bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polish architecture during the Second World War, as exemplified by The Fish Hatchery Centre in Łopuszna
Authors: Białkiewicz Andrzej
Published: October 2014

On the example of plan and construction of The Fish Hatchery Centre in Łopuszna, near Nowy
Targ, constructed during the Second World War, exact analysis was carried out concerning
forms and regional stylistic of its buildings. During the occupation Polish architects generally
were not able to operate freely. However, many of them used every opportunity to make good
and valuable architecture and they succeeded in designing excellent buildings despite severe
restrictions imposed by Germans. The Centre in Łopuszna and some other projects were significant constructions free from the influence of German architectural style. Polish architects
consciously and consistently tried to design buildings according to the characteristic features of
Polish architecture. In that way, on the basis of the appreciation of local culture, the great architecture was made, which certainly is a flagship example in Polish architecture.
Possibilities of heating and air-conditioning of buildings in the mountain areas
Authors: Gonet Andrzej , Śliwa Tomasz
Published: October 2014

The mountain areas, due to their specificity, require special approach to issues concerning heating and air-conditioning of buildings. After presenting general information on demand for
heat in a standard residential building, the forecasting of demand for final energy by particular
branches of economy has been presented. Fossil fuels are most commonly used in heating buildings. In this kind of systems the heat is supplied to the consumer by means of heating pipes
provided by heat power stations or combined heat and power stations or it is generated in boilers
owned by the consumers. The remote heat source can also be energy from geothermal power
station, as it is in the Podhale region. There is an alternative solution to these systems in the form
of heat pumps that are often connected to borehole heat exchangers. Depending on the energy
balance of the heating system and air-conditioning of a particular building the latter system can
be additionally aided by solar collectors. This method requires only a power service connection,
which is available almost in every building. Moreover, practical uses of the proposed system,
which should be more widely applied in the mountain areas, have been described.
The calculation of received optical power during airborne laser scanning of water object
Authors: Babushka Andriy , Burshtynska Khrystyna , Babiy Lyubov
Published: October 2014

In this paper calculation of some physical parameters of the receiver of laser scanning system is
presented. Basic physical principles of laser scanning of water objects are considered. Ranging
standard deviation for typical parameters of laser scanning system are calculated. Formula for
calculation of reflected optical power for specular reflective objects is proposed.
The climate policy of the European Union and its effects on the economy and the labour market in Poland
Authors: Włodarczyk Robert M.
Published: October 2014

The aim of the article is to show the possible effects of implementation of the European Union
climate policy on the economy and the labour market in Poland. The specified research objective
and introductory literature review were the basis of the following research hypothesis: the EU
climate policy will cause great uncertainty in strategic sectors of the Polish labour market and
economy. The hypothesis has been examined by a method based on critical analysis of Polish
and foreign literature on the EU climate policy and its economic effects.
The critical analysis of literature and of available statistical data and economic forecasts confirmed the research hypothesis. It means that implementation of the EU climate policy will lead
to considerable increase of uncertainty in the Polish labour market. The situation in traditional
branches and sectors, such as mining, metallurgy, cement plants and traditional power plants
industries is particularly worrying. On the other hand there is an expectation that in sectors
based on green energy and in industries producing low emission technologies the demand for
jobs will increase, but the scale of the increase is not clear and any predictions here may turn out
to be incorrect.
Efeitos da Aplicação de Valor Justo no Ativo Biológico de uma Empresa do Ramo de Celulose e Papel
Authors: Einsweiller André Carlos , Fischer Augusto
Published: October 2014

Este trabalho tem por objetivo apurar os efeitos sofridos por uma empresa do ramo de celulose e papel com a aplicação ou mensuração do valor justo sobre o seu ativo biológico, mais exatamente sobre suas florestas de pinus e eucalipto. Está fundamentado nos preceitos e normas estabelecidos pelo Comitê de Pronunciamentos Contábeis, por meio do CPC 29, para contabilização dos ativos biológicos. O trabalho utiliza a abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa da pesquisa exploratória e descritiva, e os procedimentos do estudo de caso incorporado e da pesquisa documental. Foram considerados neste estudo os exercícios de 2009, 2010 e 2011. Para assegurar a confiabilidade das avaliações do ativo biológico, a empresa estabeleceu premissas de avaliação que atendam a padrões consistentes e isentos. Do montante do ativo biológico no final do exercício de 2011, 28,39% representam custos de formação e 71,61% representam o valor justo apurado. As florestas de pinus próximas à fábrica de papel e celulose têm a maior participação no ativo biológico da empresa. Como efeitos da aplicação do valor justo, os resultados da empresa foram adicionados em R$ 31,7 milhões nos três anos avaliados. O Patrimônio Líquido, o Imposto de Renda e a Contribuição Social sobre os Lucros também foram consideravelmente influenciados pela adoção do valor justo. O efeito do valor justo sobre o ativo biológico da empresa nos três exercícios proporcionou ganhos de 20,1% ao ativo biológico da empresa.
Perícia Contábil: análise bibliométrica e sociométrica em periódicos e congressos nacionais no período de 2007 a 2011
Authors: Schmitz Tatiane , Santos Vanderlei dos , Dallabona Lara Fabiana , Truppel Elaine Kammers , Truppel Leomar
Published: October 2014

