bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
D-Serine Is the Dominant Endogenous Coagonist for NMDA Receptor Neurotoxicity in Organotypic Hippocampal Slices
Authors: Shleper Maria , Kartvelishvily Elena , Wolosker Herman
Published: October 2005

d-serine occurs at high levels in the brain, where it is an endogenous coagonist at the “glycine site” of NMDA receptors. However,d-serine action has not been previously compared with that of endogenous glycine, and the relative importance of the two coagonists remains unclear. We now investigated the efficiencies of the two coagonists in mediating NMDA receptor neurotoxicity in organotypic hippocampal slices. Removal of endogenousd-serine from slices was achieved by pretreating the tissue with recombinantd-serine deaminase enzyme. This enzyme is several orders of magnitude more efficient than previous methods to removed-serine. We report that complete removal ofd-serine virtually abolished NMDA-elicited neurotoxicity but did not protect against kainate. Although levels of glycine were 10-fold higher thand-serine, endogenous glycine was ineffective in mediating NMDA receptor neurotoxicity. The effect of endogenous glycine could be observed only after simultaneous removal of endogenousd-serine and blockage of the glycine transporter GlyT1. Our data indicate thatd-serine is the dominant coagonist for NMDA receptor-elicited neurotoxicity, mediating all cell death elicited by NMDA in organotypic slices. The results suggest an essential role for this unusuald-amino acid, with implications for the mechanism of neuronal death in the nervous system.
Growth Defect and Mutator Phenotypes of RecQ-Deficient Neurospora crassa Mutants Separately Result From Homologous Recombination and Nonhomologous End Joining During Repair of DNA Double-Strand Breaks
Authors: Kato Akihiro , Inoue Hirokazu
Published: October 2005

RecQ helicases function in the maintenance of genome stability in many organisms. The filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa has two RecQ homologs, QDE3 and RECQ2. We found that the qde-3 recQ2 double mutant showed a severe growth defect. The growth defect was alleviated by mutation in mei-3, the homolog of yeast RAD51, which is required for homologous recombination (HR), suggesting that HR is responsible for this phenotype. We also found that the qde-3 recQ2 double mutant showed a mutator phenotype, yielding mostly deletions. This phenotype was completely suppressed by mutation of mus-52, a homolog of the human KU80 gene that is required for nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), but was unaffected by mutation of mei-3. The high spontaneous mutation frequency in the double mutant is thus likely to be due to NHEJ acting on an elevated frequency of double-strand breaks (DSBs) and we therefore suggest that QDE3 and RECQ2 maintain chromosome stability by suppressing the formation of spontaneous DSBs.
Unequal Contribution of Sexes in the Origin of Dog Breeds
Authors: Sundqvist A-K , Björnerfeldt S , Leonard J A , Hailer F , Hedhammar Å , Ellegren H , Vilà C
Published: October 2005

Dogs (Canis familiaris) were domesticated from the gray wolf (Canis lupus) at least 14,000 years ago, and there is evidence of dogs with phenotypes similar to those in modern breeds 4000 years ago. However, recent genetic analyses have suggested that modern dog breeds have a much more recent origin, probably <200 years ago. To study the origin of contemporaneous breeds we combined the analysis of paternally inherited Y chromosome markers with maternally inherited mitochondrial DNA and biparentally inherited autosomal microsatellite markers in both domestic dogs and their wild ancestor, the gray wolf. Our results show a sex bias in the origin of breeds, with fewer males than females contributing genetically, which clearly differs from the breeding patterns in wild gray wolf populations where both sexes have similar contributions. Furthermore, a comparison of mitochondrial DNA and Y chromosome diversity in dog groups recognized by the World Canine Organization, as well as in groups defined by the breeds' genetic composition, shows that paternal lineages are more differentiated among groups than maternal lineages. This demonstrates a lower exchange of males than of females between breeds belonging to different groups, which illustrates how breed founders may have been chosen.
Directional Positive Selection on an Allele of Arbitrary Dominance
Authors: Teshima Kosuke M , Przeworski Molly
Published: October 2005

Most models of positive directional selection assume codominance of the beneficial allele. We examine the importance of this assumption by implementing a coalescent model of positive directional selection with arbitrary dominance. We find that, for a given mean fixation time, a beneficial allele has a much weaker effect on diversity at linked neutral sites when the allele is recessive.
No Patrigenes Required for Femaleness in the Haplodiploid Wasp Nasonia vitripennis
Authors: Beukeboom Leo W , Kamping Albert
Published: October 2005

The parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis is an emerging model organism for developmental and behavioral genetics. It reproduces by haplodiploidy; males typically develop parthenogenetically from haploid eggs and females from fertilized diploid eggs. A polyploid mutant strain is available in which females are triploid and lay haploid and diploid eggs that normally develop into males when unfertilized. In contrast to previous reports, ∼2% of triploid females were found to occasionally produce daughters as well as gynandromorphs from diploid unfertilized eggs. Daughter production increased with age and differed among familial lineages. This is the first report of parthenogenetic female development in Nasonia. The results show that a paternally provided genome is not required for femaleness and call for modifications of existing models of sex determination in Nasonia.
Genetic Analysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae H2A Serine 129 Mutant Suggests a Functional Relationship Between H2A and the Sister-Chromatid Cohesion Partners Csm3–Tof1 for the Repair of Topoisomerase I-Induced DNA Damage
Authors: Redon Christophe , Pilch Duane R , Bonner William M
Published: October 2005

