bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soybean Seed Inoculant and Fungicidal Seed Treatment Effects on Soybean
Authors: Schulz Terry J. , Thelen Kurt D.
Published: September 2008

Several new bacterial inoculant products have been introduced for use as a soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed treatment. A 3‐yr study over 16 site‐years determined whether soybean seed inoculation had an effect on grain yield, if yield or growth differences occurred between soybean treated with commercial inoculant products, and whether use of seed‐applied fungicide resulted in yield benefits or interacted with commercial inoculants. Eight commercial inoculants were tested both with and without seed‐applied fungicidal treatment in a split‐plot randomized complete block configuration. Use of soybean inoculant raised soybean yield in 6 of 14 site‐years in fields that had been in soybean rotation. The average yield increase as a result of soybean seed inoculation at these 14 site‐years with a previous history of soybean cropping was 85.6 kg ha−1 Differences between inoculant products were observed only at first‐time soybean sites. Fungicidal seed treatment improved yield on 3 of 16 site‐years and only interacted with inoculant on the two first‐time soybean sites.
Complex Mixture-Associated Hormesis and Toxicity: The Case of Leather Tanning Industry
Authors: Pagano Giovanni , Castello Giuseppe , Gallo Marialuisa , Borriello Ilaria , Guida Marco
Published: September 2008

A series of studies investigated the toxicities of tannery-derived complex mixtures, i.e. vegetable tannin (VT) from Acacia sp. or phenol-based synthetic tannin (ST), and wastewater from tannin-based vs. chromium-based tanneries. Toxicity was evaluated by multiple bioassays including developmental defects and loss of fertilization rate in sea urchin embryos and sperm ( Paracentrotus lividus and Sphaerechinus granularis), and algal growth inhibition ( Dunaliella tertiolecta and Selenastrum capricornutum). Both VT and ST water extracts resulted in hormetic effects at concentrations ranging 0.1 to 0.3%, and toxicity at levels ≥1%, both in sea urchin embryo and sperm, and in algal growth bioassays. When comparing tannin-based tannery wastewater (TTW) vs. chromium-based tannery effluent (CTE), a hormesis to toxicity trend was observed for TTW both in terms of developmental and fertilization toxicity in sea urchins, and in algal growth inhibition, with hormetic effects at 0.1 to 0.2% TTW, and toxicity at TTW levels ≥1%. Unlike TTW, CTE showed a monotonic toxicity increase from the lowest tested level (0.1%) and CTE toxicity at higher levels was significantly more severe than TTW-induced toxicity. The results support the view that leather production utilizing tannins might be regarded as a more environmentally friendly procedure than chromium-based tanning process.
The Ermakov equation: A commentary
Authors: Leach P.G.L. , Andriopoulos S.K.
Published: September 2008

We present a short history of the Ermakov equation with an emphasis on its discovery by thewest and the subsequent boost to research into invariants for nonlinear systems although recognizing some of the significant developments in the east. We present the modern context of the Ermakov equation in the algebraic and singularity theory of ordinary differential equations and applications to more divers fields. The reader is referred to the previous article (Appl. Anal. Discrete math., 2 (2008), 123-145) for an english translation of Ermakov's original paper.
Multiplicity of solutions for singular semilinear elliptic equations with critical Hardy-Sobolev exponents
Authors: Guo Qianqiao , Niu Pengcheng , Dou Jingbo
Published: September 2008

We consider the semilinear elliptic problem with critical Hardy-Sobolev exponents and Dirichlet boundary condition. By using variational methods we obtain the existence and multiplicity of nontrivial solutions and improve the former results.
A new criterion for multivalent starlike functions
Authors: Wang Zhi-Gang , Neng Xu
Published: September 2008

The main purpose of the present paper is to derive a new criterion for multivalent starlike functions by applying Jack's lemma.
A fixed point theorem for multi-maps satisfying an implicit relation on metric spaces
Authors: Sedghi S. , Altun I. , Shobe N.
Published: September 2008

We present a fixed point theorem for multi-valued mapping satisfying an implicit relation on metric spaces.
Weak and strong convergence of an iterative method for nonexpansive mappings in Hilbert spaces
Authors: Miao Yu , Junfen Li
Published: September 2008

In a real Hilbert space H, starting from an arbitrary initial point x0 H, an iterative process is defined as follows: xn+1 = anxn +(1-an)T?n+1 f yn, yn = bnxn + (1 - bn)T?n g xn, n ? 0, where T ?n+1 f x = Tx - ?n+1?f f(Tx), T?n g x = Tx - ?n?gg(Tx), (8 x 2 H), T : H ? H a nonexpansive mapping with F(T) 6= ; and f (resp. g) : H ? H an ?f (resp. ?g)-strongly monotone and kf (resp. kg)-Lipschitzian mapping, {an} _ (0, 1), {bn} _ (0, 1) and {?n} _ [0, 1), {?n} _ [0, 1). Under some suitable conditions, several convergence results of the sequence {xn} are shown.
New integral and series representations of the generalized Mathieu series
Authors: Tomovski Zivorad
Published: September 2008

