bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eglise - société - Etat L’Église orthodoxe serbe à la fin du XXe et au début du XXIe siècle
Authors: Bojovic Bosko
Published: March 2012

Au cours du dernier tiers du XXe si?cle les institutions
religieuses ont parcouru subrepticement le chemin entre marginalisation et
passage au premier plan de la sc?ne publique des pays en transition. La fin
des id?ologies s?est sold?e par la mise en place des identit?s
communautaristes. Alors que dans les d?mocraties lib?rales le fait religieux
est caract?ris? par la formule believing without belonging, les choses sont
diam?tralement oppos?es dans les soci?t?s en transition. Minoritaire avant la
fin des ann?es quatre-vingts, l?appartenance confessionnelle atteint ainsi
94% lors du recensement de 2003 en Serbie-Mont?negro. L?appartenance ? la
confession majoritaire se situe autour de 50% d?une population dans un pays
comme la France, le point commun avec la Serbie ?tant que quelques 4%
seulement se d?clarent pratiquants. La sp?cificit? des pays en transition
tardive comme la Serbie, o? le cat?chisme a ?t? introduit en 2000, dix ans
apr?s la Croatie et la Bosnie-Herz?govine, soul?ve la question de la
cl?ricalisation rapide de la soci?t? en contrepartie de la s?cularisation et
de la politisation des communaut?s confessionnelles. ? d?faut d?un projet de
soci?t?, en moins de temps que dans les autres pays en transition, les
institutions religieuses se sont mues en supports id?ologiques des autorit?s
politiques affaiblies, en g?n?ratrices des restructurations des identit?s
ethno-confessionnelles, en piliers des coh?sions communautaires, en
institutions pilotes de consensus sociaux. Cela explique qu?une analyse de ce
processus d?histoire de soci?t? n?est pas seulement ? m?me de nous ?clairer
sur notre pass? le plus r?cent, mais encore sur le devenir du pr?sent qui est
le n?tre ? l?horizon de nouveaux ?largissements europ?ens.
Effects of drying method and particle size on the antioxidant properties of leaves and teas of Morus alba, Lagerstroemia speciosa and Thunbergia laurifolia
Authors: Eric Wei , Phui Yan , Lea Ngar , Suit Ying , Yuen Ping , Zhiew Cheng
Published: March 2012

Antioxidant properties (AOP) of leaves and teas of Morus alba L.,
Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers. and Thunbergia laurifolia Lindl. as
affected by microwave, oven and freeze drying were assessed. Total phenolic
content (TPC), radical scavenging ability expressed as ascorbic acid
equivalent capacity (AEAC) and ferric reducing power (FRP) were screened
using the Folin-Ciocalteu, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and potassium
ferricyanide assays, respectively. The effects of particle size were also
investigated. Microwave drying resulted in enhanced AOP in M. alba and T.
laurifolia. Oven drying resulted in declined AOP in T. laurifolia with M.
alba and L. speciosa relatively unchanged. Significant increase in AOP was
observed in freeze-dried leaves of M. alba with L. speciosa and T. laurifolia
showing no change or slight increase. TPC, AEAC and FRP of ground microwave-,
oven- and freeze-dried leaves of M. alba extracted with 50% methanol were
significantly higher than shredded leaves. For tea infusions extracted with
hot water, three categories were recognised, i.e. species with shredded
leaves yielding stronger AOP (M. alba), species with ground leaves yielding
stronger AOP (L. speciosa), and species with ground and shredded leaves
yielding comparable AOP (T. laurifolia).
Synthesis and photovoltaic properties of octacarboxy-metallophthalocyanine dyes applied in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Jin Ling , Chen Wei , Chen Dajun
Published: March 2012

A series of octacarboxy-metallophthalocyanine dyes, i.e., MgOCPc, MnOCPc,
FeOCPc and ZnOCPc with different central metal ions were designed and
synthesized by microwave irradiation. The effects of the introduction of
different metal ions with variant 3d orbitals (3d0, 3d5, 3d6, and 3d10,
respectively) in the centre of the phthalocyanine rings on the thermal,
photophysical, and electrochemical properties of
octacarboxy-metallophthalocyanines were characterized and evaluated in
details. The results showed that ZnOCPc and MgOCPc with closed-shell metal
ions and FeOCPc with an open-shell metal ion had excellent thermal property.
However, MnOCPc with a half-full-shell metal ion had a lowest decomposition
temperature and largest Q band red shifts. By theoretical calculation, the
energy gaps of MgOCPc, MnOCPc, FeOCPc and ZnOCPc were 0.11, 0.10, 0.20 and
0.22V, respectively. Applied in TiO2 nanocrystalline dye-sensitized solar
cells (DSSC), the photovoltaic properties of the four dyes were obtained
under AM1.5 irradiation (100 mW cm-2).
Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Penjaskovic Davor , Sakac Dejan , Dejanovic Jovanka , Zec Radovan , Zec-Petkovic Nada , Stojsic-Milosavljevic Anastazija
Published: March 2012

