bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study on the antibacterial activity of volatiles from sage (Salvia officinalis L.)
Authors: Mitic-Culafic Dragana , Vukovic-Gacic Branka , Knezevic-Vukcevic Jelena , Stankovic S. , Simic Draga
Published: February 2009

Antibacterial activity of volatiles from sage against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria from the ATCC collection was screened with the disk diffusion test. The essential oil and its fractions showed a significant antibacterial effect against S. aureus and B. subtilis. The minimum inhibitory concentrations were 1.25-2.5 ?L/mL for S. aureus and 0.15-2.5 ?L/mL for B. subtilis. The effect on S. aureus was bactericidal, while initial bactericidal effect on B. subtilis was impaired by the presence of a resistant fraction of the population, probably endospores. The results obtained with wild type and permeable strains of E. coli and S. typhimurium indicate that transport through the cell wall limits the antibacterial effect of sage volatiles.
Comparison of desiccation tolerance among mosses from different habitats
Authors: Sinzar-Sekulic Jasmina , Sabovljevic Marko , Stevanovic Branka
Published: February 2009

Three moss species from the karst region were compared to establish their respective patterns of desiccation tolerance. Different life forms of bryophytes were chosen to obtain evidence of their life strategies during drought conditions. Comparative analyses of electrolyte leakage were performed to screen for tolerance of the membrane to water stress and for signs of damage to the fine structure of the protoplasm. The experiments were carried out by exposing the plants to water stress caused by PEG 600. The results show that the most desiccation tolerant species is Thamnobryum alopecurum, less but fairly tolerant is Anomodon viticulosus, while the aquatic Rhynchostegium riparioides is intolerant of desiccation.
Macrophytes of the lakes Trnovacko jezero, Veliko Stabanjsko jezero, and Malo Stabanjsko jezero on Mt. Volujak (Montenegro)
Authors: Blazencic Jelena , Blazencic Zivojin
Published: February 2009

The present paper gives results of floristic investigations of macrophytes in lakes on Mt. Volujak, the spatial distribution of the recorded species, and basic ecological characteristics of the milieu of life in the investigated biotopes.
Observation of the quality of Danube water in the Belgrade region based on benthic animals during periods of high and low water conditions in 2002
Authors: Jakovcev-Todorovic Dunja , Paunovic Momir , Stojanovic Bojana , Simic Vladica , Djikanovic Vesna , Veljkovic Ana
Published: February 2009

The present paper states conclusions about the quality of Danube water in the Belgrade Region based on analyses of the invertebrate community. The investigation was performed during periods of high (May, 2002) and low (October, 2002) water conditions. Meio- and macrozoobenthos were observed. Qualitative, quantitative, and saprobiological analy?ses were performed. The sampling area covered five stations along 66 km of the river. The community was represented by 26 species. Aquatic worms were the principal component of the benthos with respect to both species richness (six species) and abundance (58.39-99.47 % of the total community). Gastropods were also diverse (six species). Snails were found to be subdominant as far as participation in the total community density is concerned. Structure of the benthic community and the saprobity index (S= 2.78-3.43) indicated the presence of organic pollution. No notable differences of estimated environmental quality were observed between a station upstream from Belgrade and one situated below the exit from the broader territory of Belgrade. Since Belgrade is recognized as one of the main contaminants in regard to biodegradable pollutants in the Middle Danube, this finding points to an impressive self-purifying ability of this huge river.
Ostracods (Crustacea): A new host for the Tetrahymena pyriformis complex (Ciliophora)
Authors: Nikolic Vera , Karan-Znidarsic Tamara
Published: February 2009

Ostracods are very old and small crustaceans that have a reduced body carrying several appendages, encapsulated by a carapace in the shape of two bilaterally symmetrical valves (Horne et al. 2002). Being highly adaptive to various ecological conditions, they occur in a wide range of freshwater habitats.
Antioxidant radiation response of rat brain after exposure to a clinical dose of γ-rays
Authors: Todorovic Ana , Kasapovic Jelena , Pejic Snezana , Stojiljkovic Vesna , Pajovic Snezana
Published: February 2009

Ionizing radiation increases intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ros), which can damage cell structure and function. The brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative injury, and in an area-dependent manner. In order to elucidate differences in enzymatic antioxidative responses of the rat hippocampus and cortex, we measured the activities of cytosol superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD), mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), and catalase (CAT) in those two brain regions, isolated 1 h and 24 h after exposure to 2 Gy of ?-rays. Our results indicate that the lower MnSOD activity and inducibility found in the hippocampus are probably among the main reasons for particularly great oxidative vulnerability of this brain region.
Catalog of the bird collection in the Belgrade Natural History Museum: The order Podicipediformes
Authors: Barjaktarov Daliborka
Published: February 2009

