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Comparison of antioxidant capacity and phenolic compounds of berries, chokecherry and seabuckthornEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Antioxidant capacity and phenolic compounds (phenolic acids and anthocyanins) of four berry fruits (strawberry, Saskatoon berry, raspberry and wild blueberry), chokecherry and seabuckthorn were compared in the present study. Total phenolic content and total anthocyanin content ranged from 22.83 to 131.88 g/kg and 3.51 to 13.13 g/kg, respectively. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl free radical scavenging activity ranged from 29.97 to 78.86%. Chokecherry had the highest antioxidant capacity when compared with berry fruits and seabuckthorn. The highest caffeic acid, gallic acid and trans-cinnamic acid level...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Sensitivity of bacterial vs. acute Daphnia magna toxicity tests to metalsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
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 slightl...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

PAMAM dendrimers — diverse biomedical applications. Facts and unresolved questionsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract In this mini-review a number of novel outcomes, originating from studies in the field of PAMAM dendrimers, are presented and discussed. Owing to the multi-disciplinary nature of dendrimer chemistry it seems important to focus on the relevant topical research of PAMAM dendrimers, including their function, toxicity, surface modifications, and also possible new applications of these spherical polymers. We also consider the possibilities of specific functionalisation of PAMAM dendrimers — both novel ideas and those that have already been reported; as well as their cell-mediated effects (toxic and non-...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

The PECAM-1 gene polymorphism — a genetic marker of myocardial infarctionEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract 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%) compa...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Planting of different-sized tree transplants on arable soilEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
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 approximate...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Animal model of Alzheimer’s disease: characteristics of EEG and memoryEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract We studied the effects of aggregated amyloid β-peptide Aβ25–35 on spatial memory and the spectral-correlational characteristics of EEG of both the dorsal hippocampus and the frontal cortex both in adult and aged rats at the early stage of Aβ25–35 action. Spatial memory was characterized using a novel cognitive test. A decrease in low-frequency theta band oscillations in the dorsal hippocampus and the frontal cortex was observed. The mean coefficient of EEG cross-correlation between these structures was significantly reduced at the early stage of Aβ25–35 action both in adult and aged rats. I...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

MART-1 transcript is absent in PBMCs from Vitiligo patientsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Mechanisms occurring in the thymus and periphery are responsible for the generation and maintenance of tolerance in the immune system. Various reports have shown that the existence of an antigen in the peripheral circulation results in tolerance induction towards that protein. These observations imply that the lack of a self antigen can lead to induction of autoimmunity. Previously we have reported that Tyrosinase related protein-2 (TRP-2) transcripts from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are absent in vitiligo patients but present in healthy individuals. Here, we show that MART1 (Melanoma...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Collagen-bound LDL modifies endothelial cell adhesion to type V collagen: Implications for atherosclerosisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Low density lipoprotein (LDL) is retained in the extracellular matrix of the arterial wall where it is considered to be atherogenic, but little is known about how cell adhesion to the matrix is affected by collagen-bound LDL. We tested the effect of native, oxidized and acetylated LDL reacted with adsorbed monomeric type I, III and V collagen on endothelial cell adhesion to collagen using a colorimetric adhesion assay. We found that none of the LDL species affected adhesion to type I and III collagen, but that collagen-bound native and acetylated LDL enhanced attachment to type V collagen, whereas b...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Abdominal setae and midgut bacteria of the mudshrimp Pestarella tyrrhenaEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract 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...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Cell-cell fusion: human multinucleated osteoclastsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract 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...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

