bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms Involved in Systemic Nicotine-Induced Glutamatergic Synaptic Plasticity on Dopamine Neurons in the Ventral Tegmental Area
Authors: Gao Ming , Jin Yu , Yang Kechun , Zhang Die , Lukas Ronald J. , Wu Jie
Published: October 2010

Systemic exposure to nicotine induces glutamatergic synaptic plasticity on dopamine (DA) neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), but mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we report that single, systemic exposure in rats to nicotine (0.17 mg/kg free base) increases the ratio of DA neuronal currents mediated by AMPA relative to NMDA receptors (AMPA/NMDA ratio) assessed 24 h later, based on slice-patch recording. The AMPA/NMDA ratio increase is evident within 1 h and lasts for at least 72 h after nicotine exposure (and up to 8 d after repeated nicotine administration). This effect cannot be prevented by systemic injection of either α7-nAChR (nicotinic ACh receptor)-selective [methyllycaconitine (MLA)] or β2*-nAChR-selective [mecamylamine (MEC)] antagonists but is prevented by coinjection of MLA and MEC. In either nAChR α7 or β2 subunit knock-out mice, systemic exposure to nicotine still increases the AMPA/NMDA ratio. Preinjection in rats of a NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801((+)-5-methyl-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5,10-imine maleate), but neither DA receptor antagonists [SCH-23390 (R-(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-benzazepine) plus haloperidol] nor a calcineurin inhibitor (cyclosporine), prevents the nicotine-induced increase in AMPA/NMDA ratio. After systemic exposure to nicotine, glutamatergic (but not GABAergic) transmission onto rat VTA DA neuronal inputs is enhanced. Correspondingly, DA neuronal firing measured 24 h after nicotine exposure using extracellular single-unit recordingin vivois significantly faster, and there is conversion of silent to active DA neurons. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that systemic nicotine acting via either α7- or β2*-nAChRs increases presynaptic and postsynaptic glutamatergic function, and consequently initiates glutamatergic synaptic plasticity, which may be an important, early neuronal adaptation in nicotine reward and reinforcement.
A Homolog of the Vertebrate Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide Is Both Necessary and Instructive for the Rapid Formation of Associative Memory in an Invertebrate
Authors: Pirger Zsolt , László Zita , Kemenes Ildikó , Tóth Gábor , Reglődi Dóra , Kemenes György
Published: October 2010

Similar to other invertebrate and vertebrate animals, cAMP-dependent signaling cascades are key components of long-term memory (LTM) formation in the snailLymnaea stagnalis, an established experimental model for studying evolutionarily conserved molecular mechanisms of long-term associative memory. Although a great deal is already known about the signaling cascades activated by cAMP, the molecules involved in the learning-induced activation of adenylate cyclase (AC) inLymnaearemained unknown.

Using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectroscopy in combination with biochemical and immunohistochemical methods, recently we have obtained evidence for the existence of aLymnaeahomolog of the vertebrate pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and for the AC-activating effect of PACAP in theLymnaeanervous system. Here we first tested the hypothesis that PACAP plays an important role in the formation of robust LTM after single-trial classical food-reward conditioning. Application of the PACAP receptor antagonist PACAP6-38 around the time of single-trial training with amyl acetate and sucrose blocked associative LTM, suggesting that in this “strong” food-reward conditioning paradigm the activation of AC by PACAP was necessary for LTM to form. We found that in a “weak” multitrial food-reward conditioning paradigm, lip touch paired with sucrose, memory formation was also dependent on PACAP. Significantly, systemic application of PACAP at the beginning of multitrial tactile conditioning accelerated the formation of transcription-dependent memory.

Our findings provide the first evidence to show that in the same nervous system PACAP is both necessary and instructive for fast and robust memory formation after reward classical conditioning.
Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Activated Protein Kinase 2 (MK2) Contributes to Secondary Damage after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Ghasemlou Nader , Lopez-Vales Ruben , Lachance Claude , Thuraisingam Thusanth , Gaestel Matthias , Radzioch Danuta , David Samuel
Published: October 2010

The inflammatory response contributes importantly to secondary tissue damage and functional deficits after spinal cord injury (SCI). In this work, we identified mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-activated protein kinase 2 (MAPKAPK2 or MK2), a downstream substrate of p38 MAPK, as a potential target using microarray analysis of contused spinal cord tissue taken at the peak of the inflammatory response. There was increased expression and phosphorylation of MK2 after SCI, with phospho-MK2 expressed in microglia/macrophages, neurons and astrocytes. We examined the role of MK2 in spinal cord contusion injury usingMK2−/−mice. These results show that locomotor recovery was significantly improved inMK2−/−mice, compared with wild-type controls.MK2−/−mice showed reduced neuron and myelin loss, and increased sparing of serotonergic fibers in the ventral horn caudal to the injury site. We also found differential expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and 9 inMK2−/−and wild-type mice after SCI. Significant reduction was also seen in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and protein nitrosylation in the injured spinal cord ofMK2−/−mice. Our previous work has shown that macrophages lacking MK2 have an anti-inflammatory phenotype. We now show that there is no difference in the number of macrophages in the injured spinal cord between the two mouse strains and little if any difference in their phagocytic capacity, suggesting that macrophages lacking MK2 have a beneficial phenotype. These findings suggest that a lack of MK2 can reduce tissue damage after SCI and improve locomotor recovery. MK2 may therefore be a useful target to treat acute SCI.
Zeitgeschichte im Fernsehen. Die preisgekrönte Dokumentation Das Schweigen der Quandts als fragwürdiges Paradigma
Authors: Stremmel Ralf
Published: October 2010