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), which is a cluster of medical disorders, is common
and it is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between
characteristics of metabolic syndrome and the grade of diastolic dysfunction.
The study included 72 patients (29 male and 43 female), who had central
obesity and at least two of the other four characteristics of metabolic
syndrome according to IDF (International Diabetes Federation) criteria. The
exclusion criteria were age above 65, impaired systolic function (left
ventricular ejection fraction <55%), atrial fibrillation, valvular and
pericardial heart disease. Diastolic function was determined according to the
criteria of the American Society of Echocardiography. There was a positive
correlation between the number of characteristics of metabolic syndrome and
the diastolic dysfunction grade (p<0.0001). The positive correlation was
found between the grade of diastolic dysfunction and the waist circumference
(p<0.0001), arterial hypertension (p<0.001), pared glucose tolerance/diabetes
(P=0.0063), and hypertriglyceridemia (p=0.0262). A low level of high-density
lipoprotein did not show a statistically significant correlation. The
presence of metabolic syndrome is associated with the presence of diastolic
dysfunction. The grade of diastolic dysfunction is dependent on the number of
coexisting characteristics of metabolic syndrome. Arterial hypertension,
central obesity, hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia showed a significant
correlation with the degree of diastolic dysfunction.
Differences in the outcome of disease between patients diagnosed with 1st and recurrent stroke after two years of monitoring
Authors: Antic Ivan , Petrovic Branislav , Rancic Natasa
Published: March 2012

Introduction. A stroke is the most common neurological disorder, and the most
common cause of severe disability. The aim of this study was to establish the
incidence and recurrence of the stroke among the population of the Doljevac
district, as well as the differences in the outcome of disease between the
patients diagnosed with the first and recurrent stroke. Material and Methods.
A prospective examination was carried out, and the study included all
patients with the first and recurrent stroke in the territory of the Doljevac
district (population, 19529) in the period from 2004 to 2008, after two years
of monitoring. Results. During the observed period, the total number of the
affected people was 380, of whom 182 (47.89%) were males, and 198 (52.10%)
were females. The overall standardized incidence rate of the stroke was
270.20, and with recurrences - 42.03. Among the patients with the first
stroke, we recorded a higher number of survivals (?2 =3.99; p=0.04) and
patients with recurrences in a one-year period (?2 =5.29; p=0.02), as well as
in a two-year period (?2 =7.72; p=0.00) since the beginning of the disease.
Among the patients with recurrences, we recorded a higher demand for medical
help in home healthcare environment (?2 =4.97; p=0.02), and the higher
onemonth (?2 =12.09; p=0.00), and one-year lethality (?2 =9.03; p=0.00).
Among the patients with recurrences, there were no differences in the
diagnosis of the first and recurrent stroke (p>0.05). Conclusion. This study
showed that there were no statistical differences in the incidence between
the first and recurrent stroke between the sexes (p>0.05). Among the
patients with the first stroke, we recorded a higher tendency for survival,
and frequent cases of recurrence, and among those with recurrences, the rate
of mortality was higher.
Idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Jandric Slavica
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Idiopathic scoliosis is a structural and lateral curvature of
the spine for which a currently recognizable cause has not been found and
there is no basic evidence for physical and radiographic pathology.
Complications. Scoliosis could be a cause of the back pain, deformities,
respiratory and cardiology problems. There is a higher risk for decreasing of
bone mineral density. Diagnosis and Management. Physical examination,
radiography and stereophotogrametry are used in diagnostics of idiopathic
scoliosis. The management of idiopathic scoliosis can be conservative or
operative. The main forms of conservative management are: therapy exercises,
electrical stimulation and spinal orthosis. The primary aim of scoliosis
management is to stop curvature progression. The improvement of pulmonary
function (vital capacity) and treatment of pain are also of major importance.
The guidelines for Conservative Management of Scoliosis. The International
Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment gave the
guidelines for conservative management of scoliosis. Conservative management
of scoliosis includes: a) Lyonaise, Side-Shift, Dobosiewicz, Schroth and
other kinesitherapy methods, b) scoliosis intensive rehabilitation which
appears to be effective with respect to many signs and symptoms of scoliosis
and with respect to impeding curvature progression and c) brace treatment,
which has been found to be effective in preventing curvature progression and
thus in altering the natural history of idiopathic scoliosis. Conclusion. The
International Society has given the standards for kinesitherapy, intensive
rehabilitation and spinal orthosis in clinical practice and clinical
investigations. Surgical procedures can improve curves in the frontal plane,
but have important limitations in maintaining fixation and achieving
correction in other planes.
Obturator approach in the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence using tension - free transvaginal tape
Authors: Djurdjevic Srdjan , Mladenovic-Segedi Ljiljana , Curcic Aleksandar , Pantelic Milos , Maksimovic Marko
Published: March 2012