GFP markers for studying D. melanogaster spermatogenesisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Localization of a set of chimeric GFP proteins in D. melanogaster spermatogenesis has been studied. In the collection used, the proteins with detectable germ-line expression frequently occur to be involved in mRNA maturation. According to the cellular localization, proteins fall into three groups, namely, the protein Rtc1, involved in splicing, displays an exclusively nuclear localization; the proteins Squid (splicing and mRNA transport), Pabp2 (polyadenylation), and Hrb98DE (splicing and mRNA transport) change their localization during germ-line development; and the protein Imp (mRNA localization) ...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Spring migration timing of Sylvia warblers in Tatarstan (Russia) 1957–2008Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The timing of when migrant birds return to breed is a key component of studies of the impact of climate change upon bird populations. However, such data are not distributed evenly across the World, and in the Northern Hemisphere are underrepresented in Asia and the east of Europe. Therefore, to help rectify this bias, we analysed first arrival dates (FAD) of four species of Sylvia warblers (Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla, Whitethroat S.communis, Lesser Whitethroat S.curruca and Garden Warbler S.borin) collected in the Tatarstan Republic of Russia between 1957 and 2008. Over the whole period the species r...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Transmission of Podisus maculiventris tremulatory signals through plantsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Males of the predaceous stink bug Podisus maculiventris (Say) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae: Asopinae) emit low frequency tremulatory signals. Laser vibrometry was used to record and analyze naturally emitted signals, focusing on variation in signal velocity and frequency during transmission through plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L. and Plumbago auriculata Lam.) as a function of distance from the vibrational source. Signal velocity varied individually between 2 and 15 mm/s recorded on a plant close to the calling male and decreased by 0.3 to 1.5 dB/cm on bean and 0.3 to 0.9 dB/cm on plumbago. The dominant ...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Methionine in pattern control of HydraEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The fresh water polyp Hydra is noted for its ability to regenerate missing body parts. Transplantation experiments indicate that the control of regeneration includes signalling over long distances. These signals appear to include diffusible morphogens, activators and inhibitors. In order to elucidate the nature of such signals, tissue of polyps was homogenized and fractionated. The fractions were tested for their ability to hinder head regeneration. The active factor within these fractions was determined to be methionine. Both the active fractions and L-methionine were found to antagonize not only h...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Polymorphism in exon 7 of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene is associated with low incidence of microvascular damage in type 1 diabetic neuropathyEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Microvascular complications associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are caused in part by endothelial dysfunction. We aimed to determine the association between polymorphisms in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene (894G>T, 4ab) and T1DM-associated microvascular disorders, and the roles of nitrite/nitrate products (NOx) and low molecular weight-AGEs (LMW-AGEs) levels in this relationship. We carried out a case-control study (328 subjects) and determined genotypes by PCR. The rare-type TT of eNOS 894G>T was significantly overrepresented in patients without microvascular disorder...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Pathogens of the spruce bark beetles Ips typographus and Ips duplicatusEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Pathogens of two important bark beetles, Ips typographus and Ips duplicatus, both in outbreaks connected with infestation of spruces by the fungus Armillaria ostoyae, were compared at four localities in the eastern Czech Republic. Low infestations of Chytridiopsis typographi, Nosema typographi, Menzbieria chalcographi, and Gregarina typographi were detected in I. typographus. In I. duplicatus, only C. typographi and G. typographi were found and with low infection levels. The microsporidium, Larssoniella duplicati, was not detected in I. typographus, but was detected in I. duplicatus at all localities in...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Effect of thidiazuron and gibberellic acid on leaf yellowing of cut stock flowersEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Plant hormones such as cytokinins and gibberellins are able to inhibit leaf yellowing in different species of cut flowers and potted plants. These hormones can be used alone or in combination among them for preserving chlorophyll in floriculture items. In the present study thidiazuron was tested alone or combined with GA3 for delaying leaf yellowing of cut stock flowers during vase life. Cut flowers were placed in a controlled environment and treated for 24 hours with the following solutions: distilled water (control) or solutions containing 5, 10 µM thidiazuron (TDZ), 0.5 mM gibberellic acid (GA3)...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

PHOENIX, a web interface for (re)analysis of microarray dataEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Microarrays are tools to study the expression profile of an entire genome. Technology, statistical tools and biological knowledge in general have evolved over the past ten years and it is now possible to improve analysis of previous datasets. We have developed a web interface called PHOENIX that automates the analysis of microarray data from preprocessing to the evaluation of significance through manual or automated parameterization. At each analytical step, several methods are possible for (re)analysis of data. PHOENIX evaluates a consensus score from several methods and thus determines the perform...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Inhibitory effect of Torilis anthriscus on growth of microorganismsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Antibacterial and antifungal activities of aqueous, ethanol and ethyl acetate extract of Torilis anthriscus (L.) Gmel. (Apiaceae) were tested in vitro against ten species of bacteria and five of fungi. Antimicrobial properties were determined by disk diffusion and broth tube dilution method. In the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), the ethanol extract showed the highest activity, followed by the ethyl acetate extract and the aqueous extract against bacterial species, while the extracts were inactive against the tested fungi species. The most active extract was chosen to examine the effects of...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Investigation of saturated and aromatic hydrocarbon resistance mechanisms in Pseudomonas aeruginosa IBBML1Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Pseudomonas aeruginosa IBBML1, isolated from Poeni petroleum sludge, was able to tolerate and degrade both saturated (n-hexane, n-heptane, n-hexadecane, cyclohexane) and aromatic (benzene, ethylbenzene, propylbenzene, xylene isomers, styrene) hydrocarbons. Molecular studies have revealed that the high hydrocarbon resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa IBBML1 could be due to the action of members of the HAE1 (hydrophobe/amphiphile efflux 1) family of transporters. It is further possible that additional mechanisms may account for the tolerance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa IBBML1 to hydrocarbons, and a comb...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - November 5, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Biosorption of phosphate from synthetic wastewater by biosolidsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the potential of phosphate (P) removal from wastewater by biosolids prepared by the immobilization of P-accumulating bacteria onto organic bentonite. Organic bentonite was prepared by treating bentonite clay with quaternary ammonium salt — cetyltrimetylammonium (CTA) bromide. Cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the bentonite was found to be 179.0 meq/100 g of the dry bentonite. The CTA occupied ca. 175% of the CEC. Modification of bentonite with CTA in amounts higher than 55% of the CEC resulted in the change of zeta potential of particles from negative to posi...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

