bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment Outcome in Psychiatric Inpatients: The Discriminative Value of Self-Esteem
Authors: Talbot France , Harris Gregory E. , French Douglas J.
Published: October 2009

Self-esteem has been identified as an important clinical variable within various psychological and psychiatric conditions. Surprisingly, its prognostic and discriminative value in predicting treatment outcome has been understudied.

Objective:

The current study aims to assess, in an acute psychiatric setting, the comparative role of self-esteem in predicting treatment outcome in depression, anxiety, and global symptom severity, while controlling for socio-demographic variables, pre-treatment symptom severity, and personality pathology.

Design:

Treatment outcome was assessed with pre- and post-treatment measures.

Method:

A heterogeneous convenience sample of 63 psychiatric inpatients completed upon admission and discharge self-report measures of depression, anxiety, global symptom severity, and self-esteem.

Results:

A significant one-way repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) followed up by analyses of variance (ANOVAs) revealed significant reductions in depression (η2 = .72), anxiety (η2 = .55), and overall psychological distress (η2 = .60). Multiple regression analyses suggested that self-esteem was a significant predictor of short-term outcome in depression but not for anxiety or overall severity of psychiatric symptoms. The regression model predicting depression outcome explained 32% of the variance with only pre-treatment self-esteem contributing significantly to the prediction.

Conclusions:

The current study lends support to the importance of self-esteem as a pre-treatment patient variable predictive of psychiatric inpatient treatment outcome in relation with depressive symptomatology. Generalization to patient groups with specific diagnoses is limited due to the heterogeneous nature of the population sampled and the treatments provided. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.
The Effects of Female Reproductive Hormones in Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Van Veen J. Frederieke , Jonker Barbara W. , Van Vliet Irene M. , Zitman Frans G.
Published: October 2009

Objective:

Although generalized social anxiety disorder (gSAD) is more prevalent in women, the role of female reproductive hormones in gSAD has never been investigated. Therefore, our aim was to make a first inventory of the influence of female reproductive hormones on gSAD symptoms.

Method:

Female patients with gSAD who had previously participated in our research projects in the University Medical Center Utrecht and the Leiden University Medical Center were recruited. A self-report survey with questions on the influence of menarche, the periods of the menstrual cycle, oral contraceptive use, pregnancy, lactation, postpartum period, and menopause on gSAD symptoms was returned by 46% of 140 women suffering form gSAD. Non-parametric statistical tests were used to analyze the data.

Results:

A subgroup of patients reported an influence of female hormonal cycle on gSAD symptoms. In this subgroup, statistical differences were found for the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. In the premenstrual period, patients reported more severe gSAD symptoms. During pregnancy symptoms decreased, but postpartum symptom severity returned to the same levels as before pregnancy.

Conclusions:

A subgroup of women with gSAD seemed vulnerable for the influences of gonadal hormones. Prospective research in women with gSAD, in which the gonadal hormones are assessed, is warranted.
Evaluation of General Psychopathology, Subjective Sleep Quality, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Obesity
Authors: Algul Ayhan , Ates M. Alpay , Semiz Umit Basar , Basoglu Cengiz , Ebrinc Servet , Gecici Omer , Gülsün Murat , Kardesoglu Ejder , Cetin Mesut
Published: October 2009

Objective:

Recently, the increasing rate of obesity has been elucidated as a major public health problem. The aim of this study was to examine the psychological distress, subjective sleep quality, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in a group of patients diagnosed with obesity.

Methods:

A total of 124 obese patients (32 of them Class I obesity (BMI: 30–34.9 kg/m2), 92 Class II obesity (BMI: ≥ 35kg/m2)) and 106 healthy control subjects were involved in the study. Subjects were evaluated with self-administered questionnaires including the Symptoms Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and Short Form 36 (SF-36). Several clinical and socio-demographic data were also recorded.

Results:

Class II obesity group had a significantly worse psychological status, quality of life, and sleep quality than control group. Although Class I obesity group did not differ from Class II and control groups according to sleep quality and psychological status, they had worse HRQOL than the control group. BMI scores positively correlated with the majority of subscales of psychological distress (SCL-90-R) and sleep quality (PSQI, ESS) and negatively correlated with all dimensions of HRQOL (SF-36).

Conclusions:

Obesity is associated with psychological distress, poor sleep quality, and reduced quality of life. Thus, obesity should be evaluated in a biopsychosocial manner, including management of patients' psychopathology.
Borderline Personality among Outpatients Seen by a Pain Management Specialist
Authors: Sansone Randy A. , Sinclair J. David , Wiederman Michael W.
Published: October 2009

Objective:

We examined the prevalence of borderline personality disorder among a sample of outpatients who were being initially evaluated by a pain management specialist.

Method:

Using two self-report measures for borderline personality disorder, the borderline personality scale of the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire-4 (PDQ-4) and the Self-Harm Inventory (SHI), we explored prevalence rates of this Axis II disorder in a sample of 117 participants.

Results:

According to the PDQ-4 and the SHI, 9.4% and 14.5% of participants, respectively, met the criteria for borderline personality, with 6.8% meeting criteria on both measures.

