bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outlier Detection and Correction for the Deviations of Tooth Profiles of Gears
Authors: Lianfu Han , Changfeng Fu , Jun Wang , Wenyan Tang
Published: April 2013

To decrease the influence of outlier on the measurement of tooth profiles, this paper proposes a method of outlier detection and correction based on the grey system theory. After studying the characteristics of outliers from the deviations of tooth profiles, this paper proposes a preprocessing method for the modeling data which include abnormal value, and establishes an outlier detection and correction model for the deviations of tooth profiles. Simulation results show that the precision of ONDGM(1,1)(one order and one variable non-homogenous discrete grey model whose outlier is processed by the preprocessing method proposed in this paper) is higher than that of NDGM(1,1)(one order and one variable non-homogenous discrete grey model), and the ONDGM(1,1) is more suitable than the NDGM(1,1) for dealing with the outliers from the deviations of tooth profiles. The experiment results show that the outlier detection and correction model detects and corrects the outliers from the deviations of tooth profiles, and the correction value of the outlier is basically in accordance with the actual deviation. Therefore, the method of outlier detection and correction decreases the influence of outlier and improves the precision in the measurement of tooth profiles.
Losses and energy efficiency of drive motors and systems
Authors: Paszota Zygmunt
Published: April 2013

Losses and energy efficiency of every drive motor must be presented as functions of physical quantities independent of losses in the motor. Such quantities are speed and load required by the machine or device driven by the motor, changing in the drive operating field. Speed and load of the motor decide of the instantaneous useful power of the motor and also in a differentiated way of kinds and values of losses occurring in the motor. However, losses and energy efficiency of the hydrostatic drive motors and systems are evaluated by researchers and manufacturers as functions of parameters depending on the losses. The basic cause of such situation is the traditional, commonly accepted but erroneous, view of the power flow in the drive motors and systems represented by the Sankey diagram of power decrease in the direction of power flow. It is necessary to replace the Sankey diagram by the proposed diagram of increase of power in the motor and in the drive system in the direction opposite to the direction of power flow. The proposed view of losses and energy efficiency should be applied to all types of motor and drive systems. The aim of this paper is showing the resulting problems of the above postulates, exemplified by operation of a rotational displacement motor in a hydrostatic drive system. In order to make possible objective evaluation of the energy behaviour of different motor and system solutions and sizes, the losses and energy efficiency should be described and compared as dependent on the motor speed coefficient ωM and load coefficient M changing in the drive system operating field (0 ≤ ωM< ωMmax, 0 ≤ M< Mmax). The presented proposals open a new perspective of unavoidable research of drive motors and systems, making it possible to compare objectively the energy efficiency of different types of motors and drive systems.
Analysing the potential for application of the phase shift method in endoscopic examination of marine engines
Authors: Korczewski Zbigniew
Published: April 2013

The article presents theoretical principles of image processing in digital endoscopy which makes use of a miniaturised spectral scanner “PhaseProbe” designed by General Inspection Technologies LP, the producer of the measuring videoendoscope Everest XLG3. The technology of optoelectronic 3D mapping of the examined surface, which consists in measuring the phase shift between the emitted and reflected light waves, is briefly described. The efficiency of the “PhaseProbe” based method of endoscope measurements is compared with the earlier developed methods, such as “ShadowProbe” and “LaserDots”, which were used by the author in real conditions of diagnostic investigations of engines in operation in marine power plants. The processed results of the endoscope analysis of the broken gas turbine engine rotor blades which were earlier dimensioned using the inspection probes of “StereoProbe”, “ShadowProbe” and “LaserDots” type and now are examined by the author with the aid of the phase shift method make a valuable complement and synthesis of the discussion presented in the article.
Determination of the Effects of the Pre-Outfitting and Pre-Piping Assembly Operations on Shipyard Productivity
Authors: Ozkok Murat , Helvacioglu I. Hakki
Published: April 2013

The process improvement operations are very significant in shipbuilding industry as the other industries. In recent years, the shipyards attempt to improve their processes by examining their current production system and to reduce the cycle time of the interim product so that they can keep their competitive power. If the cycle time of the interim products is decrease, that may cause to increase the annual production capacity and market share of the shipyard. In order to do this, the shipyards have to analyse their own production system and carry out some improvements on it. In this study, the effects of carrying out the outfitting and piping assembly operations in earlier work stations were investigated by using a methodology presented here. The steps in the methodology were applied to a double bottom block of a container ship. It was shown that if the outfitting and the piping assembly operations are carried out in earlier stations instead of the block assembly station, this may increase the throughput by 33%. The results of the study were discussed in the final section.
Definitive radiotherapy for uterine cervix cancer: long term results for patients treated in the period from 1998 till 2002 at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana
Authors: Zobec Logar Helena Barbara , Segedin Barbara , Hudej Robert , Petric Primoz
Published: April 2013

Background. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyse results of the two-dimensional (2D) uterine cervix cancer treatment at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana from 1998 till 2002, before the three-dimensional (3D) approach was introduced in our clinical practice.