Vorspann

Hat die Geschichte noch ein Publikum? In Film und Fernsehen zweifellos. Verglichen damit erreichen die Produkte der professionellen Geschichtswissenschaft nur noch eine kleine Minderheit. Angesichts dieses Widerspruchs erstaunt die Indolenz, mit der die Vertreter der Zunft auf die Imaginierung ihrer Themen reagieren. Die Tatsache, dass die Historie nicht nur den Historikern gehört, wird von diesen meist ignoriert oder unterschätzt, aber nicht wirklich als Herausforderung begriffen. In diesem Fall ist das anders. Denn Ralf Stremmel geht es um viel mehr als nur um die Kritik einer speziellen historiografischen Dokumentation. Seine eigentliche Frage ist viel weiter gespannt: Was kann man von einer guten historischen Fernsehdokumentation erwarten?
Sustainable Agriculture and the Environment in the Humid Tropics
Authors: Kangasniemi Jaakko
Published: October 2010

Sustainable Agriculture and the Environment in the Humid Tropics. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press. 1993. 702 p. w/index.
Arguing with the Crocodile: Gender and Class in Bangladesh
Authors: Vasavi A.R.
Published: October 2010

Arguing with the Crocodile: Gender and Class in Bangladesh. By Sarah C. White. London: Zed Books. 1992.
Who Pays the Price: The Sociocultural Context of Environmental Crisis
Authors: Loker William M.
Published: October 2010

Who Pays the Price: The Sociocultural Context of Environmental Crisis Edited by: Barbara Rose Johnston Publisher: Island Press for the Society for Applied Anthropology Date: 1994 ISBN: 1‐55963‐303‐4
Seduction, Prostitution, and the Control of Female Desire in Popular Antebellum Fiction
Authors: Renner Karen J.
Published: October 2010

Karen J. Renner, "Seduction, Prostitution, and the Control of Female Desire in Popular Antebellum Literature" (pp. 166–191)

During the antebellum era, increased attention to the prostitute coincided with a prevalent conception of women as, in Nancy Cott's words, essentially "passionless" unless aroused by sincere romantic love. Yet it seems paradoxical that this ideology existed alongside an increasing awareness of women whose livelihood depended upon manufacturing and marketing sexual desire. In this essay I argue that the prostitute became an object of antebellum fascination and concern less because of her defiance of the ideology of passionlessness and more because of the extent to which she could be made to reinforce this ideology. Casting the prostitute as a victim of seduction preserved predominant beliefs about the dependency of female desire on male impetus. The popular novels of George Thompson and Osgood Bradbury elide the sexual autonomy of the prostitute by making her a victim of men, but they do so in different ways. Thompson employs two variants of the seduction narrative that differ according to class, but both result in the subjection of female desire to male control. His indigent females are chaste victims of violent forms of sexual exploitation, while his licentious rich women reveal an inherent tendency toward monogamy or an inability to command their own aberrant desires. Bradbury, in contrast, is remarkable for his willingness to allow fallen women and prostitutes the chance to reform. As refreshingly progressive as Bradbury's novels seem, however, his adherence to the seduction narrative ultimately suggests that female desire is doomed to dissatisfaction unless properly channeled toward working-class men.
Dietary supplements on the domestic market adulterated with sildenafil and tadalafil
Authors: Csupor Dezső , Szekeres András , Kecskeméti Anita , Vékes Erika , Veres Katalin , Micsinay Ákos , Szendrei Kálmán , Hohmann Judit
Published: October 2010

Az étrend-kiegészítők gyártását és forgalmazását nem garantálják a gyógyszerszabályozáshoz hasonlóan szigorú jogszabályok. Az elmúlt években a termékcsoport tagjainak száma meredeken emelkedett, és ezzel párhuzamosan szaporodtak a készítmények reklámozásával, ajánlásával és minőségével kapcsolatos visszaélések. A termékek hamisításának egyik gyakori módja a szintetikus gyógyszerhatóanyagok jelölés nélküli felhasználása növényi eredetű készítményekben. Vizsgálatunkban 10, hazánkban forgalomban lévő, potenciafokozóként (vagy ezt a hatást sugallva) reklámozott étrend-kiegészítőt vontunk kémiai elemzés alá. Hat termékben szildenafil és/vagy tadalafil vagy a vegyületek analógjai voltak kimutathatóak. Eredményeink felhívják a figyelmet arra, hogy a rossz minőségű, hamisított étrend-kiegészítők valós egészségi kockázatot jelentenek a fogyasztók számára. Orv. Hetil., 2010,43,1783–1789.
New possibilities of targeted therapy in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in view of molecular biology
Authors: Hagymási Krisztina , Tulassay Zsolt
Published: October 2010

