bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production of pili, hemolysin and siderophores in the urinary isolates of Escherichia coli
Authors: Markovic Tatjana , Smitran Aleksandra , Petkovic Miroslav
Published: November 2013

Introduction. Escherichia coli (E. coli) are the most frequent cause of the
urinary tract infections. Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) produce virulence
factors which enable them to survive in the urinary tract and cause an
infection. Objective. The objective of this study was to determine phenotype
characterization of E. coli isolated from outpatients? urine in the region of
Banja Luka over three-year period. In line with the objective, the following
research tasks were set up: determining the production of type 1 fimbriae,
P-pili, ?-hemolysin and siderophores. Methods. A total of 417 urinary
isolates and 100 control intestinal isolates were screened for virulence
factors. Production of adhesions was confirmed by haemagglutination test.
Plate haemolysis test was done for the detection of ?-hemolysin, and
siderophores production assay was carried out by using the method named
chrome azurol sulfonate agar diffusion assay. Results. In the group of
urinary isolates, almost 60% of isolates produced two or three virulence
factors; only 3.8% produced none of the virulence factors. In the group of
intestinal isolates, even 43% of isolates produced none of the virulence
factors while 48% of isolates produced a single virulence factor and 9%
produced two virulence factors. Conclusion. Urinary isolates E. coli express
significantly more P-pili, ?-hemolysin and siderophore than intestinal
isolates (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in production of type
1 fimbriae among the urinary and intestinal isolates.
Risk factors of nosocomial infections caused by piperacillin-tazobactam resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Djordjevic Zorana , Gajovic Olgica , Mijailovic Zeljko , Ilic Aleksandra , Stolic Radojica
Published: November 2013

Introduction. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common cause of serious infections
in hospitalized patients and is associated with high rates of hospital
morbidity and mortality. Objective. The aim of this study was to identify the
risk factors of nosocomial infections caused by piperacillin?tazobactam?
resistant P. aeruginosa (PT?RPA). Methods. A case?control study was conducted
in the Clinical Centre Kragujevac from January 2010 to December 2011.
Results. In the observed period, 79 (38.16%) patients had PT? RPA infections,
while 128 (61.84%) patients had infections caused by
piperacillin?tazobactam?sensitive P. aeruginosa (PT?SPA). Pneumonia was more
frequently found in the PT?RPA group (55.70%) (p<0.05), whereas urinary tract
infections were more frequent in the group of patients with PT?SPA infections
(26.56%) (p<0.01). Multivariate analysis was used to identify an injury on
admission (OR=3.089; 95%CI=1.438?6.635; p=0.004), administration of imipenem
(OR=15.027; 95%CI=1.778? 127.021; p=0.013), meropenem (OR=2.618; 95%CI=1.030?
6.653; p=0.043), ciprofloxacin (OR=3.380; 95%CI=1.412?8.090; p=0.006),
vancomycin (OR=4.294; 95%CI=1.477?12.479; p=0.007), piperacillin?tazobactam
(OR=4.047; 95%CI=1.395?11.742; p=0. 010) as independent risk factors
associated with PT?RPA infection. Conclusion. In hospitalized patients, the
risk of PT?RPA infections is associated with previous administration of
imipenem, meropenem, ciprofloxacin, vancomycin, piperacillin?tazobactam, and
the presence of injury on admission.
Women and addiction (alcohol and opiates): Comparative analysis of psychosocial aspects
Authors: Raketic Diana , Stamatovic-Gajic Branka , Gajic Tomislav , Jovanovic Mirjana
Published: November 2013

Introduction. Nowadays women constitute one third of all addicts. In the last
decade, there has been a remarkable growth in scientific interest in
biochemical and psychosocial aspects of women?s addiction. Many researches
point out the specific character of women?s addiction. Objective. The aim of
the study was to assess and compare psychosocial aspects, including the
socio-demographic characteristics as well as the specific aspects of
functioning of family and interpersonal relationships of the subjects
addicted to opiates and alcohol. Methods. There were two substance addict
groups (32 and 30 subjects addicted to drugs and alcohol, respectively) and
the control group, consisting of 30 subjects (no substance addiction). A
socio-demo- graphic data questionnaire and semi-structured Addiction Severity
Index (ASI) interview were used. Results. The results of the research
indicated that there were statistically significant differences between the
compared groups in respect to the age of the subjects, family history of
addiction disorders, education, parenthood, employment work status, and
marital status. The subjects addicted to opiates differed significantly in
respect to manifestation of aggressive, delinquent behaviour, infectious
diseases, presence of addicts-partnerships, but there were no significant
differences in relation to physical abuse, sexual abuse and self-assessment
of depression. Conclusion. The results of this research suggest that subjects
addicted to opiates differed largely from the subjects addicted to alcohol in
terms of the age of the subjects, education level, family relationships,
partnerships and social relationships, which all have to be taken into
consideration when designing a therapy protocol and planning activities for
prevention.
Analysis of regulatory-ethical framework of clinical trials
Authors: Milosevic-Georgiev Andrijana , Krajnovic Dusanka , Milovanovic Srdjan , Ignjatovic Svetlana , Djuric Dusan , Marinkovic Valentina
Published: November 2013