Methods. Ninety-eight patients with the following FIGO stage distribution were analysed: 10% IB, 7% IIA, 37% IIB, 4% IIIA and 42% IIIB. The influence of age, haemoglobin level, histology, grade, stage, lymph node status, cumulative point A dose, and an overall treatment time on the survival and local control (LC) were evaluated. Acute and late side effects were assessed.

Results. Five and 8-year overall survival (OS), disease specific survival (DSS) and LC rate were as follows: 47.2% and 43.0%, 54.7% and 53.4%, 74.9% and 72.5%, respectively. Point A dose and histology of the tumour influenced OS, positive lymph nodes DSS and point A dose LC rate. Probability of grade three and four late complications in the first five years was 7.1% for gastrointestinal tract and 3.3% for genitourinary system and vagina.

Conclusions. Point A dose was independent predictor of OS and LC rate, lymph node status predicted DSS, while histology of the tumour influenced OS.
The Evolution of Mortality and Death Causes in Type 2 Diabetes Patients from Timisoara Diabetes Centre Between 1970 And 1999
Authors: Hogea Corina Marcela , Timar Bogdan , Albai Alin , Timar Romulus , Şerban Viorel
Published: April 2013

Background and Aims: Cardiovascular disease represents the principal cause of death in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate the all cause mortality and the main causes of death in T2DM patients and their trend of evolution between 1970 and 1999. Material and methods: 3719 T2DM patients newly diagnosed between 1970-1979 in the Timisoara Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases Centre were followed until 1999. The study group included 2084 women (56.0%) and 1635 men (44%), with a mean age at diagnosis of 58.2±11.5 years. Results: Throughout the analyzed period we noticed a tendency of decrease for all cause mortality, the main causes of death being cardiovascular diseases. Conclusions: The results of the study confirm the tendency of reduced mortality in T2DM patients and maintenance of cardiovascular diseases as the main cause of death in T2DM patients.
Sitagliptin and Vildagliptin Efficacy on Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism in Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ionică Floriana Elvira , Nikolaos Rigas F. , Popescu Florica
Published: April 2013

Background and Aims: For many patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) classic oral anti-diabetic treatment is not effective and patients don’t meet the currently recommended therapeutic goals. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of dipeptydil peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors as add-on therapy to oral antidiabetics in reducing HbA1c in elderly patients with poorly controlled T2DM. Material and methods: The study included 75 elderly patients with poorly controlled T2DM, treated with known oral antihyperglycemic agents. DPP-4 inhibitors were added to current oral treatment and patients were followed for 12 months, evaluating clinical and biological parameters at baseline and after 3 months, 6 months and 12 months of therapy. Results: After the first 3 months of treatment with DPP-4 inhibitors, fasting glucose (mg/dl) decreased from 148.27 ± 44.68 to 128.94 ± 22.71, and HbA1c (%) from 7.40 ± 1.39 to 6.93 ± 0.78. Values of these two parameters continued to decline until month 12 of follow-up, but to a lesser extent, up to mean fasting glucose (mg/dl) of 127.58 ± 20.91 and HbA1c (%) of 6.72 ± 0.52. Conclusion: Glycemic profile was significantly improved after 12 months of DPP-4 treatment, with a significant decrease of HbA1c.
Modelling Concept Prototype Competencies using a Developmental Memory Model
Authors: Baxter Paul , de Greeff Joachim , Wood Rachel , Belpaeme Tony
Published: April 2013

The use of concepts is fundamental to human-level cognition, but there remain a number of open questions as to the structures supporting this competence. Specifically, it has been shown that humans use concept prototypes, a flexible means of representing concepts such that it can be used both for categorisation and for similarity judgements. In the context of autonomous robotic agents, the processes by which such concept functionality could be acquired would be particularly useful, enabling flexible knowledge representation and application. This paper seeks to explore this issue of autonomous concept acquisition. By applying a set of structural and operational principles, that support a wide range of cognitive competencies, within a developmental framework, the intention is to explicitly embed the development of concepts into a wider framework of cognitive processing. Comparison with a benchmark concept modelling system shows that the proposed approach can account for a number of features, namely concept-based classification, and its extension to prototype-like functionality.
Developments in Climate and Soil Water Storage in the Locality of Poiplie
Authors: Pásztorová Mária
Published: April 2013

Climate change is one of the largest threats to the modern world. It is primarily experienced via changes and extreme weather events, including air temperature changes, the uneven distribution of precipitation and an increase in the alteration of torrential short-term precipitation and longer non-precipitation periods. However climate change is not only a change in the weather; it also has a much larger impact on an ecosystem. As a result of expected climate change, a lack of either surface water or groundwater could occur within wetlands; thus, the existence of wetlands and their flora and fauna could be threatened. This submitted work analyses the impact of climate change on the wetland ecosystems of Poiplie, which is situated in the south of Slovakia in the Ipeľ river basin. The area is an important wetland biotope with rare plant and animal species, which mainly live in open water areas, marshes, wet meadows and alluvial forests. To evaluate any climate change, the CGCM 3.1 model, two emission scenarios, the A2 emission scenario (pessimistic) and the B1 emission scenario (optimistic), were used within the regionalization. For simulating the soil water storage, which is one of the components of a soil water regime, the GLOBAL mathematical model was used.
Theoretical Modelling of Alveolar Resonance Mechanism of Ultrasound-Induced Lung Haemorrhage
Authors: Jabaraj D. John , Suhaimi Jaafar Mohamad
Published: April 2013