A hepatocellularis carcinoma kórjóslata rossz. A felismeréskor a betegek 85%-a nem alkalmas a kuratív kezelésre, ezekben az esetekben a palliatív módozatok, a transarterialis kemoembolisatio, a rádiófrekvenciás ablatio és a szisztémás kemoterápia alkalmazhatóak. A szisztémás kemoterápia eredményei kiábrándítóak. Molekuláris biológiai ismereteink a célzott kezelési lehetőségek tárát bővíthetik a jövőben. Jelenleg a multikinázgátló sorafenib van csak törzskönyvezve hazánkban, de ígéretesek lehetnek még a VEGF-gátlók (bevacizumab, sunitinib), az EGFR-útvonal gátlása (erlotinib), valamint az mTOR-gátlók (rapamycin és származékai). Előnyös lehet a sorafenib vagy más érképződést gátló együttes adása helyi ablatív eljárásokkal (transarterialis kemoembolisatio, rádiófrekvenciás ablatio) vagy kuratív hepatectomiával. A jövő további lehetőségei közé tartoznak a Wnt-útvonalat módosítók, a retinoid vegyületek, a sejtciklusgátlók, a proteoszómagátlók és az epigenetikus kezelés. Orv. Hetil., 2010,43,1763–1768.
Dry Techniques for Epitaxial Graphene Transfer
Authors: Caldwell Joshua D. , Anderson Travis J. , Hobart Karl D. , Jernigan Glenn G. , Culbertson James C. , Kub Fritz J. , Tedesco Joseph L. , Hite Jennifer K. , Mastro Michael A. , Myers-Ward Rachael L. , Eddy Charles R. , Campbell Paul M. , Gaskill D. Kurt
Published: October 2010

Epitaxial graphene (EG) grown on the carbon-face of SiC has been shown to exhibit higher carrier mobilities in comparison to other growth techniques amenable to wafer-scale graphene fabrication. The transfer of large area (>mm2) graphene films to substrates amenable for specific applications is desirable. We demonstrate the dry transfer of EG from the C-face of 4H-SiC onto SiO2, GaN and Al2O3 substrates via two approaches using either 1) thermal release tape or 2) a spin-on, chemically-etchable dielectric. Van der Pauw devices fabricated from C-face EG transferred to SiO2 gave similar mobility values and up to three fold reductions in carrier density in comparison to devices fabricated on as-grown material.
The Ultrafast Dynamics of Electronic Excitations in Pentacene Thin Films
Authors: Marciniak Henning , Nickel Bert , Lochbrunner Stefan
Published: October 2010

Pentacene films which are model systems for organic electronics exhibit contrary to the pentacene monomer extremely little photoluminescence. This points to an ultrafast relaxation mechanism. We apply pump-probe absorption spectroscopy with a time resolution of 30 fs to microcrystalline pentacene films. It is found that the primarily excited Frenkel excitons decay within 70 fs to a non fluorescing singlet species. Contrary to expectations fission into triplets is only a minor channel. We propose that the ultrafast relaxation of the photoexcited excitons leads to a species very similar to excimers. The radiative transition of the excimer to the ground state is electric dipole forbidden due to symmetry reasons. The excimer formation provides therefore an efficient mechanism to turn off the emission.
Breeding Common Bean for Resistance to Diseases: A Review
Authors: Singh Shree P. , Schwartz Howard F.
Published: October 2010

Diseases cause severe losses (20–100%) to yield and quality of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) worldwide. Our objectives were to describe major bean disease problems in the Americas and review progress achieved in breeding for resistance. We also describe strategies to integrate genetic improvement for resistance to multiple diseases with cultivar development. Common bacterial blight, halo blight, and bacterial brown spot are the major bacterial diseases. Angular leaf spot, anthracnose, root rots, rust, and white mold are severe fungal diseases. Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV), Bean golden mosaic virus (BGMV), Bean golden yellow mosaic virus (BGYMV), and Beet curly top virus (BCTV) are important viral diseases. Breeding for resistance to one or two diseases at a time is emphasized. Backcross, pedigree, and bulk‐pedigree methods of breeding are used. The use of molecular markers has gradually increased. Substantial progress has been made in breeding and genetics of resistance to most of these diseases; however, improvement in resistance to bacterial brown spot, halo blight, root rots, and web blight has been slow and localized. Furthermore, cultivars with high levels of resistance to one or more quantitatively inherited diseases (e.g., common bacterial blight and white mold) are rare. Breeding strategies for simultaneous and integrated genetic improvement of multiple qualitatively and quantitatively inherited resistances and cultivar development are briefly described.
Hybrid Breeding in Durum Wheat: Heterosis and Combining Ability
Authors: Gowda M. , Kling C. , Würschum T. , Liu W. , Maurer H. P. , Hahn V. , Reif J. C.
Published: October 2010