The study reviews the surgical treatment results of urinary stress
incontinence in the group of 51 female patients, in whom the tension-free
transvaginal tape was placed beneath the middle part of urethra using
obturator approach during the period from 2005 to 2009. The method of surgery
applied in all patients was obturator approach (?inside-out? method sec. de
Leval), using a synthetic tension-free transvaginal prolen tape. After the
sub-urethral tunnel had been created by scissors, the obturator membrane was
perforated, then the placement of wing guides followed, through which helical
needles with synthetic tape were brought to the skin. The following
complications were observed in 8 (15.7%) patients: erosion of tape in 2
(3.9%), urine retention in 2 (3.9%), bleeding from the site of incision in 1
(1.9%) and transitory leg pain in 3 (5.8%) cases. Two years after the
surgery, 43 (84.3%) patients were dry, 4 (7.8%) patients showed a significant
improvement, while the recurrence was recorded in 4 (7.8%) operated patients.
Importance of haemovigilance and reports on transfusion reaction in blood component therapy
Authors: Grujic Jasmina , Gulan Zdravko , Budakov Zorana
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Application of blood and blood components throughout decades is
very successful and mostly safe procedure in patients? therapy. However, it
may lead to unfavourable effects, such as transfusion reactions. Material and
Methods. In the period from 2000 to 2009, 180 transfusion reactions were
reported at the Department of Clinical Transfusion of the Service for Blood
Transfusion of Vojvodina in Novi Sad. The aetiology of transfusion reactions
was determined by examining pretransfusion and post-transfusion sample of
patient?s blood and by examining the unit of blood component that induced
reaction. Results. Out of 180 reported transfusion reactions, 98 (54.4%) were
febrile non-haemolytic transfusion reactions, 69 (38.3%) allergic reactions
and 2 (1.11%) haemolytic reactions. Blood components that caused most of
transfusion reactions were erythrocytes (62.4%), fresh frozen plasma (11.2%)
and platelets (14.4%). All patients underwent multiple transfusions.
Discussion. The fact that only 0.13% transfusion reactions were reported,
compared with data from literature (2-15%), points to the lack of regular
reporting of transfusion reactions, as well as the fact that there is only
one report of delayed transfusion reaction. Conclusions. To improve and make
blood transfusion safer it is necessary to respect all pre-transfusion
procedures, constant follow up of blood transfusion must be done and patients
with diagnosed non-haemolytic transfusion reaction should be given leukocyte
reduced blood components.
Functional hearing results in patients with otosclerosis before and after stapedotomy
Authors: Dankuc Dragan , Pejakovic Nemanja , Komazec Zoran , Vlaski Ljiljana
Published: March 2012

Surgical treatment of otosclerosis with stapedotomy leads to the improvement
of subjective and objective problems in patients with otosclerosis. A
prospective study included patients who had been treated surgically at the
Department for Ear, Nose and Throat in Novi Sad in the period from September
2006 to September 2007. On the basis of the appropriate diagnostic
procedures, 33 patients were diagnosed with otosclerosis. Functional hearing
was assessed before and after surgery by means of pure tone audiometry. The
comparison of functional results before and after surgery revealed no changes
in pure tone average of bone conduction threshold (average hearing threshold
for hearing range), whereas pure tone average of air conduction and pure tone
average of the gap showed statistically significant improvement. The results
of this study demonstrated the applicability of stapedotomy as a method for
successful management of otosclerosis. This way of examination offers a new
perspective on patients? health, which should be defined as a physical,
psychosocial and social well-being, and not only the absence of a disease
itself.
Acute osteomyelitis and septic arthritis of the shoulder in premature neonates: Report of two cases
Authors: Matic Aleksandra , Gajdobranski Djordje , Petkovic Lazar , Velisavljev-Filipovic Gordana , Ristivojevic Andjelka
Published: March 2012

Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis and septic arthritis are pyogenic infections
of bone and joint, respectively. At the youngest age, they usually occur at
the same time - hence the common name ?osteoarthritis?. When it comes to
neonates, osteoarthritis is an infrequent finding, but it can give a
permanent disability and can be even fatal unless early recognized and
adequately and promptly treated. An early diagnosis is rather challenging
because the signs and symptoms of this disease are subtle and/or nonspecific.
The therapy involves a combination of intravenous antimicrobial therapy in
high doses and of sufficient duration, with a mandatory decompression of
affected joint by needle aspiration or artrhrotomy. The aim of this paper is
to present two premature newborns with rare localization of osteoarthritis -
the humerus and shoulder joint, as well as to point to the modern diagnostic
and therapeutic approach to this disease.
Pathohistological changes in fetuses with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Djolai Matilda , Boskovic Tamara , Levakov Aleksandra , Mocko-Kacanski Mihaela , Andrejic Bojana , Trivunic Sandra
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Cystic fibrosis or mucoviscidosis is a genetically caused
disease. The intensity of disease and histopathological changes grow
throughout the life. According to the literature, pathological changes
characteristic of cystic fibrosis become noticeable around the sixth month of
life. Case Report. After amniocentesis of a 5-lunar month-old fetus had been
done, which confirmed cystic fibrosis, the Ethics Commission approved the
preterm labor. The autopsy and histopathological analysis demonstrated the
existence of typical histopathological changes in the pancreas and
intestines. Discussion. In the late fetal period or during the period around
the delivery, cystic fibrosis is usually manifested as meconial cap with or
without obstruction of the intestinal lumen. Morphological changes in the
exocrine glands usually develop only after birth. In this case, the existence
of meconial obstruction, as well as the typical acidofil content in the
secretory ducts and acini of the pancreas was confirmed, which is unusual for
the fetal age of five months.
From stages to varieties of capitalism: Lessons, limits and prospects
Authors: Özveren Eyüp , Havuç Utku , Karaoğuz Emrah
Published: March 2012