By using some recently investigated fourier sine integral representations for the Mathieu type series (see [4]), new integral and series representations are derived here for certain general families of Mathieu type series.
An equivalent form of young's inequality with upper bound
Authors: Minguzzi E.
Published: September 2008

Young's integral inequality is complemented with an upper bound to the remainder. The new inequality turns out to be equivalent to Young's inequality, and the cases in which the equality holds become particularly transparent in the new formulation.
Some properties of the sequence of prime numbers
Authors: Copil Vlad , Panaitopol Laurenţiu
Published: September 2008

Let pn be the n-th prime number and xn = p n+1 n+1 /pnn. We show that the sequence (xn)n?N is not monotonic for any integer N > 1 and that the series +??1n=1/xn is divergent. Related series are studied as well.
Estimate of the number of restricted integer-partitions
Authors: Ratsaby Joel
Published: September 2008

Using the saddle-point method an estimate is computed for the number wm,N(n) of ordered m-partitions (compositions) of a positive integer n under a constraint that the size of every part is at most N. The approximation error rate is O(n-1/5).
The curl of a weighted network
Authors: Bendito E. , Carmona A. , Encinas A.M. , Gesto J.M.
Published: September 2008

In this work we introduce an accurate definition of the curl operator on weighted networks that completes the discrete vector calculus developed by the authors. This allows us to define the circulation of a vector field along a curve and to characterize the conservative fields. In addition, we obtain an adequate discrete version of the De Rham cohomology of a compact manifold, giving in particular discrete analogues of the Poincar? and Hodge's decomposition theorems.
Sharp upper bounds for the number of spanning trees of a graph
Authors: Feng Lihua , Guihai Yu , Jiang Zhengtao , Ren Lingzhi
Published: September 2008

This note presents two new upper bounds for the number of spanning trees of a graph in terms of the order, edge number and maximum degree of a graph.
Spectral property of certain class of graphs associated with generalized Bethe trees and transitive graphs
Authors: Fan Yi-Zheng , Shuang-Dong Li , Liang Dong
Published: September 2008

A generalized Bethe tree is a rooted tree for which the vertices in each level having equal degree. Let Bk be a generalized Bethe tree of k level, and let T r be a connected transitive graph on r vertices. Then we obtain a graph Bk?T r from r copies of Bk and T r by appending r roots to the vertices of T r respectively. In this paper, we give a simple way to characterize the eigenvalues of the adjacency matrix A(Bk ? T r) and the Laplacian matrix L(Bk?T r) of Bk?T r by means of symmetric tridiagonal matrices of order k. We also present some structure properties of the Perron vectors of A(Bk?T r) and the Fiedler vectors of L(Bk ? T r). In addition, we obtain some results on transitive graphs.
Testing of wheat to durable resistance and survey approach for Puccinia recondita tritici
Authors: Boskovic Jelena , Boskovic Momcilo , Prijic Zeljana
Published: September 2008

The main objective within new approach in international pathogenicity surveys of Puccinia recondita tritici was to provide genetically diverse sources of resistance (wheat lines with pyramiding resistant genes) to be used in a survey of wheat leaf rust pathogen in European-Mediterranean regions and to search for and document pathogenicity of P. recondita tritici cultures useful in differentiating sources of resistance. Emphasis is placed on sources of resistance and their usefulness rather than on description of fungus populations. In this international survey new methods have been applied containing Central Field Nursery, Central Seedling Tests, Cooperative Seedling Tests and Regional Field Nurseries (ELRWN-European Leaf Rust of Wheat Nursery). The results have been reported from one year of investigations. ELRWN contained 20 winter wheat hybrid lines with pyramiding resistant genes including strong ones Lr9, Lr19 and Lr24. In addition, 16 spring wheat lines were included, as control lines were Lr9, Lr18, Lr19, Lr24 and Lr14. In that year ELRWN have been realized in 13 countries and cooperative seedling test in 8 countries using 22 pathotypes of P. recondita tritici. The best results obtained by the winter wheat lines NS-66/5'Lr24, NS-77/2'Lr19, NS- 37/2'Lr19 and spring wheat lines 647-CMA-14793 and 26TH-ESWYT-10. The results have shown loosing almost complete resistance of Lr9 and Lr24, but much less Lr19.
Discriminant function analysis for opium and seed yield in opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.)
Authors: Yadav H.K. , Shukla S. , Singh S.P.
Published: September 2008

Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) is an important medicinal plant of pharmacopoel uses. Opium latex and its derivatives are used in different medicines as analgesic, narcotic, sedative, sudorific, hyponitic, antispasmodic, ant diarrhea and cough etc. Genetic improvement in opium and seed yield, component breeding is important and selection based on multiple characters is more beneficial in developing desired plant types. Therefore the present study was made on group of 22 strains of opium poppy to find out variability and suitable selection indices for opium and seed yield. Heritability in broad sense was high for capsule weight/plant, plant height, capsule length, stem diameter and opium yield. The discriminant functions based on single character were less efficient while on the basis of combination it was in general more efficient. The comparison of different functions revealed that capsule weight/plant, capsule length, plant height are major yield component and thus practicing selection for attainment of high opium and seed yield lines, maximum weight age could be given to these characters. The positive association of opium yield and seed yield suggested that by adopting suitable component breeding and selection, a dual-purpose variety (opium and seed yield) may be developed.
Actual prestigious properties of maize inbred lines: A good initial basis for the efficient development of new and yielding maize hybrids
Authors: Radenovic Cedomir , Filipovic Milomir , Babic Milosav , Stankovic Goran , Radojcic Aleksandar , Secanski Mile , Pavlov Jovan , Radojcic Brankovic , Selakovic Dragojlo
Published: September 2008

