bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of factors affecting the results regarding the dressing percentage value of male young cattle of Domestic Simmental breed and crossbreds of Domestic Simmental and limousine breed
Authors: Aleksic Stevica , Miscevic Branislav , Petrovic Milan , Pavlovski Zlatica , Josipovic Slavko , Tomasevic Dusica
Published: November 2009

Carcass dressing percentage (dressing percentage of two carcass sides) or slaughter dressing percentage is proportional share of carcass, that is carcass sides, in relation to mass prior to slaughtering. Beef carcass consists of two carcass sides, regardless of the sex, on which, after bleeding, skin, head, lower leg parts (in carpal and tarsal joints), internal organs of the pectoral, abdominal and pelvic cavities, sexual organs, kidney and pelvic fat, diaphragm, tail and spinal cord were separated. In order to investigate factors significant for results related to slaughter dressing percentage, experiment with two trial groups of approximately same mass prior to slaughtering was carried out. First trial group consisted of young cattle of Domestic Simmental breed (DS, n=7) average mass of 592,7 kg, and the second group consisted of crossbreds of Domestic Simmental breed and Limousine (DSL, n-7) average mass of 589,9 kg. Mass of warm carcass sides with and without kidney fat, mass of internal organs (kidneys, liver, lungs, heart and spleen), mass of head, tongue, tail, skin and muscle cuts from diaphragm were measured. Based on obtained results it was established that male young cattle - crossbreds of Domestic Simmental breed and Limousine breed achieved better dressing percentage by 4,55% compared to young cattle of Domestic Simmental breed. In case of young cattle of Domestic Simmental breed, proportional share of skin mass was higher by 1,6% compared to crossbreds. Also mass of muscle cuts obtained from diaphragm was higher by 0,09% in case of Domestic Simmental cattle. For remaining investigated anatomical parts no significant differences were determined. Total mass of internal organs of young cattle of Domestic Simmental breed was higher by 0,36% compared to internal organs of crossbreds of Domestic Simmental and Limousine breed. The mass of spleen of young Domestic Simmental cattle was by 0,23% higher in relation to crossbred cattle.
Bio accumulation of lindane in tissues of broilers and piglets
Authors: Pavkov Sava , Kostadinovic Ljiljana
Published: November 2009

This paper describes a study of the degree of bioconcentration of an organochlorine insecticide called Lindane in tissues of broilers and piglets from known amounts of Lindane-contaminated feed mixes. In commercial feed mixes, for both animal groups, residues of Lindane were found in aproximately 100-200 times lower concentrations than those cited in the Book of Regulations. This information shows that the allowed concentration of Lindane in feed is too high. Residual content in all the examined kinds of samples of the experimental group of the animals, that were fed over 30 days, is two times lower than the concentration citated in the Book of Regulations, was higher than the permitted concentration of Lindane. Increase of the residual content of Lindane in the tissues of broilers was 30-338 times, and for the piglets 50-820 times higher than it was in control groups. Feeding of broilers with Lindane lasted 30 days, and the usual period of feeding the broilers is about 50 days. For 30 days the piglets were fed with feed that contains Lindane, but the regular time of fettening is 6 times longer. It can only be presuposed what is the residual content of Lindane that animals received through feed during the period of fettening, because this insecticide shows a distinct ability for bioacumulation and high stability in fat. The method of gas chromatography has given satisfactory results for determining of residual Lindane. The regulated contentration of Lindane in the Book of Regulations for maximal concentration of harmful substances and components in feed is unreal and too high, so feeding the animals with this feed would make the concentration of bioresidues higher than it is allowed for the food of animal origin.
Evaluation of genetic potential of sheep in different production systems
Authors: Petrovic M.P. , Ruzic-Muslic D. , Maksimovic N.
Published: November 2009

Evaluation of phenotypic value of most present sheep breeds in Serbia is carried out as well as those populations which should have greater significance in the future. In this way, clear picture was obtained of strength and potentials of sheep production in different rearing systems, which will serve better defining of the direction of genetic-selection activities in the future. Researches have shown that there is high variability of traits depending on the observed factors. It is indicative that in the intensive system sheep breeds are forces of production direction meat and meat-wool, whereas in semi-intensive and extensive systems, predominant are breeds of tripartite direction. The best results in intensive rearing system were obtained in Mis sheep. In semi-intensive system, there is huge difference in body mass between Pirot improved sheep and Tsigai sheep, as well as between all investigated breeds in this system in regard to milk traits. Tsigai lambs realized higher body mass at the age of 90 days. Lipska sheep was dominant in regard to quantity of milk in lactation, but its fertility was the lowest. Mass of fleece was the lowest in sheep of Pirot improved population. There were no significant differences in regard to variability of the quantitative traits between sheep in extensive system, except in final body mass of lambs, where Svrljig and Pirot population were behind in comparison to Sjenica sheep.
Importance of utilization of omega-3 fatty acids in human and animal nutrition
Authors: Sretenovic Lj. , Pantelic V. , Novakovic Z.
Published: November 2009

