bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlates of carotid stenosis in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting – a case control study
Authors: Kiernan Thomas J , Taqueti Viviany , Crevensten Gwen , Yan Bryan P , Slovut David P , Jaff Michael R
Published: August 2009

Abstract

Carotid duplex ultrasonography (DUS) is routinely performed prior to coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) on all patients > 65 years old because of the reported associated risk of finding concomitant carotid artery stenosis. Identifying risk factors that correlate with severe carotid stenosis may result in more cost-effective screening for patients with asymptomatic carotid artery disease prior to CABG. We performed a retrospective study to identify risk factors for significant carotid artery disease in patients scheduled to undergo CABG between March 2005 and March 2008 at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Patients with carotid stenosis ≥ 70% identified by DUS ( n = 50) were matched by age and sex to control patients who had < 50% stenosis ( n = 50). Data were analyzed using the chi-squared test or analysis of variance as appropriate. Logistic regression was used to examine multivariate correlates of carotid stenosis. A total of 643 patients were screened to arrive at the patient cohorts described below. This produced a prevalence of 7.7% for significant (> 70%) carotid disease. The patient cohorts were predominantly male with no significant difference in the incidence of diabetes, hypertension, extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) (i.e. left main coronary artery disease (LMCA) and one, two-, or three-vessel CAD) or lipid abnormalities in the two groups. Univariate analysis identified the presence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD, p = 0.001), a cervical bruit ( p < 0.0001), a prior neurological event ( p = 0.020), and the presence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA; p = 0.046) as significant predictors of ≥ 70% internal carotid artery stenosis. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the presence of a carotid bruit ( p = 0.0068) and PAD ( p = 0.0194) were associated with an increased risk of significant carotid artery disease. In conclusion, the presence of a carotid bruit or PAD predicts an increased likelihood of significant carotid artery disease in patients undergoing CABG. Unlike previous studies, LMCA or extent of CAD did not correlate with significant carotid artery disease. Using these predictive models, a prospective outcomes trial is required to validate these criteria.
Efficacy of arm-ergometry versus treadmill exercise training to improve walking distance in patients with claudication
Authors: Treat-Jacobson Diane , Bronas Ulf G , Leon Arthur S
Published: August 2009

Abstract

The efficacy of treadmill walking training to improve pain-free (PFWD) and maximal (MWD) walking distance in patients with claudication is well documented. The effects of aerobic arm-ergometry to improve PFWD and MWD compared to treadmill walking or usual care are not known. Forty-one participants (29 male, 12 female, mean age 67.7 years, 92.7% smoking history, 36.6% with diabetes) with lifestyle-limiting claudication were randomized to 12 weeks of 3 hours/week of supervised exercise training using either arm-ergometry, treadmill walking, or a combination, versus control. PFWD and MWD were assessed before and after training, and after 12 weeks of follow-up. The 12-week MWD increased significantly in the arm-ergometry (+53%), treadmill (+69%), and combination (+68%) groups ( p < 0.002 versus control). The 24-week MWD was maintained in the arm-ergometry ( p = 0.009) and treadmill ( p = 0.019) groups, whereas the combination group declined ( p = 0.751) versus control. The 12-week PFWD increased significantly in the arm-ergometry group (+82%; p = 0.025 versus control). Change in PFWD in treadmill (+54%; p = 0.196 versus control) and combination (+60%; p = 0.107 versus control) groups did not reach statistical significance. PFWD improvement was maintained in the arm-ergometry group after a 12-week follow-up (+123%; p = 0.011 versus control). In conclusion, these pilot data demonstrate for the first time that dynamic arm exercise training can improve walking capability in people with peripheral arterial disease (PAD)-induced claudication compared to participants receiving usual care and that improvement was not different from that seen with treadmill walking exercise training. Dynamic arm exercise may be a therapeutic exercise option for patients with PAD.
Association of serum myeloperoxidase with the ankle–brachial index and peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Ali Zeenat , Sarcia Paul , Mosley Thomas H , Kondragunta Venkateswarlu , Kullo Iftikhar J
Published: August 2009

Abstract

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an enzymatic mediator of several inflammatory cascades and higher serum levels have been associated with increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. We investigated the association of serum MPO with the ankle–brachial index (ABI) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in a bi-ethnic cohort of African-Americans and non-Hispanic white individuals. Participants included 1324 African-Americans (mean age 64 years, 71% women) and 1237 non-Hispanic white individuals (mean age 59 years, 57% women) belonging to hypertensive sibships. Serum levels of MPO were measured by solid phase sandwich immunoassay. ABI was measured using a standard protocol and PAD was defined as an ABI < 0.90. Multivariable regression analysis using generalized estimating equations were performed to assess whether serum MPO levels were associated with ABI and the presence of PAD. After adjustment for age and sex, higher MPO levels were significantly associated with lower ABI and the presence of PAD in African-Americans ( p = 0.004 and p = 0.005, respectively) and in non-Hispanic white individuals ( p = 0.001 and p = 0.016, respectively). After additional adjustment for conventional risk factors (diabetes, smoking status, total and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, waist circumference, hypertension), prior history of myocardial infarction or stroke, and medication use (statins, aspirin, estrogen), higher MPO levels remained significantly associated with lower ABI and the presence of PAD in both African-Americans ( p = 0.008 and p = 0.010, respectively) and non-Hispanic white individuals ( p = 0.001 and p = 0.018, respectively). We conclude that higher MPO levels are associated with lower ABI and the presence of PAD in African-Americans and non-Hispanic white individuals.
An evaluation of the performance of HapMap SNP data in a Shanghai Chinese population: Analyses of allele frequency, linkage disequilibrium pattern and tagging SNPs transferability on chromosome 1q21-q25
Authors: Hu Cheng , Jia Weiping , Zhang Weihua , Wang Congrong , Zhang Rong , Wang Jie , Ma Xiaojing ,   The International Type 2 Diabetes 1q Consortium, Xiang Kunsan
Published: August 2009