This study conforms our hypothesis that there are elite maize inbred lines, which can be considered actual and prestigious as they have not only a property of the water status and a greater grain dry down rate during the maturation period, but also a property of the efficient photosynthetic-fluorescence model that is successfully used in the contemporary processes of breeding, and thereby in the development of new and yielding maize hybrids. Presented results obtained on the dynamics of grain dry down during the maturation period and on photosynthetic-fluorescence parameters (temperature dependence of the chlorophyll delayed fluorescence intensity, the Arrhenius plot for the determination of critical temperatures, i.e. phase transition temperatures and the activation energy) show that properties of the observed inbreeds are based on effects and nature of conformational and functional changes occurring in their thylakoid membranes and other chemical structures of grain tissues. Summarized results of studies on actual and prestigious properties of maize inbreeds will contribute to more exact, rational and expeditious proceedings of contemporary processes of breeding.
Line X tester analysis of morphophysiological traits and their correlations with seed yield and oil content in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)
Authors: Hladni Nada , Skoric Dragan , Kraljevic-Balalic Marija
Published: September 2008

One of the primary tasks of sunflower breeding is the development of inbred lines by interspecific hybridization for the purpose of obtaining high-yielding, stable hybrids that are characterized by altered plant appearance and the ability to produce a higher number of plants per unit area under intensive agriculture conditions. Studied in this paper by the line x tester method were seven new divergent cms inbred lines (A) lines, three Rf restorers utilized as testers, and 21 F1 hybrids developed. Significant differences in the mean values of all the traits studied were observed. Highly significant GCA and SCA values were obtained for petiole length (PL) and total leaf area per plant (TLA). The nonadditive component of genetic variance played the main role in the inheritance of both these traits. This was confirmed by the GCA/SCA ratios for PL and LA in the F1 generation, which were below the value of one (0.43 and 0.07, respectively). The greatest average contribution to the expression of PL (49.9%) and TLA (57.1%) was found in the female A lines. A positive correlation was found between seed yield (SY) and PL (0.374*) and TLA (0.630**), while seed oil content (SOC) and TLA were found to be negatively correlated (-0.520**). The findings of this study can be used in the development of new high-yielding sunflower hybrids with high yields based on interspecific hybridization.
An impact of environment on segregation ratio of qualitative traits in maize
Authors: Vancetovic Jelena
Published: September 2008

The significant influence of environment was found on the segregation ratio in a dyhibrid inheritance in maize. Two possible causes are proposed for this segregation distortion: 1) environmental influence (selection) prior forming the gametes or/and 2) different preferential pairing in different environments. Further studies, however, on other self or cross-pollinated plant species, and with different traits are needed to better understand this phenomena.
Genetic characterization of genotypes of Austrian pine (Pinus nigra Arnold) populations using protein markers
Authors: Lucic Aleksandar , Nikolic Ana , Mladenovic-Drinic Snezana , Isajev Vasilije , Lavadinovic Vera
Published: September 2008

The occurrence of Austrian pine over large areas attacked by erosion processes or on completely degraded and denuded areas on which it produces excellent results, classifies it among the most important economic species in forestry. The aim of present research is to study intra- and inter-population genetic variation in Austrian pine by the application of biochemical markers. A better knowledge of the genetic potential of Austrian pine populations will enhance the production of seed and planting material, and in this way also the success of a forestation and the establishment of Austrian pine specific-purpose plantations. The polymorphism of protein markers was determined based on the selected genotypes originating from six populations (seed stands), which actually included all Austrian pine populations in Serbia. Based on the derived electrophoregram, qualitative and quantitative differences (number and pattern) in protein fractions were identified and the seed protein profile was constructed for each tree, as well as for each of the six study populations. This showed the 'conservativeness' of some polypeptides, i.e. the presence in all analyzed genotypes. On the other hand, some protein fractions were variable at the population level, and some were variable depending on the population. Based on the electrophoregram, the coefficient of genetic similarity/distance was calculated by comparing the band numbers and patterns. Cluster analysis dendrograms were also constructed. The degree of genetic variation among the provenances was higher than the variation within the provenances. There was also a high genetic variation in seed proteins within the analyzed populations.
SSR markers in characterization of sweet corn inbred lines
Authors: Srdic Jelena , Nikolic Ana , Pajic Zorica
Published: September 2008