Hybrid breeding facilitates a maximum exploitation of heterosis. The objectives of our research were to (i) examine the magnitude of heterosis over the mid‐ and better parent for yield, yield components, and quality traits in Central European spring durum wheat and (ii) investigate the efficiency of parental selection based on mid‐parent value or general combining ability effects. Sixteen inbred lines and 40 incomplete factorial crosses were field‐evaluated for eight agronomic traits at 10 environments in Germany. For grain yield, the hybrids yielded on average 10% higher than the mid‐parent performance, and the maximum superiority was 22%. The significantly positive contrast between inbreeding depression and mid‐parent heterosis for grain yield indicated the presence of positive additive x additive epistatic interactions. Furthermore, the best hybrid outperformed the best line variety by 1.01 Mg ha−1 We conclude that there is a potential for hybrid breeding in durum wheat.
Chromosome Location, Linkage with Simple Sequence Repeat Markers, and Leaf Rust Resistance Conditioned by Gene Lr63 in Wheat
Authors: Kolmer J. A. , Anderson J. A. , Flor J. M.
Published: October 2010

RL6137, a ‘Thatcher’ backcross line of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) has resistance to Puccinia triticina (causal agent of wheat leaf rust) derived from T. monococcum To determine the chromosome location of this resistance, RL6137 was crossed with Thatcher and F2 individual seedlings were tested for segregation of leaf rust resistance and segregation of polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Leaf rust resistance genotypes of F2 individuals were confirmed with segregation of F3 families. The F2 seedlings and F3 families segregated for a single leaf rust resistance gene. The SSR markers barc 57 and barc 321 located on chromosome 3AS were tightly linked with the leaf rust resistance gene. The leaf rust resistance gene in RL6137 was designated as Lr63 This gene conditions low to intermediate infection types to most P. triticina isolates and can be used in wheat improvement programs to enhance leaf rust resistance.
Isolation of Male and Female Gametes of Rice
Authors: Zhang Ya Nan , Wei Dong Mei , He En Ming , Miao Sen , Tian Hui Qiao , Russell Scott D.
Published: October 2010

To improve the quality of rice (Oryza sativa L. ssp. japonica auct.) sperm cells for various types of studies, we developed a method for isolation involving the in vivo–in vitro method, in which the stigma was pollinated and pollen tubes were allowed to elongate in vivo for a period. Then styles were cut near the ovary and floated on the surface of a medium until pollen tubes emerged. Over 63% of the rice pollen grains opened and released their contents, including the two sperm cells that are present in pollen grains, during incubation in a medium containing 5 to 25% sucrose or 7.5 to 20% glucose. With 10% polyethylene glycol (PEG) (molecular weight 4500) added to the medium, >40% of the pollen grains germinated and formed short pollen tubes. After transfer of the pollen with short tubes to a bursting solution containing 8% mannitol, many tubes burst and released two sperm cells. Hundreds of living egg cells were also isolated from blooming flowers, and living zygotes were isolated from flowers at 6 h after anthesis using dissection or enzymatic maceration combined with micromanipulation. The successful isolation of these rice sperm and egg cells facilitates obtaining sufficient material to allow molecular studies of rice male and female gametes.
Genome Size and Chromosome Analyses in Prairie Cordgrass
Authors: Kim Sumin , Rayburn A. Lane , Lee D. K.
Published: October 2010

The next generation of bioenergy crops will be grown on marginal lands. Prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata Link) is well suited to marginal land because of its tolerance to stresses such as salinity and water fluctuations. Developing prairie cordgrass as an energy crop requires genomic information such as genomic size and ploidy level. The 2C nuclear genome size of 11 prairie cordgrass populations, originating from Illinois, North Dakota, and South Dakota, were determined by flow cytometry using somatic G1 nuclei, and the ploidy variation confirmed by counting the chromosome number. One population from each of North Dakota and South Dakota, as well as the Red River, had genome sizes of 3.1 pg of DNA per G1 somatic nucleus whereas, the majority of the eight populations from Illinois had a genome size of 1.6 pg. One plant from one of the Illinois populations had an estimated genome size of 2.3 pg. These genome sizes of 3.1 and 1.6 pg, along with their respective chromosome numbers of 80 and 40 indicate octoploid and tetraploid plants. The chromosome number of 60 observed in the plant with 2.3 pg indicated that this plant was hexaploid. This study provides the first estimates of genome size for prairie cordgrass and is also the first to report observed hexaploidy in this species. This genomic information provides critical knowledge for designing efficient breeding schemes for plant improvement.
Predictive Association between Trait Data and Ecogeographic Data for Nordic Barley Landraces
Authors: Endresen Dag Terje Filip
Published: October 2010

Focused Identification of Germplasm (FIGS) is a new method to select plant genetic resources for the improvement of food crops. Traditional cultivars (landraces) and crop wild relatives (CWR) provide a valuable source for novel alleles in crop improvement programs, but conserved landraces and CWR often lack important documentation. Genebank collections worldwide provide ready access to plant genetic resources including online documentation. However, incomplete documentation, and in particular the lack of relevant characterization and evaluation data (traits), often limit the efficient use of plant genetic resources. This current study demonstrates how trait mining with the new FIGS method can be used to predict missing trait information for landraces. Ecogeographic data from the location of origin for 14 Nordic landraces of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was successfully correlated to morphological traits using a modern multilinear data modeling method (multilinear partial least squares [N‐PLS]). This result suggests that trait mining can efficiently be used as a targeted germplasm selection method and complement or replace the current core selection method in situations when the requirements for the trait mining method are fulfilled.
An Inventory and Assessment of Models Used to Predict Emergency Evacuation and Consideration of Increasing Policymaker Involvement
Authors: Lewis Carol Abel
Published: October 2010