The combined effect of Cd2+ and ACh on action potentials of Nitellopsis obtusa cellsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Interrelations between the action of acetylcholine (ACh) and cadmium ions (Cd2+) on bioelectrogenesis of Nitellopsis obtusa cells were investigated. We analyzed repetitively triggered action potentials (AP), their reproducibility, shape and dynamics of membrane potential after AP induction. ACh significantly increased membrane permeability only at high concentrations (1 mM and 5 mM). Repolarisation level of action potential after the first stimulus was much more positive in all cells treated with ACh as compared to the control. Differences of membrane potentials between points just before the first a...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Lipopeptides as anti-infectives: a practical perspectiveEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Lipopeptide antibiotics represent an old class of antibiotics that were discovered over 50 years ago, which includes the old polymyxins but also new entries, such as the recently approved daptomycin. They generally consist of a hydrophilic cyclic peptide portion attached to a fatty acid chain which facilitates insertion into the lipid bilayer of bacterial membranes. This review presents an overview of this class of antibiotics, focusing on their therapeutic applications and putting particular emphasis on chemical modifications introduced to improve their activity. Content Type Journal ArticleCate...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Fungal septins: one ring to rule it all?Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Septins are a conserved family of GTP-binding proteins found in living organisms ranging from yeasts to mammals. They are able to polymerize and form hetero-oligomers that assemble into higher-order structures whose detailed molecular architecture has recently been described in different organisms. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, septins exert numerous functions throughout the cell cycle, serving as scaffolds for many different proteins or as diffusion barriers at the bud neck. In other fungi, septins are required for the proper completion of diverse functions such as polarized growth or pathogenesis. ...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Nicotine-induced memory impairment by increasing brain oxidative stressEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Male Wistar rats were subjected to chronic nicotine treatment (0.3 mg/kg; 7 continuous days) and their memory performance was studied by means of Y-maze and multi-trial passive avoidance tasks. Nicotine significantly decreased spontaneous alternation in Y-maze task and step-through-latency in the multi-trial passive avoidance task, suggesting effects on both short-term memory and long-term memory, respectively. In addition, nicotine induced neuronal apoptosis, DNA fragmentation, reduced antioxidant enzymes activity, and increased production of lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species, suggesti...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of Satureja hortensis L. essential oilEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Essential oil of Satureja hortensis L. was analyzed by GC and GC/MS and tested by a broth micro-well dilution method for activity against multiresistant clinical isolates of pathogenic bacteria from 10 different genera: Klebsiella, Escherichia, Proteus, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, Enterococcus, Enterobacter, Citrobacter and Acinetobacter. The main compounds in the oil were carvacrol (67%), γ-terpinene (15.3%) and p-cymene (6.73%). The oil showed activity against all tested strains. MIC/MBC values were in the range of 0.78-25 μl/ml, with the exception of the strain P. aeruginosa. Micr...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Sound production and chorusing behaviour in larvae of Icosium tomentosumEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Substrate-borne vibrations produced by the larvae of non-lamiinae longicorn Icosium tomentosum Lucas, 1854 (Cerambycidae: Cerambycinae) are also emitted as loud sounds audible to humans. The vibrations consists of a long sequence of regularly repeated pulses at a rate of 8 pulses per second. The duration of the pulses are 0.061±0.009 s and the interpulse intervals are 0.065±0.015 s. The mechanism of vibration generation is the scraping by strongly sclerotised mandibles against the bark. Chorusing behaviour previously unknown in Cerambycidae larvae have been observed when the larvae feeding in the ...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Volatile constituents of Erodium cicutarium (L.) L’ Hérit. (Geraniaceae)Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Essential oils from Erodium cicutarium were obtained by hydrodistillation (samples consisting of entire plants (ec1), leaves and stems (ec2)) and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS), resulting in a total of 177 components being identified. The essential oils were of a very similar chemical composition and consisted mainly of aliphatic compounds and their derivatives. Fatty acids and fatty acid derived compounds were the most common, 51.3% (ec1) and 60.1% (ec2), followed by carotenoid derived compounds, 12.6% (ec1) and 20.2% (ec2), and then terpenoids,...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Does handling reduce the winter body mass of the European hare?Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Winter body mass of the European hare Lepus europaeus Pallas 1778 was analyzed with a special focus on changes induced by handling. Data were obtained from large scale translocation (net catchments) during 1960–1980 in Poland. The influence of handling was compared using the mass of first-time captured and repeatedly-captured hares, and, in case of repeated capture, individuals’ mass changes were investigated. The average body mass ranged from 2.1 kg to 5.0 kg. Generally, fewer factors influenced the hare’s body mass than expected. Body mass was related to age and winter precipitation, while t...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 6, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Circadian clocks and phosphorylation: Insights from computational modelingEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Circadian clocks are based on a molecular mechanism regulated at the transcriptional, translational and post-translational levels. Recent experimental data unravel a complex role of the phosphorylations in these clocks. In mammals, several kinases play differential roles in the regulation of circadian rhythmicity. A dysfunction in the phosphorylation of one clock protein could lead to sleep disorders such as the Familial Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder, FASPS. Moreover, several drugs are targeting kinases of the circadian clocks and can be used in cancer chronotherapy or to treat mood disorders. In Dr...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 6, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