Sweet corn differs from field corn in many important traits. So its breeding although includes some standard procedures demand application of techniques that are important for determining special traits, all because of the specificity of its usage. Application of molecular markers becomes almost a necessity for the breeding of sweet corn, especially because this is the type of maize in which still no definitive heterotic patterns have been determined. So getting to know genetic divergence of the sweet corn inbred lines is of great importance for its breeding. In this paper we analyzed genetic similarity of six sweet corn inbreds based on SSR markers. 40 SSR primers were used in DNA amplification. Results were compared and correlated with the data on specific combining ability, obtained by the diallel analysis. The results of SCA were in concurrence with genetic similarity. Values of rank correlation coefficient were negative, indicating that more similar inbred lines had smaller estimates of SCA, and lines that were less similar had higher estimates of SCA. Rank correlation coefficient between SCA and GS according to Dice coefficient was between -0,16 and -0,57*.
Genodiversity of dominant Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. Trifolii isolated from 11 types of soil in Serbia
Authors: Josic Dragana , Milicic Bogic , Mladenovic-Drinic Snezana , Jarak Mirjana
Published: September 2008

Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii is microsymbiont Trifolium pratense and Trifolium repens, which are very important legumes in Serbia. The natural nodulating population of those bacteria was collected and estimated biodiversity distribution by monitoring dominant genotypes of these bacteria. The population of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii were collected from 50 marked locations of 11 types of soil in Serbia. 437 natural isolates, rescued from nodules of Trifolium repens or Trifolium pratense, were analyzed by phenotypic approach. We obtained 156 different isolates on the basis of differences in their IAR - intrinsic antibiotic resistance (five antibiotics) and HMT- heavy methal tolerance (five heavy metals). We investigated 56 dominant isolates with more than three differences in IAR-HMT patterns by REP-PCR and RAPD fingerprinting (AP10 and SPH 1 primers). The results showed genodiversity of dominant Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii field isolates and offered the possibility to assess their changes on marked locations during time and under different environmental conditions and geographical distribution.
A model of a successful utilization of a high genetic potential of maize yield
Authors: Pavlov Milovan , Saratlic Goran , Videnovic Zivorad , Stanisic Zoran
Published: September 2008

The principle of a system, defined as a ZP system, implying corresponding relationship among research, seed production and seed marketing, is that each segment within the system has its tasks and responsibilities, as well as, a clear interest. This system was established at the Maize Research Institute, Zemun Polje, almost half a century ago. The crucial characteristic is that this system encompasses obtained results of scientific accomplishments (patent - a released hybrid), optimal utilisation of the environmental conditions, facilities for seed drying, processing and packing, staff and transport capacities. The ZP system provides the economic interest of all participants in studies and the maize seed production. The fundamental base of the quality seed production within the ZP system is a multidisciplinary programme on maize breeding, as well as, 535 released hybrids with standard and specific traits. According to regulations in foreign countries, approximately 100 ZP maize hybrids have been released abroad. Agroecological conditions in Serbia are favorable for the development of the best genotypes and the production of basic and certified maize seed. There 10 processing plants that apply recent technologies in the maize seed processing procedure. Several generations of experts have been trained and gained experience within the maize seed production. Three seed testing laboratories have been accredited by the International Seed Testing Association. According to regulations in Serbia, monitoring of seed production under field conditions, and further on, during the processing practice is done only by designate authorities. This study presents one of successful systems of the seed production organization applicable in countries with similar conditions.
Lectin-induced alterations of the interaction of insulin and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptors with their ligands
Authors: Masnikosa Romana , Nikolic Anna , Nedic Olgica
Published: September 2008

In order to study whether the carbohydrate moieties of the human placental IGF-I receptor (IGF1R), IGF-II receptor (IGF2R) and insulin receptors (IRs) play a role in ligand binding, solubilised cell membrane preparations were incubated with 125I-labelled IGF-I, IGF-II and insulin in the presence of lectins with different sugar specificities. Three incubation procedures were tested: ligand-first, co-incubation and lectin-first incubation. Wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), concanavalin A (Con A) and phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) altered the binding of IGF-I and insulin to their high-affinity receptors in a lectin specific and dose-dependent manner, whereas these lectins did not affect the interaction of IGF-II with its receptor(s). Moreover, the same lectins either inhibited or enhanced IGF-I and insulin binding, depending on the incubation scheme. These results also suggest that IR-A and IR-B from human placenta might be differently glycosylated.
Synthesis, NMR, DFT and antimicrobial studies of Zn(II) complexes with N-benzyloxycarbonyl-S-alanine
Authors: Mitic Dragana , Miodragovic Djenana , Sladic Dusan , Vitnik Zeljko , Miodragovic Zoran , Andjelkovic Katarina , Radulovic Milanka , Juranic Nenad
Published: September 2008

In this study, the first complexes of Zn(II) with the N-benzyloxycar- bonyl-S-alaninato ligand (N-Boc-S-ala) were synthesized. The new complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, conductometric measurements, IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and 2D-NMR spectroscopy. On the basis of the experimental data, tetrahedral geometry of the Zn(II) complexes was proposed. A very good agreement between the NMR and DFT calculated data was obtained. Investigation of antimicrobial activity of the newly synthesized complexes was also performed. It was established that [Zn(N-Boc-S-ala)2] was selective and acts only on Candida albicans.
Adsorption of itaconic acid from aqueous solutions onto alumina
Authors: Gulicovski Jelena , Cerovic Ljiljana , Milonjic Slobodan , Popovic Ivanka
Published: September 2008