The fund of the Belgrade Natural History Museum's ornithological collection has especially great scientific, museological, cultural, and historical importance. The order Podicipediformes was recently chosen for inventory work the results of which are reported here. A total of 57 specimens from three Museum collections and over 20 localities through?out Serbia was inventoried. The most inventory units were recorded in the collection of mounted bird specimens (38), the least in the historical collection (eight). The study collection of birds contains 11 specimens. It was determined that most specimens in the Museum are great crested grebes (Podiceps cristatus). The Museum has the fewest specimens of rednecked grebes (Podiceps grisegena) and no specimens of Slavonian grebe (Podiceps auritus) at all. Podiceps nigricollis and Tachybaptus ruficollis are represented by an approximately equal number of specimens. The paper shows that the collection of grebes in the Belgrade Natural History Museum represents an especially important source of information about the taxon Podicipediformes. It can also be considered a valuable part of our cultural and natural heritage.
Photosynthetic activity of Fagus sylvatica L. and Quercus petraea (Matt) Liebl. in a mixed stand at Maljen mountain
Authors: Popovic Zorica , Mijovic Aleksandar , Karadzic Branko , Mijatovic Miroslava , Skoric S.
Published: February 2009

Estimation of the photosynthetic performance of co-existing tree species with pronounced differences in ecophysiological context (Aranda et al. 1996 Leuschner et al. 2001) could provide insight into their vitality and competitive abilities at a particular site. Gas exchange, composition of photosynthetic pigments, and the water status of beech (Fagus sylvatica L) and sessile oak (Quercus petraea (Matt) Liebl) were studied in the present work. The investigation was performed on Mt. Maljen (Western Serbia, near the town of Mionica) at an altitude of 950 m, in an ecotope within the confines of the mountain's beech forest belt. Codominant samplings [three of each species, 30-years old (n=6), 10-12 m high] were selected for the measurements, which were conducted on fully developed leaves from the out?ermost branches and from the innermost canopy. Photosynthetic measurements were performed using an LI-6200 closed photo?synthesis system (LI-Cor. Inc, Lincoln, NE, USA), while irradiance was detected with a selenium cell mounted on the leaf chamber. Parameters of gas exchange are expressed on the basis of leaf area, using the AREAMETER software (Karadzic et al. 1999). Chlorophyll content was spectrophotometrically determined based on light absorption of the solution obtained after extraction with dMSO (Hiscox and Israelstam, 1979). The midday water saturation deficit was determined according to Turner (1981). For data analysis, we used the Statistic for Windows program package. The ANOVA one-way break?down was applied to compare differences within (leaves inside vs. leaves outside the surface of the tree canopy) and between species for all investigated parameters at the 0.05 level of significance.
The first record of black bullhead Ameiurus melas (Pisces, Ictaluridae) in Serbian waters
Authors: Cvijanovic G. , Lenhardt Mirjana , Hegedis Aleksandar
Published: February 2009

On the 14th of June, 2005, in the Danube side channel "Jojkic" (N 44?50'33.1??, E 20?27'46.1??) near Belgrade, we recorded the presence of A. melas, ranging in weight (W) from 11.2 g to 135.6 g, and standard length (Ls) from 70 mm to 173 mm. Specimens were obtained from professional fishermen, who caught them with gill nets, as well from sport fishermen using fishing roads. Also, on 28th of May, 2005, on the lake "Savsko jezero" (N 44?47'20.1??, E 20?24'54.6??), we collected two specimens with gill nets. They were held in an aquarium until the 20th of June, when they were analyzed. Their weight (W) was 48.8 g and 97.5 g, their standard length (Ls) 145 mm and 183 mm, respectively.
New records of water mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from springs and running waters in Macedonia
Authors: Pesic V.M.
Published: February 2009

The present paper deals with interesting new records of water mites (Acari; Hydrachnidia) from springs and running waters of the Kozuf and Alsar Mountains (Southern Macedonia). In the paper 12 new species are added to the list of water mites known from Macedonia, and one of them is recorded for the first time for the water mite fauna of the Balkan Peninsula. The water mite fauna of Macedonia is thus represented by 154 species, belonging to 45 genera. Slide-mounted specimens and material pre?served in fluid are lodged in the collection of the author. The following abbreviations are used: I-L-6 = sixth segment of first leg; S-1/2 = setae at I-L-5; (1/2/3) = one male two females, three deutonymphs.
New records of water beetles (Coleoptera: Haliplidae, Dytiscidae, Gyrinidae) from Montenegro (SE Europe)
Authors: Pesic Vladimir , Pavicevic Ana
Published: February 2009

The water beetle fauna of Montenegro is still poorly known. In the catalog dealing with water beetles (Hydrochantares and Palpicornia) in Yugoslavia Gueorguiev (1971) gives a list of 116 water beetle species from Montenegro. Miksic (1977) reported the presence of six water beetles species from the Ulcinj area. In the present paper, 19 water beetle species (Coleoptera Hydradephaga) are reported, five of which are new for the fauna of Montenegro. All specimens have been deposited in the zoological collection of the department of Biology (Podgorica). In list of the species, we give the locality, the date of sampling, the total number of individuals and the names of collectors.
Neurohormones in insect stress: A review
Authors: Peric-Mataruga Vesna , Nenadovic Vera , Ivanovic Jelisaveta
Published: February 2009