Collision between a topoisomerase I-DNA intermediate and an advancing replication fork represents a unique form of replicative damage. We have shown previously that yeast H2A serine 129 is involved in the recovery from this type of damage. We now report that efficient repair also requires proteins involved in chromatid cohesion: Csm3; Tof1; Mrc1, and Dcc1. Epistasis analysis defined several pathways involving these proteins. Csm3 and Tof1 function in a same pathway and downstream of H2A. In addition, the pathway involving H2A/Csm3/Tof1 is distinct from the pathways involving the Ctf8/Ctf18/Dcc1 complex, the Rad9 pathway, and another involving Mrc1. Our genetic studies suggest a role for H2A serine 129 in the establishment of specialized cohesion structure necessary for the normal repair of topoisomerase I-induced DNA damage.
DNA Polymerase 4 of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Is Important for Accurate Repair of Methyl-Methanesulfonate-Induced DNA Damage
Authors: Sterling Catherine H , Sweasy Joann B
Published: October 2005

The DNA polymerase 4 protein (Pol4) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a member of the X family of DNA polymerases whose closest human relative appears to be DNA polymerase λ. Results from previous genetic studies conflict over the role of Pol4 in vivo. Here we show that deletion of Pol4 in a diploid strain of the SK1 genetic background results in sensitivity to methyl methanesulfonate (MMS). However, deletion of Pol4 in other strain backgrounds and in haploid strains does not yield an observable phenotype. The MMS sensitivity of a Pol4-deficient strain can be rescued by deletion of YKu70. We also show that deletion of Pol4 results in a 6- to 14-fold increase in the MMS-induced mutation frequency and in a significant increase in AT-to-TA transversions. Our studies suggest that Pol4 is critical for accurate repair of DNA lesions induced by MMS.
Accumulation of NonfunctionalS-Haplotypes Results in the Breakdown of Gametophytic Self-Incompatibility in Tetraploid Prunus
Authors: Hauck Nathanael R , Yamane Hisayo , Tao Ryutaro , Iezzoni Amy F
Published: October 2005

The transition from self-incompatibility (SI) to self-compatibility (SC) is regarded as one of the most prevalent transitions in Angiosperm evolution, having profound impacts on the genetic structure of populations. Yet, the identity and function of mutations that result in the breakdown of SI in nature are not well understood. This work provides the first detailed genetic description of the breakdown of S-RNase-mediated gametophytic self-incompatibility (GSI) in a polyploid species that exhibits genotype-dependent loss of SI. Genetic analyses of six natural sour cherry (Rosaceae, Prunus cerasus) selections identified seven independent, nonfunctional S-haplotypes with disrupted pistil component (stylar-S) and/or pollen component (pollen-S) function. A genetic model demonstrating that the breakdown of SI in sour cherry is due to the accumulation of a minimum of two nonfunctional S-haplotypes within a single individual is developed and validated. Our finding that sour cherry is SI when only one nonfunctional S-haplotype is present has significant evolutionary implications since nonfunctional S-haplotypes would be maintained in the population without causing an abrupt shift to SC. Furthermore, we demonstrate that heteroallelic sour cherry pollen is self-incompatible, which is counter to the well-documented phenomenon in the Solanaceae where SC accompanying polyploidization is frequently due to the SC of heteroallelic pollen.
Intragenic Suppression of Gal3C Interaction With Gal80 in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae GAL Gene Switch
Authors: Diep Cuong Q , Peng Gang , Bewley Maria , Pilauri Vepkhia , Ropson Ira , Hopper James E
Published: October 2005

Gal4-mediated activation of GAL gene transcription in Saccharomyces cerevisiae requires the interaction of Gal3 with Gal80, the Gal4 inhibitor protein. While it is known that galactose and ATP activates Gal3 interaction with Gal80, neither the mechanism of activation nor the surface that binds to Gal80 is known. We addressed this through intragenic suppression of GAL3C alleles that cause galactose-independent Gal3–Gal80 interaction. We created a new allele, GAL3SOC, and showed that it suppressed a new GAL3C allele. We tested the effect of GAL3SOC on several newly isolated and existing GAL3C alleles that map throughout the gene. All except one GAL3C allele, D368V, were suppressible by GAL3SOC. GAL3SOC and all GAL3C alleles were localized on a Gal3 homology model that is based on the structure of the highly related Gal1 protein. These results provide evidence for allosterism in the galactose- and ATP-activation of Gal3 binding to Gal80. In addition, because D368V and residues corresponding to Gal80-nonbinder mutations colocalized to a domain that is absent in homologous proteins that do not bind to Gal80, we suggest that D368 is a part of the Gal80-binding surface.
Drosophila Target of Rapamycin Kinase Functions as a Multimer
Authors: Zhang Yong , Billington Charles J , Pan Duojia , Neufeld Thomas P
Published: October 2005