Itaconic acid, IA (C5H6O4), was investigated as a potential flocculant for the aqueous processing of alumina powders. The adsorption of IA, as a function of its concentration and pH value of the solution, onto the alumina surface was studied by the solution depletion method. The stability of the suspensions in the presence of itaconic acid was evaluated in light of the surface charge of the alumina powder used, the degree of dissociation of IA, as well as the sedimentation behavior and rheology of the suspensions. It was found that the adsorption process is extremely pH dependent; the maximum adsorption of IA onto alumina surface occurring at a pH close to the value of the first IA dissociation constant, pKa1. Also, IA does not influence the value of the point of zero charge of alumina. It was shown that IA represents an efficient flocculant for concentrated acidic alumina suspensions.
Sorption of phosphates and thiocyanates on isomorphic substituted Mg/Zn-Al-type hydrotalcites
Authors: Pode Rodica , Popovici Eveline , Cocheci Laura , Reisz Erika , Seftel Mihaela , Pode Vasile
Published: September 2008

The sorption equilibriums of phosphate and thiocyanate anions on isomorphic substituted Mg/Zn-Al-type hydrotalcites were investigated in this study. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were used to interpret the equilibrium data for phosphate. The sorption equilibriums of phosphate on Mg3Al, Mg2ZnAl and Mg1.5Zn1.5Al hydrotalcites were well described by the Langmuir isotherm. The highest maximum sorption capacities for these adsorbents were as follows: 111, 101 and 95 mg g-1. The equilibrium constant and standard Gibbs energy changes were also calculated from the sorption data. Standard Gibbs energy changes of about -20 kJ mol-1 indicated that the process might be considered as physical adsorption. The sorption equilibriums of phosphate on isomorphic substituted samples of MgZn2Al and Zn3Al were well described by the Freundlich isotherm. Thiocyanate showed a relative low affinity for the studied materials, as indicated by both the 'S'-shaped isotherms and low sorption capacities. The sorption of phosphate and thiocyanate on the investigated hydrotalcites showed a continuous decrease of the sorption capacity in the following order: Mg3Al > Mg2ZnAl > Mg1.5Zn1.5Al > MgZn2Al > Zn3Al.
Influence of surface morphology on methanol oxidation at a glassy carbon-supported pt catalyst
Authors: Stevanovic S. , Tripkovic D. , Kowal A. , Minic D. , Jovanovic V.M. , Tripkovic A.
Published: September 2008

Platinum supported on glassy carbon (GC) was used as a model system for studying the influence of the surface morphology of a Pt catalyst on methanol oxidation in alkaline and acidic solutions. Platinum was deposited by the potential step method on GC samples from H2SO4 + H2PtCl6 solution under the same conditions with loadings from 10 to 80 mg cm-2. AFM and STM images of the GC/Pt electrodes showed that the Pt was deposited in the form of 3D agglomerates composed of spherical particles. Longer deposition times resulted in increased growth of Pt forms and a decrease in the specific area of the Pt. The real surface area of Pt increased with loading but the changes were almost negligible at higher loadings. Nevertheless, both the specific and mass activity of platinum supported on glassy carbon for methanol oxidation in acidic and in alkaline solutions exhibit a volcanic dependence with respect to the platinum loading. The increase in the activity can be explained by the increasing the particle size with the loading and thus an increase in the contiguous Pt sites available for adsorption and decomposition of methanol. However, the decrease in the activity of the catalyst with further increase of loading and particle size after reaching the maximum is related to the decrease of active sites available for methanol adsorption and their accessibility as a result of more close proximity and pronounced coalescence of the Pt particles.
Electrodeposition of Fe powder from acid electrolytes
Authors: Maksimovic Vesna , Pavlovic Ljubica , Jovic Borka , Pavlovic Miomir
Published: September 2008

Polarization characteristics of the electrodeposition processes of Fe powders from sulfate and chloride electrolytes and the morphology of the obtained powders were investigated. The morphology depended on the anion pre sence in the electrolyte but not on the current density in the investigated range. A characteristic feature of the dendritic powder with cauliflower endings obtained from sulfate electrolyte is the presence of cone-like cavities and the crystallite morphology of the powders surface. On the other hand, Fe powders electrodeposited from chloride electrolyte appear in the form of agglomerates. A soap solution treatment applied as a method of washing and drying provides good protection from oxidation of the powders.
The thermal stability of poly(methyl methacrylate) prepared by raft polymerisation
Authors: Katsikas Lynne , Avramovic Milena , Cortés Betancourt , Milovanovic Milos , Kalagasidis-Krusic Melina , Popovic Ivanka
Published: September 2008

Poly(methyl methacrylate), PMMA, was prepared by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer, RAFT, polymerisation using 2-(2-cyanopropyl)-dithiobenzoate, CPDB, as the RAFT agent. The thermal stability of the resulting polymer approached that of anionically prepared PMMA, as determined by thermogravimetry. This was the consequence of the RAFT prepared polymer having no head-to-head links and no chain end double bonds, which are responsible for the relatively low thermal stability of radically prepared PMMA.
Potential health risk assessment for soil heavy metal contamination in the central zone of Belgrade (Serbia)
Authors: Grzetic Ivan , Ghariani Ahmed
Published: September 2008