Conclusions:

In this insured population of pain patients, rates of borderline personality, as determined by both measures, were comparable to rates of borderline personality in the general population.
Elaboration of methods for detection of Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. phaseolicola on bean seeds
Authors: Balaz Jelica , Popovic Tatjana , Vasic Mirjana , Nikolic Zorica
Published: October 2009

Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. phaseolicola detection on artificially inoculated bean seeds was investigated. The method of the International Seed Federation - ISF (2006) was used. It includes bacteria extraction from seeds, isolation on semiselective media and checking the pathogenicity of investigated isolates. For verification of results, quick new methods of investigation were used (ELISA test and PCR). The results show that semiselective media MT (Milk Tween Agar) and MSP (Modified Sucrose Peptone Agar) can be appropriate for isolation of this bacterium. Pathogenicity of the investigated isolates was confirmed on cotyledon leaves of bean. ELISA test and PCR confirmed that all investigated isolates and reisolates belong to the bacterium P. s. pv. phaseolicola.
Elaboration of methods for detection of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli on bean seeds
Authors: Balaz Jelica , Popovic Tatjana , Vasic Mirjana , Nikolic Zorica
Published: October 2009

Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli detection on artificially inoculated bean seeds was investigated. The method of the International Seed Federation - ISF (2006) was used. It included bacteria extraction from seeds and isolation on semiselective media with pathogenicity test of the investigated isolates. ELISA and PCR were used for verification of results. The results showed that the semiselective media MT (Milk Tween Agar) and XCP1 (Xanthomonas campestris pv. phaseoli Agar) were very suitable for isolation of X. a. pv. phaseoli. Pathogenicity was confirmed on young bean plants. ELISA test and PCR confirmed that all investigated isolates and reisolates belong to the bacterium X. a. pv. phaseoli.
Morphological properties of the species Thymus pulegioides L. subsp. effusus Host and Plantago media L. growing upon dolomite and limestone rocks
Authors: Janjic Nina
Published: October 2009

The study focused on investigating the effect of geological parent material on morphological properties of the weed species Thymus pulegioides L. subsp. effusus Host and Plantago media L. The investigation was carried out at two sites on Mount Manjaca. The first one, Kadina Voda, has a limestone rock for parent material, while the other, Stricici, has a dolomite rock. Morphology of the species studied is characterized by adaptability to unfavorable conditions that exist in dolomite rocks, which is evident from their stunted growth, smaller leaves and prominent xeromorphic character.
Morphological and pathogenic characteristics of the fungus Cladobotryum dendroides, the causal agent of cobweb disease of the cultivated mushroom Agaricus bisporus in Serbia
Authors: Potocnik Ivana , Rekanovic Emil , Milijasevic Svetlana , Todorovic Biljana , Stepanovic Milos
Published: October 2009

Twenty isolates were isolated from diseased fruiting bodies of Agaricus bisporus collected from Serbian mushroom farms during 2003-2007. The isolates formed white, cottony, aerial colonies on agar media. With age, conidia and colonies turned yellow and redish. Pathogenicity of these isolates was confirmed by inoculation of harvested basidiomes of A. bisporus and by casing inoculation. Symptoms similar to natural infection were recorded. Based on pathogenicity tests and morphological characteristics, the isolates were identified as Cladobotryum dendroides (Bulliard : Fries) W. Gams & Hoozemans.
Field efficacy of fluopicolide and fosetyl-Al fungicide combination (Profiler®) for control of plasmopara viticola (Berk. & Curt.) Berl. & Toni. in grapevine
Authors: Rekanovic Emil , Potocnik Ivana , Stepanovic Milos , Milijasevic Svetlana , Todorovic Biljana
Published: October 2009

The efficacy of new fungicide mixtures in controlling Plasmopara viticola in grapevine was evaluated in field trials. The efficacies of Profiler (fluopicolide + fosetyl-Al) and the standard fungicide Mikal Flash (fosetyl-Al + folpet) were tested at Radmilovac and Slankamenacki Vinogradi in 2006 and 2007. Both tested fungicides exhibited high efficacy in controlling grape downy mildew. There were no significant differencies in the efficacies of Profiler (96.1-99.7%) and Mikal Flash (94.9-99.2%). Our experiments showed that the investigated fungicide mixture fluopicolide + fosetyl-Al is highly effective against P. viticola, even when it it is applied at long intervals and under high disease pressure.
Effects of metribuzin on the activity of some enzymes in soil
Authors: Santric Ljiljana , Radivojevic Ljiljana , Gasic Slavica , Stankovic-Kalezic Radmila , Gajic-Umiljendic Jelena
Published: October 2009

Effects of metribuzin on the activity of some enzymes in soil was investigated. Trials were set up in the laboratory on a clay loam soil. Metribuzin was applied at 12.0, 24.0 and 60.0 mg/kg soil rates and soil samples were collected 3, 7, 15, 30 and 45 days after metribuzin treatment for analyses. Alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, dehydrogenase, urease and ?-glucosidase were recorded. The results showed that the intensity of metribuzin effects on the activity of enzymes depended on treatment rate, exposure time and enzyme group. Metribuzin had an inhibiting effect on acid phosphatese and dehydrogenase, as well as on alkaline phosphatase in the initial stage before it turned into a stimulating one, while metribuzin stimulated urease and had no effect on ?-glucosidase.
Concentrations of heavy metals in NPK fertilizers imported in Serbia
Authors: Milinovic Jelena , Lukic Vesna , Nikolic-Mandic Snezana , Stojanovic Dimitrije
Published: October 2009

Concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cu and Mn in sixteen NPK fertilizers imported and widely used in Serbia were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The results show that contents of heavy metals varied significantly in different fertilizers depending on N:P:K ratio and fertilizer origin. Pb and Cd contents in water solution of fertilizers occurred at low ranges: 2.0-3.1 and 0.03-1.56 mg/kg, respectively. An NPK (15:15:15) fertilizer from Romania was found to contain the highest concentration of Pb and Cd as impurities. Cu content, ranging from 7.1 to 974.7 mg/kg, was the highest in colored fertilizers from Hungary, the Netherlands and Greece. Mn value in a Hungarian NPK product (10:10:20) exceeds the average Mn value in soil. The data indicate variable contents of heavy metals in fertilizers, some of which are significantly higher than natural concentrations in soil, which suggests that they need to be continuously monitored.
Influence of Tomato spotted wilt virus uneven distribution on its serological detection in tomato, pepper and ornamentals
Authors: Djekic Ivana , Bulajic Aleksandra , Vucurovic Ana , Ristic Danijela , Krstic Branka
Published: October 2009

Reliable detection of plant pathogens does not only mean the development of sufficiently sensitive laboratory techniques for their routine testing. Regardless of the sensitivity of applied methods, the proper selection of samples to be tested has crucial influence on method reliability. Due to uneven distribution of Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) in naturally infected systemic host plants, the collection and sampling of material for assaying is a critical moment upon which the reliability of laboratory procedure depends. The effect of irregular virus distribution on its serological detection was examined in tomato, pepper and four ornamental species, as its most important host plants in our country. The reliability of virus detection, depending on its uneven distribution, was assessed by serological testing of tomato and pepper symptomatic leaves and fruits, and symptomatic and asymptomatic young and old leaves, as well as flower petals of ornamentals. Although TSWV was detected using ELISA in the majority of plants included in the experiment, the tests indicated an uneven distribution and unequal concentrations of TSWV in different parts of the plants. The virus could not be detected in a certain number of subsamples, prepared from infected tomato and pepper fruits and older ornamental leaves. The virus also could not be detected in some ornamentals and tomato plants with intensive symptoms. Conversely, the virus was detected in three ornamental plants without any symptoms. Examining the virus distribution in different plant parts indicated that the reliability of ELISA could be reached not only by sampling younger ornamental leaves, but also by preparing compound samples with as much leaves as possible, or by testing a greater number of subsamples of the tested plant. Considering a small possibility of TSWV detection in tomato and pepper fruits, the infection of these should be established by testing their leaves. Besides, the data show that negative test results for the known host plants with characteristic symptoms require tests to be repeated using more sensitive methods than ELISA. These results are important as guidelines for growers and professionals who submit samples, as well as for laboratories performing routine testing.
Detection of Colletotrichum acutatum latent infections in strawberry petioles and leaves
Authors: Duduk Natasa , Ivanovic Mirko , Duduk Bojan
Published: October 2009

Colletotrichum acutatum is the most significant agent of anthracnose strawberry fruit rot. Besides being a necrotrophic pest, it can spend a part of its life cycle as an epiphyte, in a form of latent infection. The presence of the fungi on symptomless plant tissue is considered one of the main ways of distribution of this economically harmful pathogen in the world. Investigation of latent C. acutatum infection was carried out on artificially inoculated strawberries. The initiation of fungi sporulation on symptomless petioles and leaves was carried out by exposing them to the herbicide paraquat (0.25%) and low temperatures, which caused plant tissue decay in different ways. Surface sterilization with 0.5% NaOCl precedes the exposure of plant material to paraquat. The freezing procedure was carried out by exposure of plant material to the temperature of -20?C for 2h. After the freezing, one group was rinsed in Tween 20 (18 ?l/l), and another group underwent surface sterilization in 0.0525% NaOCl with an addition of Tween 20 (18 ?l/l). After 6 days of incubation, the appearance of acervuli and conidia was detected in 93.33 to 100% plant parts exposed to paraquat treatment and freezing procedure. In inoculated parts which were not exposed to herbicides or low temperatures, the presence of acervuli was detected in 3.33% tested petioles and 6.67% leaves.
Effects of shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa pastoris (L.) Medic.) on the chemical composition of lucerne (Medicago sativa L.)
Authors: Dimitrova Tsvetanka , Marinov-Serafimov Plamen
Published: October 2009

A study was conducted in a pure stand of lucerne (variety Viktoria) under natural weed infestation with shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa pastoris (L.) Medic.) on a slightly leached chernozem soil under nonirrigated conditions in the experimental field of the Institute of Forage Crops - Pleven during the 2006-2007 period. The effect of shepherd's purse Capsella bursa pastoris (L.) Medic. on the chemical composition of lucerne Medicago sativa (L.) was analyzed. Statistically significant (P<0.05) functional relations were found between the chemical characteristics and percentage of Capsella bursa pastoris (L.) Medic. participation in the lucerne sward, and forage quality. These relations indicated a multiple practical relevance and a necessity to control Capsella bursa pastoris (L.) Medic. in lucerne stands in order to decrease weed density and improve forage quality.
Effects of two formulations based on Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis on Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae under laboratory conditions
Authors: Peric Milenka , Prijovic Mirjana , Andric Goran
Published: October 2009