O estudo objetivou identificar as características bibliométricas e sociométricas da produção científica em perícia contábil no Brasil entre os anos de 2007 e 2011. A amostra contemplou 25 artigos que continham as expressões: "perito" ou "perícia" nas palavras-chave, título ou resumo, e que abordassem especificamente sobre perícia contábil no período de 2007 a 2011. Os resultados mostraram que as publicações foram mais intensas em 2007 e 2008. O tema está difundido apenas em nove periódicos e praticamente não há publicação naqueles considerados de alto impacto. Houve a participação de 51 autores e 22 instituições nos trabalhos. As universidades com maior número de artigos não foram aquelas que tiveram maior laço de cooperação. Os temais mais abordados foram estrutura e qualidade do laudo pericial e as condições de ensino de perícia nos cursos de graduação, restringindo-se a determinadas regiões. Em relação às referências, a maior parte constitui-se de livros nacionais, e os autores mais citados foram aqueles que possuem livros didáticos publicados a respeito do tema e que constantemente são utilizados nos cursos de graduação. Considerando que foram encontrados apenas 25 artigos publicados no período analisado, concluiu-se que o tema é pouco explorado, tanto no meio acadêmico quanto no profissional. Sugere-se, dessa forma, que futuras pesquisas venham a ser desenvolvidas sobre a temática "perícia contábil". Além disso, as fracas relações de colaboração, existentes entre pesquisadores e instituições, acabam por caracterizar redes pouco coesas e pouco integradas.
Avaliação da Gestão da Seção de Subsistência de uma Organização Militar quanto ao uso da Dotação Orçamentária Específica para Provimento de Alimentação: O Caso da Base Aérea de Florianópolis
Authors: Tedesco Keila Viviane , Soares Laura Letsch , Machado Renato Flores Pinheiro
Published: October 2014

O mercado competitivo exige que as empresas adaptem-se rapidamente às mudanças do ambiente em que estão inseridas, sob o risco de não sobreviverem diante das concorrentes. Cada vez mais, as organizações estão implantando formas flexíveis de gestão que lhes permitem atingir os objetivos de forma eficiente. Esse processo de adaptação é observado com mais intensidade nas empresas privadas, enquanto os gestores públicos parecem despreocupados no que diz respeito à otimização no uso dos recursos sobre os quais exercem gerência. Contudo, um organismo público, quando mal gerenciado, pode comprometer o seu próprio funcionamento e o dos demais órgãos que dependem de seus serviços, além de comprometer a aplicação dos recursos financeiros públicos. Este trabalho constituiu-se em um estudo de caso a respeito da implantação de melhorias gerenciais na Seção de Subsistência da Base Aérea de Florianópolis, em meados de 2009, com o objetivo de melhorar o desempenho do setor. O trabalho é descritivo com coleta de dados primários e secundários em documentos e sistemas corporativos e aplicação de questionário aos clientes do setor. A partir de variáveis quali-quantitativas são definidos indicadores que permitem, sob a lógica dedutiva, avaliar comparativamente o desempenho da seção nos 12 (doze) meses anteriores e nos posteriores às mudanças gerenciais. Os resultados observados constatam a economia de recursos financeiros, o aumento da satisfação dos usuários, em especial, nos quesitos de qualidade e saúde.
Quantification of the adverse effects of drought caused by water supply restrictions considering the changes in household water consumption characteristics
Authors: Tsuda Morimasa , Nishida Shuzo , Irie Masayasu
Published: October 2014

The volume of urban water used in Japan has been gradually declining in recent years because of the increase in water saving appliances and water saving behaviours. Changes in household water consumption characteristics affect the extent of the adverse effects caused when water supply restrictions are imposed. These changes must be reflected in reservoir operation plans in times of drought and when developing long-term water resource management plans or water conservation policies. The objective of this study is to quantify the adverse effects of drought associated with changes in consumption characteristics and utilize this in water resource management plans. We use a water consumption model that accounts for changes in household water consumption characteristics, and we apply this model to several droughts in different periods and cities in Japan. Results indicate that reductions in water consumption because of water supply restrictions tend to decrease over time. We concluded that imposing water supply restrictions during droughts has become less effective for maintaining reservoir storage. In designing water resource management plans, it is important to simultaneously evaluate changes in probability of supply-shortage events and the impact of water supply restrictions.
Efficient water utilities: use of performance indicator system and data envelopment analysis
Authors: Singh Mamata , Mittal Atul K. , Upadhyay V.
Published: October 2014

A number of international initiatives have been undertaken in recent years to develop benchmarking frameworks. Performance indicator system and data envelopment analysis are the two most widely used methods for performance assessment as is evident from the established literature on benchmarking. This paper demonstrates two benchmarking approaches using these two methods for the selected 12 Indian urban water utilities (municipal bodies) of Maharashtra state/province. Both the methodologies have been compared and analysed. The outcomes from both the methods are largely found to be consistent and mutually complementary. The proposed benchmarking techniques would serve as an important tool to assess the performance, induce competitive environment and encourage efficient practices by the urban water utilities.
Strategies of coagulant optimisation to improve the removal of turbidity and Ceratium hirundinella cells during conventional drinking water purification
Authors: Ewerts H. , Barnard S. , Swanepoel A. , du Preez H. H. , Janse van Vuuren S.
Published: October 2014

The dinoflagellate, Ceratium hirundinella (C. hirundinella) cells are known to cause many problems when source water due for purification contains relatively high concentrations. The objective of this study was to investigate strategies for the effective and simultaneous removal of turbidity and C. hirundinella cells using turbidity and total photosynthetic pigments (TPP) as indicators of appropriate coagulant dosages during conventional drinking water purification. Source water samples with low turbidity, and high number of C. hirundinella cells were collected. A laboratory-scale conventional water purification plant was used to simulate coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation and sand filtration. Various coagulant options were dosed as part of conventional coagulation. The coagulant option Ca(OH)2–organic polymer achieved the best removal of both turbidity (50%) and C. hirundinella cells (75–82%) after sedimentation using TPP as an indicator. Ca(OH)2–SiO2 and organic polymer alone achieved better removal of C. hirundinella (57–75%) and turbidity (33–50%) respectively when TPP was used as an indicator rather than turbidity. Sand filtration removed the remaining turbidity and C. hirundinella cells from the supernatant completely. Implementing new purification strategies may increase treatment costs, but the focus of drinking water purification utilities should always be primarily the production of safe and aesthetically acceptable drinking water.
Special features of drip-sprinkler irrigation technology
Authors: Angold Ye. V. , Zharkov V. A.
Published: October 2014

Irrigation techniques and technology based on principle of regular accumulation of moisture in active layer (surface irrigation, regular sprinkler irrigation) are most common in science and in practice. More progressive is principle of non-stop water supply of plants and soil in conformity to their water consumption. Drip irrigation and impulse sprinkling are based on this principle. The main advantage of drip irrigation is establishment of optimal water and nutritive regime directly in the plant root system. However, such irrigation is not effective enough under conditions of high air temperatures (over 25–35 °С), as growing process of several agricultural plants is known to slow down at 30–35 °С and photosynthesis, consequently, stops, which, in turn, affects plants yielding capacity. Sprinkling irrigation provides improvement of both microclimate in plant's environment and their water regime. Combination of drip and sprinkling irrigation permits the positive characteristics of each individual technology to be united, and to remove a series of disadvantages of their separate use as well as to use drip-sprinkler irrigation technology to create optimal conditions for plant development. Drip-sprinkler irrigation technology facilitates saving of irrigation water through drip irrigation in the main vegetation period and through improvement of microclimate and water regime of agricultural plants with additional sprinkling irrigation within the period of high temperatures and low air humidity that affects the growing process and increases yielding capacity of grown cultures.
Visible and solar light photocatalytic disinfection of bacteria by N-doped TiO2
Authors: Arya V. , Philip Ligy
Published: October 2014

A water treatment system was developed based on a photocatalytic process, employing immobilized N-doped TiO2, which worked under solar radiation. Batch reactor studies were conducted using an immobilized and suspended form of N-doped TiO2. Activities of Degussa P-25 and N-doped TiO2 were compared. Optimization of catalyst concentration was also carried out. Reaction rates under different working conditions were compared. The bacterial kill followed a pseudo first-order reaction. Continuous reactor studies were carried out using N-doped TiO2 coated glass plates. Three-log inactivation of bacteria was obtained after a contact time of 40 min. The effects of turbidity, bicarbonate ions and organic matter were studied. It was found that the efficiency of the system decreased due to these components. Comparison of the performance of solar water-disinfection (SODIS) and solar photocatalytic treatment for disinfection of water was also carried out. The results showed that the suspended catalyst achieved complete inactivation in 1 h compared to SODIS which took 6 h. Bacterial regrowth was observed in the case of SODIS treatment whereas no bacterial growth was observed after solar photocatalytic treatment.
Carbon nanotube composite membranes for small ‘designer’ water treatment systems
Authors: Huang Haiou , Fairbrother Howard , Teychene Benoit , Ajmani Gaurav , Chalew Talia Abbott , Gallagher Miranda J. , Cho Hyunhee , Schwab Kellogg , Jacangelo Joseph
Published: October 2014

Small water systems that serve fewer than a few thousand persons are often less safe and less sustainable than large drinking water systems due to lack of suitable technologies. This ongoing research aims to develop a novel water treatment technology for small communities. By layering structured, functional carbon nanotubes (CNT) onto low pressure membranes (LPMs), composite membranes were prepared to remove different organic and inorganic contaminants from water, including heavy metals, viruses, natural organic matter, and organic micropollutants. The removal efficiencies varied from over 99.9% (for cadmium) to above 60% (for humic substances). A low-cost CNT formed an antifouling layer that removed membrane foulants by depth filtration, thereby extending the membrane filtration cycle over five-fold. When the CNTs were layered inside hollow fiber membranes, superb backwashable properties were observed, allowing the operation of CNT-modified membranes under full-scale treatment conditions. Moreover, a systematic study of CNT rejection by LPMs found that commercially available LPMs efficiently prevented CNT breakthrough, thus ensuring nanosafety of the treated water. By varying the composition and structure of functional CNT layers, energy-efficient composite membranes may be economically produced for designer water treatment systems and applied in small communities.
Built Environment and Elderly Population Health: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Garin Noe , Olaya Beatriz , Miret Marta , Ayuso-Mateos Jose Luis , Power Michael , Bucciarelli Paola , Haro Josep Maria
Published: October 2014

Global population aging over recent years has been linked to poorer health outcomes and higher healthcare expenditure. Policies focusing on healthy aging are currently being developed but a complete understanding of health determinants is needed to guide these efforts. The built environment and other external factors have been added to the International Classification of Functioning as important determinants of health and disability. Although the relationship between the built environment and health has been widely examined in working age adults, research focusing on elderly people is relatively recent. In this review, we provide a comprehensive synthesis of the evidence on the built environment and health in the elderly.
Intraobserver and Interobserver Reproducibility for Radial, Circumferential and Longitudinal Strain Echocardiography
Authors: R Leischik , B Dworrak , K Hensel
Published: October 2014

Objectives:

Strain echocardiography (StE) promises to be a new tool for quantitative assessment of cardiac function. Analysis of intra- and interobserver reliability is an important aspect in the process of developing these novel techniques from theory to the implementation into daily routine diagnostics.The purpose of the study was to estimate reliability of the segmental StE.

Methods:

Left ventricular strain analysis for radial strain (RS), circumferential strain (CS) and longitudinal strain (LS) was performed in 21 healthy volunteers. RS and CS values were obtained in the parasternal short axis at the level of the papillary muscles. LS values were determined in the apical 2-, 3- and 4-chamber views. Cine-loops were recorded and quantitative analyses were conducted on an off-line workstation.

Results:

Intraobserver reproducibility was highest using LS in the 4-chamber view (9 ± 13.6 % mean deviation, rho = 0.624, p = 0.003), followed by CS (13.3 ± 8.3 %, rho = 0.406, p = 0.068) and lowest in RS (26.3 ± 30.1 %, rho = 0.391, p = 0.080). Interobserver analyses of LS derived from 3-chamber view showed lowest deviation (11.9 ± 9.5 %, rho = 0.513, p = 0.017), followed by CS (15.2 ± 12.0 %, 0.263, p = 0.249) and the least consistent measurements in RS (35.9 ± 46.3 %, rho 0.382, p = 0.088).

Conclusion:

This study shows that the clinical utility of StE depends on the regional differences of LV wall motion and image quality. LS-values showed promising intra- and interobserver reproducibility values. For quantitative follow-up studies LS should be preferred.
The Effect of Root Canal Irrigation with Combination of Sodium Hypo-chlorite and Chlorhexidine Gluconate on the Sealing Ability of Obturation Materials
Authors: Homayouni Hamed , Majd Nima Moradi , Zohrehei Heidar , Mosavari Behrad , Adel Mamak , Dajmar Reyhaneh , Homayouni Ali
Published: October 2014

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the precipitate that was formed by combining Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) and Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHX) on the sealing ability of root canal obturation materials.

Materials and Methods:

The fluid filtration method was conducted on a total of 100 roots. Samples were randomly divided into two control (n=5) and three experimental groups (n=30). The samples in group 1 were irrigated with 1.5 mL of 2.5% NaOCl, and then the smear layers of the teeth were removed by 17% EDTA, while the specimens of group 2 were irrigated by 1.5 mL of 2.5% NaOCl and 1.5 mL of 2% CHX; after the smear layer removal, a final flush with 1.5 mL of 2.5% NaOCl was performed. The samples of group 3 were irrigated the same as group 1 but after the smear layer removal canals were irrigated again with 1.5 mL of 2.5% NaOCl and then a final flush with 1.5 mL of 2% CHX was performed. Teeth were obturated with gutta-percha and AH26 sealer and after seven days, microleakage was evaluated by the fluid filtration technique. The results were analyzed by the ANOVA and Tukey's test.

Results:

The samples in group 3 had significantly greater microleakage compared to teeth in group 1, 2 (p<0.05), and the specimens in group 1 showed significantly less amount of microleakage than samples in group 2, 3 (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

The presence of the precipitate that is formed due to interaction between NaOCl and CHX has negative effect on the sealing ability of gutta-percha and AH26 sealer.
The Reliability and Validity of the Computerized Double Inclinometer in Measuring Lumbar Mobility
Authors: MacDermid Joy Christine , Arumugam Vanitha , Vincent Joshua Israel , Carroll Krista L
Published: October 2014

Study Design :

Repeated measures reliability/validity study.

Objectives :

To determine the concurrent validity, test-retest, inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of lumbar flexion and extension measurements using the Tracker M.E. computerized dual inclinometer (CDI) in comparison to the modified-modified Schober (MMS)

Summary of Background :

Numerous studies have evaluated the reliability and validity of the various methods of measuring spinal motion, but the results are inconsistent. Differences in equipment and techniques make it difficult to correlate results.

Methods :

Twenty subjects with back pain and twenty without back pain were selected through convenience sampling. Two examiners measured sagittal plane lumbar range of motion for each subject. Two separate tests with the CDI and one test with the MMS were conducted. Each test consisted of three trials. Instrument and examiner order was randomly assigned. Intra-class correlations (ICCs 2, 2 and 2, 2) and Pearson correlation coefficients (r) were used to calculate reliability and concurrent validity respectively.

Results :

Intra-trial reliability was high to very high for both the CDI (ICCs 0.85 - 0.96) and MMS (ICCs 0.84 - 0.98). However, the reliability was poor to moderate, when the CDI unit had to be repositioned either by the same rate (ICCs 0.16 - 0.59) or a different rater (ICCs 0.45 - 0.52). Inter-rater reliability for the MMS was moderate to high (ICCs 0.75 - 0.82) which bettered the moderate correlation obtained for the CDI (ICCs 0.45 - 0.52). Correlations between the CDI and MMS were poor for flexion (0.32; p<0.05) and poor to moderate (-0.42 - -0.51; p<0.05) for extension measurements.

Conclusion :

When using the CDI, an average of subsequent tests is required to obtain moderate reliability. The MMS was highly reliable than the CDI. The MMS and the CDI measure lumbar movement on a different metric that are not highly related to each other.
Modified Wilson’s Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus Deformity. A New Approach
Authors: Xarchas Konstantinos C , Mavrolias Dimitrios , Kyriakopoulos Georgios
Published: October 2014

We introduce a new set of modifications and present the results from 48 patients (a total of 60 feet operated), who underwent this modified Wilson’s osteotomy for the correction of Hallux Valgus. Patients were of an average age of 52 years old (from 21 to 75 years of age) and were followed up for a mean of 12 months post-operatively. Patient evaluation was made with the symptom scoring system as presented by Kataragliset al., with the final outcome being satisfactory in all of the cases. This set of modifications introduced to the original Wilson’s osteotomy, proved to offer a stable, predictable and satisfactory outcome in all cases and we strongly recommend it.
Cervical Spine Computed Tomography Imaging Artifact Affecting Clinical Decision-Making in the Traumatized Patient
Authors: Coats Aaron C , Nies Matthew S , Rispler David
Published: October 2014

CT scanning is an important tool in the evaluation of trauma patients. We review a case involving a trauma patient in which a cervical spine computed tomography (CT) artifact affected decision-making by physicians. The CT artifact mimicked bilateral dislocated facets (51-B1.1). On the basis of CT findings, the patient was transferred to a different hospital for evaluation. Discrepancy between the primary CT scan and patient physical exam prompted secondary CT scans and X-ray evaluation; neither of these studies showed osseous abnormalities. This case reinforces the necessity for physicians to formulate their diagnosis based upon multiple areas of information including physical examination, plain x-ray and subsequent advanced imaging, rather than relying solely on advanced imaging.
Five-Year Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes After Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Using Triangular Implants
Authors: Rudolf Leonard , Capobianco Robyn
Published: October 2014

Object :

Previous reports of minimally invasive (MIS) sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion for low back, SI joint, and buttock pain secondary to SI joint disorders have shown favorable short- and mid-term outcomes. Herein we present 5-year clinical and radiographic outcomes after MIS SI joint fusion using a series of triangular porous titanium plasma spray (TPS) coated implants.

Methods :

Consecutive patients treated with MIS SI joint fusion for degenerative sacroiliitis and/or sacroiliac joint disruptions between October 2007 and March 2009 were evaluated. Pain on VAS, an SI joint specific survey and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were administered. X-ray and CT scans were obtained to assess the implants.

Results :

Of 21 patients treated, 17 were available for the study. Mean age was 58 years (range 36-85), 77% were female and 47% had prior lumbar spinal fusion. Pain on VAS improved from 8.3 at baseline to 2.4 at 5 years; 88% of patients reached Substantial Clinical Benefit. Mean ODI score at 5 years was 21.5 (SD 22.7). Patient satisfaction achieved at 12 months was maintained for 5 years (82%). A qualitative review of x-ray and CT imaging showed increased bone density immediately adjacent to all implants, intra-articular osseous bridging in 87% of patients and no evidence of implant loosening or migration.

Conclusion :

Long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes after MIS SIJ fusion are favorable. Clinical improvements observed at 12 months postoperatively were maintained at 5 years. There was no evidence of long-term complications, implant loosening or migration. Patients who did not achieve large improvements were affected by multiple severe concomitant degenerative conditions of the lumbar spine, pelvis, and/or hip.
The Use of Megaprostheses for Reconstruction of Large Skeletal Defects in the Extremities: A Critical Review
Authors: Gkavardina Anthippi , Tsagozis Panagiotis
Published: October 2014

In the case of primary malignant tumors, extensive metastatic disease, major trauma or end-stage revision arthroplasty, the orthopaedic surgeon often has to deal with the need to reconstruct large skeletal defects, or replace bone of low quality. In the past years this was frequently impossible, and the only solution was amputation of the extremity. Later, the introduction of custom-made endoprostheses capable of reconstructing large skeletal defects, also known as megaprostheses, allowed for sparing of the extremity. This was especially valuable in the case of oncologic orthopaedic surgery, as advances in the medical treatment of sarcoma patients improved prognosis and limb-preserving surgery proved to have comparable patient survival rates to amputation. However, custom-made designs were implicated in frequent mechanical failures. Furthermore, they were extremely difficult to revise.

The introduction of modular endoprostheses in the 1980s marked a new era in orthopaedic oncologic surgery. Modular megaprostheses consist of a number of different components in readily available sets, which can be assembled in various combinations to best address the specific bone defect. Moreover, they proved to have considerably lower rate of mechanical failures, which were also much easier to address during revision surgery by replacing only the parts that failed. The functional outcome after reconstruction with megasprostheses is often very satisfactory and the patient can enjoy a good quality of life. Nowadays, the major challenge is to eliminate the rate of non-mechanical complications associated with surgery of that magnitude, namely the risk for wound dehiscence and necrosis, deep infection, as well as local recurrence of the tumor.