The neurohormones are the master regulators of all life processes in insects and they create a strategy of stress protecting events. Neurohormones are synthesized mainly in insect brain neurosecretory neurons. Various stressors of different intensity cause specific changes which influence on neurosecretory neurons activity and synthesis of neurohormones (biogene amines, ecdysiotropins, ecdysiostatins, allatoregulatory neurohormones, adipokinetic neurohormones, etc.). Biogene amines in insects may function as neurohormones controlling carbohydrate and lipid metabolism as the primary response of the insects to the effect of stressors. Intermediary metabolism in insects is mainly regulated by adipokinetic hormones which supply organism by energy especially in extreme conditions. Stress induces changes in release of ecdysioregulatory and allatoregulatory neurohormones and modificates ecdysones and juvenile hormones synthesis in prothoracic gland and corpora allata. The involvement of hormones of an ecdysteroid or JH type in response to stress creates the danger of an untimely induction of morphogenetic process in target cells. Limiting the quantity of secreted hormones and shortening the period when target cells are sensitive to morphogenetic stimuli removes this danger.
Therapeutic effect of nucleoside analogs on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in dark agouti rats
Authors: Stojkov Danijela , Lavrnja Irena , Subasic Sanja , Bjelobaba Ivana , Pekovic Sanja , Gadjanski Ivana , Mostarica-Stojkovic Marija , Stosic-Grujicic Stanislava , Rakic Lj. , Stojiljkovic Mirjana
Published: February 2009

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a commonly used animal model of the human neurological disorder multiple sclerosis. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of combined treatment with two nucleoside analogs, ribavirin and tiazofurin, on development of EAE actively induced in highly susceptible dark agouti rats. The obtained results showed that ribavirin and tiazofurin applied either separately or in combination from the onset of the firstsymptoms of EAE after its induction (therapeutic treatment) significantly suppressed EAE?s clinical symptoms. However, the most pronounced effect was gained with combined treatment, probably as a result of synergistic/additive action.
Oniscidea (Isopoda, Malacostraca) from the Piatra Craiului National Park in Romania
Authors: Giurginca A. , Nae A. , Popa I.
Published: February 2009

This paper presents six species of Oniscidea recorded until now in the Piatra Craiului National Park in Romania: Ligidium hypnorum, Mesoniscus graniger, Hyloniscus dacicus, Trichoniscus carpaticus, Trachelipus nodulosus, and Trachelipus difficilis rotundatus.
The moss flora in the central urban area of Belgrade
Authors: Grdovic Svetlana , Stevanovic V.
Published: February 2009

In floristic research on mosses in the central urban area of Belgrade, the presence of 58 species classified into 23 genera and 12 families was verified. The mosses occur in different specific and extreme microhabitats. Diversity of the bryoflora in urban ecosystems can be explained in terms of the large number of different habitats found on large greens, old fortress ruins, and roofs, as well as in gardens in the center of the Old Town.
Molecular forms of human prostate-specific antigen in urine of subjects with benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Kosanovic Maja , Jankovic Miroslava
Published: February 2009

In the present study, we examined mollecular forms of urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA), focusing on its structural complexity in general and specifically on its microheterogeneity in relation to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Gel filtration, ion-exchange chromatography, and lectin-affinity chromatography were used to characterize PSA. In comparing the binding pattern of PSA isoforms, moderate changes were observed in the relative abundance of distinct molecular subpopulations separated on lectin-affinity columns. They may be related to alteration in the position and type of linkage of fucose or sialic acid, as well as to modification of the trimannosyl core by branching of the PSA oligosaccharide chain.
Seasonal variations in numbers of great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) on the Kolut fish farm (nw Serbia)
Authors: Tucakov M.
Published: February 2009

Seasonal variations in numbers of great cormorant were studied between 1998 and 2004 on ponds of the Kolut fish farm (NW Serbia). Its presence is not detected only during winter. Spring migration culminates in early March. Autumn migration lasts for a long time, with the peak in early October. During the breeding period, the average number never exceeded 20 individuals, probably coming from the nearest breeding colony (35 km from the fishponds). Predation pressure was very low throughout the year, except in October (2.44 individuals/10 ha of ponds). No reason for great cormorant depletion exists in the breeding period, when the predation pressure was below 0.5 birds/10 ha.
Neobisium rajkodimitrijevici n. Sp. (Neobisiidae, Pseudoscorpiones): A new false scorpion from a cave in eastern Serbia
Authors: Curcic B.P.M. , Tomic V.T.
Published: February 2009

A new cave-dwelling species of pseudoscorpion belonging to the family Neobisiidae - Neobisium rajkodimitrijevici n. sp. - is described from the Rajkova Pecina Cave near Majdanpek in Eastern Serbia. A diagnosis of the new species is presented. This taxon is a relict and endemic to the area studied. Additionally, some taxonomic, biogeographical, and phoretic traits of the new species are discussed in the light of evolution of the karst relief of the Balkan Peninsula.
Seasonal distribution of Borreliae in Ixodes ricinus ticks in the Belgrade region
Authors: Milutinovic Marija , Radulovic Z. , Tomanovic Snezana , Tomanovic Z.
Published: February 2009

Green areas at four localities in the Belgrade region (Ada Ciganlija, Kosutnjak, Miljakovac forest, and Mt. Avala) were investigated in 2004. The aim of the research was to clarify the faunistic composition, relative abundance, and population dynamics of ticks, as well as the seasonal distribution of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (sl) in Ixodes ricinus. Two species of ticks were detected: Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor reticulates. Relative abundance analysis revealed that the species Ixodes ricinus was predominant (97.41 %). Out of 942 Ixodes ricinus ticks, 188 (19.96 %) were infected with Borrelia burgdorferi sl. The infection rate of adults by localities ranged from 19.16% to 30.99% (Mt. Avala and Ada Ciganlija, respectively).
Bryophyte flora of the Uvac river gorge (Southwest Serbia)
Authors: Veljic M. , Marin P.D. , Lakusic D. , Ljubic Biljana
Published: February 2009