The influence of Trisenox on actin organization in HL-60 cellsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The aim of this study was to show the influence of Trisenox (arsenic trioxide, ATO) on cytoplasmic and nuclear F-actin organization in HL-60 human leukemia cell line. Changes in localization were determined with the use of fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Alterations, in both cytoplasmic and nuclear actin, were observed in cells exposed to ATO. F-actin network underwent accumulation and formed aggregates, that were very often placed under the cell membrane in whole cells and at the periphery of isolated nuclei. Addition of ATO also induced apoptosis and a decrease in G2 phase cells. These...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 6, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Occurrence and chemical diversity of the genus Bryoria in the Sučí Potok Valley, Veporské Vrchy Mountains (Central Slovakia)Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Four species of the genus, Bryoria were found in the Sučí Potok Valley: B. capilaris (Ach.) Brodo & D. Hawksw., B. fuscescens (Gyeln.) Brodo & D. Hawksw., B. implexa (Hoffm.) Brodo & D. Hawksw., B. nadvornikiana (Gyeln.) Brodo & D. Hawksw. The most common species in the valley was B. implexa. Four chemotypes of this lichen were recognized. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory CommunicationDOI 10.2478/s11535-009-0022-4Authors Miloš Lukáč, Comenius University Department of Chemical Theory of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy 832 32 Bratislava Slovakia Journal Central European Journal of BiologyO...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 6, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Genetic evolution and diversity of common carp Cyprinus carpio L.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Knowledge of genetic variation and population structure of existing strains of both farmed and wild common carp Cyprinus carpio L. is absolutely necessary for any efficient fish management and/or conservation program. To assess genetic diversity in common carp populations, a variety of molecular markers were analyzed. Of those, microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA were most frequently used in the analysis of genetic diversity and genome evolution of common carp. Using microsatellites showed that the genome evolution in common carp exhibited two waves of rearrangements: one whole-genome duplication (...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 6, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Obestatin as contractile mediator of excised frog heartEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The aim of this study is to investigate the mechanism of positive inotropic effect of obestatin on in vitro heart preparations of Rana ridibunda frog. The application of increasing amounts of obestatin in the concentration range from 1 μmol/l to 1 μmol/l significantly enhances the force of contraction of excised and cannulated frog hearts. This effect was partially reduced in the presence of prazosin (3 μmol/l). Propranolol (30 μmol/l), pertussis toxin (2 ng/ml) and the specific inhibitor of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) Rp-adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphothioate triethylamine (30 μm...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - July 6, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Lignicolous fungi from northern Serbia as natural sources of antioxidantsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract As a result of an interest in natural derived metabolites, lignicolous fungi have taken on great importance in biochemical investigations. In the present study, antioxidative screening analyses have included in vitro testing of different extracts (aqueous, methanol, chloroform) of four fungal species using three different assays: Fe2+/ascorbate-induced lipid peroxidation by TBA assay, the neutralisation of OH· radicals and the radical scavenging capacity with the DPPH· assay. TLC analysis confirmed the existance of phenolics in the extracts, but also indicates the presence of some other compounds. ...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - June 26, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Improvement of inflammatory and toxic stress biomarkers by silymarin in a murine model of type one diabetes mellitusEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is characterized by an impairment of the insulin-secreting beta cells with an immunologic base. Inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β, and free radicals are believed to play key roles in destruction of pancreatic β cells. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of Silybum marianum seed extract (silymarin), a combination of several flavonolignans with immunomodulatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory potential on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced T1DM in mouse. Experimental T1DM was induced in male albino...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - June 25, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Effects of γ-irradiation on antioxidant activity in soybean seedsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
In this study, we report the results obtained by analysis of antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced glutathione, malonyldialdehyde (MDA) and hydroxyl (HO−) radical quantities, soluble protein content, and total antioxidant activity in irradiated soybean seeds. Antioxidant enzyme activities were affected due to high irradiation intensity. Significant changes of total antioxidant activity and MDA and HO.quantities were observed only under the highest irradiation dose, with a 15.7% reduction in total antioxidant activity, MDA quantity increase of 21.6%, and HO− radical quantity increase of 79.3% compared to the non-ir...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - June 24, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Brain monoamine oxidase A in hyperammonemia is regulated by NMDA receptorsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Mitochondrial enzyme monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) generates hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and is up-regulated by Ca2+ and presumably by ammonia. We hypothesized that MAO-A may be under the control of NMDA receptors in hyperammonemia. In this work, the in vivo effects of single dosing with ammonia and NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 and the in vitro effect of Ca2+ on MAO-A activity in isolated rat brain mitochondria were studied employing enzymatic procedure. Intraperitoneal injection of rats with ammonia led to an increase in MAO-A activity in mitochondria indicating excessive H2O2 generation. Calcium added...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - June 24, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Biological evaluation of 10-(diphenylmethylene)- 4-azatricyclo[5.2.1.02,6]dec-8-ene-3,5-dione derivativesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Antibacterial and antifungal activity of 10-(diphenylmethylene)-4-azatricyclo[5.2.1.02,6]dec-8-ene-3,5-dione derivatives were examined by the disc-diffusion method (growth inhibition zone diameter in agar medium). The MIC’s for the most active agents were determined. Title compounds were also evaluated in vitro against representatives of different virus classes. Most of the tested compounds exhibit activity against CVB-2 virus. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Research ArticleDOI 10.2478/s11535-009-0015-3Authors Joanna Stefañska, Medical University of Warsaw 1Department of Pharmaceutical Mi...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - June 24, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