Introduction. Every clinical trial has to meet all ethical criteria in
addition to the scientific ones. The basic ethical principles in the clinical
trials are the following: nonmaleficence, beneficence, respect for autonomy
and the principle of justice. Objective. The aim of the study was to analyze
clinical cases with the outcomes leading to the changes in regulatory?ethical
framework related to the clinical trials, as well as the outcomes of key
clinical trials that influenced the introduction of the ethical principles
into clinical trials. Methods. This was a descriptive research (methods of
analysis and documentation; desk analysis of the secondary data). Results. By
analyzing the cases from the secondary sources as well as clinical and
ethical outcomes, it may be noticed that the codes, declarations and
regulations have been often preceded by certain events that caused their
adoption. Moral concern and public awareness of the ethical issues have
initiated not only the development of numerous guidelines, codes, and
declarations, but also their incorporation into the legislative acts.
Conclusion. It is desirable that ethical instruments become legally binding
documents, because only in this way will be possible to control all phases of
the clinical trials and prevent abuse of the respondents.
Proteinuria in frasier syndrome
Authors: Peco-Antic Amira , Ozaltin Fatih , Parezanovic Vojislav , Milosevski-Lomic Gordana , Zdravkovic Verica
Published: November 2013

Introduction. Frasier syndrome (FS) is a genetic form of glomerulopathy,
which results from mutations in the Wilms? tumour suppressor gene (WT1).
Proteinuria in FS has been traditionally considered unresponsive to any
medication and FS inevitably progresses to end stage renal failure. Case
Outline. We present a patient with FS who had atypical clinical manifestation
and unusual beneficial antiproteinuric response to renin-angiotensin system
(RAS) inhibitors given in combination with indomethacin. After 13 years of
follow-up, the patient is now 17-year old with normal renal functions and no
proteinuria. Conclusion. RAS inhibitors combined with indomethacin showed
beneficial effect in our patient. Thus, this combination might be the initial
treatment of patients with FS. If this treatment strategy was not satisfied
for at least 3 months, then CsA would be considered to be administered taking
account of the nephrotoxicity and the increased risk of malignancy. Further
prospective study is required to clarify this issue.
Treatment of open tibial fracture with bone defect caused by high velocity missiles: A case report
Authors: Golubovic Zoran , Vukasinovic Zoran , Stojiljkovic Predrag , Golubovic Ivan , Visnjic Aleksandar , Radovanovic Zoran , Najman Stevo
Published: November 2013

Introduction .Tibia fracture caused by high velocity missiles is mostly
comminuted and followed by bone defect which makes their healing process
extremely difficult and prone to numerous complications. Case Outline. A
34-year-old male was wounded at close range by a semi-automatic gun missile.
He was wounded in the distal area of the left tibia and suffered a massive
defect of the bone and soft tissue. After the primary treatment of the wound,
the fracture was stabilized with an external fixator type Mitkovic, with
convergent orientation of the pins. The wound in the medial region of the
tibia was closed with the secondary stitch, whereas the wound in the lateral
area was closed with the skin transplant after Thiersch. Due to massive bone
defect in the area of the rifle-missile wound six months after injury, a
medical team placed a reconstructive external skeletal fixator type Mitkovic
and performed corticotomy in the proximal metaphyseal area of the tibia. By
the method of bone transport (distractive osteogenesis), the bone defect of
the tibia was replaced. After the fracture healing seven months from the
secondary surgery, the fixator was removed and the patient was referred to
physical therapy. Conclusion. Surgical treatment of wounds, external
fixation, performing necessary debridement, adequate antibiotic treatment and
soft and bone tissue reconstruction are essential in achieving good results
in patients with the open tibial fracture with bone defect caused by high
velocity missiles. Reconstruction of bone defect can be successfully treated
by reconstructive external fixator Mitkovic.
Allergic fungal sinusitis - new aspects of clinical features, laboratory diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Arsic-Arsenijevic Valentina , Barac Aleksandra , Pekmezovic Marina , Stosovic Rajica , Pendjer Ivica
Published: November 2013

Allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) is a chronic non?invasive disease.
Hypersensitive immune response is usually initiated by allergens of
filamentous fungi Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, Fusarium,
Bipolaris, Curvularia and Alternaria. AFS is a clinical and immune analogue
of the allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) as the sinus exudate
resembles that of the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in ABPA. Patients with AFS
are usually immunocompetent, atopic and males. The most common symptoms are
headache, fullness in the paranasal sinuses, and difficult breathing through
the nose. Clinically, there is a chronic mucosal inflammation and
histopathologic finding shows allergic mucin and eosinophils. Specific
staining methods, Gomori?s Methenamine Silver (GMS) or periodic acid?Schiff
(PAS), are used for microscopic visualisation of hyphae, which are, in
addition to the isolated fungi, most reliable evidence of AFS. Computerized
tomography (CT) of paranasal sinuses shows the areas of hyperdensity. In
cases where AFS is complicated by the erosion of bone tissue, discontinuation
of the sinus bone wall can be seen. Significant laboratory finding, which
correlate highly with the AFS, are high immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies
specific for fungi, detected by the skin prick test or in serum. Treatment is
often surgical, and after removal of the allergic mucin, therapy involves
oral and nasal corticosteroids, immunotherapy and locally applied
antimycotics (with verified fungal etiology). During treatment, the
total/specific IgE is monitored - concentration increases with the
development of AFS, and decreases during the improvement process. Knowledge
of the pathophysiological mechanisms of AFS is scarce, and represents the
focus of further research in order to define an optimal diagnostic and
therapeutic approach.
The changes in value orientations of middle class in Serbia during the post-socialist transformation
Authors: Petrovic Irena
Published: November 2013