Life of modern people in urban conditions is characterized by lack of movement, which is main condition for maintenance of health, presence of large amount of additives and pesticide residua in food of plant and animal origin and polluted air and water. If the presence of oxidative stress is added as part of normal metabolism occurring during degradation of nutritive substances, when great quantity of free radicals is released, which organism in these conditions often is not capable of neutralizing, the homeostatic mechanisms are disturbed and this leads to health disturbances and even severe illnesses. In such complex living conditions, science is facing the challenge of finding out the way to prevent diseases and slow the aging process using food, primarily basic food stuffs - milk and meat, enriching them with certain substances which are of vital importance to our health. One of the ways is use of functional food which should contain not only its main nutritive value but also such ingredients which have impact on improvement of general health condition, i.e. they have preventive and therapy effect. In this paper, a review of the significance of omega-3 fatty acids in human nutrition is presented. As essential substances they cannot be synthesized in the organism, but have to be introduced through diet. Also, the significance of some essential omega-6 fatty acids as well as their mutual relation, are presented. The role of omega-3 fatty acids in animal nutrition is also pointed out in this paper, introduced or consumed by animals either by grazing or as diet supplement, which influence improvement of their production, reproduction and health performances.
Analysis of grassland associations of Stara Planina mountain
Authors: Tomic Z. , Bijelic Z. , Krnjaja V.
Published: November 2009

Production of organic, biologically valuable food is a trend in the World today, and in our country it can be successfully realized in production of meat and milk from small ruminants, sheep and goats in hilly-mountainous region. Namely, grasslands in these regions are well preserved from the utilization of mineral fertilizers and chemical preparations for plant protection, therefore production of healthy food is still possible with minimum investments. The quality of plant mass is very important, i.e. presence of high quality plant species in the grassland, as well as possibility for increase of their percentage in the grassland. For this purpose, research was carried out and plant associations most present on Stara Planina Mountain on altitude of 650 to 1200 m were analyzed from the aspect of phytocenology. On these locations recordings were made and samples were taken for analysis in the period 2002-2005 and in year 2008. Total of 8 associations were analyzed, and two of them Agrostietum vulgarae Z. Pavl. 1955. sensu lato. and Festucetum vallesiacae Borisavljevic 1956. occurred repeatedly on several location and different time interval of analysis. Beside mentioned two associations the following were also analyzed: Arrhenatheretum elatioris Br.-Bl. 1925.senso lato, Festuco-Chrysopogonetum grylli Randj. 1977., Danthonietum calycinae Cinc. et Kojic 1958., Medicago falcata-Festucetum rubrae, Trifolio campestre- Agrostietum vulgaris i Festuco vallesiacae-Agrostieutum vulgaris Danon et Blaz.1978 on 17 locations. Number of species in analyzed associations was from 34 to 77. Beside number of plant species also their share categorized in categories of high qualiity grasses, high quality leguminous plants and useful species from other families, as well as harmful i.e. weed species. Main quality parameters were established in samples from all associations. Objective of analyses of natural grasslands was to establish share of high quality plant species, which is reflected directly through production and quality of plant mass grazed by small ruminants, sheep and goats.
Alfalfa-most important perennial forage legume in animal husbandry
Authors: Radovic J. , Sokolovic D. , Markovic J.
Published: November 2009

Important role of alfalfa in development of animal husbandry, is based on high potential for production of biomass. Reaching of high green (over 80 t ha-1) and dry matter yield (approx. 20 t ha-1) with low investment during all period of utilization makes alfalfa production very economical. Divergent selection materials were used to create high productive domestic alfalfa cultivars with excellent field persistence, which is important factor for high and stable yield during entire exploitation period. On the other hand, alfalfa is a rich source of crude protein with excellent digestibility. Proteins from alfalfa herbage are the cheapest source of protein in animal feed. Content of crude protein strongly depend on development stage of plant material and can be 200 to 240 g kg-1 DM, while crude protein yield can be over 3.5 t ha-1. Besides that, alfalfa herbage had a high content of macro and micro element, which are so important for animal health. It is usually grown in pure stand, although it's a good component of grass-legumes mixtures. Alfalfa biomass can be used in several ways, usually as hay, but also as high quality silages, haylages, dehydrated in form of briquettes or by grazing. Symbiotic N2 fixation gives alfalfa not just economical, but very high ecological importance, too. It's a reason why alfalfa, besides important role in conventional husbandry is getting great role in sustainable agriculture and organic production. All those characteristics confirm, that alfalfa is a really 'queen' of forages.
Ubiquity of toxigenic fungi and mycotoxins in animal feeds in Republic of Serbia
Authors: Krnjaja Vesna , Levic J. , Stankovic S.
Published: November 2009