Evacuations from Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma in 2005 illuminated the issues with clearing large numbers of residents via urban areas' roadways and public transportation systems. In the Gulf Coast of Texas, problems arose from people not observing the designated evacuation zones and protocol. This was particularly acute in the Houston area when residents of that city in large numbers failed to await the exiting of people from Galveston Island and other coastal communities. Consequently, the roadways were clogged inland and residents in extremely high‐risk areas were unable to leave. Newly developed software for transportation planning and traffic simulation can make a big impact on the way transportation professionals work. Rapid developments in computer power, mobile phone technology, and data transfer speeds, plus radical improvements in software are transforming the way in which information can be linked to government. A number of models exist that purport to forecast evacuation volumes under a variety of scenarios. A review of these models and their potential application shows how a number of communities could make better decisions about the best methods and routes for evacuation.
Guest Editor's Introduction: Assessing the Complex and Multidimensional Characteristics of Evacuation Incidents
Authors: Gerber Brian J
Published: October 2010

The articles included in this Risk, Hazards & Crisis in Public Policy symposium on emergency evacuation issues are drawn from research findings presented at the National Evacuation Conference, held in New Orleans, Louisiana, in February 2010. Assessment questions related to evacuations are of course highly significant for emergency management practice and disaster management policy. Evacuations are highly complex—and frequently dangerous—endeavors. The problems attendant to the unsuccessful sheltering and secondary evacuation of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, and the difficulties associated with the evacuation of the Houston and Galveston, Texas, metropolitan areas as a consequence of Hurricane Rita several weeks later are stark and relatively recent reminders of that proposition. There are of course numerous disaster evacuations abroad that likewise underscore the urgency and centrality of sound evacuation planning and preparedness. Unfortunately, roughly five years after Katrina and Rita, the massive dislocation of persons in Pakistan as a result of catastrophic flooding again points to the relevance of disaster management practice, evacuations included. But it would be a mistake to think of evacuation management as primarily a matter of infrequent large‐scale disasters or catastrophes. Instead, the reality is that evacuations on a relatively small scale—either incidents in individual structures, such as building fires or incidents in a specific geographic area such as an accidental chemical spill—occur literally every day in the United States. In other words, a wide range of hazard incidents are sufficient to prompt emergency evacuations, and the high rate of incidence requires taking the topic seriously not only as an emergency management issue but as a research question as well.
Effects of proficiency and age of language acquisition on working memory performance in bilinguals
Authors: Vejnovic Dusan , Milin Petar , Zdravkovic Suncica
Published: October 2010

This study examined language proficiency and age of language acquisition influences on working memory performance in bilinguals. Bilingual subjects were administered reading span task in parallel versions for their first and second language. In Experiment 1, language proficiency effect was tested by examination of low and highly proficient second language speakers. In Experiment 2, age of language acquisition was examined by comparing the performance of proficient second language speakers who acquired second language either early or later in their lives. Both proficiency and age of language acquisition were found to affect bilingual working memory performance, and the proficiency effect was observed even at very high levels of language competence. The results support the notion of working memory as a domain that is influenced both by a general pool of resources and certain domain specific factors.
Cognitive reactivity to sad mood: The importance of the first depressive episode
Authors: Maric Zorica , Vukosavljevic-Gvozden Tatjana
Published: October 2010

Cognitive reactivity to sad mood refers to the degree to which a mild dysphoric state reactivates negative thinking patterns. In this research, the contribution of the history of depression, the length of the current depressive episode and the intensity of the depressive symptoms were assessed in explaining the cognitive reactivity to sad mood measured with the Leiden Index of Depression Sensitivity (LEIDS). The sample consisted of 123 depressed outpatients. The results of principal components analysis suggested a three-factor solution of the LEIDS. The intensity of depressive symptoms, the history of depression and the length of the current depressive episode were all significant in explaining cognitive reactivity to sad mood. We have also found out a significant effect of interaction of the history of depression and the length of the current depressive episode, which demonstrated that a prolonged depression does not induce a stronger cognitive reactivity to sad mood during the relapse of a depressive episode, while during the first depressive episode a longer duration of depression does induce a stronger cognitive reactivity. Such a result demonstrates that the length of the first depressive episode, regardless of its intensity, is crucially important for the formation of cognitive reactivity.
The gifted underachiever in school: A student who has a problem or a 'rebel' making problems?
Authors: Jovanovic Vitomir , Teovanovic Pregrad , Mentus Tatjana , Petrovic Milina
Published: October 2010