The possibility of the ultrasound-induced lung haemorrhage occurring in adult human during diagnostic ultrasound examination is studied here. This study is based on the hypothetical alveolar resonance mechanism of the ultrasound-induced lung haemorrhage. The alveolar wall is initially modelled here as a square membrane with fixed-boundary, and then theoretically subjected to vibration analysis. The equation of threshold pressure for the occurrence of ultrasound-induced lung haemorrhage is derived. A comparison test against past experimental data validates the use of the square membrane model of the alveolar wall in studying the ultrasound induced lung haemorrhage. This study predicts that the ultrasound-induced lung haemorrhage in adult human can be prevented if the ultrasound frequency is kept above 1.69 MHz while the Mechanical Index does not exceed 1.9.
The Solitary Road of Entomologist Jēkabs Cinovskis (3 February 1906 – 8 September 1984)
Authors: Čudare Zigrīda
Published: April 2013

There are people who walk a solitary road. They do not stop when tired, but gather their strength and go on, creating a road to follow. They do their work quietly as well. Such a person was the Corresponding Member of the Latvian Academy of Sciences Dr. biol. Jēkabs Cinovskis. Much has been accomplished on his road, and, what is especially important, a new original direction of scientific work has been established in Latvia. Currently the research spectrum created by Jēkabs Cinovskis is topical and acknowledged in many countries worldwide.
Histological organization and microarchitecture of various cells lining the olfactory epithelium of Rita rita (Hamilton, 1822) (Siluriformes: Bagridae)
Authors: Kumar Ghosh Saroj , Chakrabarti Padmanabha
Published: April 2013

Rita rita is a carnivorous, bottom dwelling catfish inhabits in muddy dirty water and depends on olfactory sensation for procurement of food. The structural organization and function ofvarious cells lining its olfactory epithelium have been investigated by light and scanning electron microscopy. The elongated olfactory organ consists of 64-68 primary lamellae arising from a narrow median raphe. Sen­sory as well as non-sensory regions are distinctly oriented on each olfactory lamella. The sensory epithe­lium occupies the apical tongue-shaped area and basal part of the olfactory lamellae, whereas the middle part is covered with non-sensory epithelium. The sensory epithelium is composed of 2 types of dendrites of receptor cells (either ciliated or microvillous), labyrinth cells, and a large number of flagellated suppor­ting cells. The non-sensory epithelium is made up of stratified epithelial cells having a different pattern of microridges and mucous cells. Variations in the cellular orientation of the various cells on the olfactory epithelium have been correlated with the functional views of the fish concerned.
The Middle English Suffix -Ish: Reasons for Decline in Productivity
Authors: Ciszek Ewa
Published: April 2013

The aim of the present paper is to investigate the reasons for the significant decline in both the frequency and productivity of the suffix -ish in Middle English. The major factors responsible seem to be the growing popularity of the of + Noun phrases as well as the competition among -ish and other suffixes. The analysis will be preceded with the introduction of some essential facts concerning the semantic development and productivity of the OE suffix -isc in Middle English.
Types of Lexical Complexity in English: Syntactic Categories and the Lexicon
Authors: Anderson John
Published: April 2013

This study focuses on minimal (non-compound, non-phrasal) signs that are nevertheless internally complex in their syntactic categorization. Sometimes this is signalled by morphology - affixation or internal modification. But there are also conversions. In terms of categorial structure, we can distinguish between absorptions, where the source of the base is associated with a distinct category, and incorporation, where the base is categorially constant. Incorporation is thus typically reflected in inflectional morphology. Absorption may be associated with morphological change or conversion - with retention of the base in a different categorization. But categorial complexity may be nonderived, covert: the categorial complexity of an item is evident only in its syntax and semantics.
On the Sharkovsky’s property of Darboux functions
Authors: Pawlak Ryszard J.
Published: April 2013

Examinations of Sharkovsky’s property for discontinuous functions are usually connected with complex considerations. In this paper we ascertain the relation between two families of functions giving possibility to resolve the question about Sharkovsky’s property of functions belonging to one of those families into examination J1 property of the second of them.
Comparison of Raabe’s and Schlömilch’s tests
Authors: Prus-Wiśniowski Franciszek
Published: April 2013

The exact relationship between the Raabe’s test and Schl¨omilch’s test is described and a useful improved version of the divergence part of these tests is given. Furhter, a more general “continuous” scale of tests is introduced; it includes not only both commonly used versions of Raabe’s test, but also Schl¨omilch’s test.
On the generalized variation and generalized weak variation of maps with values in metric linear spaces
Authors: Drozdowski Robert
Published: April 2013