Climatic conditions and growing of grain on large areas in Republic of Serbia are suitable for development of numerous toxigenic species, such as Fusarium spp., Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp., and resulting from this is frequent incidence of animal feed contamination by their toxic products. In Republic of Serbia, the most frequent fungi determined in animal feed are those from Fusarium genus, as well as their mycotoxins. Of Fusarium species the most frequent one is F. graminearum, and of toxins zearalenon, in maize or wheat grains, which are the main raw material in production of animal feeds. Development of this fungi and bio-synthesis of zearalenon most often depend on period of rains in the third decade of May when wheat is in the blossoming phenostage or on ample precipitation and low temperatures at the end of summer or beginning of autumn during sensitive pheno-stage of maize growing. Aflatoxins are rarely isolated in Republic of Serbia, but there are conditions for their increased presence in imported feed components. Natural occurrence of ochratoxin A is more frequent than incidence of aflatoxins in climatic conditions of Republic of Serbia. Presence of mycotoxins produced by species of genera Fusarium, Aspergillus and Penicillium indicates potential risk of incidence of mycotoxicosis, especially in younger animal categories. For the purpose of protection of health of animals, realization of profit and high productivity in livestock production, it is necessary to explain factors which can cause animal intoxication, and to identify toxins and develop methodology for assessment of the potential toxicity of animal feed.
Influence of abiotic and biotic factors on maturation of oocytes (mammalian eggs) in vitro conditions
Authors: Smiljakovic T. , Sretenovic Lj. , Aleksic S.
Published: November 2009

In last two decades it is obvious that mammalian somatic cells, and according to our investigation oocytes, deliver paracrine substances in microenvironment, which save them from pathogens. At the same time, many investigations have been done, among others and ours, about influence of different micro-organisms, elements and compounds, organic or inorganic, on in vitro maturation of oocytes (model system for in vivo meiotic maturation). Reciprocal impact between micro-organisms and oocytes as well as different substances and oocytes are obvious, although biochemical and molecular biological mechanisms of these influences is complex and not enough investigated. Therefore, many questions about oocytes and IVM are in front of scientists.
Dietary supplements for the reduction of mycotoxin intestinal absorption in pigs
Authors: Biagi G.
Published: November 2009

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolic products of several moulds that can be found as contaminants of feedstuffs (mainly cereals) and exert toxic effects in animals and human beings. Contamination can already occur in-field but is usually a consequence of poor storage conditions. Pigs are particularly sensitive to the toxic effect of trichothecenes and zearalenone that are produced by Fusarium strains but animal health and production can be compromised also by the ingestion of other mycotoxins, such as aflatoxins, ochratoxins, and fumonisins. While ingestion of all mycotoxins usually result in reduced animal growth, other possible symtomps include reduced feed intake, vomiting and diarrhoea (trichothecenes), reduced reproductive capability (aflatoxins and zearalenone), suppressed immune function (aflatoxins), nephropathy (ohcratoxins), and pulmonary edema (fumonisins). Moreover, to some extent, some mycotoxins can be found in animal organs such as liver (aflatoxins) and kidneys (ochratoxins) and represent a potential threat to consumers health. Several methods have been developed in order to reduce the intestinal absorption of mycotoxins in farm animals. Modern detoxification methods are based on the utilization of dietary supplements such as absorptive materials that can bind the toxins and microbes and enzymes that can inactivate them. Some lactic acid bacteria are able to bind and biotransform mycotoxins while absorptive agents such as aluminosilicates, clays, and mannan oligosaccharides have shown the ability to bind aflatoxins. Similarly, biotransformation of mycotoxins can be achieved through the use of specific enzymes.
Some technological aspects in improvement of weaned pigs
Authors: Zivkovic Branislav , Migdal W. , Radovic C.
Published: November 2009

Effects of utilization of imported boars in comparison to domestic ones were investigated, two imported boar lines Tibora and Tempa were compared in regard to production of their progeny, piglets in rearing, and in the final, third trial, possibilities for use of Biokvas preparation as substitute of yeast in nutrition of piglets in rearing were studied. Obtained results showed that considerably better production is realized by improvement of gain by 17,79% and feed conversion by 12,21% as well as lower cost of gain by 12,16% in progeny of imported boars. No differences were established in weaned piglets deriving from two imported boar lines Tibora or Tempa. Considering that better gain in average by 3,88% and cheaper by 0,57% was realized, it can be concluded that Biokvas as a protein feed can succesfully be used as substitute for yeast in nutiriton of piglets in rearing. In general, use of imported boars as well as application of Biokvas instead of yeast in nutrition of piglets and with objective of improvement of production of rearing piglets were justified.
State and trends of pig production in Tambov and Lipetsk regions of Russia
Authors: Babushkin V.
Published: November 2009

The following article deals with the condition of pig breeding as a branch of the animal industry. It represents the dynamics of pork production, the number of a livestock and the realization of pig livestock on slaughter. The author designates the making and processing enterprises for the Central federal district in general and for Lipetsk and Tambov regions in particular.
Current situation and perspective of cattle breeding in Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Palasevski B. , Naletoski Z. , Mateva N.
Published: November 2009