In our present mini-review, we attempt to make a critical approach of the available literature, focusing on the multiple aspects of reconstructive surgery using megaprostheses. We present the evolution of megasprosthetic implants, the indications for their use, and describe the outcome of surgery, so that the non-specialized orthopedic surgeon also becomes familiar with that kind of surgery which is usually performed in tertiary centers. A special interest lays in the recent developments that promise for even better results and fewer complications.
Red-cockaded Woodpecker Microhabitat Characteristics and Reproductive Success in a Loblolly-Shortleaf Pine Forest
Authors: Wood Douglas R. , Burger, Jr. L. Wesley , Vilella Francisco J.
Published: October 2014

We investigated the relationship between red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) reproductive success
and microhabitat characteristics in a southeastern loblolly (Pinus taeda) and shortleaf (P. echinata) pine forest. From 1997
to 1999, we recorded reproductive success parameters of 41 red-cockaded woodpecker groups at the Bienville National
Forest, Mississippi. Microhabitat characteristics were measured for each group during the nesting season. Logistic regression
identified understory vegetation height and small nesting season home range size as predictors of red-cockaded
woodpecker nest attempts. Linear regression models identified several variables as predictors of red-cockaded woodpecker
reproductive success including group density, reduced hardwood component, small nesting season home range
size, and shorter foraging distances. Red-cockaded woodpecker reproductive success was correlated with habitat and behavioral
characteristics that emphasize high quality habitat. By providing high quality foraging habitat during the nesting
season, red-cockaded woodpeckers can successfully reproduce within small home ranges.
Physical Property Prediction for Waste Cooking Oil Biodiesel
Authors: Ruan Deng-Fang , Chen Zhi-Hao , Wang Kui-Fang , Chen Yuan , Yang Fan
Published: October 2014

This paper focuses on the physical property prediction of waste cooking oil biodiesel and examines the
accuracy of different methods to estimate reliable basic physical properties, including density, viscosity and surface
tension of waste cooking oil biodiesel in a wide range of temperature based on its fatty acid methyl ester component. A
program for the physical property prediction of the biodiesel was developed and experimental measurements for the
density, viscosity and surface tension of the biodiesel were performed to validate the chosen methods. The results show
that the modified Rackett equation and the Orrick-Erbar method have the high estimation accuracy for the prediction of
the density and the viscosity, respectively. The Sastri-Rao method and the Pizer method have the accuracy enough to
predict the surface tension.
Usefulness of the mycobacterium tuberculosis direct assay in early diagnosis of extrapulmonary TB
Authors: Zhang Hui-Zhang , Fang Qiang , Guo Jian , Shen Yong , Lu Sui-Hua , Hu Xiang-Nan , Deng Gui-Lin , Wu Wen-Juan
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in situ detection of living
mycobacterium TB rRNA by the mycobacterium TB direct assay (MTD) and its
clinical significance in the early diagnosis of extrapulmonary TB. Eighty-six
patients were recruited from the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center from
June to November in 2010, having been diagnosed with extrapulmonary TB,
including tuberculous peritonitis (n=22), lymphatic TB (n=21), tuberculous
meningitis (n=15), HIV-associated TB (n=13), nephroTB (n=9), spinal TB (n=2),
cutaneous TB (n=13), parotid TB (n=1), chest wall TB (n=1), intestinal TB
(n=1). One hundred and five extrapulmonary specimens, including CSF, puncture
fluid, drainage, pleural fluid, urine, secretion, ascites, lymphatic tissue
and marrow were collected from the patients. The samples were examined using
acid-fast stain, solid culture, liquid culture and MTD in parallel. In MTD,
the target segments of MTB rRNA in either cultures or clinical specimens were
amplified prior to being qualitatively detected with the hybridization
protection assay (HPA). The sensitivities of MTD and acid-fast staining in
liquid and solid cultures were 48.6%, 41.9%, 20.0% and 14.3%, respectively.
MTD sensitivity was higher than that of the others and its specificity was
100%. We concluded that MTD rRNA detection is an effective, rapid,
convenient, sensitive and reliable method for the early diagnosis of
extrapulmonary TB.
657del5 mutation of the NBS1 gene in myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Bunjevacki Vera , Maksimovic Nela , Damnjanovic Tatjana , Cvjeticanin Suzana , Novakovic Ivana , Lukovic Ljiljana , Ristanovic Momcilo , Bogdanovic Andrija , Jekic Biljana
Published: October 2014

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are clonal hematologic stem cell disorders
with an as yet unknown molecular pathology. Genetic instability has been
proposed as a cause of MDS. Mutations in the NBS1 gene, whose product nibrin
(p95) is involved in DNA damage repair and cell-cycle control, might be
associated with an elevated predisposition to the development of MDS. The aim
of the study was to examine truncating 5 bp deletion (657del5), the most
frequent NBS1 gene mutation in Slavic populations, in MDS patients. Among 71
MDS patients, we found one case that was heterozygous for the NBS1 657del5
mutation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a NBS1
mutation in MDS.
The subchronic effects of 3,4-methylendioxymethamphetamine on oxidative stress in rat brain
Authors: Simic Ivan , Iric-Cupic Violeta , Vucic Rada , Petrovic Marina , Mladenovic Violeta , Veselinovic Mirjana , Ignjatovic Vladimir , Vuckovic Jelena
Published: October 2014