In this paper, the class of maps (with values in a metric linear space) of a bounded generalized variation (bounded generalized weak variation) is described. Connections between those kinds of spaces are investigated.
A note on measure extension problem of ℓ-group-valued measures
Authors: Khurana Surjit Singh
Published: April 2013

For an Abelian, Archimedean Dedekind complete lattice-ordered, weakly σ-distributive group G and an algebra Ƒ

of subsets of a set X, every positive measure μ: Ƒ→G has a unique countably additive (in order convergence) extension to σ-algebra generated by Ƒ.
Moments of vector-valued functions and measures
Authors: Duchoň Miloslav , Debiève Camille
Published: April 2013

There are investigated conditions under which the elements of a normed vector space are the moments of a vector-valued measure, and of a Bochner integrable function, respectively, both with values in a Banach space.
Period annuli and multiple solutions for two-point BVD
Authors: Atslega Svetlana , Sadyrbaev Felix
Published: April 2013

In this article we consider equations of the type xʺ+g(x) = 0 and xʺ+ƒ(x)xʹ2 + g(x) = 0. The Neumann boundary value problem is considered. For polynomials f and g we provide the multiplicity results. These results are based on a thorough analysis of a phase plane. The existence of period annuli is concerned.
On hyperbolic contact problems
Authors: Bock Igor , Jarušek Jiří
Published: April 2013

We deal with hyperbolic variational inequalities modeling vibrations of two-dimensional structures with an obstacle. We focus on the plates with moderately large deflections. The nonlinear strain-displacements relations imply nonlinear elliptic parts of differential operators in considered problems.We distinguish two types of problems. In the first case only the deflections are considered with accelerations and the plane displacements are expressed using the Airy stress function. In the case of plane accelerations the full von K´arm´an system consisting of two equations and one variational inequality is considered. The existence of solutions is derived using the penalization method.
On stability in generalized Schinasi’s macroeconomic model under fixed exchange rates
Authors: Makovínyiová Katarína , Zimka Rudolf
Published: April 2013

A nonlinear dynamic macroeconomic model of a small open economy is constructed. The model is based on the IS-LM structure and generalizes the Schinasi’s model of a closed economy. Sufficient conditions for the existence of the equilibrium of the model are found and the question of its stability is analyzed.
Can business cycles arise in a two-regional model with fixed exchange rates?
Authors: Maličká Peter , Zimka Rudolf
Published: April 2013

The two-regional five dimensional model describing the development of income, capital stock and money stock, which was introduced by T. Asada in [A Two-regional Model of Business Cycles with Fixed ExchangeRates: A Kaldorian Approach, Discuss. Paper Ser., No. 44, Chuo University, Tokyo, Japan, 2003] is analysed. Sufficient conditions for the existence of one pair of purely imaginary eigenvalues and three eigenvalues with negative real parts in the linear approximation matrix of the model are found. Theorem on the existence of business cycles is presented.
Inversion formulae for the integral transform on a locally compact zero-dimensional group
Authors: Tulone Francesco
Published: April 2013

Generalized inversion formulae for multiplicative integral transform with a kernel defined by characters of a locally compact zero-dimensional abelian group are obtained using a Kurzweil-Henstock type integral.
The set of discontinuities of density-type-approximately continuous functions
Authors: Horbaczewska Gražyna
Published: April 2013

A characterization of the set of discontinuities for different density- -type-approximately continuous functions is given.
Phase transition in a system of random sparse Boolean equations
Authors: Schilling Thorsten , Zajac Pavol
Published: April 2013

Many problems, including algebraic cryptanalysis, can be transformed to a problem of solving a (large) system of sparse Boolean equations. In this article we study 2 algorithms that can be used to remove some redundancy from such a system: Agreeing, and Syllogism method. Combined with appropriate guessing strategies, these methods can be used to solve the whole system of equations. We show that a phase transition occurs in the initial reduction of the randomly generated system of equations. When the number of (partial) solutions in each equation of the system is binomially distributed with probability of partial solution p, the number of partial solutions remaining after the initial reduction is very low for p’s below some threshold pt, on the other hand for p > pt the reduction only occurs with a quickly diminishing probability.
Data mining as a tool in privacy-preserving data publishing
Authors: Sramka Michal
Published: April 2013

Many databases contain data about individuals that are valuable for research, marketing, and decision making. Sharing or publishing data about individuals is however prone to privacy attacks, breaches, and disclosures. The concern here is about individuals’ privacy-keeping the sensitive information about individuals private to them. Data mining in this setting has been shown to be a powerful tool to breach privacy and make disclosures. In contrast, data mining can be also used in practice to aid data owners in their decision on how to share and publish their databases. We present and discuss the role and uses of data mining in these scenarios and also briefly discuss other approaches to private data analysis.
On a family of preimage-resistant functions
Authors: Bérczes Attila , Folláth János , Pethő Attila
Published: April 2013

In the present paper we define a new hash function, based on inhomogeneous polynomials. First we define a large family of polynomials over finite fields and we prove that the members of this family are nearly permutational polynomials. Then we define a subfamily of the above family, such that the elements in the subfamily are easy to evaluate. We prove that (working in a large enough finite field) finding a preimage by chance of such a function is computationally infeasible, and we mention that methods for solving the equation corresponding to the preimage problem for such polynomials are also out of reach.
Security of signature schemes in the presence of key-dependent messages
Authors: González Muñiz Madeline , Steinwndt Rainer
Published: April 2013

In recent years, quite some progress has been made in understand- ing the security of encryption schemes in the presence of key-dependent plaintexts. Here, we motivate and explore the security of a setting, where an adversary against a signature scheme can access signatures on key-dependent messages.

