bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stream Impact Assessments Using Sediment Microbial Activity Tests
Authors: Burton GA
Published: December 2008

Four effluent-impacted streams in Oklahoma, South Dakota, Montana, and Utah were evaluated in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state agencies. Conventional aquatic test organisms and a battery of microbial activity assays were used as toxicity indicators. Microbial assays of sediment enzyme activity included alkaline phosphatase, amylase, arylsulfatase, electron transport (dehydrogenase), galactosidase, glucosidase, and protease. Study sites received refinery, municipal, and/or mining effluents and showed distinct impact and recovery zones. Significant correlations were observed between sediment enzyme activity and stream biota or chemical measurements of water quality. These positive correlations, at diverse test sites, demonstrate the utility of both short-term microbial assays and the test battery approach in environmental assessments.
Toxicity Testing of Drilling Fluids: Assessing Laboratory Performance and Variability
Authors: Bailey RC , Eynon BP
Published: December 2008

The Analysis and Evaluation and the Industrial Technology Divisions in the Office of Water Regulations and Standards and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Gulf Breeze Laboratory worked together to develop a protocol for a drilling fluid toxicity test to support the New Source Performance Standards/Best Available Technology Economically Achievable (NSPS/BAT) Effluent Guideline for the Offshore Segment of the Oil and Gas Extraction Industry. To evaluate the laboratory performance of this toxicity test, the Agency obtained data from ten laboratories. Each laboratory applied the toxicity test protocol to an EPA-provided sample of the same well-mixed, pretested batch of drilling fluid. The results of the toxicity test for each laboratory were compared with the results of a concurrent test by the EPA. The statistical procedures for comparison and evaluation of inter- and intralaboratory differences are presented. The basic procedure for the evaluation of laboratory performance and variability uses maximum likelihood estimation of the standard probit model with concomitant variables.
Acute Toxicity and Hydrocarbon Composition of a Water-Based Drilling Mud Containing Diesel Fuel or Mineral Oil Additives
Authors: Breteler RJ , Requejo AG , Neff JM
Published: December 2008

A series of static and flow-through toxicity tests was conducted to determine the toxicity of drilling mud that contained three classes of hydrocarbon additives-low-sulfur diesel fuel, high-sulfur diesel fuel, or a commercial mineral oil additive-to four species of marine invertebrates. The hydrocarbon additives were chemically characterized by computerized gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The base mud was a laboratory-formulated freshwater lignosulfonate mud (generic mud No. 8). Acute toxicity tests were performed with mysids (Mysidopsis bahia) by using the suspended particulate phase (SPP) of a 1 : 9 dilution of drilling mud with seawater. Ten-day solid phase (SP) toxicity tests were conducted with sand worms (Nereis virens). grass shrimp (Palaemonetes pugio), and soft-shell clams (Mya arenaria) by using mud solids that settled to the bottom of the mixing container during a 1-h settling period. Exposure concentrations of total hydrocarbons, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and total organic carbon (TOC) were confirmed analytically. Base mud without additives was practically nontoxic. Drilling mud that contained 5% mineral oil was less toxic than mud containing 5% of either low- or high-sulfur diesel fuel additive, with LC50 values of 3090, 451, and 276 mg/L, respectively. Drilling mud solids containing mineral oil were not acutely toxic to the test organisms, but lethality was observed when animals were exposed to the mud solids that contained 5% diesel fuel.
Selecting an Appropriate Method for Estimating the Sediment Oxygen Demand Rate
Authors: Hatcher KJ
Published: December 2008

This paper gives a summary and assessment of eight methods used by various researchers for estimating the sediment oxygen demand (SOD) rate. Part 1 defines the SOD rate and its importance in water pollution control studies. Part 2 discusses the in-stream processes that affect the SOD rate and thus complicate efforts to accurately measure the SOD rate. Part 3 reviews the eight methods used for estimating SOD rates in water quality modeling studies and compares the methods in terms of their precision, time requirements, and training requirements (ease-of-use). Part 4 suggests a logical procedure for determining the appropriate measurement precision and budget for SOD data collection. These precision and budget specifications can guide the selection of an appropriate method for measuring SOD rates for a particular water quality modeling study.
Use of Benthic Oxygen Flux Measurements in Wasteload Allocation Studies
Authors: Davis WS , Brosnan TM , Sykes RM
Published: December 2008

Effects of benthic activities on stream oxygen balances are often overlooked in municipal wasteload allocations (WLAs). To improve dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration predictions for the central Scioto River in Ohio, benthic oxygen flux (BOF) rates were incorporated into the QUAL-2e water quality model, by measuring the BOF rates in situ with opaque and translucent hemispherical chambers under the low-flow conditions of late September, 1985.