The basic aim of this paper is to take a tour de force in order to put the
varieties of capitalism (VoC) approach in perspective and to assess its
limits and further prospects. There existed before it a certain stages-of
capitalism (SoC) approach with a long history. The SoC approach developed
largely under the influence of social and anthropological stage theories of
progress and of Marxism. Accordingly, capitalism as a mode of production was
perceived as progressing through commercial, industrial, and financial stage.
In this paper, this link will be recovered for the benefit of further
scholarship. We emphasize that the VoC approach, by the weight it puts on
efficiency tends to rank circumstantially the variety at issue, thereby
implying occasionally a desirable move towards the more efficient form. This
means that the elements forming a given variety may actually be matched with
the successive stages of a certain progress.
Intertemporal solvency of Turkey’s current account
Authors: Binatli Oğuş , Sohrabji Niloufer
Published: March 2012

We test for sustainability of Turkey?s current account position between 1987
and 2009 using the intertemporal solvency model of Craig S. Hakkio and Mark
Rush (1991) and Steven Husted (1992). According to this approach, the
intertemporal budget constraint is satisfied if there is cointegration
between exports and imports+ (which include imports, net interest income and
unilateral transfer payments). We test for, and find evidence of,
cointegration using the standard Johansen test as well as the Allan W.
Gregory and Bruce Hansen (1996) test. The latter allows for a structural
break in the cointegrating relation. Further, dynamic GLS estimation shows a
statistically significant relation between exports and imports+, although, we
reject strong current account sustainability. Our evidence suggests that
Turkey remains vulnerable to reversals in capital flows, but we believe this
vulnerability will diminish as the service component of trade increases.
Comparative analysis based on new competitiveness index
Authors: Savic Nebojsa
Published: March 2012