We propose a way to formalize the security of signature schemes in the pres- ence of key-dependent signatures (KDS). It turns out that the situation is quite different from key-dependent encryption: already to achieve KDS-security under non-adaptive chosen message attacks, the use of a stateful signing algorithm is inevitable-even in the random oracle model. After discussing the connection be- tween key-dependent signing and forward security, we present a compiler to lift any EUF-CMA secure one-time signature scheme to a forward secure signature scheme offering KDS-CMA security.
Asymptotic estimate for differential equation with power coefficients and power delays
Authors: Kundrát Petr
Published: April 2013

The paper analyzes the asymptotic bounds of solutions of differential equation with power coefficients, power delays and a forcing term in the form, where a0is a negative real, λ0= 1 and. Some additional assumptions on power coefficients and a forcing term f(t) are considered to obtain an asymptotic estimate for solutions of the studied differential equation. The application of the result is illustrated by several examples.
On the bifurcation of a torus in a small open economy model
Authors: Makovínyiová Katarína , Zimka Rudolf
Published: April 2013

A four-dimensional macroeconomic model of a small open economy under fixed exchange rates is investigated. The model describes the development of national income, capital stock, interest rate and money stock. Sufficient conditions for the existence of an invariant torus are given. A numerical example illustrating the gained results is presented.
On a solution of monotone type problems with uncertain inputs
Authors: Nechvátal Luděk
Published: April 2013

The paper deals with a nonlinear weak monotone type problem and its solution with respect to uncertain coefficients in the equation. The so- -called worst scenario method is adopted. The formulation of suitable conditions and a proof of the existence of a solution of the worst scenario problem is presented.
Hardware optimizations of stream cipher rabbit
Authors: Tomecek Jozef
Published: April 2013

Stream ciphers form part of cryptographic primitives focused on privacy. Synchronous, symmetric and software-oriented stream cipher Rabbit is member of final portfolio of European Union's eStream project. Although it was designed to perform well in software, employed operations seem to compute effi­ciently in hardware. 128-bit security, with no known security weaknesses is claimed by Rabbit's designers. Since hardware performance of Rabbit was only estimated in the proposal of algorithm, comparison of direct and optimized FPGA im­plementations of Rabbit stream cipher is presented, identifying algorithm bot­tlenecks, discussing optimization techniques applied to algorithm computations, along with key area/time trade-offs.
Optimality criteria for design in nonlinear models with constraints
Authors: Pázman Andrej
Published: April 2013

We shall present different expressions for optimality criteria in nonlinear regression models, and compare them with corresponding expressions in models without constraints. We also present how to formulate the equivalence theorem in models with constraints.
On parallelism of regression lines
Authors: Rublík František
Published: April 2013

Testing of parallelism of regression lines is discussed and the classical F-test is compared by means of simulations with a rank test computed by means of results of Sen’s 1969 AMS paper. A rank based multiple comparisons rule for detecting regression lines with different slopes is constructed and asymptotic distribution of the underlying statistic is derived. This rule is compared by means of simulations with the rule derived from the assumption that the random fluctuations are Gaussian.
Algebraic Cryptanalysis of Present Based on the Method of Syllogisms
Authors: Lacko-Bartošová Lucia
Published: April 2013

In this paper algebraic cryptanalysis of block cipher Present based on the method of syllogisms is presented. Different guessing strategies of the method of syllogisms were used and significantly different complexities of attack were reached.
Ventilator-associated pneumonias in children ( ii ) - prophylaxis and treatment
Authors: Shmilev Tonyo Il. , Yankov Ivan V.
Published: April 2013

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is the second most common nosocomial infection among children treated in intensive care units. The risk factors for developing this condition are generated by the patient’s bedside conditions, the equipment used and the specifi c treatment administered to the child. Prophylaxis of VAP should necessarily include all measures that have been proven to be effi cient in this respect such as rigorous hygiene control of hands and protective clothing of attending staff, changing breathing circuits of ventilators only if they malfunction or if they are visibly contaminated, preference of orotracheal intubation (instead of nasotracheal intubation) and use of endotracheal tubes with dorsal lumens to allow respiratory secretions to drain, and introduction of a uniform approach to patient care and staff training. Prophylaxis of the microbial colonization in children by antibiotics does not reduce the incidence of VAP-causing poly-resistant bacteria. Therapeutic management includes early initiation of broad spectrum empirical antibiotic therapy, the right choice of antibiotic requiring regular monitoring and good knowledge of the antibiotics sensitivity of the most common microbial isolates in the ward.
Cholestatic syndrome in viral hepatitis A
Authors: Petrov Andrey I. , Vatev Nikolay T. , Atanasova Maria V.
Published: April 2013

AIM: To study the cholestatic forms of viral hepatitis A that are described as unusual and very rare, but that are of great signifi cance because of their severe course and high morbidity rate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We describe herein 17 cases of hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection with pronounced cholestasis treated in the Clinic of Infectious Diseases at St. George University Hospital between 2002 and 2006. They are taken from a contingent of 820 patients we studied in the course of the research: of these 400 were cases of sporadic disease and 420 patients were involved in an epidemic outbreak of the disease. All got this diagnosis based on an anti-HAV/IgM test. Eight parameters were analyzed: age, max TBil, max ALT, ALP, GGT, no urobilinogen in urine, ultrasound monitoring of hepatomegaly, and hospital stay.