Lack of food, especially lack of protein in this millennium will be main problem in many countries, especially developing ones. Satisfying of the needs of the human population in nutrition products will be global problem. On the other hand, world trends are directed towards providing not only sufficient quantities of food but also that food is adequate and satisfactory in regard to the quality. Genetic progress offers solutions for satisfaction of needs by use of genetically modified organisms (GMO), but on the other hand, consumers and consumer organizations are against their use. Macedonia, in spite of its potential for development of agriculture in general, including livestock production, is considered as country which can not satisfy its own needs and has to import food in order to cover the needs of the population.. Livestock production in developed livestock breeding countries participates in general agriculture with high share. In Austria, livestock production participates in total agriculture with 67%. In Switzerland cattle breeding participates in total production with 53% (33% in milk production and 20% in meat production). In the Netherlands cattle breeding participates in livestock production with 68%, in Germany with 64%, whereas in total agriculture with 44%. In Finland cattle production participates in livestock production with 63%. In Republic of Macedonia, cattle breeding in livestock production participates with 24,5%, and livestock production in total agriculture with 35,3%. Characteristics of Macedonian livestock production are small farms with 2 to 3 cows per farm (75% of total number of farms) and small land property (80% of farms with 1 to 3 ha).
Biopolitics: Animals, meat, food
Authors: Janovic Nikola
Published: November 2009

The general idea of this text is to reflect biopolitical constitution of the society and its implications related to the issues of animal welfare. Since animal in biopolitical formation is technically reduced to an object - commodity for contentment of the industry and of the people needs - critical public advisories are calling from moral, ethical and legal standpoint for attention to the fact that is necessary to protect animals from the unnecessary exploitation. It is obvious that animal protection is evoking animal rights question. But in the last instance protection of animal rights is related to the nutritional dilemma of animal food use. Question is arising: does animal rights in particular also envisage change in food politics (abandonment of meat food use), what is for instance the extreme veg(etari)an option taking for granted? This challenge sent to the culture of all-food eaters is opening up new questions and dilemmas. First of all, there is a question linked to the right of men to choose his own nutritional option, and of course dilemma which is related to scruples about meat-eaters and their (non)ability to love animals.
Bologna reform in higher education in Serbia: Mapping factors of low efficiency of studding
Authors: Jaric Isidora , Vukasovic Martina
Published: November 2009

This paper provides analysis on how teachers and students of four universities in Serbia (Belgrade, Novi Sad, Nis, and Kragujevac) perceive problems with efficiency of studying, with respect to the new, 'Bologna' organisation of studies. The empirical foundation for this paper is composed of questionnaires distributed to students and teachers of the five aforementioned institutions and a semi-structured in-depth interview with students and teachers of the two faculties of the University of Belgrade. The results presented point to key factors affecting efficiency of studying, as well as structural changes in power relations between different social actors.
Adsorption of uranyl ion on acid-modified zeolitic mineral clinoptilolite
Authors: Matijasevic Srdjan , Dakovic Aleksandra , Iles Deana , Milicevic Sonja
Published: November 2009

In this paper, the results of adsorption of uranyl ion on acid-modified zeolitic mineral clinoptilolite are presented. Adsorption was investigated at different amounts of solid phase in suspension, as well as at different pH values. The modified clinoptilolite samples were obtained by treatment of clinoptilolite with acids: hydrochloric, oxalyc and citric. Starting and modified clinoptilolites were characterized by chemical analysis, thermal (DT/TG) analysis and by determination of cation exchange capacity, while starting and nonadsorbed amounts of uranyl ion were determined by fluorometric method. Uranyl ion adsorption experiments on natural unmodified zeolitic mineral showed that uranyl ion adsorption was low (29.2%) and that treatment of clinoptilolite with acids significantly increases the adsorption of uranyl ion (>90%). In the case of acid treated clinoptilolites, the highest adsorption of uranyl ion was achieved on clinoptilolite modified with hydrochloric acid. Kinetics of adsorption showed that adsorption of uranyl ion begins very fast and that the most of uranyl ion was adsorbed in first 30 min. Practically, there were no changes in uranyl ion adsorption within next 72 h.
Antioxidative and antimicrobial activity of Reynoutria japonica extracts
Authors: Pavicic Svjetlana , Kukric Zoran , Topalic-Trivunovic Ljiljana , Davidovic Asima , Zabic Mirjana
Published: November 2009

