Insights gained by the study of synaptic plasticity in animal models of fragile X have suggested novel therapeutic approaches, not only for human fragile X but also for autism and mental retardation of unknown etiology.”
“Aims: To obtain the first information on the occurrence of Escherichia coli O157 on

hides of slaughtered cattle in Serbia.

Methods and Results: A total of 355 swabs were taken on the slaughterline from five areas of hide of each of the 71 cattle in a single commercial abattoir in Serbia. Using an ISO method incorporating enrichment and immunomagnetic separation steps, E. coli O157 was isolated from the hides of 20 animals (28.2%). With respect to different areas of the hides, the occurrence of the pathogen was, in decreasing LY2835219 purchase order: hooves (11.3%), brisket (8.4%), rump (7.0%), neck (4.2) and flank (2.8%). In addition, Alisertib solubility dmso factors that had more or less effects on the occurrence included visible dirtiness of the hide, cattle’s age category, geographical origin of the animals and season.

Conclusions: This study revealed the presence of E. coli O157 in the beef chain in Serbia and confirmed hide as an

important potential source of related contamination of beef carcasses. Therefore, incorporation of preskinning hide decontamination treatments into HACCP-based slaughterline hygiene control measures could be very useful.

Significance and Impact of the Study: The results will enable further optimization of necessary measures along the beef chain to reduce the E. coli O157 selleck inhibitor risks in Serbia.”
“Increasing evidence demonstrates that neuroplasticity, a fundamental mechanism of neuronal adaptation, is disrupted in mood disorders and in animal models of stress. Here we provide an overview of the evidence that chronic stress, which can precipitate or exacerbate depression, disrupts neuroplasticity, while antidepressant treatment produces opposing effects and can enhance neuroplasticity. We discuss neuroplasticity at different levels: structural plasticity ( such as plastic changes in spine

and dendrite morphology as well as adult neurogenesis), functional synaptic plasticity, and the molecular and cellular mechanisms accompanying such changes. Together, these studies elucidate mechanisms that may contribute to the pathophysiology of depression. Greater appreciation of the convergence of mechanisms between stress, depression, and neuroplasticity is likely to lead to the identification of novel targets for more efficacious treatments.”
“Aims: This study was carried out to determine whether bacterial and ciliate populations in goat rumen vary significantly between different goat species living in the same environment.

Methods and Results: Bacterial and ciliate communities in the rumen of three goat species were analysed at the molecular level using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis.