were reduced with age, and transgenic PRL raised transcripts for tenascin-C and maspin, both associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis in subclasses of clinical breast tumors. Mammary pERK1/2 and pAkt, but not phosphorylated Stat5, were markedly elevated by local PRL. Together, these findings indicate that PRL employs multiple mechanisms to promote mammary tumorigenesis.
User Experiences of Different Treatment Cultures in Mental Health Care
Authors: Kogstad Ragnfrid Eline , Hummelvoll Jan Kaare , Eriksson Bengt G.
Published: July 2009

Background: Clients have mixed experiences with mental health services. Historically there have been quite different and also incompatible approaches to treatment in mental health care. Some antagonisms may have been overcome, but clients’ experiences still seem to mirror approaches that are in contrast to each other. Aim: To describe different treatment approaches as clients experience them, discuss essential factors in, and differences between the approaches and the degree to which they appear corresponding or antagonistic. Method: Qualitative content analysis of stories from approximately 492 users dealing with positive, negative, or both positive and negative experiences with the health service system. Results: Clients experience different treatment cultures side by side within the mental health care system. The cultures exist on a continuum where monologue and dialogic cultures represent endpoints. Conclusion: It is important to acknowledge the contrasts clients have experienced between different treatment cultures. Realizing the contrast between approaches, it emerges as important that clients are given a choice and can get the kind of treatment they prefer.
Impact and Flexural Strength, and Fracture Morphology of Acrylic Resins With Impact Modifiers
Authors: Faot Fernanda , Panza Leonardo H V , Garcia Renata C M Rodrigues , Cury Altair Antoninha Del Bel
Published: July 2009

Objectives:

This study evaluated the impact and flexural strength and analyzed the fracture behavior of acrylic resins.

Methods:

Eighteen rectangular specimens were fabricated of Lucitone 550, QC 20 (both unreinforced acrylic resins), Impact 1500 (extra strength impact), Impact 2000 (high impact) according to the manufacturers’ instructions. The impact strength was evaluated in notched specimens (50x6x4mm) and flexural strength in unotched (64x10x3.3mm), using three-point bending test, as well as, stress at yield, Young modulus and displacement at yield. Fragments from mechanical tests were observed by SEM. Data from impact strength, stress at yield and displacement at yield were analyzed by 1-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α=0.05). Young modulus values were analyzed by One-way ANOVA and Dunnett T3 multiple comparisons test (α=0.05).

Results:

Mean values of impact strength and stress at yield values were higher (P<.005) for Impact 2000 while Young modulus was higher (P<.05) for Lucitone 550; Impact 1500 and Impact 2000 showed significant values (P<.05) in the displacement at yield. Impact fractures of the all acrylic resins were brittle. Bending fractures of Lucitone 550 and Impact 2000 were brittle, QC 20 fractures were ductile and Impact 1500 showed brittle (75%) and ductile (25%) fractures.

Conclusion:

Within the limitations of this study, the Impact 2000 showed improved mechanical properties with high capacity of stress absorption and energy dissipation before the fracture.
FoldRate: A Web-Server for Predicting Protein Folding Rates from Primary Sequence
Authors: Kuo-Chen Chou , Hong-Bin Shen
Published: July 2009

With the avalanche of gene products in the postgenomic age, the gap between newly found protein sequences and the knowledge of their 3D (three dimensional) structures is becoming increasingly wide. It is highly desired to develop a method by which one can predict the folding rates of proteins based on their amino acid sequence information alone. To address this problem, an ensemble predictor, called FoldRate, was developed by fusing the folding-correlated features that can be either directly obtained or easily derived from the sequences of proteins. It was demonstrated by the jackknife cross-validation on a benchmark dataset constructed recently that FoldRate is at least comparable with or even better than the existing methods that, however, need both the sequence and 3D structure information for predicting the folding rate. As a user-friendly web-server, FoldRate is freely accessible to the public at www.csbio.sjtu.edu.cn/bioinf/FoldRate/, by which one can get the desired result for a query protein sequence in around 30 seconds.
Health Care Hassles of Caregivers to the Chronically Ill
Authors: Keith Pat M.
Published: July 2009