In the examined area, 165 taxa were found and identified: 139 taxa from the class Bryopsida and 26 taxa from the class Marchantiopsida. Nine species are red-listed in Serbia. Material was collected from 62 localities, which were analyzed for similarity of chorological and ecological features using the Jaccard similarity index. Analysis of floristic elements and phytogeographic distribution showed that the greatest number of taxa are temperate elements with Holarctic distribution. Results of ecological analysis showed that in regard to the substratum aspect, terricolous, basophilous, and indifferent species were dominant. In relation to the ecological parameter humidity, most species were mesophilous. The majority of identified bryophytes were sciophilous taxa. .
Cytogenetic diepoxybutane sensitivity in Serbian children with Fanconi anemia
Authors: Cirkovic Sanja , Guc-Scekic Marija , Vujic Dragana , Micic D.
Published: February 2009

Fanconi anemia (FA) is an inherited disorder with aplastic anemia, cancer susceptibility, and hypersensitivity to alkylating agents such as diepoxybutane (DEB). The DEB test is used to screen for FA among patients with bone marrow failure syndromes (BMFS). From February of 2004 to May of 2006, 29 children with BMFS were diagnosed and treated at the Mother and Child Health Care Institute of Serbia (MCHIS). In the examined group, five out of 29 patients (17.2%) were found to have increased DEB-induced chromosome breakage (0.58-2.15 vs. 0.00-0.20 breaks/cell; p<0.001) with no overlap. Our results suggest the importance of this analysis for differential diagnosis and adequate therapy of FA among patients with BMFS.
A new record of Haplotaxis gordioides (Hartmann, 1821) (Oligochaeta, annelida) in the benthocenoses of a potamon-type river (Sava river, Serbian sector)
Authors: Jakovcev-Todorovic Dunja , Djikanovic Vesna , Milosevic Snezana , Cakic P.
Published: February 2009

The species Haplotaxis gordioides (Hartmann, 1821), from the family Haplotaxidae (Oligochaeta), was found for the first time in a lowland, potamon-type river (Sava River, Serbian sector) in 2002. This new record adds to our knowledge of the range and spreading of the given species. .
Characterization of lactococci isolated from homemade kefir
Authors: Kojic M. , Lozo Jelena , Begovic Jelena , Jovcic B. , Topisirovic Lj.
Published: February 2009

Five bacteriocin-producing lactococci isolates from traditionally prepared kefir were determined as Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis. The analyzed isolates showed different plasmid profiles and no cross inhibition between them was detected. Moreover, natural isolate BGKF26 was resistant to the antimicrobial activity of nisin producing strain NP45. Plasmid curing experiments revealed that the genes encoding bacteriocin and proteinase production are located on separate genetic elements, except in BGKF26. Production of the tested bacteriocins depends on the concentration of casitone or triptone in the medium. Higher concentrations of casitone or triptone induce bacteriocin activity. Our DNA-DNA hybridization analyses suggest that the analyzed antimicrobial compounds probably are lactococcin-like bacteriocins.
Development of pituitary ACTH and GH cells in near term rat fetuses
Authors: Manojlovic-Stojanoski Milica , Nestorovic Natasa , Negic Natasa , Trifunovic Svetlana , Sekulic Milka , Milosevic Verica
Published: February 2009

This study describes the development of ACTH and GH cells in 19- and 21-day-old rat fetuses using immunohistochemistry and morphometric measurements. Between days 19 and 21 of pregnancy, the total volume of fetal ACTH cells was unchanged, while their volume density and number per unit of area decreased significantly. ACTH-like immunopositivity in the pars intermedia increased during the examined period. The cell volume, volume density and number of GH cells per unit of area all markedly increased in parallel with fetal development, i.e., from gestational days 19 to 21. GH-like immunopositivity is demonstrated in the pars intermedia of 21-day-old fetuses for the first time.
Treatment of isolated pistils with protease inhibitors overcomes the self-incompatibility response in buckwheat
Authors: Miljus-Djukic Jovanka , Radovic Svetlana , Maksimovic Vesna
Published: February 2009

Isolated pistils of distylous buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) were treated with protease inhibitors (PMSF, pepstatin A, and antipain). Pistils were cross- or self- pollinated, and growth of pollen tubes was observed under a fluorescence microscope. Treatments with all inhibitors suppressed inhibition of self-pollen tube growth, suggesting that activity of proteases is involved in rejection of self-pollen during the SI response.
New chorological data on some threatened and rare plants in Serbia
Authors: Tomovic Gordana , Vukojicic Snezana , Niketic M. , Lakusic D.
Published: February 2009

We present the distribution of 10 threatened or rare plant species in Serbia based on field research and herbarium and literature data. These taxa are mapped on 10 x 10 km2 UTM grids. The following taxa are analyzed: Crepis nicaeensis Balbis, Lamium hybridum Vill., Lathyrus inconspicuus L., Kitaibela vitifolia Willd., Lindernia palustris Hartm., Veronica dillenii Crantz, Cyperus pannonicus Jacq., Milium vernale Bieb., Epipactis microphylla (Ehrh.) Swartz, and Epipogium aphyllum Swartz. For each species, the IUCN threatened status in Serbia is given; on the basis of these estimates it is proposed that eight plants be included in the next edition of the Red Data Book of the Flora of Serbia.
Contribution to knowledge of the vascular flora of the Resava Gorge, Eastern Serbia
Authors: Mijatovic Miroslava , Karadzic B. , Jaric Snezana , Popovic Zorica , Pavlovic P. , Mitrovic Miroslava , Djurdjevic L.
Published: February 2009