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the subchronic effects of
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine on several oxidative stress markers: index
of lipid peroxidation (ILP), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, superoxide
radical (O2.-) levels, and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in the frontal
cortex, striatum and hippocampus of the rat. The study included 64 male
Wistar rats (200-250g). The animals were treated per os with of 5, 10, or 20
mg/kg of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) every day for 15 days. The
subchronic administration of MDMA resulted in an increase in ILP, SOD and
O2.-, and a decrease in GSH, from which we conclude that oxidative stress
was induced in rat brain.
Rodenticide efficacy of sodium selenite baits in laboratory conditions
Authors: Jokic G. , Vuksa Marina , Djedovic Suzana , Stojnic B. , Kataranovski D. , Kljajic P. , Jacevic Vesna
Published: October 2014

We examined the acceptance and palatability of baits containing different
contents of sodium selenite as a rodenticide, in Swiss mice under laboratory
conditions. In a no-choice and choice feeding test, the animals were exposed
to baits containing 0.1, 0.05, 0.025 and 0.0125% of sodium selenite. The
total bait consumption by Swiss mice in the no-choice feeding test was highly
negatively correlated, while total sodium selenite intake was
medium-positively correlated to the sodium selenite content in the bait. In
the same test, daily intakes significantly depended on the content of sodium
selenite in the bait, while the exposure and associated interactions of
contents of sodium selenite and exposure had no statistically significant
impact. Baits with sodium selenite contents of 0.05 and 0.1% had the most
lethal effects. The negative impact of the sodium selenite content on bait
acceptance and palatability was confirmed in choice feeding tests. Baits
containing 0.05 and 0.1% of sodium selenite displayed the biological
potential to be used as a rodenticide. It is necessary to improve its
insufficient acceptability and palatability by adding adequate additives to
the bait. The results of this study should be verified in experiments with
wild rodents.
Antiproliferative, genotoxic and oxidant activities of cyclosativene in rat neuron and neuroblastoma cell lines
Authors: Toğar Başak , Türkez Hasan , Geyikoğlu Fatime , Hacimüftüoğlu Ahmet , Tatar Abdulgani
Published: October 2014

Cyclosativene (CSV) is a tetracyclic sesquiterpene found in the essential
oils of Centaurea cineraria (Asteraceae) and Abies magnifica A. Murray
(Pinaceae) plants. To the best of our knowledge, its cytotoxic, genotoxic and
oxidant effects have never been studied on any cell lines. Therefore, we
aimed to investigate the in vitro antiproliferative and/or cytotoxic
properties, antioxidant/oxidant activity and genotoxic damage potential of
CSV in healthy neurons and N2a neuroblastoma (N2a-NB) cell cultures. After
treatment with 10-400 ?g/ml of CSV for 24 h, cell proliferation was measured
by the MTT (3,(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide)
assay. The antioxidant activity was assessed by the total antioxidant
capacity (TAC) and total oxidative stress (TOS) assays. To evaluate the level
of DNA damage, single cell gel alkaline electrophoresis (SCGE) was used. The
MTT assay showed that the application of CSV significantly reduced cell
viability in both cell types. CSV treatments at higher doses led to decreases
of TAC levels and increases of TOS levels in neuron and N2a-NB cells. The
mean values of the total scores of cells showing DNA damage were not found to
be significantly different from the control values in both cells. In
conclusion, this study suggests that CSV has weak anticancer potential.
Pre-administration of vitamin C reduces exercise-induced oxidative stress in untrained subjects
Authors: Trofin Florin-Petrut , Chirazi Marin , Honceriu Cezar , Drosescu Paula , Grădinariu Gabriela , Vorniceanu Alin , Anton Emil , Cojocaru Dumitru , Ciobica Alin , Ciornea Elena , Cojocaru Ioana
Published: October 2014

We investigated the effects of a 40 min bout of bicycle exercise, and the
effects of vitamin C administration 12 h before exercise, on the serum
markers of oxidative stress in young untrained subjects. Increased levels of
malondialdehyde, the marker of the lipid peroxidation, and a decrease in
specific activity of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase that were
observed as a result of exercise, pointed to the presence of exercise-induced
oxidative stress. These markers were reduced by pre-administration of vitamin
C. The results suggest that physically active subjects could increase their
daily dietary vitamin C intake in order to reinforce their antioxidant
defenses prior to exercise training.
Depression in CADASIL patients
Authors: Lackovic Maja , Damjanovic Aleksandar , Ivkovic Maja , Pantovic Maja , Bajcetic Milos , Rovcanin Branislav , Pavlovic Aleksandra , Sternic Nadezda , Jasovic-Gasic Miroslava
Published: October 2014

Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and
leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is a hereditary neurological disease
accompanied by recurrent ischemic events, characterized by the presence of
psychiatric disorders. The aim of this study was to examine the occurrence of
depression and its severity among patients with CADASIL. Sixteen patients
with diffuse white matter changes on MRI and clinical signs suggesting
CADASIL were included in the study. Definitive diagnosis of CADASIL was
obtained by electron microscopic analysis of skin biopsies. Testing of the
patients? affective status was primarily devoted to detecting depression.
Electron microscopic examinations of all skin biopsies revealed numerous
granular osmiophilic material (GOM) deposits embedded into the basal lamina
around altered or degenerated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Clinical
symptoms of depression were present in a great number of examined CADASIL
patients. The frequency of depression was higher than previously reported.
Psychiatric disturbances might also represent the onset of CADASIL,
especially in young patients, and should be evaluated by differential
diagnosis.
Anatomy and trichome micromorphology of Stachys scardica (Griseb.) Hayek (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Grujic Slavica , Duletic-Lausevic Sonja , Dzamic Ana , Marin P.D.
Published: October 2014