New approach in studies of microalgal cell lysisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract A new approach to the studies of the microalgal cell lysis by utilizing a combination of two complementary methods is presented. Delayed fluorescence (DF) is a measure of the living algal biomass, detecting only cells with active photosynthesis. Thermal lens spectrometry (TLS) detects the total pigment amount released from lysed cells. Both methods select for photosynthetic organisms, reducing possible background from other sources (e.g. heterotrophic bacteria, zooplankton, and abiotic substances). The DF/TLS method was tested with a laboratory Skeletonema costatum culture exposed to a geometric dil...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - June 24, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Ligand structure controlled allostery in cAMP-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunitEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Protein kinase A (cAMP dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit, EC 2.7.11.11) binds simultaneously ATP and a phosphorylatable peptide. These structurally dissimilar allosteric ligands influence the binding effectiveness of each other. The same situation is observed with substrate congeners, which reversibly inhibit the enzyme. In this review these allosteric effects are quantified using the interaction factor, which compares binding effectiveness of ligands with the free enzyme and the pre-loaded enzyme complex containing another ligand. This analysis revealed that the allosteric effect depends u...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - May 3, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Primary production dynamics of dominant hydrophytes in Lake Provala (Serbia)Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
The objective of this investigation was to analyze the primary production of the dominant hydrophytes by monitoring levels of organic matter and organic carbon and estimating photosynthetic potential via the total chlorophyll content. The survey was conducted in Lake Provala (Serbia) throughout the peak vegetation period of the year 2000. The contents of organic matter and organic carbon for Myriophyllum spicatum L. were 105.11 g m−2 and 73.66 g m−2, Nymphoides peltata (Gmel.) Kunt. were 95.51 g m−2 and 45.26 g m−2 and Ceratophyllum demersum L. were 52.17 g m−2 and 29.75 g m−2. Chlorophyll A (Chl a) and chlo...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - May 3, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

