bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case-control study of apoE gene polymorphism in young CHD patients and controls in the Serbian population
Authors: Djan I. , Stokic Edita , Sakac D. , Djan Mihajla , Obreht Dragana , Erak M. , Jovanovic Natasa
Published: May 2011

Apolipoprotein E displays polymorphism with three common alleles, e2, e3, and
e4. The aim of this research was to determine apoE gene polymorphism in a
group of healthy patients and a group of patients with CHD, and to reveal the
relation between anthropometric and biochemical parameters and the apoE
genotype. In CHD group significantly higher values of blood pressure, waist
circumference, BMI and fat %, triglycerides, insulin (HOMA IR) and CRP were
found. A statistically significant higher presence of the e3e4 genotype and
e4 allele was detected in the CHD group. Statistically significant
differences between waist circumference, BMI, insulin and HOMA IR were found
between subjects with e3e3 and e3e4 genotypes.
The antimutagenic effect of monoterpenes against UV-irradiation-, 4NQO- and t-BOOH-induced mutagenesis in coli
Authors: Nikolic Biljana , Mitic-Culafic Dragana , Vukovic-Gacic Branka , Knezevic-Vukcevic Jelena
Published: May 2011

The aim of this work was to investigate the antimutagenic potential of
monoterpenes from sage and basil in Escherichia coli. The mutagenic potential
of monoterpenes was pre-screened with Salmonella/microsome reversion assay in
strain TA100 and no mutagenic effect was detected. The antimutagenic
potential against UV- 4NQO- and t-BOOH induced mutagenesis was evaluated in
E. coli K12 and E. coli WP2 by reversion assays. The obtained results
indicate that camphor and thujone reduce UV- and 4NQO-induced mutations;
myrcene reduces t-BOOH-induced mutations, while eucalyptol and linalool
reduce mutagenicity by all tested mutagens. Considering evolutionary
conservation of DNA repair and antioxidative protection, the obtained results
indicate that further antigenotoxicity studies should be undertaken in
eukaryotes.
Gender differences in longevity in early and late reproduced lines of the seed beetle
Authors: Stojkovic Biljana , Savkovic U.
Published: May 2011

In most animals the average longevity of females is greater than that of
males. Among the many explanations of the evolution of sex-specific mortality
rates, we tested the hypothesis that sexual selection plays an important role
in shaping the longevity and ageing of both sexes. The present study was
performed using laboratory populations of Acanthoscelides obtectus, which
were obtained either at an early (E) or late (L) age, where the inadvertently
created conditions provided opportunities for the evolution of a monogamous
and polygamous mating system, respectively. As predicted, under intense
sexual selection (L populations) substantial sex differences in longevity
were detected both in mated and virgin experimental beetles. On the other
hand, monogamy, i.e. relaxation of sexual selection, in E populations
resulted in elimination of the differences in longevity between mated females
and males, and even led to postponed senescence of virgin males beyond the
level exhibited by virgin females.
Genetic structure of the rare moss species Rhodobryum ontariense in Vojvodina (Serbia) as inferred by isozymes
Authors: Sabovljevic M. , Cvetkovic Jelena , Zivkovic Suzana , Vujicic M. , Sabovljevic Aneta
Published: May 2011

Rhodobryum ontariense (Kindb.) Kindb. (Bryaceae, Bryophyta) is a rare moss,
only recently discovered in Serbia (at Deliblatska Sands). After a revision
of the genus Rhodobryum in Serbia, it was concluded that all high-mountain
records belong to R. roseum, while R. ontariense is confined to the one known
locality at Deliblatska Sands. It is listed in the bryophyte red-list of
Serbia and Montenegro. Within the single known locality we have counted 15
small sub-populations over a total surface area of 6 hectares. The species is
always in sterile condition and has been recorded only on dunes exposed to
the north, at the edge of shrub-grassland transition interspersed with
fragments of steppe vegetation. No propagules are known. This raised the
question of whether the population was once continuous, or whether vectors
exist that spread detached plants or fragments to establish new
subpopulations. To answer this question an isozyme analysis was performed to
estimate the genetic structure of this isolated population. Based on the
isozyme forms of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase at least six haplotypes
were determined within the population. It can be concluded that the present
patches of the moss do not derive from one subpopulation. Some kind of
short-distance dispersal exists, but it remains unclear what structures act
as propagules and what is the vector for them.
Renoprotective effect of Eryngium caucasicum in Gentamicin-induced nephrotoxic mice
Authors: Eslami S.H. , Ebrahimzadeh M.A. , Moghaddam Hajizadeh , Nabavi S.F. , Jafari N. , Nabavi S.M.
Published: May 2011

Recent studies show that hydrogen peroxide free radicals have an important
role in the renal damage induced by Gentamicin. Previously we studied the
hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity of Eryngium caucasicum. This work was
conducted to evaluate the possible renoprotective effect of Eryngium
caucasicum against Gentamicin-induced renotoxicity. Extracts at the doses 200
and 400 mg/kg/day for 10 consecutive days, by intraperitoneal route (i.p.)
offered renoprotective action by change in the blood urea nitrogen (BUN),
serum urea and creatinine. Results show that an extract at 400 mg/kg/ day
shows better activity than other tested samples. In conclusion, the extracts
showed significant renoprotective activity compared with the control group.
Improvement in the productivity of xylooligosaccharides from rice straw by feed xylanase with ultrafiltration
Authors: Wang Fei , Guohua Hu , Xiao Jianbo , Liu Yang
Published: May 2011

