bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex-dependent hepatic transcripts and metabolites in the development of glucose intolerance and insulin resistance in Zucker diabetic fatty rats
Authors: Gustavsson Carolina , Soga Tomoyoshi , Wahlström Erik , Vesterlund Mattias , Azimi Alireza , Norstedt Gunnar , Tollet-Egnell Petra
Published: June 2011

Male Zucker diabetic fatty (mZDF) rats spontaneously develop type 2 diabetes, whereas females only become diabetic when fed a diabetogenic high-fat diet (high-fat-fed female ZDF rat, HF-fZDF). The aim of this study was to investigate if differences in liver functions could provide clues to this sex difference. Non-diabetic obese fZDF rats were compared with either mZDF or HF-fZDF regarding hepatic molecular profiles, to single out those components that might be protective in the females. High-fat feeding in fZDF led to enhanced weight gain, increased blood glucose and insulin levels, reduced insulin sensitivity and a trend towards reduced glucose tolerance, indicative of a prediabetic state. mZDF rats were diabetic, with low levels of insulin, high levels of glucose, reduced insulin sensitivity and impaired glucose tolerance. Transcript profiling and capillary electrophoresis time-of-flight mass spectrometry were used to indentify hepatic transcripts and metabolites that might be related to this. Many diet-induced alterations in transcript and metabolite levels in female rats were towards a ‘male-like’ phenotype, including reduced lipogenesis, increased fatty acid (FA) oxidation and increased oxidative stress responses. Alterations detected at the level of hepatic metabolites, indicated lower capacity for glutathione (GSH) production in male rats, and higher GSH turnover in females. Taken together, this could be interpreted as if anabolic pathways involving lipogenesis and lipid output might limit the degree of FA oxidation and oxidative stress in female rats. Together with a greater capacity to produce GSH, these hepatic sex differences might contribute to the sex-different development of diabetes in ZDF rats.
Analgesic Effects of EMLA Cream and Oral Sucrose During Venipuncture in Preterm Infants
Authors: Biran Valérie , Gourrier Elisabeth , Cimerman Patricia , Walter-Nicolet Elizabeth , Mitanchez Delphine , Carbajal Ricardo
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this study was to compare the analgesic effect of sucrose with that of the combination of sucrose and the local anesthetic cream EMLA during venipuncture in preterm neonates.

METHODS:

This randomized, double-blind prospective study included infants younger than 37 weeks' gestational age during 1 routine venipuncture for blood sampling. Each child randomly received either sucrose plus application of a placebo cream (S group) or sucrose plus EMLA cream (S+E group) before venipuncture. Venipuncture-induced pain was assessed through videotapes of the procedures by using the Douleur Aiguë Nouveau-né (DAN) behavioral scale. Pain was assessed at 2 phases: during venipuncture (from needle introduction to its removal) and during the recovery period (30 seconds after needle removal). Pain scores over time and between treatments were compared by using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

RESULTS:

The study included 76 children (37 in the S group, 39 in the S+E group). Mean (SD) DAN pain scores for the S group and the S+E group were 7.7 (2.1) and 6.4 (2.5), respectively, during venipuncture and 7.1 (2.8) and 5.7 (3.3) during the postinjection period. A significant time and treatment effect in favor of the S+E group was observed.

CONCLUSION:

The combination of sucrose and EMLA cream revealed a higher analgesic effect than sucrose alone during venipuncture in these preterm infants.
Promoting Best-Care Practices in Childhood Asthma: Quality Improvement in Community Health Centers
Authors: Lob Sibylle H. , Boer Jennifer Holloman , Porter Patricia G. , Núñez David , Fox Patrick
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE:

Outpatient asthma management remains suboptimal. We previously reported significant improvements in asthma guideline adherence and outcomes in children by using quality-improvement processes and community health workers. We hypothesized that a larger project could achieve comparable outcome improvements with streamlined quality-improvement processes and decreased technical assistance.

METHODS:

Seventeen clinics treating 12 000 children with asthma were evaluated through interviews of a subset of patients with persistent or high-risk asthma (n = 761) at baseline and at 12 and 21 months and chart reviews randomly selected from all patients with asthma at baseline and 12 and 24 months (n = 2040). Multidisciplinary teams developed data-driven continuous quality-improvement activities. Asthma coordinators provided patient education and were active team members.