Toxicity and persistence of two formulations based on Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis applied to Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae were tested under laborabory conditions. The formulations were: a) water dispersible granules (product VectoBac WDG), and b) aqueous suspension (product VectoBac 12AS). The effects of both products on mosquito larvae were tested immediately after their dilution in pure water (zero time) and in 1-, 2-, 8- and 13-day old solutions. The two products were also tested in mixtures of water and clay at a rate of 0.5 g clay/150 ml water immediately after product dilution, and in one-day old solutions containing 0.1 and 0.05 g of clay in the same amount of water. The product VectoBac WDG was persistent and highly effective against Ae. aegypti larvae in pure water after the longest experimental period of 13 days, and significantly more effective than VectoBac 12AS at equal rates of application. The effectiveness of VectoBac 12AS weakened significantly after 8 and 13 days of treatment, compared to the effects at zero time and in 1- and 2-day old solutions. High clay content in water significantly reduced the larvicidal effectiveness of both products, indicating its possible compromising role during product application in practice.
Bacteriophages as bactericides in plant protection
Authors: Obradovic Aleksa
Published: October 2009

Control of plant pathogenic bacteria is a serious problem in production of many agricultural crops. High multiplication rate, adaptability and life inside plant tissue make bacteria unsuitable and inaccessible for most of control measures. Consequently, the list of bactericides available for plant protection is very short. Lately, biological control measures have been intensively studied as a potential solution of the problem. Investigation of bacteriophages, viruses that attack bacteria, is a fast-expanding area of research in plant protection. Several experiments have shown that they can be used as a very efficient tool for control of plant pathogenic bacteria. The fact that they are widespread natural bacterial enemies, simple for cultivation and management, host-specific, suitable for integration with other control practices, human and environment friendly, provide a great advantage for the application of phages over other bactericides.
Effects of copper-based compounds, antibiotics and a plant activator on population sizes and spread of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in greenhouse tomato seedlings
Authors: Milijasevic Svetlana , Todorovic Biljana , Potocnik Ivana , Rekanovic Emil , Stepanovic Milos
Published: October 2009

Three copper-based compounds (copper hydroxide, copper oxychloride, copper sulphate), two antibiotics (streptomycin and kasugamycin) and a plant activator (ASM) significantly reduced population sizes and spread of C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis among tomato seedlings in the greenhouse. Streptomycin had the best effect in reducing pathogen population size in all sampling regions. Moreover, this antibiotic completely stopped the spread of C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in the region most distant from the inoculum focus. Copper hydroxide mixed with streptomycin significantly limited the pathogen population, compared with copper hydroxide alone, the other copper-based compounds, ASM and kasugamycin. However, combining streptomycin with copper hydroxide did not contribute to its greater efficacy against the pathogen population. Copper-based compounds, in general, were less effective in limiting pathogen population sizes than the other treatments in all three sampling regions, primarily copper oxychloride and the combination of copper hydroxide and mannose. Among copper compounds, copper hydroxide was the most prominent in reducing the bacterial population, especially in the region closest to the inoculums focus, while its combination with mannose did not improve the effects. Kasugamycin significantly limited pathogen population size, compared to copper bactericides, but it was less effective than the other antibiotic compound, i.e. streptomycin. The plant activator ASM significantly reduced population density, and it was more effective when used three days prior to inoculation than six days before inoculation.
In vitro toxicity of fungicides of different mode of action to Agarics Bosporus (Lange) imbach
Authors: Potocnik Ivana , Rekanovic Emil , Milijasevic Svetlana , Todorovic Biljana , Stepanovic Milos
Published: October 2009

Isolates of Agarics Bosporus strains F56 and U3 were tested for sensitivity to several selected fungicides in vitro. The analysis showed that flusilasole + carbendazim and cyproconazole + carbendazim were the most toxic fungicides to A. bisporus strain F56 with respective EC50 values of 0.04 and 0.23 mg/l. The least toxic fungicides were carbendazim (EC50 = 16.58 mg/l) and trifloxystrobin (EC50 = 20.69 mg/l) to A. Bosporus F56 and binomial (EC50 = 14.99 mg/l) to A. Bosporus U3.
Insecticidal effects of insecticide, fungicide, complex fertilizer and wetting agent combinations depending on water hardness
Authors: Vukovic Slavica , Indjic Dusanka , Bursic Vojislava , Sunjka Dragana , Grahovac Mila
Published: October 2009