The average light and dark chamber BOF rates were 6.46 g O2/m2·d and −2.74 g O2/m2·d, respectively. The net BOF rate applied to the model was 1.74 g O2/m2·d, corrected for water column demands. Measurements conducted during variable weather conditions showed a strong influence of cloud cover on BOF rates. The inclusion of the BOF term in the calibrated model resulted in a predicted DO increase as high as 1.15 mg/L in some stream segments, compared with 0.08 mg/L for planktonic photosynthesis. The BOF rates used in the QUAL-2e WLA model improved the DO predictions for the Scioto River.
The Regulation of Sludge Disposal Through Application of Risk Assessment Techniques
Authors: Dawson GW , English CJ , Fradkin L
Published: December 2008

Risk-based methodologies are developed to establish criteria for regulating contaminant concentrations in sewage sludge for various disposal options. The paper describes the methodology developed for landfilling. The methodology is structured into three tiers. The first tier compares the results of an extraction test to health-based criteria. If the extract concentration for a contaminant is below the criteria, no further analysis is required. If the concentration exceeds the criteria, a Tier 2 or 3 analysis is required. Tiers 2 and 3 are based on application of analytical models to predict groundwater and vapor contaminant levels at the landfill property boundary. Tier 2 uses some site-specific data, such as hydraulic conductivity and soil type, along with literature values for adsorption and degradation. In Tier 3, site-specific field and laboratory studies are conducted to refine estimates of physical and chemical parameters affecting contaminant transport. The paper describes the algorithms and models employed to simulate each element and the input data required.
Chemical and Biological Characterization of Municipal Sludges, Sediments, Dredge Spoils, and Drilling Muds
Authors: Lichtenberg JJ , Winter JA , Weber CI , Fradkin L
Published: December 2008

Description

Papers present the state of the art in sludge sampling, sample preservation, validated methods for monitoring, and strategies for monitoring and field assessment. USEPA representatives describe the status of regulations and analytical needs related to characterization and regulation of sludge, sediment, and waste streams. Topics include quality assurance, sampling, organic and inorganic chemical methods, aquatic biological microbiological, and virological methods and risk assessment.
A case of cocaine-induced panhypopituitarism with human neutrophil elastase-specific anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies
Authors: de Lange T E , Simsek S , Kramer M H H , Nanayakkara P W B
Published: December 2008

Objective

To describe a patient with cocaine-induced panhypopituitarism associated with human neutrophil elastase-anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (HNE-ANCA).

Case

A 41-year-old man presented with extreme fatigue, cold intolerance and anorexia with 20 kg weight loss in the last 6 months. His medical history was unremarkable. He snorted cocaine twice a week during the last 6 years. On examination, we saw a pale and skinny man, with a normal blood pressure. Because of the severity of symptoms central hypothyroidism was suspected and very low values of TSH, free thyroxine and free triiodothyronine were measured. His FSH, LH, ACTH, cortisol, prolactin and testosterone levels were also low.

Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scan showed a normal-sized pituitary gland entirely embedded in a dense, oedematous, contrast-enhancing mass, and a total destruction of the nasal septum with the absence of conchae and severely impaired sinus walls. A transnasal biopsy showed an acute necrotising, non-specific and non-granulomatous inflammation. Although cocaine-induced panhypopituitarism was suspected, Wegener's granulomatosis could not be excluded. Serology on ANCA showed a strongly positive C-ANCA titre (320 U/l) with specificity for HNE. A cocaine-induced HNE-ANCA-associated panhypopituitarism was diagnosed.

Our patient was advised to quit using cocaine immediately and was initially treated with glucocorticoids and testosterone, followed by thyroxine. This led to a dramatic clinical response with an increase of appetite, weight gain and regained energy. After 2 years, the patient is well and his ANCA titre is no longer positive.

Conclusion

We describe the first documented case of cocaine-induced panhypopituitarism associated with HNE-specific ANCA.
Molecular Spectrum of Spontaneous de Novo Mutations in Male and Female Germline Cells of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Watanabe Yutaka , Takahashi Aya , Itoh Masanobu , Takano-Shimizu Toshiyuki
Published: December 2008

We carried out mutation screen experiments to understand the rate and molecular nature of spontaneous de novo mutations in Drosophila melanogaster, which are crucial for many evolutionary issues, but still poorly understood. We screened for eye-color and body-color mutations that occurred in the germline cells of the first generation offspring of wild-caught females. The offspring were from matings that had occurred in the field and therefore had a genetic composition close to that of flies in natural populations. We employed 1554 F1 individuals from 374 wild-caught females for the experiments to avoid biased contributions of any particular genotype. From ∼8.6 million alleles screened, we obtained 10 independent mutants: two point mutations (one for each sex), a single deletion of ∼6 kb in a male, a single transposable element insertion in a female, five large deletions ranging in size from 40 to 500 kb in females, and a single mutation of unknown nature in a male. The five large deletions were presumably generated by nonallelic homologous recombination (NAHR) between transposable elements at different locations, illustrating the mutagenic nature of recombination. The high occurrence of NAHR that we observed has important consequences for genome evolution through the production of segmental duplications.
Isolation and Characterization ofcul1-7, a Recessive Allele ofCULLIN1That Disrupts SCF Function at the C Terminus of CUL1 inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Gilkerson Jonathan , Hu Jianhong , Brown Jessica , Jones Alexander , Sun Tai-ping , Callis Judy
Published: December 2008