The effective production of xylooligosaccharides (XOs) from rice straw was
investigated. Rice straw contains rich hemicellulose which can be hydrolyzed
by enzyme; the XOs were obtained under hydrothermal conditions. To improve
the productivity of XOs, ultrafiltration was chosen to eliminate xylan in the
XOs. Under optimum hydrolysis conditions (1000 IU enzyme/g, 35 0C, 10%
substrate concentration, pH 6.5, 6 h), the DP was the lowest. After
ultrafiltration, xylan was eliminated. On the basis of experimental data, an
industrial XO production process consisting of pretreatment, enzymatic
treatment and purification was designed. Using the designed process, 2.9g dry
of purified XO was produced from 50g dry rice straw power.
The response of dorsomedial A1’ and dorsolateral L2’ neurosecretory neurons of Lymantria dispar L. caterpillars to the acute effects of magnetic fields
Authors: Ilijin Larisa , Vlahovic Milena , Mrdakovic Marija , Mircic D. , Todorovic Dajana , Lazarevic Jelica , Mataruga Peric
Published: May 2011

The morphometric changes (size of neurons and their nuclei) of protocerebral
dorsomedial A1? and dorsolateral L2? neurosecretory neurons were analyzed in
Lymantria dispar larvae after exposure to strong static (SMF, 235 mT) and
extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF MF, 2 mT). Increase in the size
of A1? neurons and their nuclei were observed after acute exposure to SMF.
Decrease in the size of these neurons and their nuclei was observed after
exposure to ELF MF. The size of L2? neurons and their nuclei tend to decrease
after exposure to SMF and ELF MF. The quantification of protein bands within
the Mr range corresponding to the large form of the prothoracicotropic
neurohormone indicates that the amount of protein decreased after exposure to
both types of magnetic fields.
Phenolic compound production by different morphological phenotypes in hairy root cultures of Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.
Authors: Park Nam , Xiaohua Li , Uddin Romij , Park Sang
Published: May 2011

Hairy roots were obtained after inoculating sterile young stems of Fagopyrum
tataricum with Agrobacterium rhizogenes R1000. The established roots
displayed two morphological phenotypes when cultured on hormone-free medium
containing Murashige-Skoog salts and vitamins. The thin phenotype had a
higher growth rate than the thick phenotype. Further, the phenolic compound
content of the thin phenotype was higher than that of the thick phenotype.
In terms of their total dry weight, the thin phenotype produced an almost
double amount of (-)-epigallocatechin as well as more than 51.5% caffeic
acid, 65% chlorogenic acid, and 40% rutin compared to the thick phenotype
after 21 days of culture. Therefore, selection of the optimal morphological
phenotype of hairy roots of tartary buckwheat is an important factor for
improved phenolic compound production.
Mating behavior of Theridiosoma gemmosum (araneae: Theridiosomatidae): The unusual role of the male dragline silk
Authors: Hajer J. , Hajer J. , Řeháková Dana
Published: May 2011

The mating of Theridiosoma gemmosum consists of a series of successive
copulations. In the interval between two consecutive copulations, the females
unwind the silken threads released by the male spinning organs; these threads
are known as draglines or lifelines. The silk thus obtained is rolled up by
the females into bundles, which they ingest prior to the next copulation. In
other words, the mating of T. gemmosum involves the transfer of nutrients
from the male to the female via silk. The silk provided by the male during
copulation and eaten by the female, can be considered a nuptial gift.
In vitro bulblet regeneration from immature embryos of endangered and endemic Muscari azureum
Authors: Uranbey S.
Published: May 2011

A high frequency of bulblet regeneration was achieved for the endemic and
endangered ornamental plant Muscari azureum using immature embryos. Immature
embryos of M. azureum were cultured on a callus induction medium consisting
of N6 mineral salts and vitamins, 400 gL-1 casein + 40 gL-1 sucrose + 2 mgL-1
L-proline, 2 mgL-1 2,4-D and 2 gL-1 Gelrite. Then the embryogenic callus
clusters were transferred to a bulblet induction medium consisting of MS
mineral salts and vitamins containing different concentrations and
combinations of BAP, KIN, TDZ, Zeatin, IAA, NAA, 30 gL-1 sucrose and 7 gL-1
agar. Prolific bulblet multiplication (over 13 bulblets/embryo) was achieved
from immature embryos after 5-6 months of culture initiation. Well-developed
bulblets were excised and individually rooted on ? strength MS medium
supplemented with 1 mgL-1 IBA, 0.5 gL-1activated charcoal, 20 gL-1sucrose and
6 gL-1agar and acclimatized.