The Resava Gorge is situated in Eastern Serbia in the region of the Gornja Resava River, extending westward from Mt. Globski Krs to the town of Lisine. In floral research conducted during 1997 and 1998, 297 taxa of vascular flora belonging to 68 families were discovered. The families Poaceae (28), Asteraceae (21), Fabaceae (20) and Lamiaceae (19) were best represented. The presence of 49 floral elements was also noted. The greatest number of plants are sub-Central European (18,86 %), Eurasian (14,14 %), sub-Mediterranean (8,75 %), Central European (6,40 %) and sub- Eurasian (6,40 %). As for life forms, hemi-cryptophytes (49,50 %), phanerophytes (19,53 %) and geophytes (11,11 %) were noted as dominant.
Generation of a whole chromosome painting probe from monochromosomal hybrid cells by the alu-polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Drakulic Danijela , Nikcevic Gordana , Djordjevic Vesna , Stevanovic Milena
Published: February 2009

Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) has become a widespread technique applicable in basic science and diagnostics. Chromosome painting represents a special application of FISH that has found increasing use in identification of complex chromosome rearrangements. Here we present a version of the Alu-PCR method modified to generate a whole chromosome painting probe (WCP) for human chromosome 19 using monochromosomal cell hybrids. In setting up conditions for this method, we established a cheap and fast approach to generation of WCPs for other human chromosomes that could be particularly useful for unambiguous identification of complex chromosomal rearrangements associated with cancer. .
Estrogen-induced modification of uterine RNA polymerase activity depends on localization of the estrogen receptor
Authors: Zakula Zorica , Isenovic Esma , Stojiljkovic Mojca , Koricanac G. , Tepavcevic Snezana , Ribarac-Stepic Nevena
Published: February 2009

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of estradiol (E2) on activity of RNA polymerase I and RNA polymerase II in uterine nuclei of ovariectomized (OVX) female rats. The obtained results show that estrogen-receptor (E-R) complexes in 30 min induced an increase of polymerase II activity. A second increase of polymerase II activity was observed after 3 h-incubation of nuclei with the E-R complex formed in the cytosol fraction. However, activity of polymerase I was increased 2 h after the start of incubation, with highest activity detected at 3 h in nuclei incubated with E-R complexes. On the contrary, no stimulatory effect on either polymerase I or polymerase II activity was observed in nuclei incubated with E2 alone. These results indicate that E2 stimulates the cytosolic estrogen receptor (ER), which in turn causes uterotrophic responses in OVX rats. In addition, they suggest that in order to provoke uterotrophic responses E-R complexes formed in the cytosol need to be retained in the nucleus for a longer period of time. .
Of chronic diazepam treatments on behavior on individually housed rats
Authors: Spasojevic Natasa , Gavrilovic Ljubica , Varagic V.V. , Dronjak Sladjana
Published: February 2009

The present study analyzed the effects of chronic treatment with low doses of diazepam on body weight, defecations and urinations, vertical rears, the elevated platform test, and self-grooming in male rats exposed for 21 days to social isolation. The rats were treated for 21 days with diazepam (0.2 mg/kg, i.p) or its vehicle. Social isolation led to decreased body weight and vertical rears, more defecations and urinations, increased reluctance to step down from the test platform, shorter duration of grooming, and longer reluctance to start grooming. Chronic diazepam in individually housed rats produced increase in body weight and vertical rears, decrease in the number of defecations and urinations, and shortening of the time of reluctance to step down from the platform. The number of grooming bouts, their duration, and reluctance to start grooming were not altered by diazepam, but it decreased the percentage of incorrect transitions. The obtained data indicate that chronic diazepam treatment of socially isolated rats changes non-grooming behavior and some grooming behavior parameters. .
Isolation and structural analysis of a gene coding for a novel type of aspartic proteinase from buckwheat seed (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench)
Authors: Milisavljevic Mira , Timotijevic Gordana , Radovic Svetlana , Konstantinovic M.M. , Maksimovic Vesna
Published: February 2009

A novel type of aspartic proteinase gene was isolated from the cDNA library of developing buckwheat seeds. This cDNA, FeAPL1, encoded an AP-like protein lacking the plant-specific insert (PSI) domain characteristic of typical plant aspartic proteinases. In addition the corresponding genomic fragment was isolated. It is demonstrated that this gene does not contain introns. Since bioinformatics analysis of the Arabidopsis genome showed that most potential AP genes are intronless and PSI-less, it appears that "atypical" is an inappropriate word for that class of AP. Isolation of this specific buckwheat gene among the small group of those isolated from other plant species provides a new perspective on the diversity of AP family members in plants. .
Effects of salinity on in vitro growth and photosynthesis of common centaury (Centaurium erythraea Rafn.)
Authors: Siler B. , Misic Danijela , Filipovic Biljana , Popovic Zorica , Cvetic Tijana , Mijovic A.
Published: February 2009