The current economic crisis points out to an even greater need to improve
competitiveness. Since 2005, numerous developing countries have succeeded in
increasing their competitiveness scores and decreasing the difference
relative to advanced countries. The countries of Central and South Eastern
Europe, to which Serbia belongs, have recorded an increase in their score by
0.3 on average, whereby the region of South Eastern Europe has achieved
poorer results. During the period 2005-2011, Serbia recorded an increase in
its score by 0.5, from 3.38 to 3.88. In 2011, Serbia was ranked 95th among
142 countries, with the score of 3.88. This is a decline relative to 2008 and
2005, when Serbia was ranked 85th with the scores of 3.38 and 3.90
respectively. However, this increase was not sufficient to improve Serbia?s
ranking, which shows that other countries were more successful. This faces
Serbia with the task to strengthen its efforts towards improving
competitiveness.
The effect of antiaggregational therapy on the long-term patency of the femoropopliteal/crural bypass
Authors: Vasic Dragan , Radmili Oliver , Davidovic Lazar , Vranes Milica
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Antiaggregational therapy can reduce thrombosis development
following the arterial reconstruction surgery. In most cases acetylsalicylic
acid and ticlopidine are used as antiaggregational agents. Objective. The aim
of this research was to examine the influence of different antiaggregational
agents on a long-term femoropopliteal/crural bypass patency. Methods. The
study involved 142 patients who underwent femoropopliteal/crural bypass
reconstructions at the Cardiovascular Disease Institute of the Clinical
Centre of Serbia. Most patient were operated on in the period from December
2007 to December 2009; however, the study also included a certain number of
patients who had undergone surgery 1-7 years earlier, and who were
postsurgically under a regular check-up and examination. Depending on the
administered antiaggregational agents, three groups of the patients were
formed: 1) patients on 100 mg/daily acetylsalicylic acid; 2) patients on
2C250 mg/ daily ticlopidine; and 3) patients on 100 mg/daily acetylsalicylic
acid combined with 2C250 mg/daily ticlopidine. Results. Among the formed
groups in our study, there was no statistically significant difference in the
femoropopliteal/crural bypass long-term patency, and the obtained patency
values for each group were in accordance to the data from the literature.
Conclusion. The first-choice antiaggregative agent after surgical
infrainguinal arterial reconstruction procedures was found to be
acetylsalicylic acid as compared to ticlopidin for at least two reasons: low
cost and absence of neuthropenia as a side-effect.
Transobturator tension-free “inside-to-out” suburethral sling procedure for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Laketic Darko , Veljkovic Andrej , Laketic Vesna
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Stress urinary incontinence is an involuntary leakage of urine
on a sudden increase of intra-abdominal pressure by physical activity,
exercise, coughing, sneezing or laughing. Objective. To assess symptoms,
functional and anatomical status of voiding function, complications and short
term success of a novel procedure, tension-free vaginal tape obturator
technique (TVT-O) in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. Methods. A
prospective study was performed on 40 female patients who underwent the TVT-O
suburethral sling at the Urology Department of the Health Centre in Prokuplje
and Urology Hospital in Nis between May 2009 and February 2010. The mean
patients? age was 58 years (range 34-84 years). Preoperative evaluation
included a detailed history and gynaecologic examination including urodynamic
testing and voiding studies.UDI-6 and UIQ-7 score testing was performed
before, and six months after surgery. All patients who demonstrated stress
urinary incontinence with a Q-tip test-angle during maximal straining were
included into the study. Postoperatively, outcomes evaluation included
voiding function, anatomical parameters, complications, as well as subjective
success rates. Results. In 30 patients surgery was performed under spinal and
in ten under general anaesthesia. The average intraoperative blood loss
during the TVT-O was minimal (<50 ml). There were no vascular, bladder,
bowel, and neurological injuries. Thirty-eight patients (95%) were discharged
voiding satisfactorily. There was a statistically significant difference in
symptoms between UDI-6 and UIQ-7 before and after surgery. Conclusion.
Initial experience with TVT-O suburethral sling is promising. The TVT-O
differs from retropubic procedures by resulting in lower postoperative
morbidity, intraoperative and postoperative complications.
Influence of moderate physical activity on the levels of plasma lipoproteins in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance
Authors: Petkovic-Koscal Milanka , Damjanov Vlasta , Djonovic Nela
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Physical activity and healthy diet, as lifestyle factors, are
essential components in the prevention of chronic noncommunicable diseases.
Impared glucose intolerance (IGT) is an independent cardiovascular risk
factor. Dyslipidaemia is a cardiometabolic risk factor for the development of
type 2 diabetes mellitus. Objective. The aim of the study was to investigate
the influence of moderate physical activity of plasma lipoprotein indicators
in high-risk subjects for diabetes mellitus during one-year planned
intervention. Methods. We randomly assigned 60 overweight subjects with IGT
aged 30-60 years. The subjects were divided into intervention group with 30
subjects, who were intensively and individually instructed on weight
reduction, nutrition and increased physical activity, and control group with
30 subjects, who were counselled, as standard, on nutrition and increased
exercise. Total cholesterol (TC), LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL cholesterol
(HDL-C) and triglycerides (Tg) were measured at the beginning of the study,
and at 2 months, 6 months, and at the end of the study (12 months). Results.
Compared to the beginning of the study, after 2 and 6 months there was no
statistically significant difference in serum lipid values. After 12 months,
the average values of the measured lipid levels in the intervention group
decreased by 18.36% for TC, 27.3% for LDL-C, and 34.2% for Tg (compared to
10.27%, 13.45%, and 10.4%, respectively in the control group). Value of HDL-C
in the intervention group increased by 19.12%, and decreased in the control
group by 1.48%. Total/HDL-C ratio was reduced by 30.6% and LDL-C/H by 38.1%
in the intervention group (compared to 12.36%, and 15.9% in the control
group). After 12 months, significantly greater decrease in TC (p<0.01), LDL-C
(p<0.01) and Tg (p<0.0001) and significantly greater increase in HDL-C
(p<0.05) was detected in the intervention group compared to the control
group. Conclusion. Plasma lipoproteins can be significantly decreased by
changes in the lifestyles of high-risk subjects during one-year planned
intervention.
Walking at speeds close to the preferred transition speed as an approach to obesity treatment
Authors: Ilic Dusko , Ilic Vladimir , Mrdakovic Vladimir , Filipovic Nenad
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Increasing energy expenditure through certain exercise is an
important component of effective interventions to enhance initial weight loss
and prevent weight regain. Objective. The purpose of this study was to
determine the effect of a 16-week weight loss exercise programme on
morpho-functional changes in female adults and to examine the programme
effects on two subpopulations with different levels of obesity. Methods.
Fifty-six middle-aged women were divided into 2 groups according to their
body mass index (BMI): 25-29.9 kg/m2 - overweight (OW) and ?30 kg/m2 - obese
(OB). The exercise protocol included a walking technique based on hip
rotation at horizontal plane at speeds close to the preferred transition
speed (PTS). At the initiation of the study and after 16 weeks of the
programme, anthropometric, morphological and cardiovascular parameters of all
subjects were assessed. The main effects of Group (OW and OB) and Time and
the interaction effect of Group by Time were tested by time repeated measures
General Linear Model (mixed between-within subjects ANOVA). Results. Mean
weight loss during the programme was 10.3 kg and 20.1 kg in OW and OB,
respectively. The average fat mass (FM) loss was 9.4 kg in OW and 16.9 kg in
OB. The Mixed ANOVA revealed a significant Group by Time interaction effects
for waist circumference, body weight, body water, fat free mass, FM, %FM and
BMI (p<0.05). Conclusion. The applied exercise protocol has proved as
beneficial in the treatment of obesity, since it resulted in a significant
weight loss and body composition changes. The reduction in body weight was
achieved mainly on account of the loss of fat mass.
Brugada syndrome: Case report
Authors: Bisenic Vesna , Hinic Sasa , Krotin Mirjana , Milovanovic Branislav , Saric Jelena , Milasinovic Goran
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Brugada syndrome is an arrhythmogenic disease characterized by
coved ST segment elevation and J point elevation of at least 2 mm in at least
two of the right precordial ECG leads (V1-3) and ventricular arrhythmias,
syncope, and sudden death. Risk stratifications of patients with Brugada
electrocardiogram are being strongly debated. Case Outline. A 23-year-old man
was admitted to the Coronary Care Unit of the Clinical Centre ?Bezanijska
kosa? due to weakness, fatigue and chest discomfort. The patient suffered
from fainting and palpitations. There was a family history of paternal sudden
death at 36 years. Electrocardiogram showed a coved ST segment elevation of 4
mm in leads V1 and V2, recognised as spontaneous type 1 Brugada pattern.
Laboratory investigations revealed normal serum cardiac troponin T and serum
potassium, and absence of inflammation signs. Echocardiographic finding was
normal, except for a mild enlargement of the right atrium and ventricle. The
diagnosis of Brugada syndrome was made by Brugada-type 1 electrocardiogram
and the family history of sudden death <45 years. The patient was considered
as a high risk, because of pre-syncope and palpitations. He underwent ICD
implantation (Medtronic MaximoVR7232Cx) using the standard procedure. After
implantation, noninvasive electrophysiology study was done and demonstrated
inducible VF that was interrupted with the second 35 J DC shock. The patient
was discharged in stable condition with beta-blocker therapy. After a year of
pacemaker check-ups, there were no either VT/ VF events or ICD therapy.
Conclusion. Clinical presentation is the most important parameter in risk
stratification of patients with Brugada electrocardiogram and Brugada
syndrome.
Non-inflammatory aortoiliac aneurysm with ureteral obstruction and consequent hydronephrosis: Case report
Authors: Babic Srdjan , Radak Djordje , Matic Predrag , Kovacevic Vladimir , Jocic Dario
Published: March 2012