 This article has been retracted. Link to the retraction 10.2298/ABS150608072E
Biometric properties and diet of common pandora, Pagellus erythrinus (Osteichthyes: Sparidae), from the eastern Adriatic sea
Authors: Santic M. , Radja Biljana , Paladin Antonela , Kovacevic Andreja
Published: May 2011

Biometric properties and diet composition were examined in 120 specimens of
the common pandora caught in the eastern Adriatic Sea. Biometric analysis of
the morphometric and meristic characteristics indicate a homogenous
morphology stock of P. erythrinus in the eastern Adriatic Sea. Changes in
some of the morphometric characteristics obtained in conjunction with an
increase in body length showed that smaller specimens have a longer dorsal
fin, standard length, eye diameter and postorbital distances than larger
specimens. The meristic characteristics of the common pandora from Italian
waters and the Black Sea are mostly in agreement with data in our study. The
prey species identified in the stomachs belong to five groups: Decapoda,
Bivalvia, Polychaeta, Teleostei and Euphausiacea. Decapods were the most
important ingested prey group while bivalves were second in importance.
Various prey groups and species found in the stomach indicate that the common
pandora could be an opportunistic predator.
The foraging behavior of Diaeretiella rapae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) on Diuraphis noxia (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Tazerouni Zahra , Talebi Asghar , Rakhshani Ehsan
Published: May 2011

Host stage preference, functional response and mutual interference of
Diaeretiella rapae (McIntosh) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Aphidiinae) on
Diuraphis noxia (Mordvilko) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) were investigated under
defined laboratory conditions (20?1?C; 60?5% relative humidity; 16 h light/8
h dark photoperiod). Nicholson?s model and linear regression were used to
determine per capita search-efficiency and the interference coefficient,
respectively. There was a significant difference between the rates of
parasitism on different stages of D. noxia. The highest parasitism percentage
was observed on the third instar nymphs of D. noxia in both choice and
no-choice preference tests. Results of logistic regression revealed a type II
functional response. The estimated values of search-efficiency (a) and
handling time (Th) were 0.072 h-1 and 0.723 h, respectively. The maximum
attack rate was calculated to be 33.22. The per capita search-efficiency
decreased from 0.011 to 0.004 (h-1) as parasitoid densities increased from 1
to 8. Therefore, different host-parasitoid ratios can affect the efficacy of
D. rapae.
Biometric properties of the European hake, Merluccius merluccius (Osteichthyes: Merlucciidae), from the central Adriatic sea
Authors: Santic M. , Radja Biljana , Paladin Antonela , Curic Ana
Published: May 2011

The relationship between morphometric measurements (16) and meristic
characters (6) was examined in 460 specimens of the European hake (225
females, 210 males and 25 immature ones) caught in the central Adriatic Sea.
Morphological difference between males and females was not marked. Biometric
analyses of the morphometric and meristic characteristics indicated a
homogenous morphology stock of M. merluccius in the central Adriatic Sea.
Changes in some morphometric characteristics obtained in conjunction with an
increase in body length showed that smaller specimens have a longer head,
anal and ventral fin than adult specimens. The negative correlation recorded
for the maximum and minimum body depth indicated that the body becomes
progressively elongated. The meristic characteristics of the European hake
from different Mediterranean and NE Atlantic areas are mostly in agreement
with the data in our study.
A revised description of Psyllopsis repens Loginova, 1963 (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Psyllidae), with first records from Europe
Authors: Malenovský I. , Jerinic-Prodanovic Dusanka
Published: May 2011

Psyllopsis repens Loginova, 1963 (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Psyllidae:
Diaphorininae) is recorded for the first time from Europe from two localities
within the city of Belgrade in Serbia. This jumping plant-louse species is
narrowly oligophagous on several ash-tree species (Fraxinus angustifolia, F.
excelsior, and F. ornus) and induces galls on leaves and buds. Previously, it
was known only from the Caucasus and the Middle East. We provide detailed
morphological descriptions and illustrations of adults and the fifth instar
larva, and summarize available information on the biology, distribution, and
economic importance of P. repens.
Accounting Adjustments and the Valuation of Financial Statement Note Information in 10-K Filings
Authors: De Franco Gus , Wong M. H. Franco , Zhou Yibin
Published: May 2011

We examine the valuation of financial statement note information at the time of 10-K filings. We find that stock returns around 10-K filings are positively related to accounting adjustments calculated from financial statement note information. We further document that the likelihood of equity analysts issuing a report and updating their target price estimates at the 10-K dates is increasing in the magnitude of the adjustments. Those analysts who do update their target prices at this time revise their estimates consistent with the sign and magnitude of the adjustments. These findings are consistent with financial statement users utilizing financial statement note information to make accounting adjustments, thereby incorporating this information into stock prices.

JEL Classifications: G14, G29, M40, M41, M44.

Data Availability: All data are publicly available from the sources identified in the article.
Earnings Management Using Real Activities: Evidence from Nonprofit Hospitals
Authors: Eldenburg Leslie G , Gunny Katherine A , Hee Kevin W , Soderstrom Naomi
Published: May 2011

We extend the literature on earnings management through real operating decisions by providing insight into the types of expenditures (core versus noncore and operating versus non-operating activities) affected by earnings management. We partition a sample of California nonprofit hospitals based on their earnings management incentives. We find that expenditures on non-operating and non-revenue-generating activities appear to decrease in hospitals with incentives to engage in such behavior, while core patient care activities remain unchanged. We also find evidence of earnings management in non-core operational expenses. Second, we analyze real earnings management related to pay-for-performance incentives and find that hospitals with stronger performance incentives exhibit a significant incremental decrease in expenditures. Finally, we examine two different kinds of behavior to discriminate between earnings management and good operational decisions and provide weak evidence to support opportunism rather than good management. Together, these results provide evidence of the use of real operating decisions to manage earnings.
The Importance of Audit Profession Development in Emerging Market Countries
Authors: Michas Paul N
Published: May 2011