Many aspects of plant biology depend on the ubiquitin proteasome system for degradation of regulatory proteins. Ubiquitin E3 ligases confer substrate specificity in this pathway, and SCF-type ligases comprise a major class of E3s. SCF ligases have four subunits: SKP1, CUL1, RBX1, and an F-box protein for substrate recognition. The Aux/IAAs are a well-characterized family of SCF substrates in plants. Here, we report characterization of a mutant isolated from a genetic screen in Arabidopsis thaliana designed to identify plants defective in degradation of an Aux/IAA fusion protein, Aux/IAA1-luciferase (IAA1-LUC). This mutant exhibited fourfold slower IAA1-LUC degradation compared with the progenitor line, and seedlings displayed altered auxin responses. Experiments identified the mutant as an allele of CUL1, named cul1-7. The cul1-7 mutation affects the C terminus of the protein, results in reduced cul1-7 levels, and interferes with RBX1 interaction. cul1-7 seedlings are defective in degradation of an endogenous SCF substrate, Repressor of ga1-3 (RGA), and have altered responses to gibberellins. cul1-7 seedlings exhibit slower degradation of the light-labile red/far-red photoreceptor phytochrome A and are photomorphogenic in the dark. This mutation represents the first reported allele of CUL1 to directly affect subunit interactions at the CUL1 C terminus.
Does Pregnancy Have an Impact on the Subgingival Microbiota?
Authors: Adriaens Laurence M. , Alessandri Regina , Spörri Stefan , Lang Niklaus P. , Persson G. Rutger
Published: December 2008

Background: We investigated clinical and subgingival microbiologic changes during pregnancy in 20 consecutive pregnant women ≥18 years not receiving dental care.

Methods: Bacterial samples from weeks 12, 28, and 36 of pregnancy and at 4 to 6 weeks postpartum were processed for 37 species by checkerboard DNA‐DNA hybridization. Clinical periodontal data were collected at week 12 and at 4 to 6 weeks postpartum, and bleeding on probing (BOP) was recorded at sites sampled at the four time points.

Results: The mean BOP at week 12 and postpartum was 40.1% ± 18.2% and 27.4% ± 12.5%, respectively. The corresponding mean BOP at microbiologic test sites was 15% (week 12) and 21% (postpartum; not statistically significant). Total bacterial counts decreased between week 12 and postpartum (P <0.01). Increased bacterial counts over time were found for Neisseria mucosa (P <0.001). Lower counts (P <0.001) were found for Capnocytophaga ochracea, Capnocytophaga sputigena, Eubacterium saburreum, Fusobacterium nucleatum naviforme, Fusobacterium nucleatum polymorphum, Leptotrichia buccalis, Parvimonas micra (previously Peptostreptococcus micros or Micromonas micros), Prevotella intermedia, Prevotella melaninogenica, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus anginosus, Streptococcus intermedius, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus sanguinis, Selenomonas noxia, and Veillonella parvula. No changes occurred between weeks 12 and 28 of pregnancy. Counts of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans), Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia (previously T. forsythensis), and Treponema denticola did not change. Counts of P. gingivalis and T. forsythia at week 12 were associated with gingivitis (P <0.001).

Conclusions: Subgingival levels of bacteria associated with periodontitis did not change. P. gingivalis and T. forsythia counts were associated with BOP at week 12. A decrease was found in 17 of 37 species from week 12 to postpartum. Only counts of N. mucosa increased.
Long‐Term Histologic Analysis of Bone Tissue Alteration and Healing Following Er:YAG Laser Irradiation Compared to Electrosurgery
Authors: Yoshino Toshiaki , Aoki Akira , Oda Shigeru , Takasaki Aristeo Atsushi , Mizutani Koji , Sasaki Katia Miyuki , Kinoshita Atsuhiro , Watanabe Hisashi , Ishikawa Isao , Izumi Yuichi
Published: December 2008

Background: The erbium‐doped:yttrium, aluminum, and garnet (Er:YAG) laser is reportedly useful for periodontal therapy. However, the potential thermal damage that Er:YAG laser irradiation can produce on bone tissue has not been fully clarified. The purpose of this study was to histologically examine the effects of the Er:YAG laser on bone tissue and subsequent wound healing compared to electrosurgery in a long‐term study.

Methods: Calvarial bone from 30 rats was exposed to contact and non‐contact Er:YAG laser irradiation (115 mJ/pulse, 10 Hz) without water coolant, or electrode contact. The treated surfaces were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the healing process was histologically observed until 12 months post‐surgery.

Results: Contact irradiation resulted in substantial bone ablation, whereas non‐contact irradiation produced slight tissue removal. Histologic and SEM analyses of the lased surface showed no severe thermal damage, except for the production of a superficially affected layer with a microstructured surface. The layer did not inhibit new bone formation, and the ablated defect was repaired uneventfully. Although the thickness of the layer gradually decreased, it generally remained in the cortical bone through the observation period. Electrosurgery produced a large area of thermal necrosis without ablation, and the damaged area was not replaced with new bone.

Conclusions: Unlike electrosurgery, Er:YAG laser irradiation without water coolant easily ablated bone tissue, and thermal alteration in the treated surface was minimal. The superficially affected layer did not interfere with the ensuing bone healing, resulting in favorable repair of the defect.
Clinical Effectiveness of Autologous Platelet‐Rich Plasma and Peptide‐Enhanced Bone Graft in the Treatment of Intrabony Defects
Authors: Pradeep A.R. , Shetty Sharath Kumara , Garg Garima , Pai Sujatha
Published: December 2008

Background: The goal of periodontal therapy has always been the regeneration of lost attachment apparatus. The use of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) plus anorganic bovine‐derived matrix and peptide 15 (ABM/P‐15) for periodontal regenerative therapy offers a potentially useful modality for treating periodontal osseous defects. However, it is unknown whether a combination of these materials enhances the outcome of periodontal regenerative therapy. Therefore, this study was carried out to compare the effectiveness of the two regenerative techniques (autologous PRP plus ABM/P‐15 versus autologous PRP) in treating intrabony defects in humans by analyzing the clinical and radiologic parameters.