Ethanolic (50%, v/v) extract of Reynoutria japonica Houtt. rhizome from the Banja Luka region was prepared. The dry extract was dissolved in methanol, and total phenols content, antimicrobial and antioxidative activities were determined. The total phenols content was determined using modified Folin-Ciocalteu method, the antimicrobial activity by monitoring the optical density, and antioxidative activity by the method of quenching stable free 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals by FRAP and ABTS metods. The antioxidative activity results were compared with control antioxidants: vitamin C, BHA and BHT. In order to determine the antimicrobial extract activity, E. coli, S. aureus and B. cereus were used as test microorganisms. The paper discusses the results of antimicrobial and antioxidative activeties of the R. japonica extract with respect to extract concentration as well as to total phenols content. The extract of R. japonica rhizome shows both, a significant overall antioxidant activity (29.84 mM (FeII)/g of extract) and high activity in quenching DPPH (IC50 = = 13.68 ?g/mL) and ABTS+ (99.1%) radicals. It was found that the R. Japonica extract had greater impact on growth rate reduction of B. cereus, E. coli, than S. aureus, expressed in percentages of growth rate, L, 73.6, 59.3 and 52.1% respectively. The greatest decrease in total bacterial count, M, was observed in S. aureus (71.9%), while the decrease in E. coli and B. cereus was approximately equal (about 50%). The total phenols content, expressed as mg of galic acid equivalents/g of extract was 664?15. The high antioxidant and significant antimicrobial activity of the R. japonica extract determined in this work is associated with extremely high total phenols content.
Determination of heavy metal concentrations in tea samples taken from Belgrade market, Serbia
Authors: Peric-Grujic Aleksandra , Pocajt Viktor , Ristic Mirjana
Published: November 2009

Tea is one of the world's most popular beverages. Economic and social interest in tea is clear from the fact that about 18-20 billion tea cups are being consumed daily in the world. Consequently, chemical components in tea leaves have received great interest because they are related to health and disease. Various reports have discussed the potential health implications of some chemical factors such as heavy metals in tea, particularly since tea bush is known to accumulate trace metals. Metallic constituents of tea leaves depend on the type of tea and geological origin. In the present study four tea samples (two black and two green) and four herbal tea samples (two Mentha piperita and two Matricaria chammomilla) were collected from the local market in Belgrade, Serbia, in May 2008. The sample preparation has been performed using wet and dry digestion procedures. The metal content (Cu, Zn, Mn, Cd, Ni and Pb) in the digested samples has been analyzed by using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The comparison of wet and dry digestion has shown significant differences in results, indicating that dry digestion is more appropriate method. The levels of the examined metals obtained by dry digestion in this study compared well with those reported for tea samples from some other parts of the world. Among the investigated metals, the most abundant nutritive metal, Mn, has been the highest with 26.0 to 199.3 mg/kg, while fortunately toxic heavy metal, Cd, has been below the detection limit (0.1 mg/kg). The concentrations of lead and nickel have been in the range 5.1-13.7 and 1.4- -4.4, respectively. The content of lead in two samples (Mentha piperita) has been higher than the maximum permissible concentration of 10 mg/kg specified by the national legislation.
Auditor Conservatism and Investment Efficiency
Authors: Lu Tong , Sapra Haresh
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT: We develop a theoretical framework to investigate (1) both the determinants and the consequences of auditor conservatism in a capital market setting and (2) the implications of Section 201 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act for auditor conservatism and investment efficiency. We derive three primary results. First, by adjusting the mix of audit and nonaudit fees, companies with high business risk induce auditor conservatism, while companies with low business risk induce auditor aggressiveness. Second, if auditor conservatism is in force, a greater client pressure on auditors improves audit quality; but if auditor aggressiveness is in force, a greater client pressure on auditors impairs audit quality. Third, the nature of a firm's investment inefficiency (overinvestment or underinvestment) depends on its auditor's attestation (conservative or aggressive). Our analysis also implies that a mandatory restriction of nonaudit services imposed by Section 201 may decrease audit quality and damage investment efficiency.
Circulating Palmitoleate Strongly and Independently Predicts Insulin Sensitivity in Humans
Authors: Stefan Norbert , Kantartzis Konstantinos , Celebi Nora , Staiger Harald , Machann Jürgen , Schick Fritz , Cegan Alexander , Elcnerova Michaela , Schleicher Erwin , Fritsche Andreas , Häring Hans-Ulrich
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether palmitoleate, which prevents insulin resistance in mice, predicts insulin sensitivity in humans.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The fasting fatty acid pattern in the plasma free fatty acid (FFA) fraction was determined in 100 subjects at increased risk for type 2 diabetes. Insulin sensitivity was estimated during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at baseline and after 9 months of lifestyle intervention and measured during the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp (n = 79).

RESULTS

Circulating palmitoleate (OGTT:F ratio = 8.2, P = 0.005; clamp:F ratio = 7.8, P = 0.007) but not total FFAs (OGTT:F ratio = 0.6, P = 0.42; clamp:F ratio = 0.7, P = 0.40) correlated positively with insulin sensitivity, independently of age, sex, and adiposity. High baseline palmitoleate predicted a larger increase in insulin sensitivity. For 1-SD increase in palmitoleate, the odds ratio for being in the highest versus the lowest tertile of adjusted change in insulin sensitivity was 2.35 (95% CI 1.16–5.35).