This study investigates the country-level development of the audit profession in emerging market countries and whether this development is associated with audit quality and auditor choice. I find that audit quality is higher for client companies located in countries with a more developed audit profession, after controlling for rule of law and investor protection. Specifically, Big 4 client companies' total and abnormal accruals are both lower, and earnings are more conservative in countries with stronger Audit Profession Development (APD). However, these results hold only for companies audited by a Big 4 auditor. Results also indicate that stronger APD is associated with a greater likelihood that a client company hires a Big 4 auditor. My findings contribute to the literature that explores differences in audit quality and determinants of auditor choice, the literature that explores cross-country differences in audit professions, and research on the characteristics and effectiveness of audit institutions in emerging market economies.

Data Availability: Data are publicly available.
PICC-Related Thrombosis: Pathophysiology, Incidence, Morbidity and the Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Placement Technique on Occurrence in Cancer Patients
Authors: Hughes Meinir Elen
Published: May 2011

Aim: To examine the phenomenon of catheter-related thrombosis by describing the pathophysiology of thrombosis and reviewing the evidence relating to the incidence, morbidity and the use of ultrasound-guided placement on the reduction in occurrence.

Background: The use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) as a means to deliver essential therapy for patients is common practice within the field of Oncology. The functional capacity of these devices has to be balanced with the potential for the development of complications such as thrombosis which may lead to debilitating physical or psychological effects.

Methods: Papers of all methodological design were included in the English language from 1980–2009. A review of the literature included papers associated with; the incidence of PICC-related upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT), the morbidity and mortality associated with central venous catheter-related UEDVT and the use of ultrasound guidance to place PICCs.

Results: The literature demonstrates that catheter-related thrombosis is not an uncommon event especially when cancer patients are under investigation. The evidence relating to the use of ultrasound-guided placement as a means to reduce the incidence of thrombosis specifically in PICCs is small in respect to the number of papers but demonstrates a clear reduction in occurrence.

Conclusion: The development of co-morbidities of thrombosis such as pulmonary embolus or post-thrombotic syndrome exacerbates the disease process and is demonstrated to result in the deterioration of health and untimely death. The use of ultrasound devices to place PICCs needs to be considered in the clinical environment based on early indication from the literature that placement in the upper arm leads to a reduction in the incidence of catheter-related thrombosis.
Needleless Connectors: Improving Practice, Reducing Risks
Authors: Hadaway Lynn
Published: May 2011

Purpose: To assess the knowledge gap of healthcare workers about practice with needleless connectors.

Background: Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CR-BSI) and lumen occlusion can be directly related to practices of cleaning needleless connectors, IV administration set management, and flushing and clamping methods.

Review of Relevant Literature: Five publications report outbreaks of CR-BSI from hospitals in the US and Australia. A significant increase in CR-BSI rates after an organizational change of products was observed. No randomized controlled trials are available from the USA comparing types or designs of needleless connectors.

Device instructions state some devices can be locked with normal saline. Two randomized clinical trials assessed outcomes with catheter lock solution. Both reported higher rates of occlusion with the use of normal saline only and one documented a higher rate of CR-BSI.

Methods: An invitation to participate in a survey with 22 questions was sent electronically to approximately 4000 healthcare workers with a response from 554 in clinical practice.

Results: The specific type of needleless connector being used was unknown by 25% and correct clamping sequence was chosen by 52.8% of respondents. The majority, 94.3% reported that they always clean these devices before each use, however there are differences in technique.

Conclusions: There is a significant gap of knowledge about the specific needleless connectors being used, the most appropriate cleaning, flushing, and clamping sequence for the specific device.

Implications for Practice: Staff education should focus on the connections between needleless connectors, CR-BSI and lumen occlusion. Frequent product training on needleless connectors, the specific type in use and correct techniques are necessary.
The use of Midline Catheters in the Adult Acute Care Setting – Clinical Implications and Recommendations for Practice
Authors: Alexandrou Evan , Ramjan Lucie M. , Spencer Tim , Frost Steven A. , Salamonson Yenna , Davidson Patricia M. , Hillman Ken M.
Published: May 2011

Aim and objectives: The aim of this paper was to review published manuscripts on the use of midline catheters, the implications of study findings and recommendations for clinical practice in the acute care setting.

Design: Modified integrative literature review

Methods: Using key MeSH terms, we searched the electronic databases: CINAHL, Medline, and Embase. The Cochrane and Joanna Briggs databases, Google Search Engine and the reference lists of published materials were also searched. Studies were included if they were in the English language and reported the use of midline catheters in adult acute care populations. Manuscripts that described midlines made of aquavene were excluded

Results: Two hundred and thirty two (232) papers were identified using the search strategy. From these identified papers, thirty (30) were included in the final review. Thematic analysis identified three major themes. These included: (i) advantages of using midline catheters (ii) disadvantages of using midline catheters (iii) insertion and management issues.