Background

The HapMap project aimed to catalog millions of common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the human genome in four major populations, in order to facilitate association studies of complex diseases. To examine the transferability of Han Chinese in Beijing HapMap data to the Southern Han Chinese in Shanghai, we performed comparative analyses between genotypes from over 4,500 SNPs in a 21 Mb region on chromosome 1q21-q25 in 80 unrelated Shanghai Chinese and 45 HapMap Chinese data.

Results

Three thousand and forty-two SNPs were analyzed after removal of SNPs that failed quality control and those not in the HapMap panel. We compared the allele frequency distributions, linkage disequilibrium patterns, haplotype frequency distributions and tagging SNP sets transferability between the HapMap population and Shanghai Chinese population. Among the four HapMap populations, Beijing Chinese showed the best correlation with Shanghai population on allele frequencies, linkage disequilibrium and haplotype frequencies. Tagging SNP sets selected from four HapMap populations at different thresholds were evaluated in the Shanghai sample. Under the threshold of r2 equal to 0.8 or 0.5, both HapMap Chinese and Japanese data showed better coverage and tagging efficiency than Caucasian and African data.

Conclusion

Our study supported the applicability of HapMap Beijing Chinese SNP data to the study of complex diseases among southern Chinese population.
The ABC transporter gene family of Daphnia pulex
Authors: Sturm Armin , Cunningham Phil , Dean Michael
Published: August 2009

Background

The large gene superfamily of ABC (ATP-binding cassette) transporters encodes membrane proteins involved in trafficking processes across biological membranes and further essential cell biological functions. ABC transporters are evolutionary ancient and involved in the biochemical defence against toxicants. We report here a genome-wide survey of ABC proteins of Daphnia pulex, providing for the first time information on ABC proteins in crustacea, a primarily aquatic arthropod subphylum of high ecological and economical importance.

Results

We identified 64 ABC proteins in the Daphnia genome, which possesses members of all current ABC subfamilies A to H. To unravel phylogenetic relationships, ABC proteins of Daphnia were compared to those from yeast, worm, fruit fly and human. A high conservation of Daphnia of ABC transporters was observed for proteins involved in fundamental cellular processes, including the mitochondrial half transporters of the ABCB subfamily, which function in iron metabolism and transport of Fe/S protein precursors, and the members of subfamilies ABCD, ABCE and ABCF, which have roles in very long chain fatty acid transport, initiation of gene transcription and protein translation, respectively. A number of Daphnia proteins showed one-to-one orthologous relationships to Drosophila ABC proteins including the sulfonyl urea receptor (SUR), the ecdysone transporter ET23, and the eye pigment precursor transporter scarlet. As the fruit fly, Daphnia lacked homologues to the TAP protein, which plays a role in antigene processing, and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), which functions as a chloride channel. Daphnia showed two proteins homologous to MDR (multidrug resistance) P-glycoproteins (ABCB subfamily) and six proteins homologous to MRPs (multidrug resistance-associated proteins) (ABCC subfamily). However, lineage specific gene duplications in the ABCB and ABCC subfamilies complicated the inference of function. A particularly high number of gene duplications were observed in the ABCG and ABCH subfamilies, which have 23 and 15 members, respectively.

Conclusion

The in silico characterisation of ABC transporters in the Daphnia pulex genome revealed that the complement of ABC transporters is as complex in crustaceans as that other metazoans. Not surprisingly, among currently available genomes, Daphnia ABC transporters most closely resemble those of the fruit fly, another arthropod.
Evidence for niche adaptation in the genome of the bovine pathogen Streptococcus uberis
Authors: Ward Philip N , Holden Matthew TG , Leigh James A , Lennard Nicola , Bignell Alexandra , Barron Andy , Clark Louise , Quail Michael A , Woodward John , Barrell Bart G , Egan Sharon A , Field Terence R , Maskell Duncan , Kehoe Michael , Dowson Christopher G , Chanter Neil , Whatmore Adrian M , Bentley Stephen D , Parkhill Julian
Published: August 2009

Background

Streptococcus uberis, a Gram positive bacterial pathogen responsible for a significant proportion of bovine mastitis in commercial dairy herds, colonises multiple body sites of the cow including the gut, genital tract and mammary gland. Comparative analysis of the complete genome sequence of S. uberis strain 0140J was undertaken to help elucidate the biology of this effective bovine pathogen.