The effects of salinity on in vitro growth, morphogenesis, photosynthetic rate (Pn), PSII efficiency (Fv/Fm), and chlorophyll content were investigated in Centaurium erythraea Rafn. Root growth was more adversely affected by increasing NaCl concentration than was shoot growth. High salt concentrations were effective in induction of axillary and adventitious buds on shoots, with 400 mM NaCl being the most efficient one. Values of Pn and Fv/Fm increased at moderate salt levels, but decreased when 400 mM NaCl was applied. Chlorophyll a and b contents and total chlorophyll had a decreasing trend with increasing supply of NaCl in the growth medium. .
Effect of chilling and acclimation on the activity of glutamine synthetase isoforms in maize seedlings
Authors: Simonovic Ana , Anderson M.D.
Published: February 2009

Effects of chilling and acclimation on the activity of cytosolic (GS1) and plastidic (GS2) isoforms of glutamine synthetase (E.C. 6.3.1.2) were studied in chilling-sensitive and acclimation-responsive maize inbred G50. Glutamine synthetase activity in mesocotyls and roots of chilled (7 d/4?C) and rewarmed (1 d/27?C) etiolated plants was "1/3 that of controls. In coleoptiles+leaves of light-grown plants, GS1 was reduced to 75%, and GS2 to 50%. Acclimation (3 d/14?C) increased GS activity and alleviated the effects of chilling. Exposure to H2O2 or menadione also reduced GS activity. Since chilling causes oxidative stress in maize, acclimation probably preserves GS activity by protecting GS from oxidative inactivation. .
Morpho-anatomical characteristics of the raw material of the herbal drug Olivae folium and its counterfeits
Authors: Lakusic Branislava , Popov Violeta , Runjajic-Antic Dusanka
Published: February 2009

The olive tree leaf is a very significant plant raw material from the medical and economic points of view (Ph. Eur. 5, PDR). In the region of Southeast Europe, olive leaves are most commonly adulterated with oleander leaves and the leaves of Pittosporum tobira. This paper deals with the morphological and anatomical features of leaves of the following species: Olea europaea, Nerium oleander and Pittosporum tobira. The aim of this research was to define concrete diagnostic parameters permitting detection of adulterants in commercial samples of the herbal drug Olivae folium.
Altitudinal variation of the sex ratio and segregation by gender in the dioecious plant Mercurialis perennis L. (Euphorbiaceae) in Serbia
Authors: Cvetkovic Dragana , Jovanovic V.
Published: February 2009

The sex ratio is one of the most intriguing problems for evolutionary biologists. Spatio-temporal variation of male frequency in sexually dimorphic plant species, spatial segregation, and differential investment of the two sex functions have attracted much research interest. In this study, we examined altitudinal variation of the sex ratio and segregation by gender in Mercurialis perennis (dog?s mercury), a dioecious anemophilous species with wide distribution. The eight studied populations from Serbia represented an altitudinal range of 196 to 1480 m. Sex ratio was significantly biased in seven of the eight populations, with males outnumbering females 3.91:1 in the lowest-altitude population. Our results support the notion of spatial segregation of sexes along on altitudinal gradient: the frequency of males decreased with altitude, from 79.6% to 41.0%. The sex ratio was not significantly correlated with population density. We also examined intersexual differences of plant height in two populations from the extremes of the studied altitudinal range. Males were the larger sex in both populations, though the difference was not significant in the high-altitude population. .
Anti-genotoxic effect of aloe vera gelR on the mutagenic action of ethyl methanesulfonate
Authors: Stanic Snezana
Published: February 2009

The antimutagenic effect of aloe vera gelR was investigated using the Drosophila sex-linked recessive lethal test (or SLRL test). In this assay, 3-day-old adults were treated with a direct-acting mutagen - ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), which was the positive control. The other group of individuals of the same age was firstly treated with EMS, and then with aloe vera gelR (co-treatment). When co-treatment experiments with aloe were carried out, it was effective in reducing genotoxicity of the direct-acting mutagen. .
First record of Pipistrellus kuhlii Kuhl, 1817 (Chiroptera: vespertilionidae) from Dobrogea (Romania)
Authors: Dragu Anca , Munteanu Ioana , Olteanu V.
Published: February 2009

Pipistrellus kuhlii is recorded in the Dobrogea District for the first time. On the 16th of July 2006, a nursery colony was discovered on the second floor of a building in Constan?a (2.5 m a. s. l., 44?10.4?N 28?38.3?E). External characters as well as cranial and dental measurements of two specimens are given. .
Direct photolysis and photocatalytic degradation of 2-amino-5-chloropyridine
Authors: Abramovic Biljana , Anderluh Vesna , Topalov Andjelka , Gaal Ferenc
Published: February 2009