The main objective of this paper is to determine and explain the extent and
intensity of traditionalism, nationalism, authoritarianism among middle class
(professionals, on one side, and small entrepreneurs and lower managers, on
the other) in Serbia in the 1989-2012 period. Besides, in the paper we try to
describe different social and demographic factors that determine these value
orientations in the given period. Traditionalism, nationalism,
authoritarianism operationalized by a set of empirical statements, presented
by the Likert type scale. The analysis will be based on the data collected
within two research projects: the Changes in the Class Structure and Mobility
in Serbia in 1989, The South-East European Social Survey Project in 2003. and
Challenges of the new social integration in Serbia: Concepts and actors? in
2012, conducted by the Institute for Sociological Research of the Faculty of
Philosophy in Belgrade.
Lefebvre’s thought in contemporary urban sociology
Authors: Grbin Miloje
Published: November 2013

This paper presents the impact of Henri Lefebvre?s thought in contemporary
urban sociology. In the first chapter, the reader can find brief descriptions
of two most relevant Lefebvre?s concepts linked to his comprehension of
space: production of space, the right to the city and a couple of firmly
related concepts. The second chapter presents several examples of their
recent interpretations by the authors from different theoretical backgrounds.
Simultaneously, it evaluates the relevance of Lefebvre?s theoretical
assumptions in contemporary social context, as well as their theoretical and
methodological relevance for further research and development of urban
sociology. Conclusion emphasizes that Lefebvre?s ideas have a deep and long
term influence in urban sociology.
Improvement in smile esthetics following orthodontic treatment: A retrospective study utilizing standardized smile analysis
Authors: Maganzini Anthony L. , Schroetter Sarah B. , Freeman Kathy
Published: November 2013

Objective:

To quantify smile esthetics following orthodontic treatment and determine whether these changes are correlated to the severity of the initial malocclusion.

Materials and Methods:

A standardized smile mesh analysis that evaluated nine lip-tooth characteristics was applied to two groups of successfully treated patients: group 1 (initial American Board of Orthodontics Discrepancy Index [DI] score <20) and group 2 (initial DI score >20). T-tests were used to detect significant differences between the low-DI and high-DI groups for baseline pretreatment measurements, baseline posttreatment measurements, and changes from pre- to posttreatment. A Spearman correlation test compared the initial DI values with the changes in the nine smile measurements.

Results:

Five of the smile measurements were improved in both groups following orthodontic treatment. Both groups demonstrated improved incisor exposure, an improved gingival smile line, an increase in smile width, a decreased buccal corridor space, and an improvement in smile consonance. Spearman correlation tests showed that initial DI value was not correlated to changes in any of the individual smile measurements.

Conclusions:

Smile esthetics is improved by orthodontic treatment regardless of the initial severity of the malocclusion. In other words, patients with more complex orthodontic issues and their counterparts with minor malocclusions benefitted equally from treatment in terms of their smile esthetics.
Model ogólny monitorowania ryzyka awarii w eksploatacji środków transportu
Authors: Tomaszek Henryk , Kaleta Ryszard , Zieja Mariusz
Published: November 2013

Streszczenie

W pracy podano zarys modelu monitorowania ryzyka awarii (zdarzenia niepożądanego) w środkach transportu, wykorzystując pracę [2]. Czynnikami pogarszającymi stan techniczny środka transportu są procesy destrukcyjne w postaci zużycia, zmęczenia i starzenia, jakie powstają podczas jego eksploatacji. W pracy określono zależność na prawdopodobieństwo zdarzenia niepożądanego (awarii) w funkcji czasu eksploatacji. Określono również intensywność zdarzenia niepożądanego. Z otrzymanych zależności wynika, że są one funkcjami czasu eksploatacji. Na podstawie przyjętego dopuszczalnego poziomu ryzyka można określić dopuszczalny czas bezpiecznej eksploatacji.
Zarys metody opisu kształtowania skuteczności w systemie eksploatacji wojskowych statków powietrznych
Authors: Tomaszek Henryk , Kaleta Ryszard , Zieja Mariusz
Published: November 2013

Streszczenie

Praca dotyczy kształtowania skuteczności w systemie eksploatacji wojskowych statków powietrznych w warunkach wykonywania zadań lotniczych. Pod pojęciem skuteczności przyjęto prawdopodobieństwo wykonania zadania lotniczego przez element systemu w postaci statku powietrznego wraz z pilotem. W kolejnych lotach istnieje możliwość polepszenia i pogorszenia skuteczności w zależności od funkcjonowania zaplecza eksploatacyjnego statków powietrznych. Prawidłowa eksploatacja elementów systemu ma zapewnić zachowanie warunku * Pk ≥ P , gdzie Pk to skuteczność w k-tym locie, a P* dolna wymagana granica skuteczności. Myślą przewodnią niniejszego artykułu była praca [2].
A Method to Describe the Process of Shaping Operational Effectiveness of Military Aircraft – An Outline
Authors: Tomaszek Henryk , Kaleta Ryszard , Zieja Mariusz
Published: November 2013