CONCLUSIONS

Circulating palmitoleate strongly and independently predicts insulin sensitivity, suggesting that it plays an important role in the pathophysiology of insulin resistance in humans.
The PECAM-1 gene polymorphism — a genetic marker of myocardial infarction
Authors: Reschner Hrvoje , Milutinovic Aleksandra , Petrovič Danijel
Published: November 2009

We investigated a possible association between the C373G (Leu125Val) polymorphism in the platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1) and myocardial infarction (MI) among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in the Slovene population (Caucasians). The study population of this cross-sectional analysis consisted of 452 subjects with T2DM lasting more than 10 years: 142 patients with MI (MI group) and 310 patients (control group) with no history of coronary diseases. There were significant differences of PECAM-1 genotype distribution in patients with MI (CC=28.2%, CG=47.2% and GG=24.6%) compared with subjects in the control group (CC=17.1%, CG=53.5% and GG=29.4%). The multivariate model showed that the CC genotype of the PECAM-1 gene polymorphism (C373G) (OR=1.9, 95% CI 1.2–3.0, P=0.007) was an independent risk factor for MI. The C allele frequency was also significantly higher (P=0.005) in MI (51.8%) than in control subjects (41%). In addition, our study revealed the connection between smoking habits, the duration of diabetes and the total and LDL cholesterol serum levels and MI in Slovene T2DM patients. We suggest that the tested polymorphism of PECAM-1 (C373G) is associated with MI. Therefore, it might be used as genetic marker of MI in T2DM.
Sensitivity of bacterial vs. acute Daphnia magna toxicity tests to metals
Authors: Teodorovic Ivana , Planojevic Ivana , Knezevic Petar , Radak Sonja , Nemet Irena
Published: November 2009

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the sensitivity of two bacterial tests commonly used in metal toxicity screening — the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition test and the Pseudomonas putida growth inhibition test — in comparison to the standard acute Daphnia magna test, and to estimate applicability of the selected methods to the toxicity testing of environmental samples. The D. magna acute test proved to be more sensitive to cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) than the two bacterial assays, whereas P. putida seems to be the most sensitive species to lead (Pb). Manganese appears to be slightly toxic to D. magna and non-toxic to the two selected bacteria. This leads to the conclusion that even in regions with high background concentrations, manganese would not act as a confounding factor. Low sensitivity of V. fischeri to heavy metals questions its applicability as the first screening method in assessing various environmental samples. Therefore, it is not advisable to replace D. magna with bacterial species for metal screening tests. P. putida, V. fischeri and/or other bacterial tests should rather be applied in a complex battery of ecotoxicological tests, as their tolerance to heavy metals can unravel other potentially present toxic substances and mixtures, undetectable by metal-sensitive species.
Planting of different-sized tree transplants on arable soil
Authors: Dostálek Jiří , Weber Martin , Matula Svatopluk , Frantík Tomáš
Published: November 2009

On the arable land of the Rosovka Stream alluvium in the Czech Republic, a windbreak containing native woody species, was planted within a restoration project. This study evaluates the effect of that planting of three different tree sizes, on the rate of growth. The sizes of transplants employed in this study included small (1.0–1.5 meters tall), medium-sized (2.0–2.5 meters tall) and large (with a trunk circumference of 0.1–0.12 meters). The following native tree species, from the Eurosiberian region, were used: Quercus robur L., Carpinus betulus L., Fraxinus excelsior L., Acer campestre L., Acer pseudoplatanus L., Tilia cordata Mill., and Prunus avium L. Growth rates were monitored over a five-year period. Small transplants had the highest growth; they grew approximately 0.4 meters more than transplants from the other size categories. Our results show that the selection of the size of transplant has a significant impact on development and growth. However, differences in the post-transplant responses of individual species were found.
Abdominal setae and midgut bacteria of the mudshrimp Pestarella tyrrhena
Authors: Demiri Alexandra , Meziti Alexandra , Papaspyrou Sokratis , Thessalou-Legaki Maria , Kormas Konstantinos
Published: November 2009

We investigated the diversity of the bacterial 16S rRNA genes occurring on the abdominal setal tufts and in the emptied midgut of the marine mudshrimp Pestarella tyrrhena (Decapoda: Thalassinidea). There were no dominant phylotypes on the setal tufts. The majority of the phylotypes belonged to the phylum Bacteroidetes, frequently occurring in the water column. The rest of the phylotypes were related to anoxygenic photosynthetic α-Proteobacteria and to Actinobacteria. This bacterial profile seems more of a marine assemblage rather than a specific one suggesting that no specific microbial process can be inferred on the setal tufts. In the emptied midgut, 64 clones were attributed to 16 unique phylotypes with the majority (40.6%) belonging to the γ-Proteobacteria, specifically to the genus Vibrio, a marine group with known symbionts of decapods. The next most abundant group was the ɛ-Proteobacteria (28.1%), with members as likely symbionts related to the processes involving redox reactions occurring in the midgut. In addition, phylotypes related to the Spirochaetes (10.9%) were also present, with relatives capable of symbiosis conducting a nitrite associated metabolism. Entomoplasmatales, Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria related phylotypes were also found. These results indicate a specific bacterial community dominated by putative symbiotic Bacteria within the P. tyrrhena’s midgut.
Cell-cell fusion: human multinucleated osteoclasts
Authors: Zeng Zhi-Yong , Chen Jun-Min
Published: November 2009