Methods: Using a split‐mouth design, 28 intrabony defects were treated with autologous PRP (control) or a combination of autologous PRP and ABM/P‐15 (test). Clinical parameters such as plaque index, sulcus bleeding index, probing depth, attachment level, and gingival marginal level were recorded at baseline and 9 months postoperatively. Hard tissue measurements such as defect fill, defect resolution, and change in alveolar crest height were also recorded using spiral computed tomography (CT).

Results: A statistically significant difference was observed in all clinical parameters in the test group compared to the control group. Furthermore, spiral CT images revealed significantly greater bone fill in the test group.

Conclusions: A combination of PRP plus ABM/P‐15 was more effective than PRP alone in the treatment of intrabony defects. Further studies using a larger sample size are necessary to confirm the results of the present study.
A Prediction Model for Chronic Kidney Disease Includes Periodontal Disease
Authors: Fisher Monica A. , Taylor George W.
Published: December 2008

Background: An estimated 75% of the seven million Americans with moderate‐to‐severe chronic kidney disease are undiagnosed. Improved prediction models to identify high‐risk subgroups for chronic kidney disease enhance the ability of health care providers to prevent or delay serious sequelae, including kidney failure, cardiovascular disease, and premature death.

Methods: We identified 11,955 adults ≥18 years of age in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Chronic kidney disease was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate of 15 to 59 ml/minute/1.73 m2. High‐risk subgroups for chronic kidney disease were identified by estimating the individual probability using β coefficients from the model of traditional and non‐traditional risk factors. To evaluate this model, we performed standard diagnostic analyses of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value using 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% probability cutoff points.

Results: The estimated probability of chronic kidney disease ranged from virtually no probability (0%) for an individual with none of the 12 risk factors to very high probability (98%) for an older, non‐Hispanic white edentulous former smoker, with diabetes ≥10 years, hypertension, macroalbuminuria, high cholesterol, low high‐density lipoprotein, high C‐reactive protein, lower income, and who was hospitalized in the past year. Evaluation of this model using an estimated 5% probability cutoff point resulted in 86% sensitivity, 85% specificity, 18% positive predictive value, and 99% negative predictive value.

Conclusion: This United States population–based study suggested the importance of considering multiple risk factors, including periodontal status, because this improves the identification of individuals at high risk for chronic kidney disease and may ultimately reduce its burden.
Immediate Implant Placement Postextraction Without Flap Elevation
Authors: Chen Stephen T. , Darby Ivan B. , Reynolds Eric C. , Clement John G.
Published: December 2008

Background: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess soft tissue and esthetic outcomes at single‐tooth immediate implants placed without flap elevation in maxillary central and lateral incisor sites.

Methods: Photographic records of 85 consecutive patients with immediate single‐tooth implants in maxillary central and lateral incisors that were placed without elevation of surgical flaps were selected. The change in mucosal level was expressed as a percentage of the length of the reference central incisor.

Results: Significant recession of the mesial papilla (−6.2% ± 6.8%), distal papilla (−7.4% ± 7.5%), and facial mucosa (−4.6% ± 6.6%) between surgical placement and 1 year was observed (P <0.001). Recession was greater for implants placed facially within the extraction socket compared to those placed lingually (P = 0.009). Sites with gingival margins initially coronal achieved mucosal levels close to the line of symmetry with the contralateral tooth. Sites initially level or apical failed to reach the line of symmetry and remained receded. For sites with initially level gingival margins, recession >10% occurred at six of 25 thin biotype sites compared to two of 19 thick biotype sites. Acceptable outcomes were achieved in the majority of sites; between 10% and 20% of sites had suboptimal esthetic results.

Conclusions: Immediate implant placement without elevation of surgical flaps is associated with recession of the marginal mucosa that may fall within the threshold of visually detectable change. The orofacial position of the implant shoulder and the tissue biotype are important contributory factors.
Relationship Between the Presence of Certain Bacterial Pathogens and Periodontal Status of Urban Thai Adults
Authors: Torrungruang Kitti , Bandhaya Panwadee , Likittanasombat Khanchit , Grittayaphong Chorkaew
Published: December 2008

Background: The association between Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans), Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Tannerella forsythia (previously T. forsythensis) and periodontal disease has been reported in Western populations. However, corresponding data in Asian populations are still lacking. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of these three bacteria and their relationship to periodontal status in a group of urban Thai adults.

Methods: The study was conducted in 453 subjects, aged 39 to 59 years. The presence of bacteria in subgingival plaque was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction analysis. Subjects were classified as having chronic periodontitis if they had at least three sites with probing depths ≥5 mm. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the degree of association between the target bacteria and periodontal status.