Simultaneous occurrence of different harmful species in agricultural practice necessitates that different plant protection chemicals be applied at the same time (tank mix). Mix components differ in purpose, mode of action and/or formulation, while addition of no pesticide components (complex fertilizers, adjuvant and wetting agents) is widely practiced today. However, data concerning the effects of water quality used for preparation of working liquids on the biological effects of pesticides is still scarce. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine insecticidal effects as depending on components used in mixes and water hardness. The effects of mixtures of thiametoxam (Actara 25-WG 0,07kg/ha) with azoxystrobin (Quadris 0.75 l/ha), mancozeb (Dithane M-70 2.5 kg/ha), a complex fertilizer (Mortonijc plus 3 kg/ha) and a wetting agent (Silwet L-77), depending on the components and water hardness (slightly hard (15.4 d?) - tap water from Novi Sad, and very hard (34.7 d?) - well water from Adica, a Novi Sad suburb), were determined in a bioassay based on adult mortality rate of the first generation of Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say). The mixtures were applied by a flooding method. The trial was set up to include four replications. Insecticidal effects were determined 24 h and 48 h after exposure. Thiametoxam effectiveness 24 h and 48 h after application in slightly hard water was 100% when the insecticide was applied alone and in double and triple mixes with the fungicides, complex fertilizer and wetting agent, showing no dependency on mix components. The tested adult population of Colorado potato beetle demonstrated high susceptibility to thiametoxam, while the other components had no impact in slightly hard water. In very hard water, 24 h after application, the insecticidal effect had the same level of significance to thiametoxam in double and triple mixes, with an exception of thiametoxam+mancozeb+Mortonijc plus and thiametoxam+mancozeb+wetting agent combinations, which showed significantly lower efficacy. After 48 h, substantially lower effectiveness, in comparison with the sole insecticide and other combinations, was only observed in thiametoksam+mancozeb+Mortonjic plus combination. Significantly lower efficacy of that combination is probably due to an incompatibility of the macozeb preparation and the complex fertilizer containing boron (B), which was evidenced only in very hard water.
Effects of organic matter and clay content in soil on pesticide adsorption processes
Authors: Djurovic Rada , Gajic-Umiljendic Jelena , Djordjevic Tijana
Published: October 2009

The effect of organic matter and clay content on the adsorption of atrazine, acetochlor, clomazone, pendimethalin and oxyfluorfen in soil samples was studied. In order to determine whether and to what degree different soil properties affect the process of determination of selected pesticides, three soils with different clay and organic matter contents were used. An optimized liquid-solid extraction procedure followed by SPME measurement was applied to analyze the selected pesticides in soil samples. Detection and quantification were done by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Relative standard deviation (RSD) values for multiple analyses of soil samples fortified at 30 ?g/kg of each pesticide were below 19%. Limits of detection (LODs) for all compounds studied were less than 2 ?g/kg. The results indicate that soils with different physic-chemical properties have different effects on the adsorption of most pesticides, especially at higher concentration levels.
Presence and distribution of oilseed pumpkin viruses and molecular detection of Zucchini yellow mosaic virus
Authors: Vucurovic Ana , Bulajic Aleksandra , Djekic Ivana , Ristic Danijela , Berenji Janos , Krstic Branka
Published: October 2009

Over the past decade, intensive spread of virus infections of oilseed pumpkin has resulted in significant economic losses in pumpkin crop production, which is currently expanding in our country. In 2007 and 2008, a survey for the presence and distribution of oilseed pumpkin viruses was carried out in order to identify viruses responsible for epidemics and incidences of very destructive symptoms on cucurbit leaves and fruits. Monitoring and collecting samples of oil pumpkin, as well as other species such as winter and butternut squash and buffalo and bottle gourd with viral infection symptoms, was conducted in several localities of Vojvodina Province. The collected plant samples were tested by DAS-ELISA using polyclonal antisera specific for the detection of six most economically harmful pumpkin viruses: Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), Watermelon mosaic virus (WMW), Squash mosaic virus (SqMV), Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) and Tobacco ringspot virus (TRSV) that are included in A1 quarantine list of harmful organisms in Serbia. Identification of viruses in the collected samples indicated the presence of three viruses, ZYMV, WMV and CMV, in individual and mixed infections. Frequency of the identified viruses varied depending on locality and year of investigations. In 2007, WMV was the most frequent virus (94.2%), while ZYMV was prevalent (98.04%) in 2008. High frequency of ZYMV determined in both years of investigation indicated the need for its rapid and reliable molecular detection. During this investigation, a protocol for ZYMV detection was developed and optimized using specific primers CPfwd/Cprev and commercial kits for total RNA extraction, as well as for RT-PCR. In RT-PCR reaction using these primers, a DNA fragment of approximately 1100 bp, which included coat protein gene, was amplified in the samples of infected pumkin leaves. Although serological methods are still useful for large-scale testing of a great number of samples, this protocol, due to its high sensitivity and specificity, is an important improvement in rapid diagnosis of diseases caused by this virus. In addition, the protocol provides a basis for further characterization of ZYMV isolates originating from Serbia.
Community Arctio-Artemisetum vulgaris (Tx. 1942) Oberd. et al. 1967.: The most widespread ruderal community at Pancevacki rit
Authors: Stankovic-Kalezic Radmila , Jovanovic Slobodan , Janjic Vaskrsija , Radivojevic Ljiljana
Published: October 2009

A several-year investigation of distribution, phytocoenological differentiation, floristic composition and structure of the ruderal flora and vegetation, and relative anthropogenic influences was conducted in the area of Pancevacki rit. The study focused on the ruderal community Arctio-Artemisetum vulgaris, the most widespread of 10 ruderal communities identified in a detailed phytocoenological analysis of the location of Pancevacki rit.
Facial Profile Shape, Malocclusion and Palatal Morphology in Malay Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients
Authors: Banabilh S. M. , Samsudin A. R. , Suzina A. H. , Dinsuhaimi Sidek
Published: October 2009

Objective: To test the null hypothesis that there is no difference in facial profile shape, malocclusion class, or palatal morphology in Malay adults with and without obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Materials and Methods: Subjects were 120 adult Malays aged 18 to 65 years (mean ± standard deviation [SD], 33.2 ± 13.31) divided into two groups of 60. Both groups underwent clinical examination and limited channel polysomnography (PSG). The mean OSA and control values were subjected to t-test and the chi square test.