The paper deals with the process of shaping the operational effectiveness of military aircraft under some specific circumstances, i.e. while flying on missions. The term ‘effectiveness’ has been assumed to mean the probability of accomplishing an air mission by one of the aeronautical system’s components, i.e. the aircraft together with its pilot. There is a chance to improve the effectiveness, or make it worse, in subsequent flights, depending on how the maintenance support function. The correct operation and maintenance of the system’s components should provide that the following condition is satisfied: * Pk ≥ P , where Pk - effectiveness in the k-th flight, and P* - the lower demanded limit of effectiveness. The Authors drew their inspiration for this paper from publication [2].
Output Voltage Pulsation as Source of Diagnostic Information About Commutator-Type DC Generators
Authors: Gębura Andrzej , Radoń Tomasz
Published: November 2013

The paper deals with operational issues related to DC generators of commutator types. Specific aspects of commutation are discussed in details as well as the effect of physical phenomena onto formation of the constant component in the pulsation waveform of the output voltage supplied by DC generators. The component of pulsation is the result of many physical phenomena and, according to knowledge sourced from the related literature, is split into several components. Each of these components is discussed in systematic way on the basis of theoretical background provided by referenced textbooks and papers and then verified by comparison against results of own research studies carried out in the ITWL laboratory. Particular attention is paid to effects associated with the commutation process, with consideration of symptoms related to failures, possibilities of their detection and prevention. Some other effects associated with variation in the nature of pulsation are discussed as well when defects such as shorts or breaks occur in the generator armature or stator. It has been demonstrated that those components of DC generators can be diagnosed by analysis of parameters in pulsation components.
Diagnozowanie tarcz sterujących śmigłowców Mi-17 i Mi-24 metodą FAM-C
Authors: Kurdelski Marcin , Gębura Andrzej
Published: November 2013

Streszczenie

W publikacji przedstawiono wybrane problemy eksploatacyjne tarcz sterujących śmigłowców eksploatowanych w lotnictwie Sił Zbrojnych RP. Przedstawiono również prognozy zagrożeń dla zespołu transmisji tego śmigłowca, opartej na analizie teoretycznej zjawisk mechanicznych, jak również analizie statystycznej i diagnostycznej. Główną uwagę zwrócono na możliwości diagnozowania miejsc zagrożeń w tarczy sterującej śmigłowca nieinwazyjną metodą FAM-C, opracowaną w ITWL. Metoda ta jest oparta na śledzeniu parametrów modulacji częstotliwości generowanych przez prądnicę pokładową prądu przemiennego. Badanie to nie wymaga instalowania żadnych dodatkowych czujników, gdyż podczas pomiaru zespół transmisji nie doznaje żadnych dodatkowych obciążeń ani zniekształceń prędkości obrotowej.

Autorzy w publikacji zaprezentowali wstępne wyniki pomiarów diagnostycznych oraz materiały z demontażu tarcz sterujących śmigłowców eksploatowanych w warunkach misji wojskowych w Iraku i Afganistanie, wykonanego na śmigłowcach Mi-24 oraz Mi-17. Zaproponowano także, zdaniem autorów, prostą i tanią metodę polowego sprawdzania łożyska głównego tarczy sterującej metodą pomiaru fotogrametrycznego. Autorzy wykazali, że metodologię badań diagnostycznych można i trzeba rozciągnąć na inne typy śmigłowców
Evaluation of Steering Disks in Mi-17 and Mi-24 Helicopters by Means of the Fam-C Method
Authors: Kurdelski Marcin , Gębura Andrzej
Published: November 2013

The paper deals with selected issues related to operation of steering disks designed for helicopters that are currently in operation of the Air Force of the Republic of Poland. The attempt is made to present a prediction of hazards to the transmission gear of that helicopter where the forecast is based on a theoretical analysis of mechanical phenomena as well as the statistical and diagnostic analyses. The major attention is paid to the opportunity to diagnose hazardous locations of the helicopter steering disk with use of a non-destructive FAM-C method originally developed by ITWL. The method is based on tracking of frequency modulation parameters generated by the on-board AC generator. The examination does not require the installation of any additional sensor since the transmission is subjected to neither additional load nor distortions of the rotation speed occur.