Introduction. The natural course of abdominal aneurysms is progressive
expansion, rupture, embolisation, thrombosis and compression of the visceral
organs. The majority of papers report that inflammatory aortic and iliac
aneurysms are associated with perianeurysmal and retroperitoneal fibrosis
that ultimately results in the structural compromise of the urinary tract.
Ureteral obstruction occurs in 20% to 71% of cases and approximately one half
of these patients will present with obstructive uropathy. Most patients with
inflammatory aneurysm are symptomatic, with elevated serum inflammatory
markers, and characteristic multislice CT findings including a thickened
aortic wall and a mass of periaortic inflammatory tissue. Case Outline. A
70-year-old man was admitted at the Vascular Surgery Clinic ?Dedinje?,
Belgrade, because of ultrasonically verified asymptomatic aortoiliac
aneurysm. Multisclice CT findings showed left urethral dilatation and
hydronephrosis secondary to extrinsic ureteral obstruction due to aortoiliac
aneurysm. CT findings, laboratory tests and finally, histopathologic
examination showed atherosclerotic aneurysm without inflammation and
retroperitoneal fibrosis. The patient was successfully treated with surgical
resection of the aneurysm and aortobiiliac reconstruction with ?Y?
prosthesis. Conclusion. We present a rare case of ureteral obstruction
secondary to atherosclerotic aneurysm which, to our knowledge, has not been
previously described in the domestic literature. A successful operative
repair was performed. Postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was
discharged on the seventh day after the surgery with normal vascular status
and renal function.
Systemic mastocytosis: Case report with literature review
Authors: Mitrovic Mirjana , Perunicic-Jovanovic Maja , Sokic-Milutinovic Aleksandra , Andrejevic Sladjana , Suvajdzic Nada
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Mastocytosis is a clonal neoplastic disorder of the mast cells.
The clinical signs and symptoms of mastocytosis are heterogeneous ranging
from indolent disease with a longterm survival to a highly aggressive
neoplasm with survival of about 6 months. Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is
characterized by mastocyte infiltration of one or more organs, with or
without skin involvment. Case Outline. The presented patient presents a
highly challenging diagnostic and therapeutic case. A 46-year-old man was
referred to our Centre due to the 7-year-long history of hepatosplenomegaly
and mild thrombocytopenia. Ultrasound examination showed hepatosplenomegaly
(liver 170 mm; spleen 200 mm), platelet count was 90C109/L, serum tryptase
level was elevated and bone marrow biopsy showed infiltration with mast cells
(CD117, CD25 and mast cell tryptase positive). Our patient was diagnosed with
aggressive systemic mastocytosis (SM) according to WHO Classification (2008),
although the clinical course of the disease was indolent, without
complications for more than 7 years. Because of the ?intermediate? course,
this patient was referred to as smouldering or intermediate SM and was not
treated with cytostatics. Conclusion. Utilizing the established criteria,
indolent SM can be discriminated from the aggressive subvariants of SM in
most cases. However, a small group of patients, like our case belongs to the
?grey zone?. Therapeutic approach to these patients is individual and
prognosis is uncertain.
Vitamin D in the light of current knowledge
Authors: Radlovic Nedeljko , Mladenovic Marija , Simic Dusica , Radlovic Petar
Published: March 2012

Vitamin D, i.e. 1,25(OH) 2D, is an essential factor, not only of homeostasis
of calcium and phosphorus, but also of cell proliferation, differentiation
and apoptosis, immune and hormonal regulation, as well as other body
processes. Thus, its optimal presence in the body is of exceptional
significance for health, both of children, as well as adults and elderly
persons. Today, it is known that the lack of vitamin D, besides having
negative effects on the skeleton and teeth, also contributes to the
development of various malignancies, primarily of the large bowel, prostate
and breasts, as well as of autoimmune and allergic diseases, diabetes
mellitus type II, arterial hypertension and others. Considered from the
biological aspect, physiological requirements in vitamin D are achieved by
cutaneous synthesis from 7-dehydrocholesterol during sun exposure, while,
except rarely, it is very scarce in food. Having in mind extensive evidence
that sun exposure presents a high risk for the development of skin
malignancies, primarily melanoma, it is clear that humans are deprived of the
natural and basic source of vitamin D. In accordance, as well as based on
numerous epidemiological studies showing the increase of diseases, in the
basis of which vitamin D deficiency plays the important role, next led to the
recommended dietary allowance of vitamin D, regardless of age. According to
current attitudes, it is recommended that the daily dietary allowances of
vitamin D. i.e. the quantity of oral intake that would safely cover the
optimal body requirements should be 400 IU for ages 0-18 years, 600 IU for
ages 19-70 years and 800 IU for persons aged over 70 years.
Application of metamaterials for the microwave antenna realizations
Authors: Asenov Tatjana , Doncov Nebojsa , Milovanovic Bratislav
Published: March 2012