Results: Physical examination showed that 61.7% of the OSA patients were obese, and 41.7% of those obese patients had severe OSA. The mean body mass index (BMI) was significantly greater for the OSA group (33.2 kg/m2 ± 6.5) than for the control group (22.7 kg/m2 ± 3.5; P < .001). The mean neck size and systolic blood pressure were greater for the OSA group (43.6 cm ± 6.02; 129.1 mm Hg ± 17.55) than for the control group (35.6 cm ± 3.52; 114.1 mm Hg ± 13.67; P < .001). Clinical examination showed that the most frequent findings among OSA groups when compared with the control group were convex profiles (71.7%), Class II malocclusion (51.7%), and V palatal shape (53.3%), respectively; the chi square test revealed a significant difference in terms of facial profile and malocclusion class (P < .05), but no significant difference in palatal shape was found.

Conclusion: The null hypothesis is rejected. A convex facial profile and Class II malocclusion were significantly more common in the OSA group. The V palatal shape was a frequent finding in the OSA group.
Tooth Movement Activates the Central Amygdala and the Lateral Hypothalamus by the Magnitude of the Force Applied
Authors: Novaes Ana Paula Ribeiro , Alves da Rocha Maria José , Leite-Panissi Christie Ramos Andrade
Published: October 2009

Objective: To determine if the magnitude of the force used to induce incisor tooth movement promotes distinct activation in cells in the central amygdala (CEA) and lateral hypothalamus (LH) of rats. Also, the effect of morphine on Fos immunoreactivity (Fos-IR) was investigated in these nuclei.

Materials and Methods: Adult male rats were anesthetized and divided into six groups: only anesthetized (control), without orthodontic appliance (OA), OA but without force, OA activated with 30g or 70g, OA with 70g in animals pretreated with morphine (2 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). Three hours after the onset of the experiment the rats were reanesthetized and perfused with 4% paraformaldehyde. The brains were removed and fixed, and sections containing CEA and LH were processed for Fos protein immunohistochemistry.

Results: The results show that in the control group, the intramuscular injection of a ketamine/ xylazine mixture did not induce Fos-IR cells in the CEA or in the LH. Again, the without force group showed a little Fos-IR. However, in the 70g group the Fos-IR was the biggest observed (P < .05, Tukey) in the CEA and LH compared with the other groups. In the 30g group, the Fos-IR did not differ from the control group, the without OA group, and the without force group. Furthermore, pretreatment with morphine in the 70g group reduced Fos-IR in these regions.

Conclusions: Tooth movement promotes Fos-IR in the CEA and LH according to the magnitude of the force applied.
Cephalometric Characteristics of Korean Children with Class III Malocclusion in the Deciduous Dentition
Authors: Choi Hyung-Jun , Kim Ji-Yeon , Yoo Seung Eun , Kwon Jang-Hyuk , Park Kitae
Published: October 2009

Objective: To compare the cephalometric characteristics of children with Class III malocclusion to those of children with normal occlusion during the deciduous dentition phase.

Materials and Methods: Cephalometric measurements of 27 children (mean age: 5.03 years) diagnosed with Class III malocclusion were compared with 32 children (mean age: 4.85 years) diagnosed with normal occlusion in the following four categories: sagittal skeletal analysis, vertical skeletal analysis, dentoalveolar analysis, and soft tissue analysis.

Results: Significant differences were seen in all categories except vertical skeletal analysis. Sagittal skeletal measurements included ANB (Class III group: −0.91 ± 1.60; normal group: 5.28 ± 1.29), facial convexity (Class III group: 0.47 ± 4.32; normal group: 13.65 ± 3.44), Wits appraisal (Class III group: −5.54 ± 2.36; normal group: −0.84 ± 1.91), and A to N-perpendicular (Class III group: −2.94 ± 3.05; normal group: 0.78 ± 2.53). Dentoalveolar measurements included U1 to NA (Class III group: 11.98 ± 5.25; normal group: 8.12 ± 5.43), IMPA (Class III group: 81.34 ± 7.40; normal group: 86.57 ± 5.67), and interincisal angle (Class III group: 152.65 ± 8.82; normal group: 145.03 ± 7.34). Soft tissue measurements included soft tissue convexity (Class III group: 2.47 ± 4.20; normal group: 12.71 ± 3.95), nasofacial angle (Class III group: 22.68 ± 4.22; normal group: 26.24 ± 3.84), and upper lip to esthetic plane (Class III group: −0.65 ± 2.74; normal group: 3.07 ± 1.90).