This research investigated variables that influenced hassles with the health care system among 320 informal caregivers of the chronically ill. Caregivers of the chronically ill usually have considerable contact with the health care system. The research shifted the focus from strain in the caregiver-recipient dyad to hassles with the health care system that occur outside the immediate care setting. Using data from interviews, four groups of variables were considered in relation to health care hassles: demographic characteristics, caregiver involvement, assistance from others, and barriers in the care setting. With the exception of age, features of care were more closely associated with health care hassles than were demographic characteristics. Older caregivers reported fewer hassles. Persons with less physical capacity, more involvement in direct care, and greater barriers to accessing care in the immediate setting experienced more hassles in obtaining health care. Needs for assistance with coordination of recipient's health and medical care were especially linked with hassles and suggested possible interventions.
Trait Routinization, Functional and Cognitive Status in Older Adults
Authors: Zisberg Anna , Zysberg Leehu , Young Heather M. , Schepp Karen G.
Published: July 2009

This study examined the associations between trait routinization and functional and cognitive as well as demographic indicators. A sample of American older adults living independently in a retirement community ( n = 80) were assessed regarding their functional status, cognitive status, and preference for routine. Robust associations between functional status and trait routinization were found, as well as correlations between education, age, and routinization. No association between routinization and cognitive status was found. The results suggest that trait routinization is linked with various aspects of well-being in older age. Various explanations regarding the role of trait routinization and its validity are presented.
The Effects of Race on Patient Preferences and Spouse Substituted Judgments
Authors: Pruchno Rachel , Cartwright Francine P. , Wilson-Genderson Maureen
Published: July 2009

Knowledge about the ways in which race affects decision-making at the end of life is minimal, yet this information is critical for providing culturally sensitive care at the end of life. Data matching socio-demographic characteristics of 34 black and 34 white patients with end-stage renal disease and their spouses reveal that there are no significant differences in the preferences to continue dialysis on the part of black and white patients. However, the substituted judgments of black and white spouses differ from one another, with black spouses being more likely to indicate that they believe that the patient would be more inclined to continue dialysis under a host of hypothetical conditions than white spouses. Structural equation modeling analyses revealed that differences in spouse substituted judgments between black and white spouses are explained as a direct function of race differences in perception of patient's health, and caregiver burden, and that indirect effects are associated with spouse's fear of death and participation in religious services. We conclude that these variables rather than race per se explain differences in end of life decision making.
Grandparents Raising Their Grandchildren: Tensions, Service Needs and Involvement with Child Welfare Agencies
Authors: Gladstone James W. , Brown Ralph A. , Fitzgerald Kerri-Ann J.
Published: July 2009

This qualitative study focuses on 22 grandparents who were raising their grandchildren and involved with child welfare agencies. We explored the tensions experienced by these grandparents, ways that child welfare agencies alleviate these tensions, and factors preventing grandparents from utilizing services. Tensions were grouped into 4 categories: feeling responsible for grandchildren; having limited financial resources; feelings toward the middle generation; and relationship with the child welfare agency. Grandparents received various types of support from child welfare agencies including help with child management, financial assistance, and emotional support. Factors discouraging utilization of services included the social worker's age, lack of trust, and agency policy. Our findings suggest that child welfare agencies need to examine their use of power and look at grandparents more as “consumers” than “clients,” in order to fully engage them in the helping process.
Dynamics of sodium dodecyl sulfate utilization andantibiotic susceptibility of strain Pseudomonas sp. ATCC19151
Authors: Jovcic B. , Begovic Jelena , Lozo Jelena , Topisirovic L. , Kojic Milan
Published: July 2009