Conclusion: Midline catheters have both positive and negative implications for clinical practice. They can be used for extended periods of intravenous therapy without requiring repeated cannulations but are not without risk. Midline catheters have been associated with mechanical and chemical phlebitis along with intravascular thrombosis. As such they are not suitable across the entire adult acute population. Midline catheters reduce the number of repeated cannulations which reduces patient discomfort, increases patient satisfaction and also contributes to organisational efficiency.
Contamination of the soil by eggs of geohelminths in rural areas of Lodz district (Poland)
Authors: Blaszkowska J. , Kurnatowski P. , Damiecka P.
Published: May 2011

Contamination of soil with helminth eggs in the samples of fields, kitchen gardens, yards and composts in rural areas of Lodz district (Poland) was investigated. In this study, helminth eggs were found in 60–100 % of field samples, in 20–100 % of yards samples, in 0–20 % of kitchen gardens samples and in 10–100 % of composts. The highest average density of helminth eggs in 100 g of soil was detected in composts (44.0), then fields (28.5) and yards (18.0). In samples taken from kitchen gardens the average density of eggs was 0.4/100/g of soil. The comparison of frequency of positive samples from fields, kitchen gardens and yards did not exhibit significant difference (p > 0.05). The soil samples of fields contained mainly eggs of Ascaris spp. (87.7 %), less frequently Toxocara spp. (7.7 %) and Trichuris spp. (3.5 %). In samples from yards among detected eggs the most often were Toxocara spp. (73.9 %), and there were statistically significant differences in comparison with fields (7.7 %) and composts (0.3 %). The highest prevalence of eggs with moving larva was noted in yards (25.6 %), which differ statistically significantly from analogous value for fields (p < 0.05) and composts (p < 0.0001).

These results showed a considerable infestation of soil with geohelminth eggs of the examined rural areas of Lodz district which is a potential source of antropozoonosis.
Biodiversity of strongylids (Nematoda: Strongylidae) communities in domestic horses from Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Kuzmina T. , Kornaś S. , Basiaga M. , Kharchenko V. , Vyniarska A.
Published: May 2011

Examination of the biodiversity of horse strongylid communities was performed on 51 domestic horses from Southern Poland and Western Ukraine by in vivo method. All horses were dewormed with macrocyclic lactone anthelmintics. Strongylids (34,715 specimens) were collected and identified by morphological criteria. In Poland, 25 strongylid species were found. Five cyathostome species dominated in the community. Large strongyles were found in 23.1 % of horses and composed 0.56 % of total strongylid number. General structure of strongylid community was multimodal with dominant, subdominant, background and rare species. In Ukraine, 19 species were found. Five cyathostome species dominated in the community. Strongylinae were found in 17.4 % of horses and composed 0.07% of community. General structures of strongylid community were multimodal or bimodal depends on type of horse keeping conditions. Regularity of anthelmintic treatment was found to be more influential on strongylid community structure than differences in horse-keeping conditions at the both countries.
Trinibaculum rotundus n.sp. (Monogenea, Ancyrocephalinae), a parasite of Schizodon borellii (Characiformes, Anostomidae) from the upper Paraná River floodplain, Brazil
Authors: Cucolo Karling L. , Conceição Lopes L. , Massato Takemoto R. , Cezar Pavanelli G.
Published: May 2011

A new species of dactylogyrid monogenean, Trinibaculum rotundus n.sp. is described and illustrated from the gills of freshwater fish Schizodon borellii (Boulenger, 1900) from the upper Paraná River floodplain, Brazil. Trinibaculum rotundus n.sp. has vagina dextrolateral slightly sclerotised ending at level of seminal receptacle; copulatory organ coiled with 1.5 clockwise rings; accessory piece not articulated; body disk-shape with absence of haptor peduncle and three bars (one ventral bar and two dorsal bars).
Comparative studies on the biochemical composition and polypeptide profiles of the cyst walls from sterile and fertile hydatid cysts of Echinococcus granulosus from buffalo host
Authors: Irshadullah M. , Rani M.
Published: May 2011

In the present study, biochemical composition and polypeptide profiles of the cyst walls of sterile and fertile hydatid cyst, collected from the lungs of naturally infected Bubalus bubalis have been investigated. Significant quantitative differences in various biochemical components as well as in protein banding patterns were observed between the two types of cyst walls, suggesting variations in their metabolic states. The cyst wall collected from fertile cysts had significantly less glycogen, lipids and triglycerides but more RNA and DNA as compared to sterile cyst wall. Among phospholipid fractions, lysophosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylethanolamine were significantly higher in the fertile, whereas, sphingomyelin showed higher values in the sterile cyst wall. The numbers of polypeptides resolved in the fertile cyst wall were more than those in sterile cyst wall possibly due to the presence of extra proteins required for production of brood capsules and protoscoleces. Detection of more polypeptides by silver than CBBR-250 staining could be due to high sensitivity of silver stain which also detects conjugated proteins such as lipo-, phospho- and glycoproteins. The characteristic polypeptides specific to either types of the cyst wall have the potential to be exploited for diagnostics.
Paravortex panopea n. sp. (Platyhelminthes: Rhabdocoela) on clams from the northern Patagonian coast, Argentina: pathogeny and specificity
Authors: Brusa F. , Vázquez N. , Cremonte F.
Published: May 2011