Target of rapamycin (TOR) is a conserved regulator of cell growth and metabolism that integrates energy, growth factor, and nutrient signals. The 280-kDa TOR protein functions as the catalytic component of two large multiprotein complexes and consists of an N-terminal HEAT-repeat domain and a C-terminal Ser/Thr kinase domain. Here we describe an allelic series of mutations in the Drosophila Tor gene and show that combinations of mutations in the HEAT and kinase domains of TOR display the rare genetic phenomenon of intragenic complementation, in which two or more defective proteins assemble to form a functional multimer. We present biochemical evidence that TOR self-associates in vivo and show that this multimerization is unaffected by positive or negative signals upstream of TOR. Consistent with multimerization of TOR, recessive mutations in the HEAT and kinase domains can dominantly interfere with wild-type TOR function in cells lacking TSC1 or TSC2. TOR multimerization thus partially accounts for the high apparent molecular weight of TOR complexes and offers novel therapeutic strategies for pathologies stemming from TOR hyperactivity.
Cosmic Communion
Authors: Grey Mary
Published: October 2005

One of the most poetic expressions of Teilhard de Chardin’s Christic mysticism is found in his Mass on the World, and other eucharistic texts. But of what value could they be today, given their over-optimistic tone, in a world where the very future of the earth is at stake? In a context where his work is frequently set aside, by emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit, this article tries to reclaim Père Teilhard’s eucharistic vision as part of a contemporary movement of reconversion to the earth and the dedication to ecological justice of the Christian community.
The Exploitation of Nature and Teilhard’s Ecotheology of Love
Authors: Faricy Robert
Published: October 2005

Although Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, the Jesuit priest and paleontologist, died in 1955, long before the word ‘ecotheology’ existed, he has in his writings an ecotheology in substance if not in name. He overcomes the humanity versus nature dichotomy present in contemporary culture. In his theology he closes the gap between nature and humanity that permits and encourages us to exploit nature, the gap that nurtures the ecological problem of our exploitation of the earth to our own and the earth’s detriment. Teilhard develops a theory of convergent evolution. Evolution now takes place mainly in humankind and it takes the form of socialization, of growth in human organization and in human consciousness. Within the framework of his theory of evolution, Teilhard de Chardin works out a theology of Jesus Christ, a Christology, that has at its heart an ecotheology of love.
Sophia, Mary and the Eternal Feminine in Pierre Teilhard de Chardin and Sergei Bulgakov
Authors: Deane-Drummond Celia
Published: October 2005

This paper explores the relationship between Mary, Sophia and the Eternal Feminine in the writings of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin and Sergei Bulgakov. It argues that Teilhard’s poem to the Eternal Feminine is a meditation on the Virgin Mary and reflected his own dedication to her. While Teilhard’s attention to wisdom is veiled and somewhat restricted, it flowers in the theology of Bulgakov, who finds in Mary the expression of perfected creaturely Sophia. Both authors have a high place for Mary and her cosmic significance, though this is muted somewhat in Teilhard’s account by his strong attention to cosmic Christology. While Mary and nature have long been associated in the Christian tradition, a Sophianic interpretation of her importance allows for an ecological reading of Mary’s significance that goes beyond the interpretation of both Teilhard and Bulgakov.
Our Environmental Responsibilities in Light of Contemporary Cosmology
Authors: Kropf Richard W.
Published: October 2005

The grand, sweeping picture of the evolutionary process envisioned by the Jesuit paleontologist Pierre Teilhard de Chardin and his belief in the emergence of an ‘ultra-humanity’, that both summarizes as well as transcends the limitations of the strictly biological realm, has profound implications for humanity’s relationship to its environment.
This article will proceed by means of two major stages. First, there will be a review of the advancement of cosmological and planetary science as it contextually impacts Teilhard’s views regarding the future of human evolution. This will be followed by, second, an extrapolation, from Teilhard’s analysis of the developmental choices that face the human race in its social, political, and economic development, what these choices might mean for our environmental responsibilities and humanity’s hopes for its future.
Anti-Inflammatory Immunotherapy for Multiple Sclerosis/Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) Disease
Authors: Kanwar Jagat R.
Published: October 2005

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), are inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by localized areas with demyelination. Disease is believed to be an autoimmune disorder mediated by activated immune cells such as T- and B-lymphocytes and macrophages/microglia. Lymphocytes are primed in the peripheral tissues by antigens, and clonally expanded cells infiltrate the CNS. They produce large amounts of inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide (NO) that lead to demyelination and axonal degeneration. Although several studies have shown that oligodendrocytes (OLGs), the myelin-forming glial cells in the CNS, are sensitive to cell death stimuli, such as cytotoxic cytokines, anti-myelin antibodies, NO, and oxidative stress, in vitro, the mechanisms underlying injury to the OLGs in MS/EAE remain unclear. The central role of glutamate receptors in mediating excitotoxic neuronal death in stroke, epilepsy, trauma and MS has been well established. Glutamate is the major excitatory amino acid transmitter within the CNS and its signaling is mediated by a number of postsynaptic ionotropic and metabotropic receptors. Inflammation can be blocked with anti-cell adhesion molecules MAb, simultaneously protected oligodendrocytes and neurons against glutamatemediated damage with the AMPA/kainate antagonist NBQX, and the NMDA receptor antagonist GPE, could thus be effective therapies for multiple sclerosis
PPARs in Diseases: Control Mechanisms of Inflammation
Authors: Kostadinova Radina , Wahli Walter , Michalik Liliane
Published: October 2005