Pseudomonas sp. ATCC19151 harbors a gene encoding a putative alkylsulfatase (sdsA). Here we report a growth ability of this strain in minimal media containing 0.5, 0.75, and 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate as the sole carbon source. The most prominent growth was detected for the minimal medium with 0.5% SDS, so this concentration of SDS was used to monitor Pseudomonas sp. ATCC19151 SDS biodegradation dynamics. Bacterial growth coincided with the disappearance of SDS. Antibiotic susceptibility was tested as well. Pseudomonas sp. ATCC19151 was resistant to six out of nine tested antibiotics, including ampicillin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, tobramycin, nalidixic acid, and gentamycin.
Time course of hematological parameters in bleeding-induced anemia
Authors: Markovic Snezana , Milosevic Marijana , Djordjevic Natasa , Ognjanovic Branka , Stajn A.S. , Saicic Zorica , Spasic M.B.
Published: July 2009

In order to investigate daily changes of hematological parameters in bleeding-induced anemia, we treated Wistar albino male rats by daily bleeding (1.5-2 mL of blood from the tail vein for eight days). Blood samples were taken before (on day zero) and on the first to eighth days of bleeding. The values of hematocrit, hemoglobin, and erythrocyte count decreased significantly after the second, sixth, and second days of bleeding, respectively. The number of leuko?cytes and platelets, as well as Heinz body levels, increased significantly after the third and second days of treatment. The percentage of reticulocytes increased significantly from the second day and attained the maximum level (32.55 ? 0.96%) on the eighth day.
Effect of different types of stress on adrenal gland parameters and adrenal hormones in the blood serum of male Wistar rats
Authors: Adzic M. , Djordjevic Ana , Djordjevic Jelena , Niciforovic Ana , Radojcic Marija
Published: July 2009

In the present study, we examined gross changes in the mass of whole adrenal glands and that of the adrenal cortex and medulla in mature male Wistar rats subjected to three different stress types: acute, chronic, and combined, i.e., chronic followed by acute stress. These parameters were correlated with adrenal activity as judged from serum levels of corticosterone and catecholamine, respectively, as well as with serum levels of ACTH and glucose. Under all three conditions, we observed bilaterally asymmetric and stress-type-independent hypertrophy of whole adrenals, as well as adrenal cortices and medullas. Under acute and combined stress, adrenal hypertrophy was followed by increase of adrenal hormones in the blood serum. However, under chronic stress, both cortical and medullar activities as judged from low or unaltered levels of the respective hormones and glucose were compromised and disconnected from the input signal of ACTH. Since all of the studied adrenal activities could be restored by subsequent acute stress, it is concluded that chronic isolation can be viewed as partly maladaptive stress with characteristics resembling stress resistance rather than the stress exhaustion stage of the general adaptation syndrome.
Influence of catalase on the radiosensitivity of Fanconi anemia lymphocytes in vitro
Authors: Petrovic Sandra , Vujic Dragana , Guc-Scekic Marija , Leskovac Andreja , Jevtic Dragana , Joksic Gordana
Published: July 2009

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a genetic disease characterized by progressive pancytopenia and cancer susceptibil?ity. The clinical and cellular phenotypes of Fanconi anemia are associated with a set of redox abnormalities, indicating that FA is an oxidative stress-related disorder. Fanconi anemia cells are highly sensitive to DNA clastogen agents, but their response to ionizing radiation is still unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro radiosensitivity of Fanconi anemia homozygotes and heterozygotes, and to assess the contribution of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) to the overall radiobiological response of the cells. The incidence of radiation-induced lymphocyte micronuclei was used as the indicator of radiation sensitivity in vitro, whereas the activity of antioxidant enzymes was determined in erythrocytes. Patients with FA exhibited a two-fold decrease in catalase activity, accompanied by lowered activity of SOD, and increased incidence of baseline micronuclei. In the entire group of patients (with one exception), a reduced yield of radiation-induced micronuclei in lymphocytes was observed, and this was categorized as a radioresistant response. A mild radioresistant in vitro response was also observed in carrier-mothers, accompanied by reduced activity of catalase. The radiosensitivity of carrier-fathers was normal. The results of this study suggest that reduced activity of catalase is an important contributor to the radiobiological response of cells.
Immune-related health-relevant changes in natural populations of Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout, 1769): White blood cell counts, leukocyte activity, and peripheral organ infiltration
Authors: Kataranovski Milena , Radovic Dusica , Zolotarevski Lidija , Popov Aleksandra , Kataranovski D.S.
Published: July 2009