The direct photolysis and photocatalytic degradation of a pyridine pesticide analogue, 2-amino-5-chloropyridine, were investigated employing different analytical techniques ? potentiometry, for monitoring the pH and chloride genera- tion, spectrophotometry, for studying the degradation of the pyridine moiety, ion chromatography, for monitoring nitrate formation, and total organic carbon analysis for investigating the efficiency of the process. The photocatalytic degradation was studied in aqueous suspensions of titanium dioxide under illumination by UV light. It was found that chloride evolution was a zero-order reaction which takes place by direct photolysis, in that way differing from the degradation of the pyridine moiety, which takes place in the presence of titanium dioxide. Changes in pH during degradation indicate the formation of acidic intermediates and nitrate in addition to chloride. The effect of the initial substrate concentration was also investigated by monitoring the reaction of chloride generation as well as the degradation reaction of the pyridine moiety. It was found that degradation of the parent compound (2.5 mmol/dm3) by direct photolysis is completed in about 20 minutes, and of the pyridine moety by photocatalytic degradation in about nine hours. Based on the obtained data a possible reaction mechanism is proposed.
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes in Asian and Pacific Islander U.S. Youth
Authors: Liu Lenna L. , Yi Joyce P. , Beyer Jennifer , Mayer-Davis Elizabeth J. , Dolan Lawrence M. , Dabelea Dana M. , Lawrence Jean M. , Rodriguez Beatriz L. , Marcovina Santica M. , Waitzfelder Beth E. , Fujimoto Wilfred Y. ,   for the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study Group
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE—Given limited reports on diabetes among U.S. Asian and Pacific Islander youth, we describe the clinical characteristics, incidence, and prevalence of diabetes among Asian, Pacific Islander, and mixed Asian–Pacific Islander youth.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Data were collected from 245 Asian, Pacific Islander, and Asian–Pacific Islander participants in the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study, a population-based study of diabetes in youth (aged <20 years). Additionally, we estimated the incidence and prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes for Asian, Pacific Islander, and Asian–Pacific Islander youth combined.

RESULTS—Most participants with type 2 diabetes were obese (range Asian 71% to Pacific Islander 100%) with mean BMI >33 kg/m2. In those with type 1 diabetes, Pacific Islanders were more likely to be obese, with a mean BMI of 26 vs. 20 kg/m2 for Asian and Asian–Pacific Islander youth (P < 0.0001). The incidence of type 1 diabetes for youth aged 0–9 years was 6.4 per 100,000 person-years and 7.4 per 100,000 person-years for youth aged 10–19 years. The incidence of type 2 diabetes was 12.1 per 100,000 person-years for youth aged 10–19 years.

CONCLUSIONS—While Asian and Asian–Pacific Islanders with type 1 and type 2 diabetes had lower mean BMIs than Pacific Islanders, all Asian, Pacific Islander, and Asian–Pacific Islanders with type 2 diabetes had mean BMIs above adult ethnicity-specific definitions of obesity. While the majority of Asian, Pacific Islander, and Asian–Pacific Islander youth had type 1 diabetes, older Asian, Pacific Islander, and Asian–Pacific Islander youth (aged 10–19 years) have an incidence of type 2 diabetes almost double that of type 1 diabetes. Public health efforts to prevent type 2 diabetes and obesity in Asian, Pacific Islander, and Asian–Pacific Islander adolescents are needed.
Diabetes in Navajo Youth
Authors: Dabelea Dana , DeGroat Joquetta , Sorrelman Carmelita , Glass Martia , Percy Christopher A. , Avery Charlene , Hu Diana , D'Agostino Ralph B. , Beyer Jennifer , Imperatore Giuseppina , Testaverde Lisa , Klingensmith Georgeanna , Hamman Richard F. ,   for the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study Group
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE—To estimate the prevalence and incidence of diabetes, clinical characteristics, and risk factors for chronic complications among Navajo youth, using data collected by the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study (SEARCH study).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The SEARCH study identified all prevalent cases of diabetes in 2001 and all incident cases in 2002–2005 among Navajo youth. We estimated denominators with the user population for eligible health care facilities. Youth with diabetes also attended a research visit that included questionnaires, physical examination, blood and urine collection, and extended medical record abstraction.

RESULTS—Diabetes is infrequent among Navajo youth aged <10 years. However, both prevalence and incidence of diabetes are high in older youth. Among adolescents aged 15–19 years, 1 in 359 Navajo youth had diabetes in 2001 and 1 in 2,542 developed diabetes annually. The vast majority of diabetes among Navajo youth with diabetes is type 2, although type 1 diabetes is also present, especially among younger children. Navajo youth with either diabetes type were likely to have poor glycemic control, high prevalence of unhealthy behaviors, and evidence of severely depressed mood. Youth with type 2 diabetes had more metabolic factors associated with obesity and insulin resistance (abdominal fat deposition, dyslipidemia, and higher albumin-to-creatinine ratio) than youth with type 1 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS—Our data provide evidence that diabetes is an important health problem for Navajo youth. Targeted efforts aimed at primary prevention of diabetes in Navajo youth and efforts to prevent or delay the development of chronic complications among those with diabetes are warranted.
Congenital Gliosarcoma: Detailed Clinicopathologic Documentation of a Rare Neoplasm
Authors: Hocwald Ori , McFadden Deborah , Osiovich Horacio , Dunham Christopher
Published: February 2009

Congenital brain tumors are rare. Clinically, they often result in macrocrania, hydrocephalus, and focal neurologic deficits. Fetal onset may result in dystocia and stillbirth. Antenatal detection is becoming more common as the result of neuroimaging, and modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging can assist in narrowing the pathologic differential diagnoses. Teratomas and astrocytomas appear to be the most common congenital neoplasms. Amongst the latter, all grades and many subtypes are represented in the congenital time period, including the diffusely infiltrative forms of astrocytoma. Gliosarcoma is currently considered a variant of glioblastoma (i.e., astrocytoma, World Health Organization grade IV) that exhibits genetically similar yet phenotypically separate histologic regions of high-grade astrocytoma and sarcoma. Only rare instances of congenital gliosarcoma have been reported. We detail the case of a 1-day-old term male who presented with macrocrania, hydrocephalus, and signs of increased intracranial pressure. Pathology revealed evidence of a classic gliosarcoma.
The effect of different head and neck positions on the caudal back and hindlimb kinematics in the elite dressage horse at trot
Authors: Rhodin M. , Álvarez C. B. Gómez , Byström A. , Johnston C. , Van Weeren P. R. , Roepstorff L. , Weishaupt M. A.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Dressage involves training of the horse with the head and neck placed in a position defined by the rider. The best position for dressage training is currently under debate among riders and trainers, but there are few scientific data available to confirm or disprove the different views.