An investigation of the soil quality in the centre of Belgrade was per- formed to define how seriously the soil is polluted. On the basis of the heavy metal content (Zn, Cd, Pb, Co, Ni, Cu, Cr and Mn), the potential health risk assessment calculated for a lifetime of exposure (ingestion and inhalation), based on the USEPA model, was determined as the cumulative carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk for children and adults. The study proved that soil contamination in Belgrade is not insignificant; risk assessment indicated that the carcinogenic risk is completely insignificant but the cumulative non-carcinogenic risk tends to became significant, mainly for children, since it approaches unacceptable values. There is no particularly dangerous single heavy metal, but their cumulative effect, expressed as Child Soil Ingestion Hazardous Index, is for concern.
Innovative approach to laser acupuncture therapy of acute obstruction in asthmatic children
Authors: Nedeljkovic Miroslav , Ljustina-Pribic Radmila , Savic Kosta
Published: September 2008

Introduction A prospective randomized study encompassed 100 patients with asthma in the stage of acute bronchial obstruction, 7 to 17 years of age, of both sexes and with the similar rate of attack seventy. The patients were spirometrically monitored (FVC, FEVl, PEF and FEF 25-75%) by a pediatrician-pulmonologist for 12 days. Fifty patients were subjected to conservative drug therapy, whereas other 50 patients additionally underwent the Su Jok therapy according to the 6-Ki principles, applying laser ray at the acupuncture points in the hand. After 12 days of treatment the group, in which both therapy methods were applied, reached the range of referent values for all investigated parameters. In the same period of time the group undergoing only conservative drug therapy retained values below the reference ones for the given age for 3 (FEVl, PEFR and FEF 25-75%) out of 5 investigated parameters. The obtained results differed from the group subjected to the combined therapy with the high rate of statistical significance. On the basis of the obtained results the efficacy of the 6-Ki technique of Su Jok therapy was confirmed as the therapeutic method supplementary to the conservative drug therapy in the treatment of acute bronchial obstruction in asthmatic children, provided that therapy is carried out in stationary conditions and under constant spirometric surveillance of the patient.
Influence of anatomic variations of the middle nasal meathus on sinonasal diseases
Authors: Buljcik-Cupic Maja , Savovic Slobodan , Jovicevic Jasna
Published: September 2008

Introduction The most common anatomic variations of the structures of the middle nasal meatus are variations of agger nasi cells, variations of the middle turbinate, variations of uncinate process, variations of the ethmoidal bulla, deviations and deformations of nasal septum in the region of the middle nasal meatus, Haller's cell (orbitoethmoidal) and Onodi's cell(sphenoethmoidal cell). In 1997, the Otorhinolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, Tasc Force on Chronic Rhinosinusitis defined chronic sinusitis and nasal disease initially by including sinusitis and rhinitis with one term-chronic rhinosinusitis. This was done because it was apparent to many that nasal disoders often affected the sinuses, and vice versa. Also they established baseline parameters, major and minor signs and symptoms, for definition of rhinosinusitis. Two major factors or one major factor and two minor factors constitute a strong history for rhinosinusitis. Material and methods The following methods were used in the study: 1. Anamnestic data processing about: disease symptoms that were recognired by American Academy for ENT as major and minor criteria in diagnosing nosinusitis; the duration of symptoms; the kind of sinonasal disorder and the secondary disorders. 2. Data processing obtained by anterior/posterior rhinoscopy. 3. Data processing obtained by endoscopic examination. 4. Data processing obtained by CT of paranasal cavities and the nose. The data about anatomic variations were statistically processed by Eives's correlation coefficient that indicates the degree of correlation between sinonasal disorders and anatomic variation. Results By analyzing the obtained data in the examined patients with sinonasal disorders, anatomic variations were present in over 50% of the patients and are defined by percentage. I. The deviation of nasal septum in 83.33% patients. 2. The variations of the form of the middle nasal chonha in 58.92% patients. 3. The presence of agger nasi cells in 50% patients. 4. Variations of the form of ethomoidal bulla in 50% patients. Eives's correlation coefficient i.e. the degree of correlation between sinonasal disorders and the presence of anatomic variation statistically significantly correlate at r >/= ft 05 of anatomic variation of the middle nasal chonha (r =0.23) and the presence of deviation/deformation of nasal septum (r = 0.6) with sinonasal disorders. Discussion and conclusion Anatomic variations of the structures of the middle nasal meatus can additionally complicate the anatomy of the lateral nasal wall and the conditions of the ostiomeatal unit. Therefore we must view these variations as factors predisposing to more rapid and frequent appearance and persistence of chronic inflammations. Also, familiary with the variations in sinonasal anatomy is a prerequisite to safe and effective surgical treatment of sinonasal disease. Recognition of this anatomic variation should minimize catastrophic violation of vital structures such as orbit or skull base.
Children migraine syndrome: Definition and classification through the time
Authors: Knezevic-Pogancev Marija
Published: September 2008