Basic immune-related health-relevant changes (total and differential white blood cell counts and activity, leukocyte tissue infiltration, and related pathohistology) were assessed in wild Norway rats from urban habitats. Comparative measurements were conducted in individuals of several laboratory strains of Norway rat in order to gain insight into environmental effects on the health of wild rats. Changes in leukocyte counts and activity along with tissue infiltration were noted only in wild rats, indicating systemic as well as tissue inflammation in these animals. Coincidence of these changes with chronic inflammatory pulmonary and kidney disease was observed in the majority of affected rats.
Antimicrobial activity of methanol extracts of Fontinalis antipyretica, Hypnum cupressiforme, and Ctenidium molluscum
Authors: Veljic M. , Djuric Aleksandra , Sokovic Marina , Ciric Ana , Glamoclija Jasmina , Marin P.D.
Published: July 2009

Antibacterial and antifungal activities of methanol extracts of the moss species Fontinalis antipyretica Hedw. var. antipyretica, Hypnum cupressiforme Hedw., and Ctenidium molluscum (Hedw.) Mitt. were analyzed. Antimicrobial activity was tested against Gram (+) (Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus flavus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram (-) (Escherichia coli and Salmonella enteritidis) bacteria. Antifungal activity of extracts was tested using the following micromycetes: Trichoderma viride, Penicillium funiculosum, P. ochrochloron, Aspergillus fumigatus, A. flavus, and A. niger. The methanol extract of Fontinalis antipyretica showed the strongest activity against the tested bacteria and micromycetes. The antibacterial effect of methanol extracts was higher against the G (-) (Escherichia coli and Salmonella enteritidis) than against the G (+) bacteria tested.
Ecophysiological and anatomical characteristics of the subtropical shrub Zanthoxylum acanthopodium (Rutaceae) in conditions of a temperate continental climate (Serbia)
Authors: Rakic Tamara , Sinzar-Sekulic Jasmina , Filipovic Biljana , Tadic Vanja , Stevanovic Branka , Tan Kit
Published: July 2009

The evergreen shrub Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. (Rutaceae), originating from warm temperate and subtropical Asia, has existed successfully in the Jevremovac Botanical Garden in Belgrade for more than 80 years. The seasonal pattern of water management in leaves, electrolyte leakage, essential oil composition, and leaf anatomy were examined in order to understand the resistance and viability of this subtropical shrub in the temperate continental climate of Belgrade, Serbia.
Genotoxicity testing of the methanol extract of the plant Cotinus coggygria and gallic acid on Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Stanic Snezana , Matic Sanja , Solujic Slavica , Milosevic Tanja
Published: July 2009

The genotoxic activity of methanol extract obtained from the stem of Cotinus coggygria Scop. and synthetic gallic acid were investigated using the Drosophila sex-linked recessive lethal test (or SLRL test). In the tested methanol extract of C. coggygria (1 g), 62.50 mg of pyrocatechol equivalent of phenols was detected. Also, 46.76 mg of flavonoids and 15.75 mg of nonflavonoids were observed in 1 g of dry weight of extract. Methanol extract of C. coggygria in a concentration of 5% and 5% synthetic gallic acid were shown to be clearly genotoxic, inducing sex-linked recessive lethal mutations on the X-chromosome of Drosophila melanogaster males in all three broods.
Temporal and spatial distribution of macrophytes in the Gruza Reservoir (Serbia)
Authors: Topuzovic Marina , Pavlovic Dragana , Ostojic A.
Published: July 2009