The authors of this study disclosed the initial results from diagnostic measurements as well as snapshots taken during the disassembling of steering disks from Mi-24 and Mi-17 helicopters that were operated under heavy duty conditions of military missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. They also suggested an easy and cheap method for field checking of the steering disk bearing by photogrammetric measurements. It is also demonstrated that the method of diagnostic investigations can be also spread onto other helicopter makes and types.
Investigation of the Oxidizer Charge Impact Onto Energetic Characteristics Demonstrated by the Stream of Gunpowder Gas Ejected by Solid-Propellant Missile Engines
Authors: Pietraszek Mariusz , Klemba Tomasz
Published: November 2013

The study discloses outputs from examinations devoted to charges of oxidizers and their impact on behaviour of missile engine operation with particular attention to measures that are undertaken to counteract stall of a helicopter engine. Homogenous solid propellant for missile engines exhibits a negative oxygen balance. When a series of rocket missiles driven by means of such fuel is launched from the helicopter board there is a hazard of the engine stall effect that may lead to killing its engines. Admixture of potassium (II) sulphate (VI) that is added into the combustion chamber of a missile engine as an inhibitor of the combustion reaction favourably alters characteristics of the engine output power and, at the same time, is irrelevant to the available thrust of the engine. Application of the oxidizer as an insert into the engine substantially improves flight safety when rocket missiles are launched from an aircraft and makes it possible to avoid significant changes in the engine design. The paper outlines the results from investigations when a charge of K2SO4 was introduced into the Mk66 missile engine as a compressed bar and the working parameters of the engine were measured. The investigations on a vertical workbench comprised measurements of the engine thrust and temperature in the stream of exhaust gases. The measurement results were compared against figures sourced from the original data sheets of engines
Combustion of Coal-Mule Briquettes / Spalanie Brykietów Z Mułu Węglowego
Authors: Kijo-Kleczkowska Agnieszka
Published: November 2013

Combustion technologies coal-mule fuels create a number of new possibilities for organising combustion processes so that they fulfil contemporary requirements (e.g., in terms of the environment protection- related issues). The paper describes the problems of coal-mule fuel combustion that have acquired a wider significance as the quality requirements of coal combustion in power plants have been growing. Coal mines that want to fulfill expectations of power industry workers have been forced to develop and modernize plants of coal wet cleaning. It all results in the growing amount of waste arising in the process of coal wet cleaning which contains smaller and smaller coal undersizes. In this situation the concept of direct combustion of the above mentioned waste and their co-combustion with other fuels, coal and biomass, seems to be attractive. Biomass is one from the most promising sources of renewable energy. The main aim of the paper is to identify the mechanism and kinetics of combustion of coal-mule fuels and their co- -combustion with coal and biomass in the briquettes form based on extensive experimental research in air.
Characterization and Concentration Studies of Jalal Abad Iron Mine / Charakterystyka I Badania Koncentracji W Kopalni Rud Żelaza Jalal Abad
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Ahmad , Rezai Bahram , Mohammadi Mohammad Reza Tavakoli , Javanshir Sepideh
Published: November 2013

Characterization and determination of liberation degree are the first stages of ore dressing. Block 4 of Jalal Abad mine, Kerman province, Iran, has three kinds of iron ores; D1, D2 and D3, with different grades. In this research, chemical analysis, mineralogy, liberation degree and magnetic enrichment studies were done by XRF, XRD, microscopic sections and Davis tube, respectively. The results indicated that D1, D2 and D3 had average iron grades of 58, 52 and 38%, respectively. The minerals of Magnetite, Hematite, Dolomite, Calcite and Quartz were distinguished. Average liberation degree was estimated about 500 μm by Microscopic studies. The results of magnetic tests showed that iron grade of D1, D2 and D3 concentrates increased to 70.46, 63.98 and 45.37%, respectively. The optimization of blending was investigated for production of accumulated concentrate with desirable iron grade (68%) using MATLAB software.
Cut Size Determination of Centrifugal Classifier with Fluidized Bed / Wyznaczanie Ziarna Granicznego Klasyfikatora Odśrodkowego Z Warstwą Fluidalną
Authors: Otwinowski Henryk
Published: November 2013

The cut size determination on the basis of proposed matrix model of classification process in a centrifugal air flow classifier with a fluidized bed is presented using matrix model. The presented methodology of cut size determination is based on the precise measurement of the total mass of fed material and coarse product in experimental tests. Knowledge of the feed particle size distribution is also required. Considered classifier is a part of the fluidized bed jet mill. The presented cut size determination will allow to optimize mill work and prediction of particle size distribution of the classification products.
Application of Rough Set Theory for Choosing Optimal Location for Flotation Tailings Dump / Zastosowanie Teorii Zbiorów Przybliżonych Do Wyboru Optymalnej Lokalizacji Składowiska Odpadów Poflotacyjnych
Authors: Štirbanović Zoran , Miljanović Igor , Marković Zoran
Published: November 2013

Flotation tailings dumps represent a potential threat to the environment. To corroborate this, numerous environmental disasters have occurred worldwide in the past. Pollution caused by breaking of tailings dump dams and overflowing of hazardous materials is still present, after several decades, and continue to threaten the environment.