The three isotypes of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), PPARa, β/δ and γ, are ligand-inducible transcription factors that belong to the nuclear hormone receptor family. PPARs are implicated in the control of inflammatory responses and in energy homeostasis and thus, can be defined as metabolic and anti-inflammatory transcription factors. They exert their anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, adhesion molecules and extracellular matrix proteins or by stimulating the production of anti-inflammatory molecules. Furthermore, PPARs modulate the proliferation, differentiation and survival of immune cells including macrophages, B cells and T cells. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms by which PPARs and their ligands modulate the inflammatory response. In addition, it presents recent developments implicating PPAR specific ligands in potential treatments of inflammationrelated diseases, such as atherosclerosis, inflammatory bowel diseases, Parkinsons and Alzheimers diseases.
MAP Kinase p38Inhibitors: Clinical Results and an Intimate Look at Their Interactions with p38α Protein
Authors: Lee Matthew R. , Dominguez Celia
Published: October 2005

Mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 is a serine/threonine kinase originally isolated from lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated monocytes. There are four isoforms p38α, p38β, p38γ, and p38δ. The most thoroughly studied isoform is p38α, whose activation has been observed in many hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cell types upon appropriate stimuli. Subsequently, p38α kinase has been shown to be involved in the biosynthesis of TNFα and IL-1β at the translational and transcriptional level. MAP kinase p38agr; represents a point of convergence for multiple signaling processes that are activated in inflammation and thus a key potential target for the modulation of cytokine production. The discovery and publication of p38α and the pyridinyl-imidazole inhibitor initiated a huge effort by many companies to develop p38α inhibitors as potential treatment for inflammatory diseases. Herein we provide a brief overview of recent reported clinical results for AMG 548, BIRB 796, VX 702, SCIO 469, and SCIO 323. However, our focus will be on the binding modes of these inhibitors and other p38 inhibitors in the recent literature.
Soluble Paramagnetic Chelates and Stabilized Colloidal Particle Solutions of Iron Oxides as Contrast Agents for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Tombach Bernd , Reimer Peter
Published: October 2005

The development of contrast agents shortening the relaxation times of protons began more than 20 years ago in order to improve the capability of diagnosing disease by means of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A variety of extracellular and tissue specific contrast agents were developed based on two types of molecules. One type was related to soluble paramagnetic chelates and the other type to stabilized colloidal particle solutions of iron oxides. The chelate or metal complex of gadopentetate dimeglumine was the pioneering magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agent used in 1988. Chemical modifications of this chelate and the design of new chelates led to tissue or blood pool specificity in MRI. Similarly, modifications in coating materials and variations in size of iron oxide particles allowed for tissue specificity or blood pool properties in MRI. Both types of contrast agents offer excellent perspectives for clinical MRI and for molecular imaging.
Superoxide and Nitric Oxide in Pathological Conditions Associated with Iron Overload. The Effects of Antioxidants and Chelators
Authors: Afanas'ev I. B.
Published: October 2005

Free radicals are a one of damaging factors in diseases associated with iron overload. This review considers two principal questions: the mechanisms of free radical-mediated damage in cells and tissue and findings concerning the discovery of iron-stimulated free radical cascades in thalassemia and Fanconi anemia. There are two major precursors of all reactive oxygen and nitrogen species formed in living organism - superoxide (O2.-) and nitric oxide (NO). However, it has been shown that in addition to well-known mechanisms of the formation of reactive hydroxyl radicals and peroxynitrite from superoxide and NO, there are signal pathways by which these "physiological" radicals directly induce apoptosis, proton leak in mitochondria and an increase in oxygen consumption leading to cell death. In present review the mechanisms of free radical damage are considered with the particular emphasis of iron-induced free radical formation in thalassemia and Fanconi anemia. Furthermore free radical reactions leading to lipid peroxidation, LDL oxidation, the stimulation of apoptosis and other damaging processes are discussed. An importance of the chelating and antioxidant treatments of thalassemic and Fanconi anemia patients is also considered within the context of free radical damage and its prevention.
Essentiality, Toxicology and Chelation Therapy of Zinc and Copper
Authors: Cai Lu , Li Xiao-Kun , Song Ye , Cherian M. G
Published: October 2005

Both zinc and copper are essential minerals that are required for various cellular functions. Although these metals are essential, they can be toxic at excess amounts, especially in certain genetic disorders. Zinc and copper homeostasis results from a coordinated regulation by different proteins involved in uptake, excretion and intracellular storage/trafficking of these metals. Apart from zinc transporters (ZnT) families and Cu-ATPase, metallothionein is an important storage protein for zinc and copper. Metallothioneins are intracellular polypeptides with a remarkable ability to bind metallic ions. These proteins bind both essential metals indispensable for the organism and also toxic metals (e.g. cadmium or lead). Metallothioneins play a critical role to maintain zinc and copper homeostasis. In this review, we summarize the toxicity of zinc and copper and the potential treatment for zinc or copper toxicity by zinc- or copper-specific chelators as well as strategy to upregulate metallothionein.
Chelators as Antidotes of Metal Toxicity: Therapeutic and Experimental Aspects
Authors: Blanusa Maja , Varnai Veda M. , Piasek Martina , Kostial Krista
Published: October 2005