Objective: To evaluate the kinematic effects of different head and neck positions (HNPs) in elite dressage horses ridden at trot.

Methods: Seven high‐level dressage horses were subjected to kinetic and kinematic measurements when ridden on a treadmill with the head and neck in 5 different positions.

Results: Compared to free trot on loose reins the HNP desired for collected trot at dressage competitions increased T6 vertical excursion, increased sacral flexion and decreased limb retraction after lift‐off. Further increasing head or head and neck flexion caused few additional changes while an extremely elevated neck position increased hindlimb flexion and lumbar back extension during stance, increased hindlimb flexion during swing and further increased trunk vertical excursion.

Conclusions: The movements of the horse are significantly different when ridden on loose reins compared to the position used in collected trot. The exact degree of neck flexion is, however, not consistently correlated to the movements of the horse's limbs and trunk at collected trot. An extremely elevated neck position can produce some effects commonly associated with increased degree of collection, but the increased back extension observed with this position may place the horse at risk of injury if ridden in this position for a prolonged period.

Potential relevance: Head and neck positions influence significantly the kinematics of the ridden horse. It is important for riders and trainers to be aware of these effects in dressage training.
Basic kinematics of the saddle and rider in high‐level dressage horses trotting on a treadmill
Authors: Byström A. , Rhodin M. , Von Peinen K. , Weishaupt M. A. , Roepstorff L.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: A comprehensive kinematic description of rider and saddle movements is not yet present in the scientific literature.

Objective: To describe saddle and rider movements in a group of high‐level dressage horses and riders.

Method: Seven high‐level dressage horses and riders were subjected to kinematic measurements while performing collected trot on a treadmill. For analysis a rigid body model for the saddle and core rider segments, projection angles of the rider's extremities and the neck and trunk of the horse, and distances between markers selected to indicate rider position were used.

Results: For a majority of the variables measured it was possible to describe a common pattern for the group. Rotations around the transverse axis (pitch) were generally biphasic for each diagonal. During the first half of stance the saddle rotated anticlockwise and the rider's pelvis clockwise viewed from the right and the rider's lumbar back extended. During the later part of stance and the suspension phase reverse pitch rotations were observed. Rotations of the saddle and core rider segments around the longitudinal (roll) and vertical axes (yaw) changed direction only around time of contact of each diagonal.

Conclusion: The saddles and riders of high‐level dressage horses follow a common movement pattern at collected trot. The movements of the saddle and rider are clearly related to the movements of the horse and saddle movements also seem to be influenced by the rider.

Potential relevance: Knowledge about rider and saddle movements can further our understanding of, and hence possibilities to prevent, orthopaedic injuries related to the exposure of the horse to a rider and saddle.
Deformation of the equine pelvis in response toin vitro3D sacroiliac joint loading
Authors: Haussler K. K. , Mcgilvray K. C. , Ayturk U. M. , Puttlitz C. M. , Hill A. E. , Mcilwraith C. W.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Sacroiliac joint injuries can cause poor performance; however, the interaction between pelvic mechanics and the sacroiliac joint is poorly understood.

Objective: To measure pelvic displacement during 3D sacroiliac joint loading.

Methods: Nine reflective triads were attached rigidly to bony prominences in sacropelvic specimens harvested from 14 horses for stereophotogrammetric analysis of triad displacements and joint kinematics. The sacrum was coupled to a load cell and mounted vertically within a material testing system (MTS). A pneumatic actuator was used to apply 90 Nm moments to the ischial arch to simulate nutation‐counternutation and left and right lateral bending of the sacroiliac joints. Axial rotation of the sacrum was induced by torsion of the upper MTS fixture. Vectors of marker displacement within orthogonal planes of motion were measured during loading of the sacropelvic specimens. Comparisons in the magnitude and direction of triad displacements were made between paired left‐right markers and paired loading conditions.

Results: Nutation‐counternutation of the sacroiliac joint caused vertical displacement of the ischial tuberosities and cranial‐caudal displacement of the wings of the ilium. Lateral bending induced rotational displacement within the horizontal plane of all pelvic landmarks, relative to the sacrum. Axial rotation of the sacrum caused elevation of the wing of the ilium ipsilateral to the direction of sacral rotation and depression of the contralateral ilial wing. Significant paired left‐right differences occurred during most sacroiliac joint loading conditions. Comparable magnitudes of pelvic displacement were measured during nutation‐counternutation, left and right lateral bending, and left and right axial rotation.

Conclusions: The equine pelvis is not a rigid structure and asymmetric pelvic deformation occurs during most sacroiliac joint movements.

Clinical relevance: Bony pelvic deformation should be considered a normal response to any sacroiliac joint movement.