Results: A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, and T. forsythia were found in 19.0%, 70.9%, and 77.5% of the subjects, respectively. About one‐third (36.2%) of subjects had chronic periodontitis. In univariate analysis, age, male gender, current smoking, diabetes, and the presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans or P. gingivalis were positively associated with chronic periodontitis, whereas education and income exhibited inverse associations with chronic periodontitis. In multivariate analysis, education, current smoking, diabetes, and the presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis remained significant. The adjusted odds ratios for having chronic periodontitis were 2.5 and 3.4 in subjects positive for A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis, respectively. However, no significant association was observed between the presence of T. forsythia and periodontal status.

Conclusion: The presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis, but not T. forsythia, in subgingival plaque was associated with chronic periodontitis in this group of Thai adults.
Early Implant Placement With Simultaneous Guided Bone Regeneration Following Single‐Tooth Extraction in the Esthetic Zone: 12‐Month Results of a Prospective Study With 20 Consecutive Patients
Authors: Buser Daniel , Halbritter Sandro , Hart Chris , Bornstein Michael M. , Grütter Linda , Chappuis Vivianne , Belser Urs C.
Published: December 2008

Background: Early implant placement is one of the treatment options in postextraction sites in the anterior maxilla. Implant placement is performed after a soft tissue healing period of 4 to 8 weeks. Implant placement is combined with a simultaneous guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedure to rebuild esthetic facial hard and soft tissue contours.

Methods: In this prospective case‐series study, 20 consecutive patients treated with an implant‐borne single crown were prospectively followed for 12 months. Clinical, radiologic, and esthetic parameters were recorded to assess treatment outcomes.

Results: At the 12‐month examination, all 20 implants were successfully integrated, demonstrating ankylotic stability and healthy peri‐implant soft tissues as documented by standard parameters. The esthetic outcomes assessed by a pink esthetic score (PES) and a white esthetic score (WES) demonstrated pleasing results overall. The WES values were slightly superior to the PES values. The periapical radiographs showed minimal crestal bone loss around the used bone level implants, with mean bone loss of 0.18 mm at 12 months. Only one implant showed >0.5 mm bone loss, combined with minor mucosal recession of 0.5 to 1.0 mm.

Conclusions: This prospective case series study evaluating the concept of early implant placement demonstrated successful tissue integration for all 20 implants. The short‐term follow‐up of 12 months revealed pleasing esthetic outcomes overall, as assessed by objective parameters. The risk for mucosal recession was low; only one patient showed minor recession of the facial mucosa. These encouraging results need to be confirmed with 3‐ and 5‐year follow‐up examinations.
Effects of temperature and light induction of CHL a fluorescence in situ: An ecophysiological view
Authors: Nikolic B. , Dodig D. , Jovanovic V. , Janjic V. , Djurovic Sanja
Published: December 2008

The effects of PAR and temperature on induction of Chl a fluorescence were observed on leaves of 20 plant species in their natural environments. Light affects the acceptor side of PS2. Temperature regulation of PS2 activity proceeds by affecting the RC and acceptor side of PS2. The impact of higher temperature can be attributed to greater fluidity of the thylakoid membranes. Photosynthetically active radiation and temperature under the given conditions are in highly significant positive correlation, so it is not clear whether this impact is due to individual or complementary mechanisms of PAR and/or temperature affecting photosynthetic processes in the thylakoid membranes. Also, it is not clear whether species specificity has any significance in the plant photosynthetic response to changes of PAR and temperature. Changes of PAR and temperature during induction of Chl a fluorescence do not affect Pindex, as a parameter of total photosynthesis.
Pattern of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan expression after ablation of the sensorimotor cortex of the neonatal and adult rat brain
Authors: Dacic Sanja , Pekovic Sanja , Stojiljkovic Maja , Lavrnja Irena , Stojkov Danijela , Bjelobaba Ivana , Stojiljkovic Mirjana
Published: December 2008

The central nervous system has a limited capacity for self-repair after damage. However, the neonatal brain has agreater capacity for recovery than the adult brain. These differences in the regenerative capability depend on local environmental factors and the maturational stage of growing axons. Among molecules which have both growth-promoting and growth-inhibiting activities is the heterogeneous class of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs). In this paper, we investigated the chondroitin-4 and chondroitin-6 sulfate proteoglycan expression profile after left sensorimotor cortex ablation of the neonatal and adult rat brain. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that compared to the normal uninjured cortex, lesion provoked up regulation of CSPGs showing a different pattern of expression in the neonatal vs. the adult brain. Punctuate and membrane-bound labeling was predominate after neonatal lesion, where as heavy deposition of staining in the extracellular matrix was observed after adult lesion. Heavy deposition of CSPG immunoreactivity around the lesionsite in adult rats, in contrast to a less CSPG-rich environment in neonatal rats, indicated that enhancement of the recovery process after neonatal injury is due to amore permissive environment.
ABO histo-blood groups and Rh systems in relation to malignant tumors of the digestive tract in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Jovanovic-Cupic Snezana , Stamenkovic Gorana , Blagojevic Jelena , Vanis N. , Stanojevic B. , Berberovic Lj.
Published: December 2008