The effects of chelating drugs used clinically as antidotes to metal toxicity are reviewed. Human exposure to a number of metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, manganese, aluminum, iron, copper, thallium, arsenic, chromium, nickel and platinum may lead to toxic effects, which are different for each metal. Similarly the pharmacokinetic data, clinical use and adverse effects of most of the chelating drugs used in human metal poisoning are also different for each chelating drug. The chelating drugs with worldwide application are dimercaprol (BAL), succimer (meso-DMSA), unithiol (DMPS), D-penicillamine (DPA), N-acetyl-Dpenicillamine (NAPA), calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (CaNa2EDTA), calcium trisodium or zinc trisodium diethylenetriaminepentaacetate (CaNa3DTPA, ZnNa3DTPA), deferoxamine (DFO), deferiprone (L1), triethylenetetraamine (trientine), N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and Prussian blue (PB). Several new synthetic homologues and experimental chelating agents have been designed and tested in vivo for their metal binding effects. These include three groups of synthetic chelators, namely the polyaminopolycarboxylic acids (EDTA and DTPA), the derivatives of BAL (DMPS, DMSA and mono- and dialkylesters of DMSA) and the carbodithioates. Many factors have been shown to affect the efficacy of the chelation treatment in metal poisoning. Within this context it has been shown in experiments using young and adult animals that metal toxicity and chelation effects could be influenced by age. These findings may have a bearing in the design of new therapeutic chelation protocols for metal toxicity.
Hemoglobin and Myoglobin Associated Oxidative Stress: from Molecular Mechanisms to Disease States
Authors: Reeder Brandon J. , Wilson Michael T.
Published: October 2005

The heme based respiratory proteins myoglobin and hemoglobin can, under certain conditions, exhibit a peroxidase-like enzymic activity, in which a catalytic cycle, driven by peroxides, leads to oxidation of bio molecules. These heme proteins are implicated in what is termed "oxidative stress" as this catalytic cycle, when it occurs in vivo, generates cytotoxic product that are implicated in the pathology of a number of disease states. Here we review the evidence that such reactions occur in vivo, in particular in animal models and human patients and examine the underlying chemical mechanism. This mechanism involves the production of ferryl heme (FeIV=O2-) and it is this and associated radicals that initiate processes such as lipid peroxidation and the generation of bioactive molecules such as isoprostanes. The reactivity of the high oxidation state of the heme also allows us to identify unambiguous biomarkers for its presence in vivo in such conditions as rhabdomyolysis and brain hemorrhage. Ways to inhibit the peroxidatic cycle are discussed and the role of iron chelators such as desferrioxamine is discussed in terms of their often neglected properties as reducing agents. Suppression of the peroxidatic activity of hemoglobin is discussed in the context of the development of blood substitutes.
Positive correlation between micronuclei and necrosis of lymphocytes in medical personnel occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation
Authors: Petrovic Sandra , Leskovac Andreja , Joksic Gordana
Published: October 2005

BACKGROUND: Current radiation protection standards are based on premise that any radiation dose may result in detrimental health effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate extent of the DNA damages (measured by induction of micronuclei) and interphase cell death in circulating lymphocytes of medical personnel exposed to ionizing radiation. METHODS: Baseline micronuclei were assessed using the cytokinesis-block micronucleus test. Cytotoxicity was analyzed by flow cytometry for human white blood cells to identify cells that displayed apoptosis-associated DNA condensation. Necrotic cells were analyzed simultaneously. All parameters were compared with corresponding controls. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference (t = 4.54, p = 0.002) was found between exposed and control group in the yield of baseline micronuclei. The level of baseline micronuclei correlated positively with necrosis of leucocytes (r=0.09, p=0.68 in exposed group, r=0.02, p=0.97 in controls). An inverse correlation between baseline micronuclei and apoptosis was noted in both groups of examinees (r = -0.26, p = 0.27 in exposed group, r = -0.09, p=0.80 in controls). The data obtained also suggested an inverse correlation between necrosis and apoptosis (r = -0.37, p = 0.11 in exposed group, r = -0.89, p = 0.001 in controls). CONCLUSION: Flow cytometry being a rapid, fast, and accurate method is strongly recommended in evaluation of radiation injuries. The integration of apoptosis and necrosis into micronucleus assay could be very important in the assessment of cumulative effects of ionizing radiation in occupationally exposed medical personnel.
Air pollution as a risk factor for lung cancer
Authors: Nikic Dragana , Stankovic Aleksandra
Published: October 2005

Over the past decade, an increasing body of scientific evidence has accrued associating outdoor air pollution with certain types of cancer. Ambient air, particularly in densely populated urban environments, contains a variety of known human carcinogens such as benzo[a]pyrene and benzene, inorganic compounds (e.g., arsenic and chromium), and radionuclides. Now, it is well recognized that urbanization and lung cancer mortality are linked. This association could arise from differences in the distributions of other lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking and occupational exposures, by degree of urbanization, etc. Air pollution has positively been associated with lung cancer mortality and cardiopulmonary disease mortality, but not with mortality from other causes combined. New studies will need to develop and apply improved epidemiologic methods and to compare the effect of exposure to the pollutant mixtures on lung cancer in different cities while effectively controlling confounding factors including cigarette smoking and diet.
Metastatic spread of mucinous cystadenocarcinoma of the ovaries into abdominal wall
Authors: Zikic Dragan , Mandic Aljosa , Popovic Marina , Koprivsek Katarina , Panjkovic Milana
Published: October 2005