Introduction Even today, the migraine syndrome is not completely defined knowing that it does not have either clear laboratory correlate or objectively defining marker. There is a great number of differential diagnostic references to define and classify migraine headaches; from Galen to ICHD-II (International Classification of Headache Disorders), from September 2003. Migraine syndrome represents a current problem of both pediatrics and children *s neurology. The aim of this paper is to understand and define the migraine syndrome among children through the history of medical science, in order to enable the interpretation of the most acceptable defining and classification criteria of the children migraine syndrome. Definition and classification Sensory, vegetative and affective phenomena of migraine, recognizable only among people, with striking quantitative and qualitative variations depending on the patient, define the migraine syndrome of children in general. There are no completely reliable principles or guidelines which would enable the accurate, precise and quick diagnosis, or differential diagnosis of children's migraine syndrome. Vahlquist is the first one to give special criteria to diagnose children's headache. His criteria were invalid because of insisting on headaches being unilateral. Classification criteria for migraine in children were given by Bille in 1962, Prensky in 1976, Deubner in 1977, Congdon and Forsythe in 1979, Tomasi in 1980, Sillanappa in 1982, Kurt: and Barlow in 1984, Hockaday in 1988. 1HS classification was brought by consensus in 1988, and it was last modified in September 2003, when a consensus was reached about applying the ICHD-II International Classification of Headache Disorders. Conclusion Being insufficiently defined and incompletely etiologically, clinically and therapeutically clear, children's migraine syndrome represents a striking example of interdisciplinary, scientific, health, practical and clinical entity. The degree of interest in children's migraine syndrome is directly dependent on the level of social and health standards within the society.
Review of identified factors influencing contraceptive use
Authors: Bjelica Artur , Trninic-Pjevic Aleksandra
Published: September 2008

Introduction It is necessary to know the factors that influence contraceptive behavior in order to overcome obstacles of contraceptive use by implementing modern family planning programs that have to be based on logistic management and directed to the client. The factor isolated till now are systematized into the two groups: the socio-demographic factors - to a greater extent associated with developing countries and the psychological factors -mainly related to developed countries. Socio-demographic f actors of the contraceptive use The most significant socio-demographic determinants of contraceptive behavior appear to be the age, women's educational level but even the educational level of the husband/partner, occupation, environment (urban/rural), some cultural factors, and high price of contraceptives. Psychological variables as a factor of contraceptive (non)use In the group of psychological variables that influence contraceptive use it is possible to distinguish: the presence of illusion of fertility control, locus of control, level of Ego maturity, femininity and masculinity, i.e. the accepted gender roles, level of self-acceptance. The majority of the factors show that the presence of personal initiative and assertiveness are associated with higher level of contraception use.
Rectal cancer: Possibilities of MRI in detection of local recurrence
Authors: Miucin-Vukadinovic Ivana , Kozic Dusko , Adjic Oto , Radovanovic Zoran , Breberina Milan , Bokorov Bojana
Published: September 2008

Introduction Treatment of rectal cancer, which includes periodic evaluations, may lead to earlier identification of recurrent local infiltration. Differentiation between local recurrence and other post radiation changes is frequently rather difficult. Pelvic MR examination was performed in 30 patients (20 men, 10 women) at the Institute of oncology, Sremska Kamenica. All patients underwent surgical resection of rectal cancer at the same institution. Preoperative or postoperative radiation therapy was administrated in 29 patients (93%). Criteria for detection of local recurrent tumors were based on morphologic changes, such as the presence of tumor infiltration, size increase of the mass and the change of the mass shape. Recurrent tumor infiltration was detected in 50% patents. Tumors of low differentiation histological type was predominantly found within 10 months after surgery, while moderately differentiated and high differentiated types were detected within 20 months and after 20 months after resection, respectively. Pelvic MR examination represents important diagnostic modality for recurrent rectal cancer identification.
Correlation between C-reactive protein levels with leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease in men
Authors: Mirjanic-Azaric Bosa , Djeric Mirjana , Vrhovac Maja , Males-Bilic Ljiljana
Published: September 2008

Introduction The aim of this study was to estimate the correlation between C-reactive protein levels and leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease in men. Material and methods The study included 183 working capable men chosen randomly from the regular systematical check-up in Health Centre Banja Luka in 2006. Standard laboratory methods were used to establish the following: total cholesterol, triglyceride and HDL-cholesterol level and LDL-cholesterol level was calculated. . High sensitive C-reactive protein level was measured by immunuturbidimetric method CRP (Latex) HS Roche Diagnostic. Results Average values of high sensitive C-reactive protein for the whole group was 1.69 mg/L, total cholesterol 5.73 mmol/L, HDL-cholesterol 1.38 mmol/L, LDL-cholesterol 3.40 mmol/L. The average value for the systolic blood pressure was 132.9 mmHg, dyastolic blood pressure 85.4 mmHg, and body mass index 28.47 kg/m2. Out of the overall number of examinees, 74 were smokers (40.4%) and 109 (59.6%) nonsmokers. The statistical analysis showed that there was a statistically significant difference between C-reactive protein level in the group with dyastolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg and above (p<0.05); as well as statistically significant difference between the group with desirable body mass index and the group with increased BMI(p<0.05). Discussion The results of our study show that there is a significant correlation between CRP levels and high blood pressure, and in persons with increased body mass index. However, there was no correlation between CRP levels and total cholesterol HDL and LDL cholesterol levels. Conclusion High sensitive CRP screening is useful in early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Evaluation of myocardial function in the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy in athletes and hypertensive patients
Authors: Deljanin-Ilic Marina , Ilic Stevan , Djordjevic Dragan , Zdravkovic Marija , Ilic Vladimir
Published: September 2008