Results

The genome revealed 1,825 predicted coding sequences (CDSs) of which 62 were identified as pseudogenes or gene fragments. Comparisons with related pyogenic streptococci identified a conserved core (40%) of orthologous CDSs. Intriguingly, S. uberis 0140J displayed a lower number of mobile genetic elements when compared with other pyogenic streptococci, however bacteriophage-derived islands and a putative genomic island were identified. Comparative genomics analysis revealed most similarity to the genomes of Streptococcus agalactiae and Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus. In contrast, streptococcal orthologs were not identified for 11% of the CDSs, indicating either unique retention of ancestral sequence, or acquisition of sequence from alternative sources. Functions including transport, catabolism, regulation and CDSs encoding cell envelope proteins were over-represented in this unique gene set; a limited array of putative virulence CDSs were identified.

Conclusion

S. uberis utilises nutritional flexibility derived from a diversity of metabolic options to successfully occupy a discrete ecological niche. The features observed in S. uberis are strongly suggestive of an opportunistic pathogen adapted to challenging and changing environmental parameters.
Development of High-performance n-Type Organic Field-effect Transistors Based on Nitrogen Heterocycles
Authors: Yamashita Yoshiro
Published: August 2009

Nitrogen heterocycles containing C=N double bonds have electron-accepting properties and can be used as n-type semiconductors for organic field-effect transistors. Thiazole, benzothiadiazole, pyrazine, and related heterocycles have been incorporated in π-conjugated systems. The effects of the structures and electron affinity of the heterocycles on transistor characteristics have been investigated here.
Changes of Aqueous Self-assemblies of Zinc Chlorophyll Derivatives Possessing a Hydrophilic Chain by Treatment with Organic Solvents
Authors: Saga Yoshitaka , Nakagawa Toshihiro , Miyatake Tomohiro , Tamiaki Hitoshi
Published: August 2009

Visible absorption and circular dichroism spectra of zinc chlorophyll derivatives possessing an oligo(oxyethylene) moiety at the 17-propionate in aqueous media were drastically changed by treatment with dichloromethane or chloroform, indicating that dimeric and monomeric species were converted into chlorosome-like large self-aggregates.
Regioselective Acetylation of 2-Aryl-2-butene-1,4-diols and Hydrolysis of Their Diacetates Using Porcine Pancreas Lipase
Authors: Koyata Naka , Nagai Takuya , Kawasaki Masashi , Noguchi Takuya , Kirihara Masayuki , Imai Nobuyuki
Published: August 2009

Acetylation of 2-aryl-2-butene-1,4-diols with 10 equivalents of vinyl acetate in the presence of 50 wt % of porcine pancreas lipase (PPL) Type II regioselectively proceeded to afford the corresponding 3-aryl-4-hydroxy-2-butenyl acetates in 83–93% yields. Hydrolysis of 2-aryl-2-butene-1,4-diyl diacetates in the presence of 100 wt % of PPL Type II regioselectively afforded the corresponding 2-aryl-4-hydroxy-2-butenyl acetates in 68–95% yields.
The use of alendronate in the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Agarwala S. , Shah S. , Joshi V. R.
Published: August 2009

The use of bisphosphonates in the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head is an encouraging but relatively new option with most published data being derived from small trials with limited follow-up. We present a clinicoradiological analysis of 395 hips with avascular necrosis which were treated with oral alendronate for three years with a mean follow-up of four years (1 to 8).

Our results show an improvement in the clinical function, a reduction in the rate of collapse and a decrease in the requirement for total hip replacement, compared with the findings of other studies in which no treatment was given. This improvement is particularly marked if the treatment is begun in the pre-collapse stages of the disease. Even in Ficat stage-III hips some benefit was obtained from treatment with alendronate by at least a delay in the need for total hip replacement.
Soft-tissue metastases
Authors: Abed R. , Grimer R. J. , Carter S. R. , Tillman R. M. , Abudu A. , Jeys L.
Published: August 2009

In our database of 7935 patients referred for investigation of a soft-tissue mass, only 100 were found to have a soft-tissue metastasis (1.3%). Our aim was to define the clinical features of such patients and to identify the site of their primary tumour.

The most common presentation was a painful lump, deep to the fascia, ranging between 2 cm and 35 cm (mean 8.3 cm) with 78% of the lumps located deep to the fascia. The mean age of the patients at presentation was 64 years (22 to 84) and there were almost equal numbers of men and women. Of 53 patients with a history of malignancy, 52 had metastases from the same primary (lung in 12, melanoma in ten, kidney in nine, gastrointestinal track in four, breast in five, bladder in four, and others in eight). The other 47 had no history of malignancy and the metastasis was the first presentation. The primary sites in these cases were the lung in 19, gastro-intestinal track in four, kidney in two, melanoma in nine, other in three, and unknown (despite investigations) in ten. There was no correlation between the site of the metastases and the primary tumour.

Of the 7935 patients, 516 had a history of malignancy. Of these, only 10% had a soft-tissue metastasis, 29% had a benign diagnosis, 55% a soft-tissue sarcoma and 6% another malignancy. Patients with soft-tissue metastases have similar clinical features to those with soft-tissue sarcomas and should be considered for assessment at appropriate diagnostic centres for patients with suspicious soft-tissue lumps.
Autologous capping during resection arthroplasty of the hip in patients with cerebral palsy
Authors: Egermann M. , Döderlein L. , Schläger E. , Müller S. , Braatz F.
Published: August 2009

In patients with severe quadriplegic cerebral palsy and painful hip dislocation proximal femoral resection arthroplasty can reduce pain, but the risk of heterotopic ossification is significant. We present a surgical technique of autologous capping of the femoral stump in order to reduce this risk, using the resected femoral head as the graft.