A survey of aquatic macrophytes in the Gruza Reservoir (Serbia) was conducted during the period 2007-2008. Detailed data on the actual condition of macrophytes were established and compared between four parts of the reservoir. The distributions of most aquatic macrophytes of the Gruza Reservoir are heterogeneous, with different values of the MMT and MMO indices and low values of the distribution ratio. Quantitative analysis indicates that the greatest diversity and abundance of species can be found in those parts of the reservoir with the shallowest water and greatest indentation of the shoreline.
Neobisium bozidarcurcici (Neobisiidae, Pseudoscorpiones), a new endemic cave pseudoscorpion from Montenegro
Authors: Dimitrijevic R.N.
Published: July 2009

A new endemic cavernicolous pseudoscorpion species, Neobisium bozidarcurcici, from Vodena Pecina Cave on Mt. Durmitor in Montenegro is described and illustrated. Its morphological characters and diagnostic features are analyzed and compared to those of its phenetically closest congeners, N. davidbengurioni Curcic & Dimitrijevic and N. mendelssohni Curcic & Curcic, from caves on Mt. Durmitor.
IGFBP-1 forms associated with placental cell membranes
Authors: Masnikosa Romana , Zivkovic Bogovid , Nedic Olgica
Published: July 2009

Fetal growth in utero depends on the proper development and function of the placenta. Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are critically involved in placental development. During pregnancy, an IGF-binding protein, IGFBP-1, which is produced by maternal decidua, plays an important role in the control of the bioavailability of IGFs. It has recently been proposed that cleavage of decidual IGFBP-1 by matrix metalloproteases is a novel mechanism in the control of placental development. The presence of IGFBP-1 in solubilized placental cell membranes, i.e. its association with the membranes, was detected in an earlier work. Herein, it is shown that IGFBP-1 from the solubilized membranes forms dimers, as well as high molecular mass complexes. IGFBP-1 dimers preferably contain the non-phosphorylated form of IGFBP-1. The high molecular mass forms are polymers of IGFBP-1 or its complexes with other membrane proteins. Dimerization of IGFBP-1, together with its association with the placental cell membrane, could serve as an additional mechanism of the regulation of IGF availability to the type 1 IGF receptors.
Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of antioxidants from rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and sage (Salvia officinalis L.)
Authors: Ivanovic Jasna , Djilas Sonja , Jadranin Milka , Vajs Vlatka , Babovic Nada , Petrovic Slobodan , Zizovic Irena
Published: July 2009

The aim of the present study was to isolate and characterize antioxidant extracts obtained from dried leaves of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and sage (Salvia officinalis L.), originating from the southern Balkan Region. The antioxidant fraction was isolated from the plant material by supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) fractional extraction under a pressure of 30 MPa and at temperatures of 40 and 100?C. In the present study, kinetic data and yields of antioxidant extracts obtained from dried leaves of rosemary and sage under different conditions were determined. Electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy assay on the ability of the extracts to scavenge stable 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals and reactive hydroxyl radicals during the Fenton reaction trapped by 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide (DMPO) showed that the investigated extracts had antioxidant activity comparable to that of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and commercial rosemary extract. The antioxidant fractions isolated at the higher temperature had higher antioxidant activities. A tentative analysis of the chemical composition of the antioxidant fractions obtained at the higher temperature was accomplished by LC-DAD and LC-MS analytical methods. Abietane-type diterpenoids, flavonoids and fatty acids were identified in the SC-CO2 extract of rosemary and sage.
Effect of micelles on the chemical speciation of binary complexes of Co(II), Nii(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) with succinic acid
Authors: Srikanth Bathula , Rao Srinivasa , Rao Siva , Sastry Kamala , Rao Nageswara
Published: July 2009

Speciation of Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes with succinic acid in the presence of anionic, cationic and non-ionic surfactants at an ionic strength of 0.16 mol dm-3 and temperature 303 K were investigated pH metrically. The existence of different binary complex species was established from modelling studies using the computer program MINIQUAD75. The decreased stability of the complexes with increasing micellar content was explained by electrostatic forces. The influence of the micelles on the chemical speciation is discussed based on the mole fraction of the medium. Distribution diagrams of various species of the complexes in relation to pH are presented.
Laser reflection spot as a pattern in a diamond coating: A microscopic study
Authors: Ristic Gordana , Trtica Milan , Bogdanov Zarko , Rakocevic Zlatko , Miljanic Scepan
Published: July 2009