Epithelial ovarian cancer belongs to the most common and most deadly of all types of ovarian carcinomas. Ovarian cancer affects women in the age group 65 years and older more frequently than younger women. Approximately 75% of cases will have spread beyond the ovaries at the time of diagnosis. Twenty-two year old patient was treated at the Institute of Oncology Sremska Kamenica, in the period from 1998 until 2000. In 1993, she underwent left salphingo-oopherectomy; histopathological finding was mucinous cystadenoma of the ovaries. In 1994, mucinous papillary cystadenoma with borderline malignancy confirmed by histopathological findings was found after abdominal hysterectomy with right salpingo-oopherectomy and total omentectomy. The patient was well until 1998 when she palpated a tumor mass in the front abdominal wall with pain in that region. Tumor was extirpated and final histopathological finding was mucinous adenocarcinoma in fibrous tissue. The patient received with chemotherapy (carboplatin and cyclophosphamide) and external-beam radiotherapy. Recurrence free survival rate was 20 months but in April 2000, patient came back with recurrence of the disease. It was the same spread into abdominal wall. Rectus abdominis muscle was resected and plastic surgery of abdominal wall was performed. After operation patient received second line chemotherapy according to the same protocol. However, during the treatment the disease spread into abdominal cavity and affected small intestine and liver.
Selective oxidation of some primary and secondary benzylic alcohols to the corresponding carbonyl compounds with a Cu(III) complex
Authors: Bugarcic Zorica , Novokmet Slobodan , Kostic Vladan
Published: October 2005

The selective oxidation of benzylic alcohols to the corresponding carbonyl compounds is described. In alkaline solution, the oxidation reagent potassium tetrasodium diperiodatocuprate(III) dodecahydrate (KNa4[Cu(HIO6)2[12H2O] reacts with primary and secondary benzylic alcohols whereby good yields of the corresponding carbonyl compounds are obtained. The presented method provides for the selective oxidation of the benzylic hydroxyl group in compounds containing other types of alcoholic functional groups.
Tributylammonium chlorochromate, (C4H9)3NH[CrO3Cl] (TriBACC): A new, mild and stable oxidant for organic substrates
Authors: Ghammamy S. , Mazareey M.
Published: October 2005

Amild and stable new chromium(VI) reagent from tributylamine is described. Orange crystalline tributylammonium chlorochromate(VI), (C4H9)3NH[CrO3Cl], (TriBACC), is easily prepared in a nearly quantitative yield by the interaction of tributylamine with CrO3 and hydrochloric acid in a 1:2:2 mole ratio. This reagent is a versatile reagent for the effective and selective oxidation of organic substrates, in particular for alcohols, under mild conditions.
Analysis of nuclear glucocorticoid receptor-DNA interaction in aged rat liver
Authors: Vujcic Miroslava , Terzic Natasa , Ristic-Fira Aleksandra , Kanazir Dusan , Ruzdijic Sabera
Published: October 2005

Abstract: In order to contribute to the understanding of mechanisms by which regulatory proteins recognize genetic information stored in DNA, analyses of their interaction with specific nucleotides are usually performed. In this study, the electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) was applied to analyze the interaction of nuclear proteins from the liver of rats of different age i.e., young (3-month-old), middle- aged (12-month-old) and aged (24-month-old), with radioactively labelled synthetic oligonucleotide analogues, corresponding to GRE. The levels of GRE binding activity were assessed by quantitative densitometric scanning of the autoradiograms. The results showed statistically significant decreasing values of up to 78% and 49% in middle aged and old animals, respectively, compared to young animals (p < 0.05). The specificity of the nuclear proteins-GRE interaction was demonstrated by competition experiments with unlabelled GRE. In a supershift assay, using the antibody BuGR2, it was shown that the GR proteins present in nuclear extracts have a high affinity for the GRE probe. The stabilities of the protein-DNA complexes were analysed and it was concluded that they changed during ageing. .
Frank-Condon factors and r-centroids for the B-X bands of 10B18O and 11B18O molecules
Authors: Kuzmanovic Miroslav , Antic-Jovanovic Ankica , Pesic Dimitrije , Bojovic Vojislav
Published: October 2005

Frank?Condon factors and r-centroids have been calculated for the B2?+?X2?+ bands of the 10B18O and 11B18O isotopic molecules assuming that both the B and X states follow a Morse potential curve. The calculated q ?'?" values are compared with observed band intensities and the relationship between the r-centroids and the band positions has been determined and is discussed.
A pseudo-fluid representation of vertical liquid-coarse solids flow
Authors: Garic-Grulovic Radmila , Grbavcic Zeljko , Arsenijevic Zorana
Published: October 2005

The pseudo?fluid concept has been applied for the prediction of the pressure gradient and voidage in vertical liquid-coarse solids flow. Treating the flowing mixture as a single homogenous fluid, the correlation for the friction coefficient of the suspension?wall was developed, as was the correlation between the true voidage and the apparent (volumetric) voidage in the transport tube. Experiments were performed using water and spherical glass particles 1.20, 1.94 and 2.98 mm in diameter in a transport tube of 24 mm in diameter. The loading ratio (Gp/Gf) was varied between 0.05 and 1.05 and the fluid superficial velocity was between 0.4 Ut and 4.95 Ut where Ut represents the single particle terminal velocity. The voidage ranged from 0.648 to 0.951 for these ratios. Experimental data for the pressure gradient and voidage from the literature agree well with the proposed correlations.
The synthesis and application of 3-arylazo-4-phenylthieno[2, 3-c]isothiazole and ethyl 3-arylazo-4-phenylthieno[2, 3-c]isothiazole- 5-carboxylate
Authors: Pawar G.G. , Bineesh P. , Kumar P.S.R. , Rangnekar D.W. , Kanetkar V.R.
Published: October 2005