Conclusions: There are significant differences between the craniofacial patterns of normal children and those of children with Class III malocclusion that can be identified with cephalometric analysis as early as the deciduous dentition phase.
Tests for Screening and Diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Cox Mary E. , Edelman David
Published: October 2009

IN BRIEF

This article offers a discussion of available tests used to screen for and diagnose type 2 diabetes. It reviews the evidence supporting different screening strategies and describes the test characteristics of different diagnostic approaches, with particular reference to the American Diabetes Association's 1997 guidelines for diagnosis and 2009 standards of medical care for diabetes. The recent International Expert Committee report on the role of A1C in diagnosis is also discussed.
Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Update
Authors: Garg Seema , Davis Richard M.
Published: October 2009

IN BRIEF

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most prevalent but preventable blinding diseases in the United States. This article reviews the pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy, the evidence for its primary and secondary prevention, and both traditional and emerging strategies for its assessment.
Virologic survey of dogs with naturally acquired idiopathic conjunctivitis
Authors: Ledbetter Eric C. , Hornbuckle William E. , Dubovi Edward J.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To determine the frequency of viral detection in conjunctival samples from client-owned domestic dogs with naturally acquired idiopathic conjunctivitis and to identify signalment, historical, and clinical findings positively associated with viral detection.

Design—Case-control study

Animals—30 dogs with naturally acquired idiopathic conjunctivitis and a control population of 30 dogs without ocular disease.

Procedures—Complete physical and ophthalmic examinations were performed for each dog. Conjunctival swab specimens were analyzed by use of virus isolation and PCR assays for the following viruses: canine adenovirus-2 (CAV-2), canine distemper virus, canine herpesvirus-1 (CHV-1), canine parainfuenza virus, canine respiratory coronavirus, infuenza A virus, and West Nile virus. Signalment, clinical, and historical information was recorded and compared between study groups.

Results—Viruses were detected by either virus isolation or PCR methods significantly more frequently in conjunctival samples from dogs with conjunctivitis (7/30 [23.3%]) than dogs without conjunctivitis (0/30 [0%]). Canine herpesvirus-1 was isolated from 2 conjunctival samples and detected by use of PCR assay in 5 conjunctival samples. Canine adenovirus-2 was isolated from 1 conjunctival sample and detected by use of PCR assay in 2 conjunctiva samples. Sexually intact dogs and frequent exposure to dogs outside the household were positively associated with viral detection in the conjunctivitis group

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that CHV-1 and CAV-2 are common etiologic agents of conjunctivitis in domestic dogs. Risk factors for viral conjunctivitis in dogs reflected increased exposure to other dogs and opportunities for contact with infectious secretions.
Factors associated with likelihood of horses having a high serum Streptococcus equi SeM-specific antibody titer
Authors: Boyle Ashley G. , Sweeney Corinne R. , Kristula Michaela , Boston Ray , Smith Gary
Published: October 2009

Objective—To identify factors associated with an increased likelihood that horses would have a serum Streptococcus equi SeM-specific antibody titer ≥ 1:1,600.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—188 healthy client-owned horses.

Procedures—A single serum sample from each horse was tested for SeM-specific antibody titer with an ELISA. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with having a titer ≥ 1:1,600.

Results—Age, breed, and vaccination status were significantly associated with the likelihood of having a titer ≥ 1:1,600. The odds of having a titer ≥ 1:1,600 increased by a factor of 1.07 with each 1-year increase in age. Quarter Horses and horses of other breeds were 4.08 times as likely as were Thoroughbreds and warmbloods to have a titer this high. Horses that had previously received an intranasal S equi vaccine were 4.7 times as likely as were horses without any history of vaccination to have a titer this high.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that older horses, horses other than Thoroughbreds and warmbloods, and horses that had been vaccinated with an attenuated-live intranasal S equi vaccine between 1 and 3 years previously had an increased likelihood of having a serum SeM-specific antibody titer ≥ 1:1,600.
Establishing and functional characterization of an HEK-293 cell line expressing autofluorescently tagged β-actin (pEYFP-ACTIN) and the neurokinin type 1 receptor (NK1-R)
Authors: Hrovat Alenka , Zavec Apolonija , Pogačnik Azra , Frangež Robert , Vrecl Milka
Published: October 2009

This study focused on establishing and making a comprehensive functional characterization of an HEK-293-transfected cell line that would coexpress the enhanced yellow fluorescent protein-actin (pEYFP-actin) construct and the neurokinin type 1 receptor (NK1-R), which is a member of the seven transmembrane (7TM) receptor family. In the initial selection procedure, the cloning ring technique was used alone, but failed to yield clones with homogenous pEYFP-actin expression. Flow cytometry sorting (FCS) was subsequently used to enrich the pEYFP-actin-expressing subpopulation of cells. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), FCS and quantitative real-time reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were then employed to monitor the passage-dependent effects on transgene expression and to estimate the total β-actin/pEYFP-actin ratio. NK1-R was characterized via radioactive ligand binding and the second messenger assay. The suitability of the pEYFP-actin as a marker of endogenous actin was assessed by colocalizing pEYFP-actin with rhodamine-phalloidine-stained F-actin and by comparing receptor- and jasplakinolide-induced changes in the actin cytoskeleton organization. These experiments demonstrated that: i) both constructs expressed in the generated transfected cell line are functional; ii) the estimated pEYFP-actin: endogenous β-actin ratio is within the limits required for the functional integrity of the actin filaments; and iii) pEYFP-actin and rhodamine-phalloidine-stained F-actin structures colocalize and display comparable reorganization patterns in pharmacologically challenged cells.
Floating drug delivery of a locally acting H2-antagonist: An approach using an in situ gelling liquid formulation
Authors: Rohith Ganapati , Sridhar Bhimagoni , Srinatha Anegundha
Published: October 2009