Osteoclasts are known to be formed by fusion of circulating mononuclear precursor cells which originate from haematopoietic stem cells. The precise mechanisms regulating the cell-cell fusion of these circulating cells to multinucleated osteoclasts remain unclear. In the present study, human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) from healthy donors were treated with the macrophagecolony stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor (NF)-κB ligand (RANKL) to induce osteoclast differentiation. Osteoclast formation and resorption activity were investigated through the use of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and lacunar resorption on dentine slices respectively. Real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect expression of dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP) in these cells. The results showed that under the treatment of M-CSF and RANKL, PBMNCs differentiated into multinucleated osteoclasts through cell-cell fusion of mononucleated cells. These osteoclasts were TRAP positive and capable of resorbing the bone. Expression of DC-STAMP was much higher in the cells treated with both M-CSF and RANKL than those treated with M-CSF alone. We concluded that human PBMNCs might differentiate into active osteoclasts under certain conditions and the DC-STAMP, which is believed critical for osteoclast development, will be a possible therapeutic target for osteoclast related diseases in future.
Collection of equine cord blood and placental tissues in 40 Thoroughbred mares
Authors: Bartholomew S. , Owens S. D. , Ferraro G. L. , Carrade D. D. , Lara D. J. , Librach F. A. , Borjesson D. L. , Galuppo L. D.
Published: November 2009

Reasons for performing study: Stem cells derived from umbilical cord tissue (UCT) and umbilical cord blood (UCB) in human subjects and horses can be obtained in a minimally invasive fashion with successful propagation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Currently there are no detailed protocols documenting a procedure to harvest UCB and UCT safely for equine stem cell propagation.

Hypothesis: UCB and UCT could be collected without harm to mare or foal.

Objectives: To develop a standard and safe method for UCB and UCT collection, and prospectively to compare foal and mare health between groups of animals where tissue was and was not collected.

Methods: This study was conducted at a Thoroughbred breeding facility in central California in 2008. UCB and UCT were collected from 40 mare and foal pairs. Clinical parameters including time for foal to stand and nurse, time for mare to pass the placenta, and foal haematology data at age 24 h were documented and compared to a control group, consisting of the succeeding 40 mare and foal pairs.

Results: UCB was obtained successfully from 36 of 40 (90%) mares and UCT from 38 of 40 (95%) mares. Bacterial contamination was documented in 6 out of 36 (16.6%) UCB samples. There were no significant differences in time to stand or nurse for foals or time to pass the placenta for mares, between the experimental and control groups. There were no clinically relevant differences identified in haematological data obtained from foals with and without UCB collection.

Conclusions: UCB and UCT can be harvested safely without harm to mares or foals.

Potential relevance: UCB and UCT samples collected in an inherently contaminated environment can be successfully disinfected and transported with minimal bacterial overgrowth for use in cell culture to isolate MSCs.
Effect of ventriculectomy versus ventriculocordectomy on upper airway noise in draught horses with recurrent laryngeal neuropathy
Authors: Cramp P. , Derksen F. J. , Stick J. A. , Nickels F. A. , Brown K. E. , Robinson P. , Robinson N. E.
Published: November 2009

Reasons for performing study: Little is known about the efficacy of bilateral ventriculectomy (VE) or bilateral ventriculocordectomy (VCE) in draught horses.

Objectives: To compare the effect of VE and VCE on upper airway noise in draught horses with recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN) by use of quantitative sound analysis techniques.

Hypothesis: In competitive draught horses withgrade 4RLN, VE and VCE reduce upper airway noise during exercise, but VCE is more effective.

Methods: Thirty competitive hitch or pulling draught horses withgrade 4RLN were evaluated for upper airway sound during exercise. Respiratory rate (RR), inspiratory (Ti) and expiratory time (Te), the ratio between Ti and Te (Ti/Te), inspiratory (Sli) and expiratory sound levels (Sle), the ratio between Sli and Sle (Sli/Sle), and peak sound intensity of the second formant (F2) were calculated. Eleven horses were treated with VE and 19 with VCE. After 90 days of voice and physical rest and 30 days of work, the horses returned for post operative upper airway sound evaluation and resting videoendoscopy.

Results: VE significantly reduced Ti/Te, Sli, Sli/Sle and the sound intensity of F2. Respiratory rate, Ti, Te and Sle were unaffected by VE. VCE significantly reduced Ti/Te, Ti, Te, Sli, Sli/Sle and the sound intensity of F2, while RR and Sle were unaffected. The reduction in sound intensity of F2 following VCE was significantly greater than following VE. After VE and VCE, 7/11 (64%) and 15/18 (83%) owners, respectively, concluded that the surgery improved upper airway sound in their horses sufficiently for successful competition.

Conclusions: VE and VCE significantly reduce upper airway noise and indices of airway obstruction in draught horses with RLN, but VCE is more effective than VE. The procedures have few post operative complications.