The distribution of ABO blood groups and the Rhesus factor was analyzed in 279 patients who suffered from malignant tumors of the digestive system. Patients were registered retrospectively in the Gastroenterohepatology Clinic, Clinical Center, University of Sarajevo over a discontinuous period of 88 months. From the results obtained, it was concluded that: (a) men became ill from gastric cancer significantly more frequently than women; (b) the frequency of liver carcinoma was three times higher than the global frequency and the frequency neighboring ethnic groups; and (c) patients with blood group B and patients with RhD(-) exhibited a significantly higher proportion of disease.
Concentration of antioxidant compounds and lipid peroxidation in the liver and white muscle of hake (Merluccius merluccius L.) in the Adriatic sea
Authors: Ognjanovic Branka , Djordjevic Natasa , Perendija Branka , Despotovic Svetlana , Zikic R.V. , Stajn A.S. , Saicic Zorica
Published: December 2008

Specimens of a marine freshwater fish - hake (Merluccius merluccius L.) - were collected at the localities of Platamuni and Valdanos (Montenegro, South Adriatic) in the spring of 2003. Our results showed higher concentrations of LPO, Vit C, and Vit E in the liver in comparison with white muscle. The concentration of LPOin both tissues was higher, while that of Vit E was lower at Valdanos compared to Platamuni. These differences in parameters of oxidative stress are partly due to differences in temperature and the concentrations of nitrites, nitrates, and detergents in the waters of Valdanos compared to Platamuni.
Cytotoxic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of Ampelopsis brevipedunculata and Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Vitaceae)
Authors: Kundakovic Tatjana , Stanojkovic Tatjana , Milenkovic Marina , Grubin Jasmina , Juranic Zorica , Stevanovic Branka , Kovacevic Nada
Published: December 2008

Cyclohexane and methanol extracts of leaves and inflorescences of Ampelopsis brevipedunculata and Parthenocissus tricuspidata are shown to exert significant cytotoxic action on both estrogen-dependent (MDA-MB-361) and estrogen-nondependent (MDA-MB-453) breast cancer cell lines. Methanol extracts of P. tricuspidata exhibited higher cytotoxicity for the MDA-MB-453 cell line (inflorescence: IC50 =111.45 ? 2.56 ?g/ml; leaves: IC50= 56.76 ? 7.11 ?g/ml) than for MDA-MB-361. Cyclohexane extracts of A. brevipedunculata leaves exhibited high cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-453 (IC50 =78.32 ? 0.1 ?g/ml) and the estrogen-dependent MDA-MB-361 cell line (IC50 =97.40 ? 2.61 ?g/ml). The highest DPPH-scavenging ability was exhibited by methanol extracts of P. tricuspidata inflorescences, with IC50=7.55?0.07 ?g/ml. The tested extracts possessed weak antimicrobial activity.
Light modulates activity and expression of glutamine synthetase isoforms in maize seedling roots
Authors: Simonovic Ana , Anderson M.D.
Published: December 2008

In maize roots, continuous illumination inhibits chloroplastic glutamine synthetase (GS2) activity, which decreased in light from 72.8% in 4-day-old to 26% in 10-day-old plants. In dark-adapted plants transferred to light for 6 days, GS2 activity declined from 100% to 41%, but in light-adapted plants transferred to darkness, it increased to the level of the dark control. Changes of cytosolic (GS1) activity were minor, with a similar trend. Quantitative RT-PCR revealed that light/dark treatments moderately affected only transcription of GS1 isoforms, with the exception of GS1-2, which was dramatically induced by darkness and repressed by light.
Morphology, distribution, and histochemistry of trichomes of Thymus lykae Degen & Jav. (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Marin Marija , Budimir Snezana , Janosevic Dusica , Marin P.D. , Duletic-Lausevic Sonja , Ljaljevic-Grbic Milica
Published: December 2008

Micromorphology, distribution, and histochemistry of the trichomes of Thymus lykae were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM)and confocal laser scanning electron microscopy (CLSM). The leaves, stem, and calyx bear numerous glandular and non-glandular trichomes. Two types of glandular trichomes are identified - peltate and capitate. Results of histochemical tests showed positive reactions to polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids. Yellow autofluorescence of secreted material was noticed in peltate and capitate trichomes. Strong reddish-yellow autofluorescence of the lipophilic and hydrophilic secreted material was observed with CLSM.
Susceptibility of three clinical isolates of Actinomodura madurae to α-pinene, the bioactive agent of Pinus pinaster turpentine oil
Authors: Stojkovic D. , Sokovic Marina , Glamoclija Jasmina , Dzamic Ana , Ristic M. , Fahal A. , Khalid Sami , Djuic Ivana , Petrovic Silvana
Published: December 2008

In vitro susceptibility of the turpentine oil obtained from Pinus pinaster oleoresin was evaluated against three Sudanese clinical isolates of Actinomadura madurae, which is the main causative agent of actinomycetoma. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the oil ranged from 100.3 to 124.8 ?L/mL, and the minimum microbicidal concentrations (MMCs) were between 100.3 and 150.0 ?L/mL. ?-Pinene exhibited prominent bioactivity with MICs ranging between 3.3 and 5.0 ?L/mL, while its MMC was 10.0 ?L/mL against the same clinical isolates. Pinus pinaster turpentine oil and ?-pinene might be useful agents in the treatment of mycetoma caused by A. madurae.
Floristic characteristics of Visnjicka kosa near Belgrade, Serbia
Authors: Jakovljevic Ksenija , Lakusic D. , Vukojicic Snezana , Teofilovic Anica , Jovanovic S.
Published: December 2008