The main goal of this research was to study the correlates of school underachievement and to sketch the possible profile of the gifted underachiever. The study was conducted on a sample of high school students in Belgrade (N = 434). The subjects were administered a battery of ability tests and asked to self-estimate their intelligence. On the basis of ability test and school achievement data, the subjects were classified into three groups: gifted underachievers (N1 = 26), gifted students (N2 = 81), and others (N3 = 332). The results of ANOVAs indicate that these three groups differ significantly on the dimensions of Attitudes towards school: academic self-perception, attitudes toward teachers, assessment goals, and motivation and self-regulation. Also, significant between-group differences emerge on the following dimensions of self-concept: assessment of ability, assessment of achievement, and academic self-confidence. These dimensions show the highest correlation with the canonical function that efficiently discriminates between underachievers and gifted students (canonical correlation coefficient = .70, performance of classification = 91.6%). Students who do not realize their potential in school, although they consider themselves to be equally intelligent as gifted students, do not draw their confidence and self-esteem from academic achievement. Gifted underachievers evaluate educational goals as less important and are not motivated to make an effort in school. Also, they are likely to come into conflict with teachers in order to challenge their authority. These results suggest that being an underachiever is a 'choice of will', rather than the unwilling result of difficulties in the environment, psychological problems or underdeveloped meta-cognitive skills, but an alternative interpretation is also plausible. The roots of this hypothetical choice are examined with reference to the educational system and its possible effects of 'normalization'.
Working women's roles in Slovenia: Conflict or enrichment?
Authors: Bostjancic Eva
Published: October 2010

In the past, men and women had different experiences in balancing their professional and family lives. This is why they see their roles differently today. Our scope of interest in this article is employed women in Slovenia. Working women's various roles today may lead to conflict or enrichment. This study seeks to determine the connection between their multiple roles, life orientation, and life satisfaction. This study was carried out through Internet questionnaires and it surveyed 1,298 working women. Their average age was 35.6 years. A total of 43% of participants at least had a college degree. The results show that working women are the least satisfied with their leisure time and the most satisfied with their maternal role. Women with higher career satisfaction report about higher life satisfaction. Women with multiple roles are more satisfied with their maternal role but less satisfied with their partners and leisure time. They are also more optimistic.
Ocular anomalies in incontinentia pigmenti: Literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Minic Snezana , Obradovic Miljana , Kovacevic Igor , Trpinac Dusan
Published: October 2010

Introduction. Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is an X-linked genodermatosis in which skin changes are combined with dental, eye and central nervous system anomalies. Objective. The goal of the study was to analyze ocular findings, IP minor criteria in available literature concerning IP cases published until now. Methods. We have done meta-analysis of 1931 IP patients found in 302 references published until 2010. Comparison of data published for the 1906-1976 and 1976-2010 periods was made. The collected data were mainly frequencies of ocular anomalies. Chi-square test was used to compare observed frequencies with their expectations. Results. Of total number of IP patients, 1,227 were ophthalmologically investigated. In 449 such patients 972 eye anomalies were registered, 2.16 anomalies per patient. Proportion of ophthalmologically investigated IP patients in the period 1906-1975 (70%) was higher than corresponding proportion (60%) for the period 1976-2010. For 1906-2010 period 36.5% IP patients with eye anomalies were diagnosed. The number of amaurotic eyes per patient did not significantly differ for the two periods (p=0.50; >0.05). The total number of eye anomalies per patient significantly differed for the same periods (p=0.00005; <0.05). Retinal anomalies were most frequent in both periods. Conclusion. This study suggests that IP is far more frequent than anyone could estimate. We believe that this study, covering 1906-2010 period, gives more reliable information about ophthalmological findings in IP; considering them as severe anomalies. Early detection and treatment of ophthalmological, neurological etc. findings may prevent severe consequences that IP may cause.
Morphological characteristics of mesiobuccal root canals of the first maxillary molars
Authors: Beljic-Ivanovic Katarina , Teodorovic Nevenka
Published: October 2010

Introduction. The first maxillary molar is a tooth with three roots, and mesiobuccal one is with the most complex canal morphology. Factors influencing variations of its morphology are numerous, and may significantly complicate endodontic treatment. Objective. The objective was to investigate the number, configuration and curvature orientation of the mesiobuccal root canals in the maxillary first molars. Methods. The study was conducted on 200 mesiobuccal (MB) roots of extracted first molars in human subjects using radiography. In each canal Flexofile was introduced until reaching the apical foramen and the root was then radiographed in series from two projections. Number of root canals (MB1, MB2 and MB3), configuration according to Vertucci classification, and the orientation of the curvature were established. Relevant statistical parameters and the significance of differences were computed (p<0.05). Results. Of total 200 mesiobuccal roots 86.5% were with two, 9% with three, and 4.5% with a single canal. Most frequent configurations were type IV (36%) and II (34.5%). From the clinical projection all MB1 canals were oriented distally, from the proximal 78% palatally and 22% buccally. The orientation of all MB2 canals was distal from the clinical projection, from the proximal projection 76% were oriented palatally, and 24% buccally. The MB3 canal was always oriented distally from the clinical projection, and buccally from the proximal aspect. Conclusion. The mesiobuccal roots of the first maxillary molars showed multiple canals in 96%, with dominant Vertucci type II and IV of configuration. All canals were curved.
The influence of stress hyperglycaemia on the prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction and temporary electrical cardiac pacing
Authors: Stojkovic Aleksandar , Koracevic Goran , Perisic Zoran , Krstic Nebojsa , Pavlovic Milan , Todorovic Lazar , Glasnovic Jozef , Burazor Ivana , Apostolovic Svetlana , Nikolic Gordana , Kostic Tomislav , Brankovic Natasa
Published: October 2010