Potential relevance: VCE is recommended as the preferred treatment for RLN in draught horses. Further studies are required to evaluate the longevity of the procedure's results.
Osseous abnormalities associated with collateral desmopathy of the distal interphalangeal joint: Part 1
Authors: Dakin S. G. , Dyson S. J. , Murray R. C. , Tranquille C.
Published: November 2009

Reasons for performing study: Osseous abnormalities. associated with collateral ligament (CL) injury of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint have been documented using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) but there is currently limited information about the frequency of osseous pathology associated with CL injury.

Objectives: To determine the frequency of occurrence of osseous abnormality coexistent with CL injury of the DIP joint and describe the distribution and character of osseous lesions; and to establish if there was an association between osseous abnormality and increased radiopharmaceutical uptake (IRU).

Hypotheses: There would be a higher incidence of osseous abnormality at the insertion of an injured CL than at the origin; and a relationship between the presence of osseous abnormality and duration of lameness.

Materials and methods: Magnetic resonance images of 313 feet of 289 horses with foot pain and a definitive diagnosis of collateral desmopathy of the DIP joint were analysed retrospectively for presence and type of osseous abnormality in the middle and distal phalanges. Scintigraphic images were examined and the presence of IRU in the middle or distal phalanges recorded.

Results: Osseous abnormalities were detected in 143 (45.7%) feet, 27 (18.8%) of which had osseous and CL injury alone, while the remaining 116 had CL related osseous injury and multiple injuries within the hoof capsule. Entheseous new bone and endosteal irregularity of the middle and distal phalanges were the most frequent types of osseous abnormality. There was a higher incidence of osseous abnormalities medially than laterally and at the ligament insertion than at the origin. There was a significant association between presence of IRU and osseous injury.

Conclusions: A variety of osseous lesions of differing severity are associated with CL injury. Normal radiopharmaceutical uptake does not preclude significant osseous pathology associated with CL injury.

Clinical relevance: Further studies are necessary in order to determine if osseous abnormalities associated with CL injury influence prognosis for return to performance.
Doctors’ Concerns of PDAs in the Ward Round Situation
Authors: Dabelow B. , Faxvaag A. , Alsos O. A.
Published: November 2009

Background: Healthcare professionals in hospital care increasingly use small-screen handheld computers. Studies that have investigated doctors’ concerns about handheld usage have mainly focused on technical, organizational and performance issues. Very few have looked at the effects of Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) on the interaction between physician and patient.

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the effects of PDA usage on the physicians’ prescription work, their concerns about using it in point-of-care situations, and the effects on the patient-physician dialog.

Methods: We used a qualitative and comparative approach where 14 physicians each carried out four simulated ward rounds in which they modified the medication of patient actors using a paper-based medical chart and three versions of a PDA-based system. We analyzed ward round video recordings, semi-structured interviews with the doctors, and focus group using approaches based on ethnomethodology and grounded theory.

Results: Physicians used PDA and paper differently. Physicians’ actions, as well as their non-verbal communication, were less transparent and clear for the patient when using a PDA. Doctors were worried about distractions from the handheld device and about a negative impact on the physician-patient conversation. In general, physicians were more comfortable with paper, but preferred PDA because it offered an undo function and reduced the need to memorize drug names and dosages by providing concrete alternatives in the user interface.

Conclusions: Despite the many benefits, PDA usage at the point-of-care comes with the increased risk of distractions for physicians and can cause a negative patient experience. Designers of point-of-care systems need to be aware of, and address, the problems with handhelds and learn from the attributes and access capabilities of paper charts.
A Three-layered Model of Nursing Based on Hospital Observation Data
Authors: Tanaka T. , Kuwahara N. , Ozaku H. I. , Naya F. , Kogure K. , Ohboshi N.
Published: November 2009

Objectives: Our aim is to investigate causes of medical incidents and construct a knowledge base for preventing malpractice based on monitored data.

Methods: To monitor nursing care, we developed an observing system of nursing activities with a ubiquitous sensor network and detecting errors in nursing care. This system is composed of a voice-recording device, mobile sensors and environmental setting type sensors. In cooperation with a hospital in western Japan, we have collected nursing activity data of nurses engaged at a combined ward, including ophthalmology, otolaryngology, and internal medicine for diabetes. After analyzing intravenous drip injection procedure (IVDI procedure) data, we introduce a three-layered model of nursing to understand nursing activities based on observed data. This model consists of three layers, 1) nursing care classification layer: Class, 2) nursing care step layer: Step, and 3) nursing care action layer: Action. This model is designed to take consistency with existing nursing care workflows.

Results: We implemented a detection system and succeeded in comprehending the work-flow of IVDI procedure at the rate of over 95%. This system also can distinguish IVDI workflows performed in parallel by at least two or several nurses. We implemented a picture showing interface of IVDI workflows which can show each patient with a specific color and distinct nurses.

Conclusions: Our system succeeded in verification of nursing care steps in IVDI procedure in ratios of more than 95%. Detection errors are due to the sensor system, so it is necessary to use or develop more precise devices.