In this paper, the application of left-handed metamaterials for the
realization of microwave antennas has been considered. Special emphasis is
placed on lens antennas based on gradient-index metamaterials, and their
advantages and enhanced features in comparison with conventional microwave
antennas are highlighted.
Advanced algorithms for mobile robot motion planning and tracking in structured static environments using particle swarm optimization
Authors: Cosic Aleksandar , Susic Marko , Katic Dusko
Published: March 2012

An approach to intelligent robot motion planning and tracking in known and
static environments is presented in this paper. This complex problem is
divided into several simpler problems. The first is generation of a collision
free path from starting to destination point, which is solved using a
particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The second is interpolation of
the obtained collision-free path, which is solved using a radial basis
function neural network (RBFNN), and trajectory generation, based on the
interpolated path. The last is a trajectory tracking problem, which is solved
using a proportional-integral (PI) controller. Due to uncertainties, obstacle
avoidance is still not ensured, so an additional fuzzy controller is
introduced, which corrects the control action of the PI controller. The
proposed solution can be used even in dynamic environments, where obstacles
change their position in time. Simulation studies were realized to validate
and illustrate this approach.
Performance evaluation of the Switched EtherCAT networks with VLAN tagging
Authors: Knezic Mladen , Dokic Branko , Ivanovic Zeljko
Published: March 2012

EtherCAT technology is one of the most popular Real-Time Ethernet (RTE)
solutions present on the market at this time. Due to its communication
efficiency, EtherCAT is particularly suitable for networks with a large
number of devices which demand short cycle times. This paper reviews the
application aspects and implementation issues of the Switched EtherCAT
networks with VLAN tagging, including their limitations, and provides
guidelines for engineering staff in selection of the optimal solution when
designing a specific automation system.
Implementation of wireless sensor system in rehabilitation after back spine surgery
Authors: Mijailovic Nikola , Peulic Aleksandar , Filipovic Nenad , Jovanov Emil
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we present a method for determining the mobility of the spinal
column using a network of sensors. The sensors consist of accelerometers and
gyroscopes, and mutual communication is accomplished using a I2C bus. The
main sensor node collects data from all the sensors and sends them to a
computer using Bluetooth communication. The collected data is then filtered
and converted to the values of the angles that are of interest to quantify
the movement. The experimental part of this work method is applied to
determine the range of motion of patients in the Clinical Center in
Kragujevac.
Plasma electrolytic oxidation of tantalum
Authors: Petkovic Marija , Stojadinovic Stevan , Vasilic Rastko , Belca Ivan , Kasalica Becko , Zekovic Ljubisa
Published: March 2012

This paper is a review of our research on the plasma electrolytic oxidation
(PEO) process of tantalum in 12-tungstosilicic acid. For the characterization
of microdischarges during PEO, real-time imaging and optical emission
spectroscopy (OES) were used. The surface morphology, chemical and phase
composition of oxide coatings were investigated by AFM, SEM-EDS and XRD.
Oxide coating morphology is strongly dependent on PEO time. The elemental
components of PEO coatings are Ta, O, Si and W. The oxide coatings are partly
crystallized and mainly composed of WO3, Ta2O5 and SiO2.
Face recognition using eigenface approach
Authors: Slavkovic Marijeta , Jevtic Dubravka
Published: March 2012

In this article, a face recognition system using the Principal Component
Analysis (PCA) algorithm was implemented. The algorithm is based on an
eigenfaces approach which represents a PCA method in which a small set of
significant features are used to describe the variation between face images.
Experimental results for different numbers of eigenfaces are shown to verify
the viability of the proposed method.
Oral Mucosal Injection of a Local Anesthetic Solution Containing Epinephrine Enhances Muscle Relaxant Effects of Rocuronium
Authors: Ninomiya Asako , Terakawa Yui , Matsuura Nobuyuki , Ichinohe Tatsuya , Kaneko Yuzuru
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this study was to examine how submucosal injection of a clinically relevant dose of a lidocaine hydrochloride solution containing epinephrine affects the muscle relaxant effects of rocuronium bromide. Sixteen patients scheduled for orthognathic surgery participated in this study. All patients were induced with fentanyl citrate, a target-controlled infusion of propofol and rocuronium bromide. Anesthesia was maintained by total intravenous anesthesia. After nasotracheal intubation, an infusion of rocuronium bromide was started at 7 µg/kg/min, and the infusion rate was then adjusted to maintain a train of four (TOF) ratio at 10 to 15%. The TOF ratio just prior to oral mucosal injection of a 1% lidocaine hydrochloride solution containing 10 µg/mL epinephrine (LE) was taken as the baseline. TOF ratio was observed for 20 minutes, with 1-minute intervals following the start of injection. Mean epinephrine dose was 85.6 ± 18.6 µg and mean infusion rate of rocuronium bromide was 6.3 ± 1.6 µg/kg/min. TOF ratio began to decrease 2 minutes after the injection of LE, reached the minimum value at 3.1 ± 3.6% 12 minutes after the injection, and then began to recover. We conclude that oral mucosal injection of LE enhances the muscle relaxant effects of rocuronium bromide.
Transient Delayed Facial Nerve Palsy After Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block Anesthesia
Authors: Tzermpos Fotios H. , Cocos Alina , Kleftogiannis Matthaios , Zarakas Marissa , Iatrou Ioannis
Published: March 2012