This paper presents a method for determining the most appropriate location for the flotation tailings dump using rough set theory. The review of the criteria that influence the choice of flotation tailings dump location is given. Based on these criteria, an analysis and evaluation of the proposed locations for the flotation tailings dump are done using rough set theory and the most suitable location that meets all the requirements is suggested.
Anatomical considerations on the place and formation of the renal veins
Authors: Popescu S. , Olgun A. , Bordei P. , Iliescu D.M.
Published: November 2013

Our study on the venous vasculature of the kidney (the location and the formation of the renal veins) was performed on a total of 148 cases, using as working methods the dissection, the injection of contrast medium followed by radiography and the plastic injection followed by corrosion. Not all anatomical landmarks could be studied in all cases, each anatomical landmark being assessed on a number of different cases. The left renal vein formation was studied on 124 cases and we have found that the left renal vein may appear inside the renal sinus (intrarenal or intrasinusal) in 13.71 % of cases; in 17.74 % of the cases the confluence of the tributaries of the renal was at the medial border of the kidney, so juxtarenal and the most common form was the extrarenal vein (68.55 % of cases). The level of appearance of the right renal vein was studied on 122 cases, describing the following patterns: intrasinusal in 19.67 % of cases, juxtarenal in 27.87 % of cases and extrarenal in 52.46 % of cases.

The formation of renal veins was studied on a number of 114 cases, finding the following variations: in 56.14 % of the cases the renal vein formed from two venous trunks, in 38.60 % of cases from three venous trunks and in 5.26 % of cases from four venous trunks; we did not found cases of renal vein formed from more than 4 tributaries.
Evolution of parasitic diseases in a collectivity of HIV positive children
Authors: Cambrea Simona Claudia , Gorun Elena , Ilie Maria Margareta , Halichidis Stela
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Intestinal parasitism represents an important problem of children health. Infestations with protozoa and helmints even have an increased incidence in children they weren’t observed because they were asymptomatic and atypical but with negative influence on their health regardless their immune status.

Objective: To evaluate parasitic infections in a collectivity of 38 children HIV+ from Cernavoda city (Hospis “St. Laurence”) over a period of 10 years (2002 - 2012).

Material and method: We performed two coproparasitologic examinations (in year 2002 - before antiretroviral treatment and in year 2012 - after 10 years of antiretroviral treatment) by concentration and staining methods and ELISA for Cryptosporidium parvum antigen.

Results: In our group of study the median age was 11.65 yrs. in 2002 and 20.6 yrs. in 2012. Sex ratio was M: F = 1:1.2. In year 2002 we found an incidence of parasitic disease of 94.9%, and in year 2012 we found an incidence of 26.31%. In year 2002 we found 6 cases of Giardia intestinalis, 5 cases of Blastocystis hominis, 15 cases of Chilomastix mesnili, 2 cases of Entamoeba coli, 1 case of Ascaris lumbricoides, 2 cases of Hymenolepis nana and 5 cases of poliparasitic disease. In year 2012 we found 4 cases of Giardia intestinalis, 2 cases of Entamoeba coli, 2 cases of Blastocystis hominis and one case of Isospora belli and another one case of Ascaris lumbricoides.

Conclusions: After ten years of HAART the incidence of parasitic diseases registered an important decrease from 94.9% to 26.31%.
The link between nuchal translucency and congenital heart disease
Authors: Ionescu C. , Gheorghiu Diana , Iacob Gabriela , Haradja H.
Published: November 2013

The nuchal translucency is defined as a transient subcutaneous collection of fluid behind the fetal neck seen on ultrasonography at 11-14 weeks of gestation. In this current overview it was observed the relationship between increased nuchal translucency (NT) and fetal heart structure and function in chromosomally normal fetuses. Fetuses with an increases NT have an increased risk for congenital heart disease (CHD) and the combination between an increases NT, tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and an abnormal ductus venosus (DV) Doppler flow profile is a strong marker for CHD.
Morphological features of bone in calcium and vitamin D deficiency
Authors: Chircor Lidia , Iordan G. , Surdu Loredana
Published: November 2013

The authors aim to identify morphological features of the bone abnormal development caused by calcium and vitamin D deficiency (CDD) and possible risk factors in the occurrence of these changes. The study is conducted on a selected group of 102 children aged 10-12 years with bone changes due to CDD, diagnosed and treated in Constanţa City from 2000 - 2010. For cases where the same child presented several bone deformities, we considered every bone deformity as an independent entity. In this study we observed deformation of the bones of the skull, prominent frontal bone 62 cases (60.78%); “beads rib” 49 cases (48.03%) sub mammary grooves 31 cases (30.32%), increasing the volume of knee joint 75 cases (73.52%) and wrist 68 cases (66.66%). The changes visible under direct examination are accompanied by structural changes visible by radiological exam, so the epiphysis plate has an irregular appearance (35 cases), serrated (35 cases), are enlarged (34 cases) or cup (31 cases). Analysis of sex distribution shows higher involvement of male children, sex ratio 3/1. Age group most affected in the studied group is 3-36 months. Skeletal deformities in CDD conditions are associated with peculiar situations of risk: monthly income below Average 72 cases (70.5%), increased pigmentation of the skin 61 (59.8%), prematurity 20 (19.6%). Increased incidence of developmental abnormalities of the bones due to CDD in the studied group and in different regions (England, Turkey, USA, etc) in recent years coincides with modern life style, which involves skin protection against solar radiation and a lack of exposure to sunlight.
Anatomical characteristics of the left suprarenal vein (V. suprarenalis sinistra)
Authors: Popescu S. , Iliescu D.M. , Bordei P.
Published: November 2013