Introduction. Elevated glucose levels on admission in many emergency conditions, including acute myocardial infarction (AMI), have been identified as a predictor of hospital mortality. Objective. Since there are no data in the literature related to stress hyperglycaemia (SH) in patients with both AIM and temporary electrical cardiac pacing, we aimed to investigate the influence of stress hyperglycaemia on the prognosis of patients with AMI and temporary electrical cardiac pacing. Methods. The prospective study included 79 patients with diagnosed AMI with ST-segment elevation (STEMI), admitted to the Coronary Care Unit of the Clinic for Cardiovascular Diseases, Clinical Centre Nis, from 2004 to 2007, who were indicated for temporary electrical cardiac pacing. The blood was sampled on admission for lab analysis, glucose levels were determined (as well as markers of myocardial necrosis - troponin I, CK-MB). Echocardiographic study was performed and ejection fraction was evaluated by using area length method. Results. The ROC analysis indicated that the best glycaemic level on admission, which could be used as a predictor of mortality, was 10.00 mmol/l, and the area under the curve was 0.82. In the group without SH, hospital mortality was 3-fold lower 11/48 (22.91%) compared to the group with SH 19/31 (61.29%), p<0.0001. Patients with SH were more likely to have higher troponin levels, Killip >1, lower ejection fraction and heart rate, as well as systolic blood pressure. Conclusion. The best cut-off value for SH in patients with AMI (STEMI) and temporary electrical cardiac pacing is 10 mmol/l (determined by ROC curve) and may be used in risk stratification; patients with glucose levels <10 mmol/l on admission are at 3-fold lower risk compared to those with glucose levels >10 mml/l. Our results suggest that SH is a more reliable marker of poor outcome in AMI patients with temporary pace maker, without previously diagnosed DM.
Some risk factors for the development of type 2 Diabetes in men and women of Belgrade population
Authors: Maksimovic Jadranka , Sipetic Sandra , Djuric-Pejovic Branka , Vlajinac Hristina , Maksimovic Milos , Ratkov Isidora , Dragicevic Svetomir
Published: October 2010

Introduction. In the last two decades there has been an increase in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in both developed and in developing countries. Objective. To determine whether personal habits like smoking, alcohol and coffee consumption or physical inactivity are different between genders in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods. The study was conducted in Belgrade, during the period 2007-2008, and included newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes. We included 80 men and 99 women diagnosed with diabetes mellitus type 2, referred to the Primary Health Care Centre 'Savski venac'. A questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic and anthropometric characteristics, as well as data on healthy habits. The ?I test and two-tailed t-test were used for data analysis. Results. The men were significantly more engaged in industry and crafts, while the women worked significantly more frequently in administrative jobs. The men were married significantly more frequently than the women (p<0.05) and had a higher level of education (p<0.05). Regarding to the level of implementation of nutritional and physical activity, there were no significant differences between the genders (p>0.05). The women consumed coffee significantly more frequently than the men (p<0.05), but drank less alcohol (p<0.05). The men were former smokers significantly more frequently (p<0.05) than the women. Conclusion. These results indicate the role of certain personal habits in the development of type 2 diabetes.
Spontaneous dislocation of a transparent lens to the anterior chamber: A case report
Authors: Jovanovic Milos , Stefanovic Ivan
Published: October 2010

Introduction. The causes leading to dislocation of the natural lenses are different involving injuries, hereditary diseases and spontaneous dislocation. Spontaneous dislocation of a transparent natural lens is extremely rare, especially dislocation of the anterior eye chamber. We report a case of spontaneous dislocation of the transparent natural lens to the anterior eye chamber in a patient who had no history of eye injuries. Case Outline. The patient was a 17-year old boy. Lens dislocation was spontaneous, and the patient presented for ophthalmological consultation due to a sudden vision impairment of the left eye. Biomicroscopic examination verified that the transparent lens was in the anterior chamber, and it was spherophakia of lesser diameter; there were no signs of increased intraocular pressure, as typically expected in lens dislocation to the anterior chamber. The patient was operated on in general anaesthesia. Surgery involved intracapsular extraction of the dislocated lens through a corneoscleral incision. Conclusion. This case report shows that a spontaneous dislocation of the natural lens may occur in younger people. The dislocated spherophakic lens to the anterior eye chamber did not contribute to the rise of the intraocular pressure and development of acute glaucoma. The acute glaucoma resulted from the pilocarpine narrowing of the pupil due to pupillary block. The intracapsular instrumental extraction of the dislocated transparent lens from the anterior chamber was successfully completed through a corneoscleral incision.
Immunological assays in the diagnosis of tuberculosis infection at the beginning of 21st century
Authors: Kasikovic-Lecic Svetlana , Pavlovic Slobodan , Kuruc Vesna , Ilic Miroslav
Published: October 2010

A subject infected by tubercle bacilli may immediately develop the disease (primary tuberculosis), witch occurs in a few number of infected persons, or may overcome the primary infection (a latent carrier of the infection). Nowadays there are about two milliard people with a latent tubercular infection. About 10% of them will develop active tuberculosis during their lifetime. Detection of latent tuberculosis and its treatment decreases the risk of developing the active form of the disease. Until recently, the tuberculin test was a single screening method to identify the subjects with tubercular infection. In recent years, some novel in vitro tests to diagnose the tubercular infection have been designed. These tests measure the cell-mediated immune response quantifying the emission of interferon gamma by T cells in response to stimulation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis specific antigens. These tests are more sensitive and specific than the tuberculin skin test, but they are just an accessory tool, i.e. a link in the diagnostic chain of the tubercular infection.
Lustration in Europe and Serbia: The motivation for passing the laws on lustration and their social functions
Authors: Cakic Milan
Published: October 2010