A retrospective study of 31 patients (43 hips) who had undergone proximal femoral resection arthroplasty with (29 hips) and without autologous capping (14 hips) was undertaken. Heterotopic ossification was less frequent in patients with autologous capping, and a more predictable pattern of bony overgrowth was found.

For a selected group of non-ambulatory patients with long-standing painful dislocation of the hip, we recommend femoral resection arthroplasty over more complicated reconstructive operations. The risk of heterotopic ossification, which is a major disadvantage of this operation, is reduced by autologous capping.
Biceps muscle trauma at birth with pseudotumour formation
Authors: MacNamara P. , Yam A. , Horwitz M. D.
Published: August 2009

We retrospectively studied the possibility that direct trauma to the biceps muscle might be the cause of poor elbow flexion and supination in 18 consecutive children with birth lesions of the brachial plexus who had delayed or impaired biceps recovery despite neurophysiological evidence of reinnervation. All had good shoulder and hand function at three months of age. Eight recovered a strong biceps after six months, but nine required a pectoralis minor to biceps transfer to augment elbow flexion and supination. One had a delayed but good recovery of the biceps after microsurgical reconstruction of the plexus. All had a clinical ‘pseudotumour’ in the biceps muscle, which was biopsied during pectoralis minor transfer in two patients and showed rupture and degeneration of muscle fibres with a fibro-fatty infiltrate, suggesting previous muscle trauma.

Direct muscle trauma is an uncommon but important cause of delayed or impaired biceps recovery after brachial plexus birth injuries. Surgery to reinnervate the biceps muscle will not work if substantial muscle damage is present when a suitable muscle transfer should be considered.
Locally-administered antibiotics in wounds in a limb
Authors: Branstetter J. G. , Jackson S. R. , Haggard W. O. , Richelsoph K. C. , Wenke J. C.
Published: August 2009

We used a goat model of a contaminated musculoskeletal defect to determine the effectiveness of rapidly-resorbing calcium-sulphate pellets containing amikacin to reduce the local bacterial count. Our findings showed that this treatment eradicated the bacteria quickly, performed as well as standard polymethylmethacrylate mixed with an antibiotic and had many advantages over the latter. The pellets were prepared before surgery and absorbed completely. They released all of the antibiotic and did not require a subsequent operation for their removal. Our study indicated that locally administered antibiotics reduced bacteria within the wound rapidly. This method of treatment may have an important role in decreasing the rate of infection in contaminated wounds.
Simple whiplash?
Authors: Uzoigwe C. E. , Shabani F. , Chami G. , El-Tayeb M.
Published: August 2009

We describe a case of type-I Arnold-Chiari malformation in a 27-year-old woman who presented on two separate occasions with an apparent whiplash injury. She developed debilitating symptoms after two apparently low velocity vehicle collisions. MRI revealed a type-I Arnold-Chiari malformation. She was referred for consideration of neurosurgical decompression. Type-I Arnold-Chiari malformation is the downward herniation of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum. It is usually asymptomatic but may present after apparently insignificant trauma with a wide range of possible symptoms. The protean nature of its presentation and the similarity of the symptoms to those of a whiplash injury mean that it is easily overlooked. It is, however, important that it is detected early.
The effect of rheumatoid arthritis on the anatomy of the female cervical spine
Authors: Higashino K. , Sairyo K. , Katoh S. , Nakano S. , Enishi T. , Yasui N.
Published: August 2009

The effect of rheumatoid arthritis on the anatomy of the cervical spine has not been clearly documented. We studied 129 female patients, 90 with rheumatoid arthritis and 39 with other pathologies (the control group). There were 21 patients in the control group with a diagnosis of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and 18 with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. All had plain lateral radiographs taken of the cervical spine as well as a reconstructed CT scan. The axial diameter of the width of the pedicle, the thickness of the lateral mass, the height of the isthmus and internal height were measured. The transverse diameter of the transverse foramen (d1) and that of the spinal canal (d2) were measured, and the ratio d1/d2 calculated.

The width of the pedicles and the thickness of the lateral masses were significantly less in patients with rheumatoid arthritis than in those with other pathologies. The area of the transverse foramina in patients with rheumatoid arthritis was significantly greater than that in the other patients. The ratio of d1 to d2 was not significantly different. A high-riding vertebral artery was noted in 33.9% of the patients with rheumatoid arthritis and in 7.7% of those with other pathologies. This difference was statistically significant. In the rheumatoid group there was a significant correlation between isthmus height and vertical subluxation and between internal height and vertical subluxation.
Three-dimensional CT analysis to determine acetabular retroversion and the implications for the management of femoro-acetabular impingement
Authors: Dandachli W. , Islam S. Ul , Liu M. , Richards R. , Hall-Craggs M. , Witt J.
Published: August 2009