The anatomy and micromorphology of the vegetative organs and calyx of Stachys
scardica (Griseb.) Hayek were investigated using light (LM) and scanning
electron microscopy (SEM). The analysis of the anatomical structure of stem,
leaf and leaf petiole showed the presence of an additional adaxial phloem in
the vascular bundle of the petiole that was recorded exclusively in species
belonging to the subgenus Betonica. On the surface of studied plant parts,
three types of trichomes were found: simple nonglandular uniseriate
multicellular, nonglandular branched elongated and glandular peltate
trichomes. The present study shows that certain micromorphological and
anatomical features of Stachys taxa are valuable taxonomic characters.
Dactylorhiza fuchsii (Orchidaceae), a new species in the flora of Serbia
Authors: Djordjevic Vladan , Jovanovic Slobodan , Stevanovic Vladimir
Published: October 2014

Dactylorhiza fuchsii (Orchidaceae) has been found on Mt. Javor (SW Serbia) as
a new species in the flora of Serbia. This is the single known locality of
this species in the Central Balkans and the southernmost limit of the
species? distribution on the Balkan Peninsula. Data concerning its
morphology, distribution, habitat preferences, flowering period, population
size and conservation status in Serbia are provided.
Molecular characterization of COI gene of Ixodes ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) from Serbia
Authors: Cakic Sanja , Mojsilovic Miljana , Mihaljica Darko , Milutinovic Marija , Petrovic Andjeljko , Tomanovic Snezana
Published: October 2014

The Ixodes ricinus tick is common in the central part of the Balkan
Peninsula. It is a vector of pathogenic agents causing diseases in humans and
animals. Little is known about the genetic structure of I. ricinus in this
region. We have investigated intraspecific variability of the COI gene among
I. ricinus ticks collected from different regions of Serbia, and the
correlation between the various types of habitat and genetic variability of
ticks. The obtained COI gene sequences are the first barcoding sequences of
I. ricinus ticks collected at localities in Serbia. Intraspecific variability
of these COI gene sequences was very low, and there was no correlation
between the various types of habitat and genetic variability of ticks.
Samples from isolated localities (canyon/gorge) showed no genetic
differentiations from the majority of samples from open areas. [Projekat
Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. ON 173006]

 This article has been retracted. Link to the retraction 10.2298/ABS1404689U
Anti-inflammatory potential of different extracts isolated from the roots of Ficus lacor buch. Hum and Murraya koenigii L. spreng
Authors: Sindhu Rakesh , Arora Sandeep
Published: October 2014

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential
of Murraya koenigii root extracts petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and
chloroform (MKPE, MKEA and MKCF, respectively) and Ficus lacor aerial root
extracts petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, chloroform and ethanol (FLPE , FLET,
FLCF and FLET, respectively) at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)
using animal models of acute inflammation (carrageenan-, histamine- and
serotonin-induced inflammation). The results of the Murraya koenigii roots
chloroform extract caused 66.4% inhibition and the ethanol extract of Ficus
lacor aerial roots caused 68.3% inhibition at the dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. At a
higher dose of 100 mg/kg b.w., MKPE and MKCF showed 55.10% and 70.10%
inhibition, respectively. FLPE and FLET showed 74.50% and 75.40% inhibition,
respectively, in the carrageenan-induced inflammation model. In
histamine-induced inflammation, the MKCF showed 60% inhibition, and 67.01%
and 68.02% inhibition with the petroleum ether and ethanol extracts,
respectively, in Ficus lacor aerial roots at the dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. At a
higher dose (100 mg/kg b.w.), MKCF showed 64% inhibition. FLPE and FLET
showed 70.13%and 74.01% inhibition, respectively; 62.15% and 66.10%
inhibition was observed with the petroleum ether and ethanol extracts of
Ficus lacor aerial roots at 50 mg/kg b.w. At higher dose (100 mg/kg b.w.),
FLPE and FLET showed 69.10% and 68.72% inhibition in serotonin-induced
inflammation.
Copper-induced changes of lipid peroxidation and hemato-biochemical parameters in rat blood: Protective role of flavonoids
Authors: Mladenovic Jelena , Paunovic Milica , Matic Milos , Knezevic Veroljub , Ognjanovic Branka , Stajn Andras , Saicic Zorica
Published: October 2014

The effects of subchronic exposure to copper (Cu) on lipid peroxidation,
hemato-biochemical parameters, and the possible protective role of flavonoids
Quercetin and (-)-Epicatechin were studied. Male Wistar albino rats were
treated with Cu (560 mg/L, p.o. as CuCl2?2H2O for 5 weeks) and Quercetin and
(-)-Epicatechin (40 mg/kg BW each, i.p., every third day during the last 3
weeks) alone or in combination. Cu increased the concentration of lipid
peroxides, decreased the number of erythrocytes, hemoglobin and hematocrit
values and increased the activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine
aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase. Coadministration of Quercetin and
(-)-Epicatechin with Cu lowered the process of lipid peroxidation and
restored examined hemato-biochemical parameters to control values. Our
results indicate that Cu induced oxidative damage in erythrocytes, which led
to anemia, while Quercetin and (-)-Epicatechin showed a protective effect on
the hemato-biochemical processes in the blood of rats.