Facial nerve palsy, as a complication of an inferior alveolar nerve block anesthesia, is a rarely reported incident. Based on the time elapsed, from the moment of the injection to the onset of the symptoms, the paralysis could be either immediate or delayed. The purpose of this article is to report a case of delayed facial palsy as a result of inferior alveolar nerve block, which occurred 24 hours after the anesthetic administration and subsided in about 8 weeks. The pathogenesis, treatment, and results of an 8-week follow-up for a 20-year-old patient referred to a private maxillofacial clinic are presented and discussed. The patient's previous medical history was unremarkable. On clinical examination the patient exhibited generalized weakness of the left side of her face with a flat and expressionless appearance, and she was unable to close her left eye. One day before the onset of the symptoms, the patient had visited her dentist for a routine restorative procedure on the lower left first molar and an inferior alveolar block anesthesia was administered. The patient's medical history, clinical appearance, and complete examinations led to the diagnosis of delayed facial nerve palsy. Although neurologic occurrences are rare, dentists should keep in mind that certain dental procedures, such as inferior alveolar block anesthesia, could initiate facial nerve palsy. Attention should be paid during the administration of the anesthetic solution.
Commodifying diversity: Education and governance in the era of neoliberalism
Authors: Wilkins Andrew
Published: March 2012

In this paper I explore the pedagogical and political shift marked by the meaning and practice of diversity offered through New Labour education policy texts, specifically, the policy and practice of personalized learning (or personalization). The aim of this paper is to map the ways in which diversity relays and mobilizes a set of neoliberal positions and relationships in the field of education and seeks to govern education institutions and education users through politically circulating norms and values. These norms and values, I want to argue, echo and redeem the kinds of frameworks, applications and rationalities typically aligned with modes of neoliberal or advanced liberal governance, e.g. marketization, monetarization, atomization and deregulation. I conclude the paper by considering how diversity in education renders problematic conventional antinomies of the citizen and consumer, public and private, state and civil society, etc., and forces us to confront the rhizomatic character of contemporary governance and education in the era of neoliberalism.
Questions for philosophical counselling
Authors: Šulavíková Blanka
Published: March 2012

The article poses three questions relating to the self-definition of philosophical counselling: 1. Is it an alternative to psychological and psychotherapeutic approaches? 2. What is the therapeutic nature of philosophical counselling? 3. Is it contemplation or critical reasoning? The first part introduces some examples of the concepts that sharply distinguish philosophical counselling from psychological and psychotherapeutic approaches. It also considers those that mix these different approaches. The second part deals with the question of whether or not philosophical counselling can be considered to be a therapy. Some philosophical counsellors work on the belief that there is a synchrony between modern philosophical counselling and the classical conception of philosophy as therapy. Many, however, are of the opinion that it is not possible to speak of it in terms of therapy. The third part gives examples of the way in which philosophical counselling is understood to be contemplation and on the other hand of those who employ approaches based on critical thinking in philosophical counselling.
The avant-garde’s visual arts in the context of Santayana’s idea of vital liberty
Authors: Skowroński Krzysztof
Published: March 2012

In the present paper, the author looks at the political dimension of some trends in the visual arts within twentieth-century avant-garde groups (cubism, expressionism, fauvism, Dada, abstractionism, surrealism) through George Santayana’s idea of vital liberty. Santayana accused the avant-gardists of social and political escapism, and of becoming unintentionally involved in secondary issues. In his view, the emphasis they placed on the medium (or diverse media) and on treating it as an aim in itself, not, as it should be, as a transmitter through which a stimulating relationship with the environment can be had, was accompanied by a focus on fragments of life and on parts of existence, and, on the other hand, by a de facto rejection of ontology and cosmology as being crucial to understanding life and the place of human beings in the universe. The avant-gardists became involved in political life by responding excessively to the events of the time, instead of to the everlasting problems that are the human lot.
Context underlying decision-making on parenthood and reproduction
Authors: Popper Miroslav
Published: March 2012

This article provides an overview of a number of research studies conducted within the field of parenthood and reproduction in a variety of Western cultures, including Slovakia and the countries of Eastern Europe. The main aim of this overview is to analyse two key indicators on Second Demographic Transition: delaying marriage and parenthood until later on in life and the growth in cohabitation as an alternative living arrangement and childbearing as part of that. The author points out that the majority of parents opt to have a first child and this brings normative and emotional fulfilment. Most young people do not reject this, but simply postpone it until later on in life. The hypothesis is postulated that the decision on whether to have further children is to a larger extent rationally based and is more dependent on weighing up the incentives available from the state. The article emphasises, on the basis of a comparison of the results of various empirical studies, that the same patterns of reproductive behaviour can produce markedly different consequences and outcomes within various subgroups of the population. It is recommended that current research into parenthood and reproduction should be extended so that studies are conducted into similar groups within subpopulations across different countries—in contrast to the current prevailing research that is focused on single countries or in comparing different countries as a whole. It is also recommended that the scope of the research be extended to compare a number of different subpopulations with similar value and life-style configurations as opposed to the majority of the current narrowly-focused approaches that concentrate on examining the differences in reproductive behaviour patterns of a section of the population selected on the basis of education.