This study examined the relationship between the cross-over sign and the true three-dimensional anatomical version of the acetabulum. We also investigated whether in true retroversion there is excessive femoral head cover anteriorly. Radiographs of 64 hips in patients being investigated for symptoms of femoro-acetabular impingement were analysed and the presence of a cross-over sign was documented. CT scans of the same hips were analysed to determine anatomical version and femoral head cover in relation to the anterior pelvic plane after correcting for pelvic tilt. The sensitivity and specificity of the cross-over sign were 92% and 55%, respectively for identifying true acetabular retroversion. There was no significant difference in total cover between normal and retroverted cases. Anterior and posterior cover were, however, significantly different (p < 0.001 and 0.002). The cross-over sign was found to be sensitive but not specific. The results for femoral head cover suggest that retroversion is characterised by posterior deficiency but increased cover anteriorly.
Modified Pressure Plate Apparatus and Column Testing Device for Measuring SWCC of Sand
Authors: Lins Yvonne , Schanz Tom , Fredlund Delwyn G.
Published: August 2009

The determination of soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) is of major concern in unsaturated soil mechanics. For decades experimental and theoretical studies are performed to investigate the constitutive relationship between soil suction and volumetric water content. The major objective of our study is to generate an extensive experimental database for sand with a relevant suction range of just a few kPa. This database enables to derive conclusions on the sensitivity of hydraulic properties regarding different experimental procedures. Further, one objective is the comparison of results for SWCC derived from steady state and transient state tests. While the first type of tests considers equilibrium states, the subsequent test is related to non-equilibrium states. Experimental results are generated from a so called homogenous element test (modified pressure plate apparatus) and an initial boundary value experiment (column testing device) considering different hydraulic loading path directions. The experiments are analysed for sand with different initial states. Finally results are presented for SWCC including initial curves, main curves, and scanning paths. Discussion is focused on transient state versus steady state flow tests. No significant dynamic effects are observed for the sand studied. Results of well controlled element tests compare very well to initial boundary value experiments implying higher experimental efforts.
Development of a Large-Scale Infiltration Tank for Determination of the Hydraulic Properties of Expansive Clays
Authors: Tang Anh-Minh , Ta An-Ninh , Cui Yu-Jun , Thiriat Jérémy
Published: August 2009

A large-scale infiltration tank was developed to study the water transfer in compacted expansive clay. Volumetric water content sensors were buried in a soil column for water content monitoring during infiltration. In addition to water content, soil suction and temperature at various locations and the heave at the soil surface were also monitored. Emphasis was put in minimizing the effect of sensors installation on water transfer and soil deformation. The results obtained for 338 days of infiltration were presented in terms of changes in suction, volumetric water content, temperature, and the soil heave. Based on the recorded data, the performance and limitation of different suction and volumetric water content sensors and the adopted test procedure were analyzed. The recorded data on soil suction and volumetric water content were finally analyzed for determining the unsaturated hydraulic properties of soil, such as the water retention curve and the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity. Note also that the results constitute useful data for further physical analysis or numerical models’ calibration.
Oxidative stress is reduced in Wistar rats exposed to smoke from tobacco and treated with specific broad-band pulse electromagnetic fields
Authors: Bajic V. , Bajic B. , Milicevic Zorana , Ristic Slavica , Nokolau A.
Published: August 2009

There have been a number of attempts to reduce the oxidative radical burden of tobacco. A recently patented technology, pulse electromagnetic technology, has been shown to induce differential action of treated tobacco products versus untreated products on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vivo. In a 90-day respiratory toxicity study, Wistar rats were exposed to cigarette smoke from processed and unprocessed tobacco and biomarkers of oxidative stress were compared with pathohistological analysis of rat lungs. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was decreased in a dose-dependent manner to 81% in rats exposed to smoke from normal cigarettes compared to rats exposed to treated smoke or the control group. These results correspond to pathohistological analysis of rat lungs, in which those rats exposed to untreated smoke developed initial signs of emphysema, while rats exposed to treated smoke showed no pathology, as in the control group. The promise of inducing an improved health status in humans exposed to smoke from treated cigarettes merits further investigation.
Analysis of the lactic acid bacteria microflora in traditional Caucasus cow's milk cheeses
Authors: Terzic-Vidojevic Amarela , Nikolic Milica , Veljovic Katarina , Tolinacki Maja , Busarcevic M. , Topisirovic L.
Published: August 2009

A total of 157 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from three hand-made cheeses taken from different households in the region of the Caucasus Mountains. The cheeses were manufactured from cow's milk without the addition of a starter culture. The isolates of LAB were characterized by subjecting them to phenotypic and genotypic tests. The results of identification of LAB indicate that the examined cheeses contained 10 species, viz., Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paraplantarum, Lactobacillus arizonensis, Lactobacillus farciminis, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides, Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides, Enterococcus faecium, and Enterococcus faecalis. The strains within the species L. plantarum, L. arizonensis, L. paraplantarum, L. farciminis, and L. pseudomesenteroides showed good proteolytic activity.
Plant regeneration of southern Adriatic iris by somatic embryogenesis
Authors: Jevremovic Sladjana , Subotic Angelina , Trifunovic Milana , Nikolic Marija
Published: August 2009