Our study was performed on 82 cases, using as study methods the dissection and the plastic injection (Technovit 7143) followed by NaOH corrosion. The suprarenal vein traject was always straight, presenting two aspects: in 54.55 % of cases it was an oblique infero-medial traject and in 45.45 % of cases it was a vertical traject. The traject of the left gonadal vein was oblique supero-medial in 55.56 % of the cases and in 44.44 % of cases was vertical. Unlike the corresponding suprarenal vein, the left gonadal vein showed, in 19.44 % of cases, a sinuous traject. Regarding the left suprarenal vein termination site, we found that in 24 cases (50 % of cases), the suprarenal vein was lateral to the aorta, in 41.67 % of cases being closer to the aorta and 8.33 % of cases halfway aorta-left kidney. In the other 24 cases, the left suprarenal vein ends into the left renal vein in front of the aorta, in 25 % of cases on the anterolateral face of the aorta and in 33.33 % of cases closer to the midline; in one case this termination was right beyond the middle of the anterior face of the aorta. The termination of the left gonadal vein was assessed in 75 % of cases on the aortic side, in 37.5 % of cases being closer to the aorta and also in 37.5% of all cases being halfway aorta-left kidney. In 25% of the cases the left gonadal vein ended in into the renal vein on its anterolateral aspect. Comparing the renal termination of the suprarenal and gonadal veins we found that in 29.27 % of cases they ended at the same level, but in only 7.32 % of cases both veins had a vertical traject. In 60.97 % of the cases the gonadal vein ends lateral to the suprarenal vein and only in 9.76 % of the cases the gonadal vein ends medial to the suprarenal vein. We did not found the termination of the suprarenal and gonadal veins closer to kidney or the left gonadal vein end on the anterior face of the aorta.
Morphological aspects of the bifid ureter (in „Y”)
Authors: Vărgău M. , Iliescu D.M. , Ionescu C. , Bordei P.
Published: November 2013

Our assessments on the bifid ureter resulted from the study on a number of 258 cases of renal upper pathways, using as study methods the dissection and the analysis of CT urographies. We met a total of 10 cases with bifid ureter, 4 cases on the right and 6 cases on the left, two of them showing a bilateral bifid ureter. In 8 cases the superior ureter drained only the upper part of the kidney and in 2 cases the two ureters had an equal drainage area. The superior ureteral was thinner than the lower one in 6 cases, in 2 cases the two ureters were equal in caliber and also in 2 cases the superior ureter was more voluminous than the lower one. Up to their confluence, the two ureters were linear, in one case the upper ureter was sinuous and in two cases the upper ureter describes a concave curve oriented laterally. The confluence of both ureters is most commonly on the medial margin of the kidney, under the renal hilum, an aspect we met in 7 cases. Located supero-medial to the lower ureter, the superior on showed several aspects up to the confluence with the lower one: a. passing along the medial face of the lower ureter, with a traject like a “gun barrel”, as seen in 2 cases; b. in 3 cases anteriorly crossed the lower ureter, with the confluence laterally; c. in 2 cases the superior ureter passed postero-medial to the lower one; d. in 2 cases the superior ureter went in front of the lower one; e. in one case the upper ureter have an oblique infero-medial trajectory while the lower one was supero-medial, their confluence being made under an acute angle on the medial margin of the kidney, above its inferior pole.
Assessment of a Transport Company in Terms of Performance Utilisation of Vehicles
Authors: Hujo Ľubomír , Jablonický Juraj , Tkáč Zdenko , Angelovič Michal , Rečková Brigita
Published: November 2013

Our study is focused on solution opportunities of national road freight transport in a selected company in terms of performance utilisation of vehicles. The indicators of time and performance utilisation of lorries and their trailer units are used for analysing the transport company. Based on correlative assessment, it is possible to determine the effects of year-to-year performance variations of vehicles in terms of running performances, transport performances, average travel distance and average loading.
Analysis of Material Flows in a Selected Company
Authors: Mojžiš Miroslav , Ivan Marek , Varga František
Published: November 2013

The issue of material flows requires resolving a wide range of answers to questions that are part of material handling. It is important to know what the subject of handling is, what means a given material will be handled with, in what amount and time, by what route, and how this handling will be performed. We must not forget the costs involved, either in handling or storage. The answer to these questions is given by the analysis of material flows, which is dealt with during the optimisation of material handling in Bang Joo Electronics Slovakia spol. s r. o. (private limited company).
Evaluation of Fuel Consumption in Road Freight Transport
Authors: Szabó Mário , Majdan Radoslav , Tkáč Zdenko , Čápora Rastislav , Hujo Ľubomír
Published: November 2013

This paper deals with the importance of fuel economy in road freight transport. It provides the calculation of financial savings for fuel savings of 0.5 l per 100 km. In the subsequent part, some factors that influence the fuel consumption are specified, e.g. aerodynamic resistance, rolling resistance, and tyre inflation pressure. The effect of tyre inflation pressure on fuel economy has been tested on four selected towing vehicles. Based on the results obtained, it can be stated that tyre pressure has a great impact on fuel consumption. A one-bar pressure reduction of tyres can increase the fuel consumption by 0.5 l per 100 km.
Soil Resistance and its Impact on Tillage Depth
Authors: Varga František , Mojžiš Miroslav , Abrahám Rudolf
Published: November 2013