The main topic of this article are the motives that led to the adoption of lustration laws in the Czech Republic, Poland, and Serbia, and their social functions. In the opening section, lustration is placed in the wider framework of dealing with the past and two possible approaches to the phenomenon are discussed: to take it as part of the broader process of decommunization, or a measure of transitional justice. In the next section an attempt at defining the concept of lustration is made, with a view to eliminating some ambiguities surrounding it. Subsequently, two partially complementary theoretical models explaining the occurrence, form and severity of dealing with the past and lustration are presented. After that comes the description of the socio-political context at the time of the adoption of lustration laws in the three countries and identification of political and ideological forces that have supported or challenged it. Finally, the article attempts to answer the question whether lustration is a legitimate measure of settling historical justice, overcoming the legacies of socialism, a way to strengthen liberal democracy, or merely a tool in political struggles for power.
Characterization of defects of mullite fibers prepared by polyvinyl butyral as spinning aid
Authors: Zhang Y.B. , Xiao C.F. , An S.L. , Yang J.F. , Xu S.J.
Published: October 2010

Mullite fibers have been synthesized using polyvinyl butyral as spinning
aids. Defects including cracks, core-sheath structure, randomly arranged
powders, shots and rough surface were observed. The results showed that
circumferential cracks were terminated by the main axial crack. The thermal
shrinkage could be considered as the reason for the formation of cracks and
core-sheath structure. Improper control of heat treatment resulted in the
rough surface around fibers. The wet gel fibers were easily inserted by some
alumina powders which were used to obtain the uniform shrinkage during
calcinations in the kiln.
Structure and magnetic investigations of Ca1-xYxMnO3 (x=0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) and Mn4+/Mn3+ relation analysis
Authors: Zagorac J. , Boskovic S. , Matovic B. , Babic-Stojic B.
Published: October 2010

Structure and magnetic features of nanostructured materials with general
formula Ca1-xYxMnO3 (x = 0; 0.1; 0.2; 0.3) were investigated. Goldschmidt
tolerance factor, Gt and global instability index, GII were calculated for
Ca1-xYxMnO3 (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) using the software SPuDS (Structure
Prediction Diagnostic Software). According to these two parameters
possibility of forming perovskite structure type for Ca1-xYxMnO3 solid
solution was analyzed. Substitution of Y3+ for Ca2+ provokes reduction of
equivalent amount Mn4+ into Mn3+, the presence of which is a reason for many
interesting magnetic, transport and structural features of doped CaMnO3.
Crystal structure refinement was carried out using Rietveld analysis.
Ca1-xYxMnO3 (x = 0; 0.1; 0.2; 0.3) has an orthorombic, Pnma space group that,
according to Glazer?s classification belongs to a-b+a- tilt system. Influence
of Y amount on Mn-O bond angles and distances, tilting of MnO6 octahedra
around all three axes and octahedra deformation were analyzed. Bond valence
calculations (BVC) were performed to determine Mn valence state. Using EPR
(electron paramagnetic resonance) magnetic measurements were performed and
magnetic properties of solid solutions, orthorombicity degree of unit cell,
as well as Mn4+/Mn3+ cations ratio in position B were analyzed.
Microstructure size-strain analysis was performed and these results are in
nanometric range which is confirmed by TEM images.
Lethal/Severe Osteogenesis Imperfecta in a Large Family: A Novel Homozygous LEPRE1 Mutation and Bone Histological Findings
Authors: van Dijk Fleur S. , Nikkels Peter G.J. , den Hollander Nicolette S. , Nesbitt Isabel M. , van Rijn Rick R. , Cobben Jan M. , Pals Gerard
Published: October 2010

We report a large consanguineous Turkish family in which multiple individuals are affected with autosomal recessive lethal or severe osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) due to a novel homozygous LEPRE1 mutation. In one affected individual histological studies of bone tissue were performed, which may indicate that the histology of LEPRE1 -associated OI is indistinguishable from COL1A1/2-, CRTAP-, and PPIB-related OI.
Ends and quasicomponents
Authors: Shekutkovski Nikita , Markoski Gorgi
Published: October 2010

Let X be a connected locally compact metric space. It is known that if X is locally connected, then the space of ends (Freudenthal ends), EX, can be represented as the inverse limit of the set (space) S(X
C) of components of X
C, i.e., as the inverse limit of the inverse system $$
EX = \mathop {\lim }\limits_ \leftarrow (S(X\backslash C)),inclusions,CcompactinX)
$$. In this paper, the above result is significantly improved. It is shown that for a space which is not locally connected, we can replace the space of components by the space of quasicomponents Q(X
C) of X
C. The following result is proved: if X is a connected locally compact metric space, then $$
EX = \mathop {\lim }\limits_ \leftarrow (Q(X\backslash C)),inclusions,CcompactinX)
$$.