A simple protocol has been developed for plant regeneration by somatic embryogenesis of Southern Adriatic iris (Iris pseudopallida Trinajstic), an endemic species of the Balkan Peninsula. Somatic embryogenesis was induced in zygotic embryo culture on media supplemented with 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2-10 mgL-1) as the sole plant growth regulator, where both embryogenic calli and somatic embryos were induced. Subsequent decrease of 2,4-D in the media promoted formation of somatic embryos. Developed somatic embryos germinated on medium without growth regulators. The regenerated plantlets had diploid chromosome number. Planted plantlets acclimatized very well under greenhouse and garden conditions.
Characterization of Botrytis cinerea isolates from small fruits and grapevine in Serbia
Authors: Tanovic Brankica , Delibasic G. , Milivojevic Jasminka , Nikolic M.
Published: August 2009

Twenty-six single-spore isolates of Botrytis cinerea from blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, and grapevine were investigated using transposable elements, morphological characterization, and sensitivity to fungicides. Both transposable elements, Flipper and Boty, were detected among isolates from all the hosts. Six vacuma (without transposable elements) and seven transposa (containing both elements) isolates were found to be present in sympatry in Serbia. Isolates containing only the Boty element were detected. Eight morphological types of colonies on PDA and MA media were observed, confirming the great phenotypic variability of B. cinerea. Sensitivity to fungicides was various, depending on both the fungicide and the isolate.
Salicylic acid modulates accumulation of Cd in seedlings of Cd-tolerant and Cd-susceptible soybean genotypes
Authors: Drazic Gordana , Mihailovic Nevena
Published: August 2009

The seedlings of Cd-tolerant (Balkan) and Cd-susceptible (L 608) soybean genotypes were used to investigate the effect of salicylic acid pretreatment (10-5 M) on Cd toxic action. Cadmium-induced leaf desiccation, chlorophyll degradation, and increase of membrane impairment were more pronounced and partially ameliorated by SA treatment in the Cd-susceptible genotype. Root Cd accumulation was similar in the two genotypes, but SA stimulated Cd accumulation in the tolerant genotype, while in the susceptible genotype this accumulation was inhibited by SA. The Cd-tolerant Balkan genotype was apparently characterized by more efficient control of the oxidative stress induced by Cd, so it did not trigger mechanisms preventing further uptake of this heavy metal. It appears that differences between the genotypes with respect to Cd-tolerance occurred due to different degrees of efficiency of nonspecific defense mechanisms involving salicylic acid as a signal molecule.
Thermal dependence of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase in foliage of Iris pumila L.
Authors: Vuleta Ana , Tucic Branka
Published: August 2009

Thermal dependence of the enzymes SOD, CAT, and POD was investigated in leaves of Iris pumila plants inhabiting two contrasting light environments, a sun-exposed dune site and a woodland understory. At the same assay temperature, both the specific activity and the activation energy of SOD and CAT were higher in plants inhabiting vegetation shade than in those experiencing full sunlight. Conversely, the temperature optima for the two enzymes did not differ between alternative radiation environments. The specific activity of POD increased with temperature increase, and was always greater in plants growing under full sunlight than in those from vegetation shade. The activation energy of POD was higher than that of SOD or CAT, being lower in sun-than in shade-exposed plants.
Sulfonylurea tolerance of wheat genotypes in zygotic embryo culture
Authors: Kondic-Spika Ankica , Petrovic Kristina , Jevtic R. , Kobiljski B. , Pucarevic Mira
Published: August 2009

Tolerance of wheat genotypes to the sulfonylurea herbicide metsulfuron-methyl was studied using in vitro culture. Six randomly selected wheat genotypes were used for isolation. Mature embryos were inoculated onto a modified MS medium to which three concentrations of metsulfuron-methyl were added: I-30 g l-1, II-60 g l-1, and III-90 g l-1. The control group of embryos was cultivated on a herbicide-free medium. After one month of cultivation, callus fresh weight was measured. There were significant differences among the genotypes regarding their tolerance to metsulfuron-methyl. The Pobeda cultivar expressed the highest and the Lr-12 genotype had the lowest level of herbicide tolerance.
Efficient genetic transformation of Impatiens hawkerii Bull. (Balsamiaceae) using agrobacterium rhizogenes
Authors: Milosevic Snezana , Subotic Angelina , Cingel A. , Jevremovic Sladjana , Ninkovic Slavica
Published: August 2009

Transformation of Impatiens hawkerii Bull. mediated by Agrobacterium rhizogenes strain A4M70GUS was studied. Hairy roots developed 10 days after inoculation were excised from the shoot explants and transferred onto Murashige and Skoog's (MS) basal medium lacking plant growth regulators. More than 20 hairy root clones were established and eight of them were further analyzed. Each clone differed significantly from the others in growth capacity and lateral branching. Clone C2 showed the highest biomass (20.6 g L-1) as well as the highest number of lateral roots (37 ? 2.2). The transgenic nature of the established hairy root clones was confirmed by GUS assay and PCR analysis. In conclusion, hairy roots were developed for the first time in I. hawkerii Bull., and transgenic hairy root clones showed a distinct morphological nature and growth patterns.
Application of erosion-control materials and spontaneous vegetation in the protection of reservoirs in southern and eastern Serbia
Authors: Matic Vjaceslava , Djukanovic Gordana
Published: August 2009