Currently manufactured tractors are equipped with a three-point hitch, which is used to connect semi-mounted implements to the tractor. The tractor three-point hitch is operated hydraulically, using various types of control. The most commonly used control is a force, positional and a mixed one. Each of these types of control has its specific characteristics and some advantages and disadvantages. Finally, each type of control is suitable for certain soil and terrain conditions. Particular attention was paid to a force control, which is improving the use of the tractor with a mounted implement, but on the other hand, adversely affects the uniformity of working depth of implements on soils with variable resistance. Based on theoretical analysis and experimental measurements, there has been determined the effect of soil resistance on the tillage depth, depending on initial conditions for implement deepening. Initial conditions for implement deepening are given by the tillage depth, soil resistance, and the cutting width of a plough. It was found that soil resistance strongly affects the tillage depth, and with increasing soil resistance the tillage depth decreases non-linearly. A gradual increasing of soil resistance is associated with a less-marked decreasing of the tillage depth. These facts will be further used in research, development and experimental verification of new control systems of the three-point hitch of tractors.
Colonisation of apple and blackcurrant roots by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi following mycorrhisation and the use of organic mulches
Authors: Derkowska Edyta , Paszt Lidia Sas , Sumorok Beata , Dyki Barbara
Published: November 2013

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of mycorrhisation and mulching on the colonisation of the roots of ‘Gold Milennium’ apple trees and ‘Ojebyn’ and ‘Tiben’ blackcurrant bushes by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. In order to assess mycorrhizal frequency, samples of roots were collected in the 2012 season from all of the experimental combinations (control, peat substrate, bark, sawdust, manure, compost, mycorrhizal substrate and straw). The results of the analyses showed that all of the different mulches had a positive effect on increasing the degree of mycorrhizal association. In apple, the highest mycorrhizal frequency (F% - mycorrhizal frequency for the entire sample) and mycorrhizal intensity (M% - relative mycorrhizal frequency for the entire sample) were observed in the roots of trees inoculated with the mycorrhizal substrate (F = 24.40%, M = 0.24%) and those mulched with compost (F = 16.67%, M = 0.17%). In blackcurrant, the highest values of mycorrhizal frequency and mycorrhizal intensity were recorded in the roots of ‘Tiben’ bushes inoculated with the mycorrhizal substrate (F = 37.78%, M = 0.38%) and those mulched with sawdust (F = 21.11%, M = 0.21%).
Improper Driver Action as a Cause of Road Accidents / Niewłaściwe Działania Kierowców Jako Przyczyna Powstawania Zdarzeń Drogowych
Authors: Muślewski Łukasz
Published: November 2013

Road traffic is inseparably connected with road accident. This is the human-driver whose role in the transportation process safety is of key importance. Driving a motor vehicle requires from the driver not only knowledge but also physical and psychical fitness. They need to have the ability of quick reaction, proper estimation of the road situation and doing maneuvers adequate to it. In this study, an assessment of the impact of improper behaviors of drivers on occurrence of road collisions and accidents, has been analyzed on the basis of literature analysis and the authors’ own research. In effect of the carried out tests there has been made a classification of the road events with a division into: cause, place, date, and time of their occurrence as well as drivers’ age and their driving experience. The whole study has been performed on the basis of a real transportation company, operating on the territory of an urban agglomeration with the population of 500 inhabitants.
Increased Chitotriosidase Activities in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Possible Novel Marker?
Authors: Basok Banu Isbilen , Kucur Mine , Kizilgul Muhammed , Yilmaz Ibrahim , Ekmekci Ozlem Balci , Uzunlulu Mehmet , Isman Ferruh Kemal
Published: November 2013

Background: Chitotriosidase and YKL-40 are well-known in humans as Glyco_18 domain-containing proteins that are the common feature of mammalian chitinases and chitinaselike proteins. Previously, increased levels of YKL-40 were found correlated with the disease activity of rheumatoid arthritis. However, serum chitotriosidase activity in rheumatoid arthritis is not known yet. The aim of this study was to determine YKL-40 and chitotriosidase in patients with rheu - matoid arthritis and to compare these markers with traditi - onal ones such as C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Methods: Chitotriosidase, YKL-40 and C-reactive protein were measured in serum samples from 27 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and 27 healthy people. Chitotriosidase, YKL-40, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were determined by a fluorometer, ELISA, nephelometer, and Western Green method, respectively.

Results: Serum chitotriosidase activities and YKL-40 levels were higher in rheumatoid arthritis group than in control. A significant positive correlation was found between chitotriosidase and YKL-40. In ROC analysis, the areas under curves for chitotriosidase, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and YKL-40 were 0.96, 0.84, 0.76, and 0.65, respectively. Area under the curve for chitotriosidase was significantly higher than the area for erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p=0.005) and for YKL-40 (p=0.0001), but not for Creactive protein (p=0.055).

Conclusions: Serum chitotriosidase was significantly in creas - ed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Among all the param - eters evaluated, chitotriosidase was the most sensitive and specific one. Comprehensive studies covering larger populations are needed to elucidate the relationship bet ween chitinases, in particular chitotriosidase and rheumatoid arthritis.