RESULTS: The 17 patients we discuss here are 2.07% of the total 820 patients with viral hepatitis A (VHA). In 14 the disease had a cholestatic component; 3 cases were a cholestatic form of the disease. The mean hospital stay was 49.1 ± 11.5 days, the longest - 75 days. The hyperbilirubinemia had high levels at the disease climax - the mean concentration was 356.6 μkmol/l, and remained greater than 150 μkmol/l for more than a month. In 10 patients (58.2%) transaminase activity was over 1400 U/l, (mean 2011 U/l).

CONCLUSION: Viral hepatitis A ran with cholestatic syndrome in 2.07%; 23.5% of these cases were classifi ed as severe forms of the disease and 76.5% - as moderate. This is evinced by the enhanced transaminase activity, the elevated TBil, pronounced intoxication, the adynamia, vomiting, headache, the vertigo, all of these items in the objective severity score system we used.
Size of tumour as a risk factor for malignancy in patients with peripheral pulmonary nodules
Authors: Prisadov Georgi Tz. , Uchikov Angel P. , Welker Kathrin , Wallimann Herbert , Murdzhev Krassimir A. , Uzunova Vanya N.
Published: April 2013

Peripheral pulmonary tumours are often quite difficult to diagnose and treat. Their detection brings immediately the problem of whether clinicians should just wait and observe or operate the patients.

The AIM of this study was to determine if there is a direct correlation between tumour size and the risk for malignancy and whether the tumor size should be considered a risk factor for malignancy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 1997 and 2009, 145 patients with peripheral pulmonary tumours of less than 3 cm in diameter underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) resection for the purpose of histologic examination of the tumor.

RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 62.60 ± 0.95 years. The youngest patient was 17 years old and the oldest - 82. The study sample included 61 women and 84 men; the men were statistically signifi cantly more than the women (57.3% and 42.07%, respectively) (t = 2.74 , P < 0.01). The total number of patients we operated were 145 with 198 resected tumours. The diameter of the lesions ranged between 0.30 cm and 3 cm (mean 1.41 ± 0.06 cm). We found that 108 (54.55%) of the tumours were malignant, and 90 (45.45%) were benign, the difference between them failing to reach statistical signifi cance (t = 1.82, P > 0.05). The mean size of malignant lesions was statistically signifi cantly greater than that of benign tumours (1.62 ± 0.08 cm vs 1.15 ± 0.06 cm).

CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that the bigger the diameter of the nodule, the greater the percentage share of malignant tumours, which means that the size of the tumour is an important risk factor for malignancy.
Reference Values For Forced Expiration Parameters In Bulgarian Children And Adolescents Aged 7 To 18 Years
Authors: Mandadzhieva Stoilka K. , Marinov Blagoi I. , Kostianev Stefan S.
Published: April 2013

INTRODUCTION: A diagnosis of lung function impairment in childhood is highly dependent on the respective reference values. Population differences in the pulmonary function of children have been frequently reported.

The AIM of this study was to derive normal spirometric reference values for Bulgarian children and adolescents and to compare these results with other data set including our own reference equations developed 20 years ago.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and parameters of maximum expiratory flow-volume curves were measured in 671 healthy Bulgarian school children (339 males and 332 females) aged 7-18 years. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed for each spirometric parameter against age, height, weight, chest circumferences and fat free mass in both sexes.

RESULTS: Excluding ratios, all measured spirometric parameters increased nonlinearly with age and height, and were significantly higher in boys than girls in adolescence.

Height (H) explained the maximum variance for spirometric parameters and the best-fit regression equation relating functional parameters and body height was a power function (Y = a.Hb). FVC and FEV1 showed close correlations with height (r2 between 0.85 and 0.92), whereas the coefficients of determination for the flows were less close (r2 from 0.85 for PEF to 0.67 for MEF25%; always higher in boys).