The quality and stability of erosion-control materials in protection of reservoirs in Southern and Eastern Serbia have been examined both in the field and in accredited laboratories in our country. Field investigations have been carried out over a period of 15 years in Eastern Serbia and for up to 30 years in Southern Serbia, and they are still being conducted by monitoring the state and possible damage of consolidation-retention check dams, walls, and other erosion-control structures. The materials used in protection of the Selova and Grliste Reservoirs are typical construction materials, such as resistant natural stone, concrete of the BI group, i.e., MB 20, aggregate, synthetic elements, etc. Long-term monitoring of their state and minor deformations has shown that the materials were well-chosen and stable, and that there has been no significant damage, except for some minor crumbling and smaller cracks due to negligible scouring. This is all the result of prior thorough empirical and laboratory testing of applied materials, which helped to achieve stability and functionality of structures erected to prevent silting-up of the reservoir. Such a state has contributed to stabilization of erosion processes and reduction of sediment quantities, improvement of water quality, and advancement of the autochthonous vegetation (Salix L., Cornus L., Quercus L.). Vegetation has further mitigated erosion, decreased floods, and consolidated the structures, thereby improving the ecological quality of the catchments as well as the entire study area.
The quality of water of the Mantovo reservoir, Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Slavevska-Stamenkovic Valentina , Stafilov T. , Smiljkov S. , Paunovic M. , Hristovski S.
Published: August 2009

The aim of the paper is to evaluate the quality of water of the Mantovo Reservoir (Southeast Macedonia)based on physico-chemical parameters and the macrozoobenthos. Monthly sampling was performed during 2003 and 2004. Temperature and DO depth profile data indicate that the Mantovo Reservoir is a dimictic lake. Based on mean nutrient concentrations, the Mantovo Reservoir can be considered as being phosphorus-deficient. During the summer stratification, very high concentrations of Mn (2,819 ?g/l)and Cu (147.6?g/l)were detected in the lower profundal. Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri was the dominant species, which indicates the presence of organic pollution. Dominance of Chaoborus crystallinus and decline in abundance of L. hoffmeisteri in the lower profundal indicate a deterioration of environmental status in the deepest part of the lake.
Neobisium yozgati n. sp., and N. anaisae n. sp. (Neobisiidae, Pseudoscorpiones), from Turkey and Macedonia (FYROM), respectively
Authors: Curcic B.P.M. , Seyyar O. , Lemaire J.M. , Dimitrijevic R.N. , Demir H. , Aktaş M.
Published: August 2009

Two new species of endemic and relict cave-dwellers of genus Neobisium Chamberlin, have been described from Turkey and Macedonia (FYROM), respectively. From its phenetically close congener, N. granulatum Beier, N. yozgati n. sp. (from Yozgat, Turkey) is distinguished in many important respects. In addition, N. anaisae n. sp. (from a cave in Krapa, FYROM) differs from its closest forms (N. korabense Curcic, N. ohridanum Hadzi, and N. vladimirpantici Curcic) by many morphological characters and form of different body parts. Both species are illustrated, diagnosed, and thoroughly described. They both represent endemic and relict forms.
Roncus hajnehaj n. sp. (Neobisiidae, Pseudoscorpiones), a new endemic cave pseudoscorpion from Montenegro
Authors: Curcic B.P.M. , Dimitrijevic R.N. , Puljas Sanja
Published: August 2009

A new species of cave-dwelling pseudoscorpions pertaining to the genus Roncus L. Koch, 1873 from Montenegro is erected. Its relations with close congeners are briefly discussed. The new species, Roncus hajnehaj n. sp., is an endemic form presently known only from its type locality (Haj Nehaj Pecina Cave, nr. Sutomore, Montenegro).
Mollusks of Albania
Authors: Dhora D.
Published: August 2009

The checklist of Albanian mollusks contain 745 species: 345 species of marine molluscs of the Adriatic and Jonian seas, 156 species of freshwater mollusks (included the species of Shkodra, Ohrid and Prespa lakes) and 244 species of terrestrial molluscs, are registered in separate lists. The overview of Albanian mollusks is principally based on the numerous previous lists. It is adjourned with new data from recent publications. Some species, found for the first time in Albania, have been collected during our most recent investigations.
Massive transfusion and surgical management of iatrogenic aortic laceration associated with cystocentesis in a dog
Authors: Buckley Gareth J. , Aktay Sevima A. , Rozanski Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2009

Case Description—A 4-year-old 29-kg (63.8-lb) spayed female Husky crossbred was referred for emergency treatment because of catastrophic hemorrhagic shock following attempts at cystocentesis for investigation of suspected urinary tract infection.

Clinical Findings—On arrival at the hospital, clinicopathologic assessments revealed rapidly decreasing PCV and worsening hypoproteinemia, compared with findings immediately prior to referral. The dog had severe hyperlactemia. Ultrasonography revealed the presence of free fluid in the abdomen; the fluid appeared to be blood (determined via abdominocentesis).

Treatment and Outcome—Urgent surgical exploration was undertaken. Two small lacerations in the ventral aspect of the abdominal aorta just dorsal to the bladder were identified and repaired. Multiple transfusions of packed RBCs (5 units) and fresh frozen plasma (3 units) were administered, and autotransfusion of blood (1.2 L) from the abdomen was performed. The dog recovered well from surgery and anesthesia, but developed signs of severe pain and swelling of both hind limbs, which were attributed to reperfusion injury following aortic occlusion during surgery. Treatment included administration of S-adenosylmethionine (23 mg/kg [10.5 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h) and analgesia; 5 days after surgery, the hind limb problems had resolved and treatments were discontinued.