As a result of floristic investigations of Visnjicka Kosa, 568 plant taxa belonging to 304 genera and 74 plant families were recorded. Phytogeographical analysis showed that this flora can be characterized as being of the Holarctic chorological type (53.00%). Ecological analysis indicated that the flora of the investigated area is of the hemicryptophyte type. Analysis of floristic changes in the last few decades in the investigated area showed declining diversity and strong qualitative changes.
Influence of tumor size and intestinal wall invasion on development of colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Antic A. , Kalezic V. , Kecmanovic D. , Petrovic M. , Zuvela M. , Matic S. , Pavlov M. , Ceranic M. , Trivic A. , Milovic V.
Published: December 2008

While the general prognostic factors for colorectal carcinoma have been widely researched, the compound relationships between tumor characteristics and development of colorectal liver metastases have not been clearly understood. The aim of this study was to determine which histopathological characteristics of colorectal cancer may be associated with subsequent development of colorectal liver metastases. We performed retrospective and prospective study which included 80 patients operated for colorectal carcinoma on the First Surgical Clinic of Clinical Center of Serbia in Belgrade. Retrospective group consisted of 40 patients operated between 1992. and 1996. while prospective group included 40 patients treated between 1997. and 2001. We analyzed the size of the tumor, depth of invasion through the intestinal wall, extramural spread of the tumor, infiltration of blood vessels and lymphatics, lymph node involvement, tumor maturation and growth, as well circumferential intestinal involvement. Statistical analysis performed showed highly significant (p<0,01) correlation between the tumor size, degree of maturation of the tumor, extramural spread and involvement of the venules with later development of colorectal liver metastases in both groups.
Comminuted intra-articular fractures of distal humerus treated with minimal fixation: One of treatment options
Authors: Cvetkovic V.R. , Lesic A.R. , Bumbasirevic M.Z.
Published: December 2008

Fractures of distal humerus on humen skeleton are rare and intraarticular fractions of distal part of humerus occur even less frequently, they comprise about 3% of fractures of humerus. However, these fractures can result in a functional deficiency of elbow joint and permanent disability. The main goal if our work was to present one of the surgical treatment options of this kind of fracture with minimal amount of fixation material. Treatment result were evaluated by Broberg-Morrey score system. Pilot study consisted of eight patient with comminuted type IV fracture of distal humerus during 2004-2005 time period. Comminuted fracture was fixed with minimal amount of material: a Kirchner needle and a screw. Patient treatment progress was evaluated initially and followed up after four, nine and twenty four months by B-M score after removal of cast and bone fixing material. The results of the B-M score after four months were: excellent in 0 patient, good in 2 patients, fair in 4 patients and poor in 2 patients. After physical therapy and follow up check- up at the end of nine months the result were: excellent in 3 patients, good in 3 patients, fair in 2 patients and no patients had shown poor result. This B-M score result was identical after 24 months follow up with minor deviations in range of motions of elbow, which did not influence the final result of B-M score.
Radical treachelectomy in treatment of early stages of cervical cancer
Authors: Jeremic K. , Petkovic S. , Stefanovic A. , Gojnic M. , Maksimovic M. , Stojnic J. , Likic I. , Kadija S. , Atanackovic J.
Published: December 2008

The aim of the study was to determine if radical trachelectomy with pelvic lymphonodectomy could be a method for treatment of early cervical cancer to preserve fertility. We examined 12 patients who were operatively treated from 1996. to 2006. year. Diagnostic method for cervical cancer was histologic examination, cone or biopsy. Histologic condition was planocelular carcinoma well differenced. Two of the patients had Ia1 stage, seven had Ia2, and three of them had Ib1. We performed abdominal radical trachelectomy with pelvic lymphonodectomy. Resectional edges were patohistologically analyzed ex tempore, as well as lymphonodi, selectively. According to ex tempore analysis we determined if the radical trachelectomy should be done. In one patient resectional edges were positive, so she underwent radical hysterectomy. Postoperatively we found a positive lymphonodus in one patient, so we continued radiation therapy. In twoyear follow-up period we did not find any sign of residual cancer. We concluded that radical trachelectomy with pelvic lymphonodectomy could be appropriate method for treatment of early stage cervical cancer.
Low energy Kombucha fermented milk-based beverages
Authors: Milanovic Spasenija , Loncar Eva , Djuric Mirjana , Malbasa Radomir , Tekic Miodrag , Ilicic Mirela , Durakovic Katarina
Published: December 2008

This paper investigates manufacturing of fermented beverages from two types of milk (1 % w/w and 2.2 % w/w fat) by applying of Kombucha, which contains several yeasts and bacterial strains. The starter was the inoculum produced from previous Kombucha fermentation. The applied starter concentrations were: 10 % v/v, 15 % v/v and 20 % v/v. Also, the traditional yoghurt starter was used to produce the control samples. All fermentations were performed at 42oC and the changes in the pH were monitored. The fermentation process was about three times faster in the control yoghurt than in the Kombucha samples. Influence of Kombucha inoculum concentration on the rate of fermentation appeared not to be significant. All fermentations were stopped when the pH reached 4.4. After the production, the quality of the fermented milk beverages with Kombucha was determined and compared with the quality of the control yoghurt samples. It was concluded that the difference in fat contents in milks affects the difference in quantities of other components in the fermented milk beverages with Kombucha. Sensory characteristics of the beverages manufactured from the partially skimmed milk are much better than those of the fermented beverages produced from the low fat milk.
Flux recovery of ceramic tubular membranes fouled with whey proteins: Some aspects of membrane cleaning
Authors: Popovic Svetlana , Milanovic Spasenija , Ilicic Mirela , Lukic Natasa , Sijacki Ivana
Published: December 2008