CONCLUSIONS: The developed prediction equations can be used in clinical practice. In comparison with reference equations based on European or USA populations, regional reference values are biologically more suitable for the interpretation of spirometric data.
Psychomotor Development After Ganciclovir Selectively Treated Congenital And Perinatal Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Ivanov Ivan S. , Popov Nikolay T. , Moshe Rumyana I. , Chepisheva Elena V. , Geneva Ina E. , Panova Margarita V. , Karparov Alexander A. , Shmilev Tonyo I. , Stefanov Rumen S. , Bosheva Miroslava N.
Published: April 2013

AIM: To study the development of children with selectively treated cytomegalovirus infection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: We studied prospectively a risk group of 12 children with cytomegalovirus infection. These children were diagnosed by serological screening in the first three months after birth and are defined as congenital and perinatal infections. Thirteen infants with no serological evidence of previous or present cytomegalovirus infection at 4 - 12 months of age were used as controls. Ganciclovir in a dose of 10-15 mg/kg/day for at least 2 weeks followed by 5-7.5 mg/kg/day administered intravenously for at least 2 weeks more was given to 4 children from the risk group with PCR confirmed cytomegalovirus infection: to one with suspected congenital infection that presented with encephalitis, to two children with abnormal auditory evoked potentials (AEPs) and other non-neurological symptoms of a suspected congenital infection, and to one child with proven congenital infection with systemic manifestations. There was no infant with cytomegalic inclusion disease in the study. All other children in the risk group that had clinically manifested infection received isoprinosine in a dose of 50 mg/kg for one month.

RESULTS: Psychomotor development delay at age three was found in two children from the risk group and in one child in the control group. There was no difference between the two groups regarding the frequency of paroxysmal events, sensory deficiency or frequent illnesses.

CONCLUSIONS: The prognosis in cases of cytomegalovirus infection diagnosed at three years of age and treated selectively can be similar to that in infection free 3-year-old children (if there are no cases of CMV inclusion disease).
Stipetum novakii ass. nova – a new association of serpentine rocky grassland vegetation (Halacsyetalia sendtneri) in Serbia
Authors: Kabaš Eva N. , Alegro Antun A. , Kuzmanović Nevena V. , Jakovljević Ksenija M. , Vukojičić Snežana S. , Lakušić Dmitar V.
Published: April 2013

Phytosociological characteristics of grassland communities above serpentines (order Halacsyetalia sendtneri H. Ritter-Studnčka 1970) in Serbia, are analyzed according to Braun-Blanquet methodology. In order to detect the basic floristic differentiation of analyzed communities ordinary correspondence analysiswas applied. Cluster analysiswas also performed to see the structure and separation of the communities based on the floristic composition. In order to determine diagnostic species, fidelity indices with presence/ absence data and the size of all groups standardized to equal size were calculated. The new association Stipetum novakii is described in open rocky serpentine grasslands in Brdjani Gorge.
The Catalogue of Checkered Beetles (Insecta: Coleoptera: Cleridae) from the Scientific Collections of “Grigore Antipa” National Museum Of Natural History Of Bucharest
Authors: Kurzeluk Daniel Kazimir
Published: April 2013

This catalogue presents data on ten Western - Palaearctic Cleridae species of the subfamilies Tillinae and Clerinae preserved in the collections of “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History of Bucharest.
On the Species of Philonthus Stephens (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Staphylininae: Staphylinini: Philonthina) in the Collections of Romanian Natural History Museums
Authors: Stan Melania
Published: April 2013

57 species of the genus Philonthus were identified in the collections of four museums of Romania: Brukenthal National Museum, “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History, Museum of Natural History of Iaşi and Museum of Oltenia, Craiova. Philonthus wuesthoffi Bernhauer, an alien species from East Palaearctic Region, is a new record for the Romanian fauna. Except for Philonthus pyrenaeus Kiesenwetter, the species treated here are in the Romanian fauna and presented with their distribution maps. An identification key for Romanian Philonthus species found in the studied collections is also provided.
Winter Presence of Long-Legged Buzzard (Buteo Rufinus) in Moldova (Romania)
Authors: Baltag Emanuel Ștefan , Pocora Viorel , Ion Constantin , Sfîcă Lucian
Published: April 2013

Long-legged Buzzard (Buteo rufinus) is a medium sized bird of prey which is known as a breeding species for Romania. In the last years it started to become a common wintering presence in the south-eastern part of Romania (Dobrogea) but it was also recorded in the more northern areas (Moldova) during the cold season. Its presence in Moldova, during the winter period, was recorded in large river valleys, with agricultural lands or grasslands and with trees or timber poles, which are used for perching. Long-legged Buzzard is a new presence for Moldavian winter seasons and it could be observed only in warm periods of winter, when the daily mean temperature is above 0°C. The wintering places are maintained not only for all winter period, but also for the next years. This behaviour could be explained by its territorial fidelity, which was recorded also in other European buzzard species during the winter period.
Travel and “Homing In” in Contemporary Ethnic American Short Stories
Authors: Maszewska Jadwiga
Published: April 2013

In American ethnic literature of the last three decades of the 20th century, recurrent themes of mobility, travel, and “homing in” are emblematic of the search for identity. In this essay, which discusses three short stories, Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use,” Louise Erdrich’s “The World’s Greatest Fishermen,” and Daniel Chacon’s “The Biggest City in the World,” I attempt to demonstrate that as a consequence of technological development, with travel becoming increasingly accessible to ethnic Americans, their search for identity assumes wider range, transcending national and cultural boundaries.
Analysis of Groundmass Colour as a Tool for Evaluating the Extent of Pedogenic Processes in Chromic Soils
Authors: Brzychcy Sylwia , Zagórski Zbigniew , Sieczko Leszek , Kaczorek Danuta
Published: April 2013