During a histopathological survey of the geoduck, Panopea
abbreviata (Hiatellidae), and the razor clam, Ensis macha (Pharidae), in northern Patagonian gulfs (Argentina), turbellarian worms were found in the intestine lumen. In this work, we described a new species of Paravortex (Platyhelminthes, Graffillidae). We collected the hosts by scuba diving and dissected alive for studying the turbellarians. In this new species, the pharynx continues in a short esophagus and the latter in a saccular intestine. Gravid specimens have from 2 to 8 twin embryos in the parenchyma. A short penis papilla arises from the seminal vesicle and the gonopore presents a strong sphincter. This species resembled P. nicolli Szidat, 1965, which was described paraziting Mytilus edulis platensis in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The new species can be differentiated from P. nicolli mainly by the presence of a penis papilla and a sphincter between genital atrium and gonopore. This turbellarian species was significantly more prevalent in geoducks (28 %, n = 210) than in razor clams (6 %, n = 480) (KW, p < 0.0001). For both host species, no evidence of direct physical damage caused by turbellarians was observed.
Soil nematode community characteristics around the Gangue hill of Fushun West Open-pit mine
Authors: Zhang W. , Xiao Y. , Wang X. , Lv Y.
Published: May 2011

Diversity and nematode abundance were investigated in soils collected around the Gangue hill of Fushun West open-pit mine to evaluate soil pollution, due to heavy metals contents, using nematodes as bioindicators. Nematodes were collected from soil samples using elutriate-sievingflotation and centrifugation methods. The species richness and ecological indices were analyzed. On the base of chemical and nematological analysis, the results indicated that the area around the Gangue hill of Fushun West Openpit mine was polluted by heavy metal, but the degree of pollution was not very serious. According to the results obtained from single-factor analysis, cadmium soil content was ten times higher than the background; 29 genera of nematodes were identified and Acrobeloides, Cervidellus and Mesorhabtidis were the dominant genera in almost all sampling sites. The dominant genera were different as the distances to the Gangue hill changed. In particular, in the investigated areas bacterivores and plant-parasites nematodes were more diffuse than fungivores and omnivorepredators. Copper soil content was significantly correlated with plant parasitic trophic group and with total number of nematodes, thus suggesting that nematode communities studies are important scientific basis for understanding the healthy development of soil ecosystem.
The helminth parasites of the two bufonid toads, European Common Toad, Bufo bufo (Linnaeus, 1758) and European Green toad, Bufo (Pseudepidalea) viridis Laurenti, 1768 (Anura: Bufonidae), collected from Denizli Province, Inner-West Anatolia Region, Turkey
Authors: Düşen S.
Published: May 2011

In this research, two bufonid toad species (Bufo bufo and Bufo (Pseudepidalea) viridis) were collected in Denizli province (Inner-west Anatolia Region — the eastern part of Aegean Region) Turkey between 2006 and 2009 and examined first time for helminths. Of 6 Bufo bufo, 5 (97.87 %) were infected with one or more helminths, of 47 Bufo viridis 46 (87.91 %) were infected with one or more helminths. The helminth fauna of Bufo bufo included 5 species of which were 4 species of nematodes (Rhabdias bufonis, Oswadocruzia filiformis, Cosmocerca ornata, and Oxysomatium brevicaudatum), and 1 species of acanthocephalan (Acanthocephalus ranae). The helminth fauna of Bufo (Pseudepidalea) viridis comprised 7 species with 1 species of monogenean (Polystoma viridis), 1 species of cestoda (Nematotaenia dispar), and 5 species of nematodes (R. bufonis, O. filiformis, C. ornata, C. commutata, and O. brevicaudatum). R. bufonis, O. filiformis, C. ornata, and O. brevicaudatum were observed in both bufonid toads.
Endoparasitic helminths of water frog complex in Poland: do differences exist between the parental species Pelophylax ridibundus and Pelophylax lessonae, and their natural hybrid Pelophylax esculentus?
Authors: Popiołek M. , Rozenblut-Kościsty B. , Kot M. , Nosal W. , Ogielska M.
Published: May 2011

Parasitic fauna of water frogs was mainly studied in the second half of the 20th century. However, these studies were done without differentiation into species and hybrids and pooled the 3 taxa as “water frogs” or “green frogs”. The aim of this study was to make an inventory of helminth species as well as their prevalence and intensity of infection in the two parental species (Pelophylax ridibundus and P. lessonae) and the hybrid (P. esculentus) of water frogs from 3 big populations composed of hundreds or thousands of individuals inhabited natural and seminatural landscapes in Poland. Eight helminth species were found: Polystoma integerrimum, Diplodiscus subclavatus, Opisthoglyphe ranae, Gorgodera cygnoides, Haematoloechus variegatus, Oswaldocruzia filiformis, Cosmocerca ornata and Acanthocephalus ranae. The results were compared with data from other, polish and European studies. Additionally we compared the level of infection among water frog taxa.
Hybrid process scheme for the synthesis of ethyl lactate: conceptual design and analysis
Authors: Mitkowski Piotr
Published: May 2011