Floating drug delivery of a locally acting H2-antagonist: An approach using an in situ gelling liquid formulation

In the present work, a gastroretentive in situ gelling liquid formulation for controlled delivery of ranitidine was formulated using sodium alginate (low, medium and high viscosity grades), calcium carbonate (source of cations) and ranitidine. Prepared formulations were evaluated for viscosity, buoyancy lag time and buoyancy duration, drug content and in vitro drug release. Formulation variables such as concentration of sodium alginate, calcium carbonate and drug significantly affected the formulation viscosity, floating behavior and in vitro drug release. Analysis of the release pattern showed that the drug release from in situ gel followed a diffusion mechanism.
Novel catalytic synthesis of 6,7-dimethoxyisatin with the use of heteropolyacids (HPAs) as acid solid catalyst
Authors: Gharib Ali , Daneshtalab Mohsen , Scheeren J. , Bamoharram Fatemeh , Roshani Mina , Jahangir Manouchehr
Published: October 2009

Novel catalytic synthesis of 6,7-dimethoxyisatin with the use of heteropolyacids (HPAs) as acid solid catalyst

An efficient method for the preparation of 6,7-dimethoxyisatin and its derivatives was developed with good yield by using Preyssler-type heteropolyacid (HPA) as acid catalyst under green conditions. The comparison between Keggin type heteropolyacids, H3[PW12O40], H4[SiW12O40] and H4[SiMo12O40], H3[PMo12O40] and mineral acids with Preyssler's anion shows that the latter possess better catalytical activity than the other heteropolyacids and no degradation of the structure was observed.
Effects of processing parameters on hydrolysis of TiOSO4
Authors: Grzmil Barbara , Grela Daniel , Kic Bogumił
Published: October 2009

Effects of processing parameters on hydrolysis of TiOSO4

The influence of both TiOSO4 concentrations in the starting solution and a way of conducting hydrolysis on the degree of titanyl sulphate conversion to hydrated titanium dioxide were studied. Titanyl sulphate solution, an intermediate product in the commercial preparation of titanium dioxide pigments by sulphate method, was used. The continuous method of conducting hydrolysis was applied using one or two reactors connected in series. It was found that the degree of hydrolysis markedly depends on the studied parameters. It was also found that TiOSO4 hydrolysis using the continuous method should be conducted: i) at a possibly low concentration of free sulfuric acid in the solution and; ii) in two or more rectors connected in series.
CFD modelling of two-phase liquid-liquid flow in a SMX static mixer
Authors: Pianko-Oprych Paulina , Jaworski Zdzisław
Published: October 2009

CFD modelling of two-phase liquid-liquid flow in a SMX static mixer

The paper provides an overview of the application of Computational Fluid Dynamics tools for predicting transport processes in two-phase flow in a SMX static mixer. The overview is achieved by taking a brief look at factors: mesh generation, development of sub-models, post-processing including validation and quantitative verification of CFD results with experimental data. Two types of numerical approach were used in the simulations: the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes in the steady-state mode with the standard k-??turbulence model and Large Eddy Simulations in the unsteady mode. Both CFD techniques were applied to calculate flow velocities, pressure drop and homogenisation level in a SMX static mixer of the liquid-liquid mixture. The steady state drop size distribution was obtained by implementation procedure containing the population balance equation, where transport equations for the moments of the drop size distribution are solved and the closure problem is overcome by using the Quadrature Method of Moments.
Why do pregnant women stop exercising in the third trimester?
Authors: HAAKSTAD LENE A.H. , VOLDNER NANNA , HENRIKSEN TORE , BØ KARI
Published: October 2009

Current exercise guidelines recommend pregnant women to exercise throughout pregnancy. However, a high percentage of pregnant women are sedentary, and there is an increasing decline of physical activity and exercise, especially in the third trimester. Objective. The aim of the present study was to compare demographic and health‐related factors in pregnant women exercising and not exercising in the third trimester. Design. Cross‐sectional design comparing exercisers and non‐exercisers. Setting. Rikshospitalet University Hospital and Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway. Population. Healthy pregnant women (n = 467) were successively allocated from the application form for birth at Rikshospitalet University Hospital. Methods. A questionnaire, including questions about demographic variables, physical activity level, common pregnancy complaints, social modeling, attitudes and barriers towards exercise participation was answered between gestation‐week 32 and 36. Main outcome measures. Demographic variables, pregnancy related health factors and social modeling, including exercise counseling by health care providers, were tested using binary logistic regression analysis. Results. Less than 11% were defined as regular exercisers in the third trimester. Having high gestational weight gain and no social role models with respect to exercise behavior during childhood were inversely associated with third trimester exercise. Pre‐pregnancy exercise was the strongest predictor of regular exercise at late gestation. Not receiving advice about exercise from health professionals was borderline significant. Pelvic girdle pain and sick‐leave were not statistically significant factors. Conclusions. Pre‐pregnancy exercise was strongly related to exercise at late gestation. This study indicates a need for more information and motivation for moderate exercise before and throughout pregnancy.