The aim of the investigation was to define the extend of pedogenethic processes by analysis of colour changes in groundmass of each genetic horizon. The object of the research were Chromic soils developed from red deposits of Lower Triassic (Buntsandstein) in the Holy Cross Mountains. Micromorphological studies were made with polarization microscopes Olympus BX- 41 and Olympus SZX-10. Image analysis was conducted with software program AxioVision 4.5 with Auto Measure module. The application of advanced methods of digital data analysis allowed for the quantitative compilation of measurement figures in thin sections. On the basis of micromorphometrical data designated objective numerical indicators, which allowed comparison groundmass color between each genetic horizon. Statistical analysis by ANOVA test confirm that groundmass color measured in RGB scale in investigated horizons are almost the same. Obtained results evidence that characteristic red color of soil substrate in analyzed soils developed from Lower Triassic rocks originated from the bedrock color. This fact indicates low extent of the pedogenic processes.
Czy systematyka gleb polski, wydanie 5, dotyczy wszystkich gleb naszego kraju? / Does Polish Soil Classification, V Edition, Refer to all Soils in our Country?
Authors: Brożek Stanisław
Published: April 2013

The paper presents critical remarks connected with forest soils in Polish Soil Classification V edition, which constitute about 30% lands of Polish land. Detailed remarks refer to: soils units, rules of issue, nomenclature, place of rendzinas in Systematic, fusion of gleysols and stagnosols, new type of folisols, changes in traditional nomenclature of histosols, different soil types with the same diagnostic horizon, nomenclature and symbols of humus horizons.
Lisinopril-Induced Pemphigus Foliaceus in a Patient with Diabetes Mellitus and Kaposi-Juliusberg Varicelliform Eruption
Authors: Dobrosavljević Vukojević Danijela , Stojković Filipović Jelena , Sjerobabin Marija , Vuković Jelena , Vesić Sonja
Published: April 2013

Drugs have often been implicated as the cause of pemphigus. Lisinopril is a drug of the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor class primarily used in the treatment of hypertension, congestive heart failure, heart attacks, and also in preventing renal and retinal complications of diabetes mellitus. Various side-effects have been described in the English medical literature related to lisinopril, but only one case with pemphigus foliaceus as an adverse reaction to lisinopril. To the best of our knowledge, we present the second case of lisinopril-induced pemphigus foliaceus complicated with Kaposi-Juliusberg varicelliform eruption in a patient diabetes mellitus type II.

A 60-year-old man presented with diffuse erythema on the face, trunk and extremities. Disseminated erosions, 2-5 mm in diameter, and umbilicated vesicles were present. Erosions with remnants of the blister roof were partially found on the trunk. Semiannular erosions were present. On the posterior part of the trunk (paravertebral and vertebral) there were inifiltrated, partially grouped, sharply delineated yellowish-reddish plaques, up to 2 cm in diameter. Direct and indirect immunofluorescence test as well as histological analysis revealed a drug-induced pemphigus foliaceus. After treatment of Kaposi-Juliusberg eruption and impetiginization, lisinopril was discontinued. Rapid involution of the skin lesions, was observed. Since, only minor skin lesions still persisted after 6 months of follow-up and treatment, the diagnosis of druginduced pemphigus foliaceus was established.

It usually takes 1 - 6 months for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors to induce pemphigus. All drugs taken by the patient, including homeopathic agents, over-the-counter drugs, and even medications that were discontinued should be taken into consideration. Medical history taking should be repeated in cases where there is no response to therapy.
The First Serbian Dermatovenereologist - Jevrem Žujović
Authors: Lalević-Vasić Bosiljka M.
Published: April 2013

In the early 19th century, after several centuries of slavery, Serbia was liberated and along with the overall organization of the country, health services were formed. The first specialists appeared at the end of the century, among them our first dermatovenereologist, Dr. Jevrem Žujović. He was born in 1860 in Belgrade. He attended high school in Belgrade and in 1885 he graduated from School of Medicine in Paris. Dr. Žujović specialized in dermatovenereology in Paris, with Prof. Fournier as his mentor. He was the first Head of the Department of Skin Diseases and Syphilis at the General Public Hospital since 1889. He organized specialized services all over Serbia. His activity in the work of the Serbian Medical Society was very appreciated. Dr. Žujović studied endemic syphilis and leprosy, and translated A. Fournier’s book “Syphilis and Marriage”, and Loraine’s “Prostitution and Degeneration”. Together with M. Jovanović-Batut, he wrote “Instructions on Syphilis”.

As an Army Medical Officer, Dr. Žujović participated in the Serbo-Bulgarian war (1885), the First and the Second Balkan War and in the First World War (1912 - 1918). He was the vice-president of the Society of the Red Cross of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, and the first president of the newly-founded Association of Dermatovenereologists of Yugoslavia. He was a recipient of many awards and decorations. Jevrem Žujović retired in 1927, and passed away in 1944.