Hybrid processes have received increased attention in the field of chemical and biochemical engineering because of their ability to overcome certain obstacles related to thermodynamics of the separation task to be carried out. Usually, in a hybrid process two processes are coupled; either reaction with separation or two different separation processes. In the design of such hybrid systems, the performance of each constituent element has to be taken into account, while their optimisation must account for their interdependency. In this paper, the methodology presented by Mitkowski et al. (2009a) is applied to design and analyse a hybrid process scheme for the synthesis of ethyl lactate. Generated hybrid process schemes have been validated through computer-aided simulations.
Preparation of magnesium hydroxide from nitrate aqueous solution
Authors: Fellner Pavel , Híveš Ján , Khandl Vladimír , Králik Milan , Jurišová Jana , Liptaj Tibor , Pach Ladislav
Published: May 2011

Nucleation of Mg(OH)2 was investigated by measuring the electrical conductivity and pH of the Mg(NO3)2 reaction solution to which ammonia containing different amounts of NH4NO3 was added. NH4NO3 increases solubility and slows down precipitation of Mg(OH)2 in the system. Data are presented on the influence of NH4NO3 on the solubility of Mg(OH)2 at 25°C. The phenomena observed can be explained by the solvation effect of nitrate ions brought to the system with the addition of ammonium nitrate, which was proved by NMR spectroscopy. When the mass fraction of NH4NO3 exceeds 15 %, homogeneous nucleation does not proceed. It was found that seeding of the system with Mg(OH)2 crystals only influenced the rate of Mg(OH)2 crystallisation, not the size and shape of the crystals. Primary crystals are smaller than 0.1 μm. The large difference in the surface energy of individual crystal planes leads to oriented agglomeration. This process is accelerated in a pressure reactor at 130°C. The resulting polycrystals are hexagonal plates 0.2 μm thin with a diameter of 1–2 μm. Under variable reaction conditions, agglomerates as big as 30 μm can be prepared.
Impact of the type of anodic film formed and deposition time on the characteristics of porous anodic aluminium oxide films containing Ni metal
Authors: Zamora Gaël , Arurault Laurent , Winterton Peter , Bes René
Published: May 2011

Porous anodic films containing nickel were prepared by AC electro-deposition. The porosity of the films was controlled by using different working conditions (anodisation electrolyte, voltage, and time). Then nickel was electro-deposited using an alternating voltage. The impact of the anodic film on the current density waveforms and the metal content can largely be explained by the porosity differences, while changing the deposition time caused changes due to over-oxidation of the aluminium substrate, experimentally proved by TEM. Finally, the impact of deposition time on the deposited metal was successfully fitted using an Elovich type law over a large time-span (up to 1800 s), showing the ability to achieve precise control of the metal content.
MTD-PLS and docking study for a series of substituted 2-phenylindole derivatives with oestrogenic activity
Authors: Seclaman Edward , Bora Alina , Avram Sorin , Simon Zeno , Kurunczi Ludovic
Published: May 2011

A series of 36 substituted 2-phenylindoles was analysed using minimal topological difference-projections in latent structures variant (MTD-PLS) and molecular docking, using fast rigid exhaustive docking (FRED) and AutoDock Vina programs. For quantitative structure activity relationships (QSAR) validation, a sphere exclusion algorithm in the multi-dimensional descriptor space was used to construct training and test sets. Docking procedures were based on X-ray crystallography studies using the human alpha oestrogen receptor-17β-oestradiol complex. The ranking abilities of the different scoring functions of the FRED package were presented, and the most suitable scoring function (Chemgauss3) for the oestrogen receptor was chosen. Although the series studied contains only a limited number of compounds, the MTD-PLS method and the docking procedure provided coherent results in concordance with the X-ray diffraction data for different ligand-oestrogen receptor complexes.
Precautions in using global kinetic and thermodynamic models for characterization of drug release from multivalent supports
Authors: Maria Gheorghe , Luta Ionela
Published: May 2011

Building-up a detailed kinetic model for drug release from various supports is a difficult task, especially when chemical reactions take place, accompanied by adsorption-desorption and diffusion steps. Often, semi-empirical release models derived from theoretical formulations of the transport process and system characteristics are employed. Their parameters have limited validity as they are dependent on the support, drug-ligand properties, and release conditions. However, they are often used for a quick simulation and design of drug delivery systems with a controlled release correlating the model parameters with the system characteristics and release conditions. Detailed information allows elaboration of an extended mechanistic model; the bias in the predictions introduced on various levels of model simplification is presented in this paper. A case study of a chemically activated ligand release in human plasma from a multivalent dendrimeric support is approached, pointing out the imprecision introduced by the gradual simplification of an extended model as well as the low reliability of the prediction when using various semi-empirical global models.
Morphology dependence of 1,2-diphenylethylenediamine-derived organogelator templates in solvents and their influence in the production of nanostructured silica
Authors: Kim Tae , Jeong Euh , Oh Chae , Hyun Myung , Lee Mee , Moon Hae , Kim Jong-Pil , Jung Ok-Sang , Nawaz Khan F. , Jin Jong
Published: May 2011