Clinical Relevance—In the dog of this report, aortic laceration secondary to cystocentesis was successfully treated with a combination of surgery and massive transfusion; the development of reperfusion injury was an interesting and reversible complication of surgery. The possibility of damage to intra-abdominal structures should be investigated if a dog becomes acutely ill after cystocentesis.
Comparison of pregnancy diagnosis in dairy cattle by use of a commercial ELISA and palpation per rectum
Authors: Breed Matthew W. , Guard Charles L. , White Maurice E. , Smith Mary C. , Warnick Lorin D.
Published: August 2009

Objective—To compare agreement between 2 pregnancy tests in dairy cattle.

Design—Evaluation study.

Animals—976 and 507 cattle for phases 1 and 2, respectively.

Procedures—Blood samples were collected, and palpation per rectum (PPR) was performed on cattle. Blood samples for the pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) ELISA were sent by courier to a commercial laboratory with results returned later. Results of PPR were extracted from herd records. Statistical comparison of results was performed by use of a mixed linear model and N analysis.

Results—Of 571 cattle classified as pregnant by the PSPB ELISA in phase 1, 30 (5%) were nonpregnant by PPR. Mean ± SE adjusted optical density (OD) of cattle classified pregnant by both tests was significantly higher (0.31 ± 0.01), compared with the adjusted OD of cattle classified pregnant by the PSPB ELISA and nonpregnant by PPR (0.22 ± 0.02). Of 255 cows classified pregnant by the PSPB ELISA in phase 2, 31 (12%) were nonpregnant by PPR. Mean ± SE adjusted OD of cattle classified pregnant by both tests was significantly higher (0.26 ± 0.01), compared with the adjusted OD of cattle classified pregnant by the PSPB ELISA and nonpregnant by PPR (0.21 ± 0.01). The N value was 0.82 and 0.81 for phases 1 and 2, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Good agreement existed between the 2 tests, especially at longer intervals after insemination. Discrepant results appeared to be attributable to a nonviable fetus, embryonic loss, or fetal loss.
The Role of Bloom Index of Gelatin on the Interaction with Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Lai Jui Yang
Published: August 2009

Biocompatible materials are of considerable interest in the development of cell/drug delivery carriers for therapeutic applications. This paper investigates the effects of the Bloom index of gelatin on its interaction with retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Following two days of culture of ARPE-19 cells with gelatin samples G75-100, G175, and G300, the in vitro biocompatibility was determined by cell proliferation and viability assays, and glutamate uptake measurements, as well as cytokine expression analyses. The mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity in the G300 groups was significantly lower than that of G75-100 and G175 groups. The Live/Dead assays also showed that the gelatin samples G300 induced mild cytotoxicity. In comparison with the treatment of gelatins with low Bloom index, the exposure to high Bloom strength gelatins markedly reduced the glutamate uptake capacity of ARPE-19 cells. One possible explanation for these observations is that the presence of gelatin samples G300 with high viscosity in the medium may affect the nutrient availability to cultured cells. The analyses of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 expression at both mRNA and protein levels showed that the gelatins with low Bloom index caused less cellular inflammatory reaction and had more acceptable biocompatibility than their high Bloom strength counterparts. These findings suggest that the Bloom index gives influence on cellular responses to gelatin materials.
A New Sesquiterpene from the Fruits of Daucus carota L.
Authors: Fu Hong-Wei , Zhang Lin , Yi Tao , Tian Jing-Kui
Published: August 2009

Phytochemical investigation of the fruits of Daucus carota L. resulted in the isolation of a new sesquiterpene named as daucucarotol (1). Its structure was elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR experiments, coupled with MS studies. To our knowledge, compound 1 is the first example for a natural eudesmane sesquiterpene with a hydroxymethyl group located at a methine carbon rather than a usual quaternary carbon in the two fused six-membered ringsystems.
Geo-Wiki.Org: The Use of Crowdsourcing to Improve Global Land Cover
Authors: Fritz Steffen , McCallum Ian , Schill Christian , Perger Christoph , Grillmayer Roland , Achard Frédéric , Kraxner Florian , Obersteiner Michael
Published: August 2009

Global land cover is one of the essential terrestrial baseline datasets available for ecosystem modeling, however uncertainty remains an issue. Tools such as Google Earth offer enormous potential for land cover validation. With an ever increasing amount of very fine spatial resolution images (up to 50 cm × 50 cm) available on Google Earth, it is becoming possible for every Internet user (including non remote sensing experts) to distinguish land cover features with a high degree of reliability. Such an approach is inexpensive and allows Internet users from any region of the world to get involved in this global validation exercise. The Geo-Wiki Project is a global network of volunteers who wish to help improve the quality of global land cover maps. Since large differences occur between existing global land cover maps, current ecosystem and land-use science lacks crucial accurate data (e.g., to determine the potential of additional agricultural land available to grow crops in Africa), volunteers are asked to review hotspot maps of global land cover disagreement and determine, based on what they actually see in Google Earth and their local knowledge, if the land cover maps are correct or incorrect. Their input is recorded in a database, along with uploaded photos, to be used in the future for the creation of a new and improved hybrid global land cover map.