Diamond coatings were deposited by the synchronous and coupled action of a hot filament CVD method and a pulsed CO2 laser in spectro-absorbing and spectro-non-absorbing diamond precursor atmospheres. The obtained coatings were structured/patterned, i.e., they were comprised of uncovered, bare locations. An extra effect observed only in the spectro-active diamond precursor atmosphere was the creation of another laser spot in the coating - a reflection spot. In order to establish the practical usability of the latter one, extensive microscopic investigations were performed with consideration of the morphology changes in the spot of the direct laser beam. Normal incidence SEM images of this spot showed a smooth surface, without any pulse radiation damage. AFM imaging revealed the actual surface condition and gave precise data on the surface characteristics.
Distribution of micro-amounts of europium in the two-phase water-HCl-nitrobenzene-N,N'-dimethyl-N,N'-diphenyl-2,6-dipicolinamide-hydrogen dicarbollylcobaltate extraction system
Authors: Makrlík Emanuel , Vaňura Petr , Selucký Pavel , Babain Vasily , Smirnov Ivan
Published: July 2009

Extraction of micro-amounts of europium by a nitrobenzene solution of hydrogen dicarbollylcobaltate (H+B-) in the presence of N,N'-dimethyl- -N,N'-diphenyl-2,6-dipicolinamide (MePhDPA, L) was investigated. The equilibrium data were explained assuming that the species HL+, + HL2 , 3+ EuL2 and 3+ EuL3 are extracted into the organic phase. The values of the extraction and stability constants of the species in nitrobenzene saturated with water were determined.
Rheological and droplet size analysis of W/O/W multiple emulsions containing low concentrations of polymeric emulsifiers
Authors: Vasiljevic Dragana , Parojcic Jelena , Primorac Marija , Vuleta Gordana
Published: July 2009

Multiple emulsions are complex dispersion systems which have many potential applications in pharmaceutics, cosmetics and the food industry. In practice, however, significant problems may arise because of their thermodynamic instability. In this study, W/O/W multiple emulsion systems containing low concentration levels of lipophilic polymeric primary emulsifiers cetyl dimethicone copolyol and PEG-30 dipolyhydroxystearate were evaluated. The concentrations of the primary emulsifiers were set at 1.6 and 2.4 % w/w in the final emulsions. Rheological and droplet size analysis of the investigated samples showed that the type and concentration of the primary lipophilic polymeric emulsifier markedly affected the characteristics of the multiple emulsions. The multiple emulsion prepared with 2.4 % w/w PEG-30 dipolyhydroxystearate as the primary emulsifier exhibited the highest apparent viscosity, yield stress and elastic modulus values, as well as the smallest droplet size. Furthermore, these parameters remained relatively constant over the study period, confirming the high stability of the investigated sample. The results obtained indicate that the changes observed in the investigated samples over time could be attributed to the swelling/breakdown mechanism of the multiple droplets. Such changes could be adequately monitored by rheological and droplet size analysis.
Yugoslav dissidents and the cold war
Authors: Bogdanovic Mira
Published: July 2009

During the cold war, Eastern Europe dissidents played a high-profile role as an instrument of anti-communist ideological subversion. In contrast, Yugoslav dissidents were relegated to a marginal status due to the extraordinary position of Yugoslavia between two opposing blocs. The expected explosive impact on the Soviet satellites of Yugoslavia's defection from the Soviet orbit in 1948, also turned Tito into an internationally famous dissident. After Tito turned his back on the Soviet Union, Yugoslav dissidents were practically of no interest to Western policy makers. They did not wish to antagonize Tito, because he was much more useful than a handful of dissidents who potentially could interfere with his role in the cold war game. The paper focuses on the functions of dissidents in the cold war rather than their self-image, their noble and sincere motives notwithstanding.