The 1,2-diphenylethylenediamine-based neutral or cationic organogelator-templates, currently employed in the production of silica nanomaterials, were initially evaluated for their versatile gelation ability and found to be gelled in the majority of organic solvents tested. Scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope, images of neutral organogels made from different solvents revealed that they assembled into a plate-shaped, or rod-shaped morphology, respectively in ethanol or butan-1-ol and in acetonitrile or tetrahydrofurane. Similarly, a 1: 1 mixture (mass) of neutral and cationic gelators formed different morphologies in the solvents tested. Sol-gel polycondensation of tetraethoxy silane using either individual gels (neutral or cation) or a 1: 1 mixture of gels was explored. The experimental results and the scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images revealed that silica nanotubes with an inner diameter of 82 nm and an outer diameter of 620 nm were obtained from the 1: 1 mixture of neutral and cationic gelator in ethanol, whereas silica nanoparticles were obtained using gels made in the other solvents tested.
Determination of curcuminoids in substances and dosage forms by cyclodextrin-mediated capillary electrophoresis with diode array detection
Authors: Maráková Katarína , Mikuš Peter , Piešťanský Juraj , Havránek Emil
Published: May 2011

The present work illustrates the potential of the capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) separation technique coupled with the on-capillary diode array detector (DAD) for highly reliable determination of curcuminoids (curcumin, CUR, demethoxycurcumin, DCUR, and bisdemethoxycurcumin, BCUR) in substances (commercially available plant extract) and pharmaceutical preparation (commercial pharmaceutical capsules) with minimal sample preparation; (2-hydroxypropyl)-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) was chosen for an anionic separation of CUR and its structural analogues (DCUR and BCUR) as an appropriate complexing agent (i) providing complete resolution of the curcuminoids and (ii) reducing adsorption of these hydrophobic analytes onto the capillary wall. DAD detection was utilised for characterisation of the composition of the separated zones via differences in the corresponding UV-VIS spectra (scanned at interval of 200–800 nm). Reference and real spectra of the analytes demonstrated that the proposed separation method was sufficiently selective to produce well-separated (i.e. spectrally homogeneous) analyte zones with no interfering compounds present. Successful validation and application of the CZE-DAD method proposed here suggest its routine use in highly effective and reliable analysis of curcuminoids in pharmaceutical samples.
Reduced horn size in two wild trophy‐hunted species of Caprinae
Authors: Pérez Jesús M. , Serrano Emmanuel , González‐Candela Mónica , León‐Vizcaino Luis , Barberá Gonzalo G. , de Simón Miguel A , Fandos Paulino , Granados José E. , Soriguer Ramón C. , Festa‐Bianchet Marco
Published: May 2011

Factors affecting horn size in wild Caprinae are of biological and socio‐economic interest because several species are selectively harvested on the basis of this heritable character. We analysed temporal trends in horn size in two mountain ungulates from south‐eastern Spain, the Iberian wild goat Capra pyrenaica and the aoudad Ammotragus lervia. Trophy harvest is the main way in which these two species are exploited, although ‘poor‐quality’ aoudads are also selectively removed. In recent years, both populations have suffered drastic decreases in number due to outbreaks of sarcoptic mange that led to the suspension of hunting for several years. Horn length in harvested male wild goats and aoudads declined during our study period. Over an 18‐year period, the mean age of male goats shot as trophies rose by four years, while the age of trophy‐harvested aoudads decreased by around six months over a 9‐year period. Age and environmental conditions during the first few years of life explained 20% of variance in horn size in Iberian wild goat and 53% in aoudad. Population density early in life explained much of the reduction in goat horn size over time. Nevertheless, the major fall in population densities after the sarcoptic mange outbreaks did not lead to a recovery in horn size in either species. We suggest that the selective removal of large‐horned animals may contribute to a decline in horn size. Other factors that may also explain the observed pattern include changes in interspecific competition, long‐lasting maternal effects and reduced carrying capacity due to overgrazing during high density periods. Unfortunately, our data sets did not allow us to account for the possible effects of these factors.
Browse biomass removal and nutritional condition of moose Alces alces
Authors: Seaton C. Tom , Paragi Thomas F. , Boertje Rodney D. , Kielland Knut , DuBois Stephen , Fleener Craig L.
Published: May 2011

We present methodology for assessing browse removal to help evaluate resource limitation among moose Alces alces populations in large, potentially remote areas of boreal forest. During 2000‐2007, we compared proportional removal (ratio of browse consumption to browse production) in eight areas of Interior Alaska, USA, with multi‐year twinning rates of the respective moose populations. Several prior studies concluded that twinning rate provided an index of the nutritional condition of moose. We theorized that a plant‐based sampling of proportional use of browse by moose in late winter would inversely correlate with the nutritional condition of moose. We sampled willow Salix spp., quaking aspen Populus tremuloides, balsam poplar P. balsamifera and Alaska paper birch Betula neoalaskana, i.e. plants with current annual growth (CAG) between 0.5 and 3.0 m above ground. We estimated the biomass of CAG and biomass removed by moose based on bite diameters and diameter‐mass regressions specific to each browse species. Mean browse removal by moose varied among study areas from 9 to 43% of CAG. Moose twinning rate (range: 7‐64%) was inversely correlated with proportional browse removal by moose (Spearman's rho = −0.863, P < 0.005). Proportional browse removal appeared useful in linking foraging ecology and population dynamics of moose in Alaska, and the technique may be used to quantify resource limitation in moose populations inhabiting boreal forest in a broader geographic region.