Efficiency of membrane processes is greatly affected by the flux reduction due to the deposits formation at the surface and/or in the pores of the membrane. Efficiency of membrane processes is affected by cleaning procedure applied to regenerate flux. In this work, flux recovery of ceramic tubular membranes with 50 and 200 nm pore size was investigated. The membranes were fouled with reconstituted whey solution for 1 hour. After that, the membranes were rinsed with clean water and then cleaned with sodium hydroxide solutions or formulated detergents (combination of P3 Ultrasil 67 and P3 Ultrasil 69). Flux recovery after the rinsing step was not satisfactory although fouling resistance reduction was significant so that chemical cleaning was necessary. In the case of 50 nm membrane total flux recovery was achieved after cleaning with 1.0% (w/w) sodium hydroxide solution. In the case of 200 nm membrane total flux recovery was not achieved irrespective of the cleaning agent choice and concentration. Cleaning with commercial detergent was less efficient than cleaning with the sodium hydroxide solution.
Micromechanical analyses of the crack in glass woven-epoxy composites subjected to in-plane compression load
Authors: Stamenovic Marina , Putic Slavisa , Bajceta Branislav , Vitkovic Dragana
Published: December 2008

The subject of this paper is micromechanical analyses of the crack on glass wovenepoxy composites subjected to in-plane compression load. Identification and understanding of the first damages as micro-cracks and micro-mechanisms and their further spreading during compression loading of construction of composite material are of great importance for every special usage and life prediction. Five different structures of glass epoxy composites were tested with orientation of reinforcement 0?/90? and ?45?. The specific weights of reinforcement were 125, 170, 210, 550 and 880 g/m?. The analysis of compression test results was performed on the basis of the structure. Micromechanical analyses of surface cracks of the samples was carried out by scanning electron microscopy, and the established models and mechanisms of initiation and propagation of cracks are very valuable in predicting the behavior of the real constructions subjected to compression load.
Gravitational sedimentation: An efficient chromium removal method from the tanning industry wastewaters
Authors: Vukic Ljiljana , Gvero Petar , Maksimovic Milorad
Published: December 2008

Wastewaters generated in different phases of the technological process of leather treatment have a significant organic load as well as containing toxic substances like salts of chromium and sulfides. In order to preserve the environment and natural resources, it is necessary to purify the effluents by using adequate treatment technologies. In the scope of preliminary treatment, the influences of gravitational sedimentation on the changes of the relevant characteristics of cumulative wastewaters were investigated. The best effects were achieved during the removal of chromium and suspended matter. The level of chromium removal was exceptionally high, 88%-96%. A special column for gravitational sedimentation was constructed in order to achieve the high quality experimental result. This enabled monitoring of the setting process in time, with the possibility of mathematical interpretation of the process changes by polynomial and exponential functions.
Partitioning of acid protease from Penicillium roqueforti in aqueous two-phase system polyethylene glicol/phosphate
Authors: Pericin Draginja , Madjarev-Popovic Senka , Vastag Zuzana
Published: December 2008

The partitioning of acid protease produced by submerged fermentation of Penicillium roqueforti in the aqueous two-phase system polyethylene glycol/sodium phosphate was studied. In the system with 15% polyethylene glycol 4000/25% NaH2PO4 favourable partition coefficient and the top phase yield were obtained, 2.651 and 56.51%, respectively. The purification of acid protease from crude enzyme was optimized by optimizing separation factor. Completely randomized factorial design was applied and the system 15.54% PEG 4000/20% NaH2PO4 appeared to be optimal. Statistically calculated separation factor of 3.553, was similar to the experimentally obtained value (3.084), which indicates the possible application of the factorial design onto ATPS partition and purifycation.
Quantitative structure-activity relationships to predict antibacterial effect of some benzimidazole derivatives
Authors: Podunavac-Kuzmanovic Sanja , Barna Dijana , Cvetkovic Dragoljub
Published: December 2008

The antibacterial activity of some substituted benzimidazole derivatives against Gram negative bacteria Escherichia coli was investigated. The tested compounds displayed in vitro inhibitory activity and their minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined. Quantitative structure-activity relationship has been used to study the relationships between the antibacterial activity and lipophilicity parameter, logP. Lipophilicity parameters were calculated for each molecule by using CS Chem-Office Software version 7.0. Multiple linear regression was used to correlate the logP values and antibacterial activity of benzimidazole derivatives. The results are discussed on the basis of statistical data. The most acceptable QSAR model for prediction of antibacterial activity of the investigated series of benzimidazoles was developed. High agreement between experimental and predicted inhibitory values was obtained. The results of this study indicate that the lipophilicity parameter has a significant effect on antibacterial activity of this class of compounds, thus simplifying design of new biologically active molecules.