The paper describes the synthesis of 3-amino-4-phenylthieno_2,3-c_isothiazole and ethyl 3-amino-4-phenylthieno_2,3-c_isothiazole-5-carboxylate and their utilization to prepare a range of azo disperse dyes. These novel aryl azo dyes were studied with respect to their color and constitution relationship. The application of these dyes on a polyester fabric and their fastness properties were evaluated. These dyes were characterized by NMR, IR and visible absorption spectroscopy.
Spectral, thermal and magnetic characterization of 2, 3-dimethoxybenzoates of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II)
Authors: Ferenc Wieslawa , Walkow-Dziewulska Agnieszka , Sadowsk Pawel , Chrusciel Janusz
Published: October 2005

Complexes of 2,3-dimethoxybenzoates of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) have been synthesized as hydrated or anhydrous polycrystalline solids and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, FIR and electronic spectroscopy, magnetic studies and X-ray diffraction measurements. The carboxylate groups bind as monodentate or symmetrical, bidentate chelating and bridging ligands. The thermal stabilities were determined in air. When heated they dehydrate to form anhydrous salts which are decomposed to the oxides of the respective metals. The magnetic susceptibilities of the complexes were measured over the range 77?300 K and the magnetic moments were calculated. The results show that the complexes of Ni(II) and Co(II) are high-spin complexes and that of Cu(II) forms a dimer.
Investigation of the possibility of the reutilization of some industrial wastes
Authors: Kostic-Pulek A. , Marinkovic S. , Popov S. , Djinovic J.
Published: October 2005

The utilization of nitrogypsum and bottom ash, wastes from the factory "Milan Blagojevic" (Lucani?Serbia), was investigated. For this purpose, mixtures composed of calcined nitrogypsum (CaSO4. 0,5H2O), ash (mass ratio 1:1) and water (water/solid mass ratio 0.5), as well as similar mixtures consisting of 1.0 mass%5.0 mass%10.0mass%of lime (CaO) with the same gypsum/ash and water/solid mass ratios, were prepared. These mixtures gave solidified products at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, which after 28 days had satisfactory compressive strengths for application in the civil industry. The product with 5.0mass%of added lime has the best mechanical characeristics. X-ray and qualitative IR analysis showed that this product mainly consisted of calcium sulphate dihydrate (CaSO4.2H2O) and carbonates, as well as a small quantity of ettringite (3CaO.Al2O3.3CaSO4.32H2O).
Liquid–liquid extraction of gallium(III) with n-octylaniline from succinate media
Authors: Shilmkar T.N. , Kolekar S.S. , Anuse M.A.
Published: October 2005

The distribution equilibrium of gallium(III) between n-octylaniline dissolved in toluene and acidic aqueous succinate media has been investigated as a function of the concentration of extractant in the organic phase and concentration of hydrogen ions and gallium( III) ions in the aqueous phase. The stoichiometry of the extracted species was determined on the basis of slope analysis.Gallium(III) is extracted by the anion exchange mechanism as [RNH3+Ga(succinate)2]org. The temperature dependence of the extraction equilibria was examined by the temperature variation method. The extraction process is favoured with increasing temperature. It was found that a large number of cations and anions have a high tolerance limit. The selectivity of the extraction is increased by the use of suitable masking agents. The method affords the binary separation of gallium(III) from associated elements and was further extended to the analysis of a synthetic mixture.
Kinetics and mechanism of As2S2 oxidation
Authors: Mihajlovic Ivan , Strbac Nada , Zivkovic Zivan , Ilic Ilija
Published: October 2005

The kinetics of realgar (As2S2) oxidation was studied under isothermal and non-isothermal conditions. The obtained values of the activation energy indicate that the process occurs in the kinetic domainwith the realgar particles being converted to As2O3 and As4O6 (g). The very fast reaction rates were limited by the chemical reaction. The kinetic equation was found to be: ?ln (1??) = 4.56 x 103 x e(?8780/T) x t. The proposed reaction mechanism and chemical transformation investigated by ICP?AES, EDXRF and thermal analysis are discussed.
Electrochemical behaviour of titanium alloys in artificial saliva
Authors: Mareci Daniel , Bocanu Catalin , Nemtoi Gheorhe , Aelenei Delia
Published: October 2005

Titanium alloys are used in odontology applications owing to their excellent biocompatibility. The corrosion resistance of titanium alloys is an important component of their biocompatibility. In this study, the electrochemical corrosion resistance of Ti6Al4V, Ti6Al7Nb, Ti6Al2Nb1Ta1Mo, Ti5Al2,5Fe and commercial titanium in Afnor saliva was investigated. Maintaining titanium and Ti6Al7Nb alloy in Afnor saliva for 7 days results in the formation of a protective layer, the resistance of which is high and could be comparedwith that of a passive layer resulting from electrochemical treatment. The replacement of vanadium with niobium or iron favours the passivation, thus increasing the corrosion resistance.
Physico-chemical investigation of synthesis of lead salts from sulfide lead concentrate
Authors: Kholmogorov Alexander , Kononova Olga , Shasina Larissa , Strekatova Oksana , Kadetova Tatiana , Sabetskiy Alexander
Published: October 2005