The effect of anastrozol on spatial memory in adult ratsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Androgens are known to affect cognitive functions via organizational and activational effects. It is unknown whether the effects are mediated via the androgen receptor or after conversion to estradiol with aromatase via estrogen receptors. The aim of our study was to find out whether testosterone affects spatial memory directly or through its metabolite estradiol. Rats were treated with testosterone; with testosterone and the aromatase blocker anastrozole or saline. An 8 radial arm maze was used for testing spatial memory twice daily for 4 days. Each arm was baited with food, and the ability of anim...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - May 3, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

SEM analysis of dental enamel morphological structures on the basis of their replicas in patients with systemic calcium deficiencyEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The aim of the present study is to examine microscopically the surface of dental enamel by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), using their replicas formed in female patients with diagnosed periodontal diseases and systemic calcium deficiency. Replicas of dental enamel surfaces in patients referred for treatment of periodontal diseases were subjected to microscopic analysis. The replicas, after coating with platinum-palladium alloy, were examined under the scanning electron microscope at magnifications of 15–5000 x. Densitometric examinations of spine (L2 - L4 segment) revealed bone mineral...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - March 13, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

A squalene epoxidase from Nigella sativa participates in saponin biosynthesis and mediates terbinafine resistance in yeastEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Squalene epoxidase catalyzes the formation of 2,3-oxidosqualene from squalene and in plants is the last enzyme common to all biosynthetic pathways leading to an array of triterpene derivatives like phytosterols, brassinosteroid phytohormones or saponins. In this work, we present a squalene epoxidase gene (NSSQE1) from the triterpene saponin producing plant Nigella sativa. The gene product showed a high degree of homology to functional squalene epoxidases (SQEs) from Arabidopsis thaliana and was able to complement SQE deficient yeast that harboured a knockout mutation in the underlying erg1 gene. Moreo...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - March 13, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Population of Rh123dim human keratinocytes form holoclonesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The aim of our studies was to develop an efficient strategy to isolate human early epidermal progenitors for experimental and potential clinical purposes. We employed fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) to isolate cells that poorly accumulate metabolic Rhodamin123 (Rh123) dye. We noticed that similarly to a population of β1-integrin bright (β1bright) cells, a population of Rh123 dull (Rh123dim) cells is highly enriched for cells growing holoclones, colonies composed of the most primitive keratinocytes. Furthermore, Rh123dim cells express several morphological features of primitive undifferen...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - March 13, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Comparative study of antioxidant capacity in organs of different Allium speciesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Cultivated and wild Allium species were investigated in order to compare the antioxidant capacity of their leaves and bulbs. Leaf and bulb anti-oxidative enzymes and scavenger activities, along with quantities of non-enzymic antioxidants, malonyl-dialdehyde and OH radicals were determined. Results obtained suggest that leaves possess higher anti-oxidant and scavenging activities than bulbs in the majority of cultivated and wild Allium species examined. Cultivation of some wild species such as A. flavum L., A. schoenoprasum L. and A. ursinum L. could be conducted in the future in order to produce Alli...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - March 12, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals

Novel bacteriocins produced by Geobacillus stearothermophilusEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Four novel heat-stable bacteriocin-like substances were found to be produced by Geobacillus stearothermophilus strains isolated from oil-wells in Lithuania. Geobacillus stearothermophilus 32A, 17, 30 and 31 strains were identified as producers of bacteriocins with bactericidal activity against closely related Geobacillus species and several pathogenic strains: Bacillus cereus DSM 12001 and Staphylococcus haemolyticus P903. The secretion of the analysed bacteriocins started during early logarithmic growth and dropped sharply after the culture entered the stationary phase of growth. The antimicrobial ac...
Source: Central European Journal of Biology - March 12, 2009 Category: Biology Tags: Central European Journal of Biology Source Type: journals