Introduction Myocardial hypertrophy of the left ventricle may be of physiological or pathological nature. Distinction of these two types of hypertrophy is sometimes not easy and represents a diagnostic challenge. The aim of the study was to assess global diastolic and regional systolic and diastolic myocardial function in the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy in athletes and hypertensive patients. Material and methods In 18 male hypertensive patients and 14 male athletes global diastolic left ventriclar function and regional systolic and diastolic myocardial function of septum and posterior wall were investigated by pulsed wave tissue Doppler imaging. Results Ejection fraction and left ventricle mass index did not differ significantly between two groups. Hypertensive patients were found to have diastolic dysfunction while athletes had normal left ventricular diastolic function (the difference between the groups was P<0.00001). Index of regional diastolic function of septum as well as of the posterior wall was significantly less in hypertensive patients than in athletes (P<0.00001 for both). In spite of the normal global systolic function the regional systolic function of septum and posterior wall was significantly less in hypertensive patients than in athletes (P<0.02for both). Conclusion The present results show significantly less global and regional diastolic function of hypertrophied myocardium in hypertensive patients than in athletes. In the presence of preserved left ventricular systolic function, the quantification of myocardial velocity revealed significantly lower regional systolic function of septum and posterior wall in hypertensive patients than in athletes.
Contribution of physicians from Vojvodina to establishing Health service in Serbia and founding and working of Medical Society of Serbia
Authors: Maksimovic Jovan
Published: September 2008

It was in the middle of the J 8th century, when Serbia started the process of getting independent from the long-lasting period of the Turkish rule, that the necessity for the organized health care emerged. Despite the fact that it had not existed before, the process advanced rather quickly regarding the contemporary political, social and cultural conditions and the Medical Society of Serbia (MSS) was founded in Belgrade on the 22nd of April, 1872. Although it is known that the doctors from Vojvodina, which was an integral part of Austria of that time, contributed significantly to establishing both the civil and military medical service, this period of our medical history has neither been searched enough nor published in one piece. The author of this paper points out four characteristic activity segments through which the doctors from Vojvodina gave their contribution. An important role in health education and promotion of health culture in the still vassal Serbia was played by the doctors from Vojvodina and popular educators at the very beginnings of the health journalism in Serbian which reached Serbia from Austria. Somewhat later the doctors of Vojvodina went to Serbia to contribute to the establishment and promotion of the civil and military medical services and to take an active part in the Inaugural Meeting and the forthcoming activities of the Medical Society of Serbia. They were also among the initiators and first teachers at the Medical Faculty in Belgrade. This paper highlights and encircles a very important period of our national health culture history by analyzing thoroughly the four above mentioned segments of activities and their protagonists.
Linkage between interests and verbal fluency of primary school pupils
Authors: Maksic Slavica , Tenjovic Lazar
Published: September 2008

The incentive for studying the linkage between interests and creativity is based on the results of biographical studies that indicate that highly creative individuals had wider and more intensive interests than their peers already in the period of childhood. In the process of defining interests, the child tests his/her capacities and discovers the domain in which he/she will later provide creative contributions. The subject of this paper is the linkage between interests of primary school pupils and their verbal fluency, as basic characteristic of creative thinking. It was determined that the wideness of the span of interests is positively correlated with verbal fluency, whereby the correlation between interests and verbal fluency is somewhat higher for boys (r= 0.33, p = .007) than for girls (r = 0.24, p = .030). Also, the intensity of scientific interest of boys and girls is significantly correlated with their verbal fluency (for boys: = 0.39; for girls: r=0.35). But, when school achievement is statistically controlled, the correlation between the intensity of scientific interests and verbal fluency remains significant for boys, while it disappears for girls. It was concluded that the results confirmed the theoretical assumptions about the importance of interest in creativity and pointed out to the need for paying attention to the effect of gender. Besides the span and intensity of interests, the domain in which interests are manifested and creativity is measured is also important for the linkage with creativity.
Some indicators of (un)successful reading
Authors: Vuksanovic Jasmina , Jovanovic Aleksandra , Avramovic-Ilic Irena , Petrovic Boban
Published: September 2008

In the paper we set the aim to determine whether phonological awareness and short-term verbal memory are indicators of a subsequent reading acquisition. The sample consisted of 194 first graders from two primary schools in Belgrade. The results of our research showed that the most significant indicator of the subsequent (un)successful reading was phonological awareness. The short-term verbal memory is, to a lesser extent, an indicator of the subsequent reading acquisition defined by the time needed for reading the text and by the text comprehension. Our findings offer basis for proposing that the phonological awareness assessment should be implemented into the regular procedure of assessing child's readiness for school. In this way children in need for preventive stimulation within the inclusive programme in primary schools could be identified.