The leaching of lead from lead?zinc concentrates by iron(III) salt solutins in the absence, as well as in the presence of mineral acids (HCl, H2SO4 HNO3) has been investigated. It was shown that the leaching of lead by means of 0.3 M Fe(NO3)3 at (22 ? 1) ?C leads to practically complete recovery of lead during 1 h. This conclusion was confirmed by data obtained using chemical, thermographical and X-ray photographical methods. Atechnological scheme for the synthesis of lead salts and oxides without the production of metal lead has been developed as a result of the present investigation.
Purification and functional analysis of the recombinant protein isolated from E. coli by employing three different methods of bacterial lysis
Authors: Mojsin Marija , Nikcevic Gordana , Kovacevic-Grujicic Natasa , Savic Tijana , Petrovic Isidora , Stevanovic Milena
Published: October 2005

In this paper, the purification of the human recombinant protein expressed in E. coli using the GSTGene Fusion System, by applying various methods of bacterial lysis: sonication, freeze/thaw and beadbeating, is presented. The study was an attempt to compare the properties of the proteins obtained by the sonication method, recommended by manufacturers but inaccessible for many researchers, with those obtained using two other readily available lysis methods. The data show that all purified proteins were soluble and intact with the highest protein yield being obtained via the freeze/thaw method. The results of functional analysis indicate that the proteins purified using the sonication and freeze/thaw methods of lysis exhibited similar DNA binding affinity, while the protein purified by beadbeating was also functional but with a lower binding affinity. The conclusion of this study is that all three lysis methods could be successfully employed for protein purification.
Titrimetric and spectrophotometric assay of felodipine in tablets using bromate–bromide, Methyl Orange and Indigo Carmine reagents
Authors: Basavaiah Kanakapura , Chandrashekar Umakanthappa , Gowda Nage
Published: October 2005

Three new methods based on titrimetric and spectrophotometric techniques are described for the determination of felodipine (FLD) in the bulk drug and in tablets using a bromate?bromide mixture and two dyes, Methyl Orange and Indigo Carmine. In the titrimetric method (method A), the drug solution was treated with a measured excess of the bromate?bromide mixture in acid medium and after the reaction was judged to be complete, the unreacted bromine was determined iodometrically. The two spectrophotometric methods are based on the bromination of the drug with a known excess of the bromate?bromide mixture under acidic conditions followed by the estimation of the surplus bromine by reaction with either Methyl Orange (Method B) or Indigo Carmine (Method C) and measuring the absorbance at 520 nm or 610 nm, respectively. In all the methods, the amount of reacted bromine corresponds to the drug content. The titrimetric procedure is applicable for between 6?15 mg and the reaction stoichiometry was found to be 1:1 (drug: BrO3?). The systems obey Beer?s law between 0.12 ? 0.87 ?gml-1 and 0.5 ? 6.0 ?gml-1 formethods B and C respectively. The limits of detection and quantification are reported for both the spectrophotometric methods. The methods could usefully be applied to routine quality control of pharmaceutical formulations containing FLD. Statistical comparison of the results with the reference method shows excellent agreement and indicates no significant difference in accuracy and precision.
Ruggedness testing of an HPLC method for the determination of ciprofloxacin
Authors: Sibinovic Predrag , Smelcerovic Andreja , Palic Radosav , Djordjevic Sinisa , Marinkovic Valentina
Published: October 2005

The possibility of optimization of an HPLC method for the determinations of ciprofloxacin and ciprofloxacin impurity C was investigated according to the British Pharmacopoeia, using ruggedness testing. Four factors were selected to be tested in this ruggedness test (temperature of the column, volume of acetonitrile in the mobile phase, volume of the aqueous phase in the mobile phase and pH of the aqueous phase in the mobile phase). Seven responses were determined in each design experiment: retention times, peak heights, peak widths, number of theoretical plates, peak areas, peak areas RSD (%) and selectivity. A three-level design was used. The optimal conditions for the chromatographic procedure determined as the result of ruggedness testing were: pH of the aqueous phase in the mobile phase 3.0, column temperature 42 ?C and the acetonitrile to aqueous ratio in the mobile phase 14: 86 (v/v). The HPLC method using the optimal conditions was tested for selectivity linearity, precision, accuracy, limit of quantitation and limit of detection. The applicability of the suggested method was, as well, tested on the stability of ciprofloxacin in pharmaceutical preparations (tablets and infusion solution, products of Zdravlje-Pharmaco, Serbia) under stress stability data.
Development of ion chromatography methods for the determination of trace anions in ultra pure water from power plants
Authors: Cickaric Dragana , Dersek-Timotic Ivana , Onjia Antonije , Rajakovic Ljubinka
Published: October 2005

A suppressed ion chromatography (IC) technique, using a carbonate/hydrogen carbonate or a hydroxide eluent, has been evaluated as a monitoring tool for the detection of major anions (F-, Cl-, NO3-, PO43- and SO42-) in ultra pure water and condensed steam from thermal power plants. An electrical conductivity detector with an anion-exchange column (IonPac AS14), an auto self-regenerating suppressor (ASRS), and an isocratic high-pressure pump system were used for the detection of low concentrations of inorganic anions. It was shown that the suppressed IC technique provides a suitable means for preventing possible damage to generating equipment in power plants. The detection limits of the method for the anions of interest were < 0.3 ?g/L.