RESULTS:

Study children were predominantly Hispanic (77%) and black (11%); 60% were enrolled in Medicaid, and 9% were uninsured. Comparing results between baseline and the 21-month follow-up, significantly fewer families reported emergency-department visits (29.6% vs 9.3%), hospitalizations (10.9% vs 3.4%), frequent daytime symptoms (44.0% vs 11.7%), and missed school days (28.7% vs 13.6%); significantly more reported confidence in asthma management (70.6% vs 95.5%); and quality-of-life scores increased significantly for both children and caregivers (all P < .05). Cross-sectional data revealed significant clinic-wide improvements in symptom documentation, health care use, and review of action plans.

CONCLUSIONS:

On a larger scale, this approach realized impressive changes in provider clinical practice associated with major improvements in health outcomes. It holds great potential for significantly reducing asthma-related morbidity among low-income children.
Acute Tc-99m DMSA Scan for Identifying Dilating Vesicoureteral Reflux in Children: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Mantadakis Elpis , Vouloumanou Evridiki K. , Georgantzi Georgia G. , Tsalkidis Aggelos , Chatzimichael Αthanassios , Falagas Matthew E.
Published: June 2011

Controversy exists regarding the type and/or sequence of imaging studies needed during the first febrile urinary tract infection (UTI) in young children. Several investigators have claimed that because acute-phase Tc-99m dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) renal-scan results are abnormal in the presence of dilating vesicoureteral reflux, a normal DMSA-scan result makes voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) unnecessary in the primary examination of infants with UTI. To evaluate the accuracy of acute-phase DMSA scanning in identifying dilating (grades III through V) vesicoureteral reflux documented by VCUG in children with a first febrile UTI, we performed a meta-analysis of the accuracy of diagnostic tests as reported from relevant studies identified through the PubMed and Scopus databases. Patient-based and renal unit–based analyses were performed. Overall, 13 cohort studies were identified. Nine studies involved patients younger than 2 years, 3 involved children aged 16 years or younger, and 1 involved exclusively neonates. Girls constituted 22% to 85% of the involved children. Pooled (95% confidence intervals) sensitivity and specificity rates of DMSA scanning were 79% and 53%, respectively, for the patient-based analysis (8 studies) and 60% and 65% for the renal unit–based analysis (5 studies). The respective areas under the hierarchical summary receiver operating curves were 0.71 and 0.67. Marked statistical heterogeneity was observed in both analyses, as indicated by I2 test values of 91% and 87%, respectively. Acute-phase DMSA renal scanning cannot be recommended as replacement for VCUG in the evaluation of young children with a first febrile UTI.
Hepatocyte growth factor upregulates interferon signaling in human hepatocytes: Possible implications for interferon therapy after liver transplantation
Authors: Hamasaki Koji , Eguchi Susumu , Ichikawa Tatsuki , Takatsuki Mitsuhisa , Hidaka Masaaki , Yamanouchi Kosho , Miyazaki Kensuke , Inokuma Takamitsu , Kanematsu Takashi
Published: June 2011

Background/Aim

Although a recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the leading cause of graft loss in liver transplant recipients, the optimal timing to begin interferon (IFN) therapy after LTx is still unknown. The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationships, between signaling by PEGylated IFN in human hepatocytes, with regard to hepatocyte proliferation, and immunosuppressive drugs in vitro.

Methods

Experiment 1 — Normal human hepatocytes (NhHeps) were cultured with/without recombinant human hepatocyte growth factor (r-hHGF) for 48 h, and then treated with 100 IU/mL IFN at the indicated time. The expressions of double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) and IFN-α-induced antiviral protein were analyzed using Western blotting for the extracted lysates from these cells. Experiment 2 — The NhHeps were cultured in 10% medium containing varying concentrations of tacrolims (Tac), cyclosporine A (CyA), and methylprednisolone (PLS), and the cells were treated with 100 IU/mL IFN at the indicated time. Subsequently, the density of PKR was examined. Results: The expression of PKR was enhanced by HGF. PKR induction by IFN was suppressed by Tac > CyA > PLS.

Conclusion

Hepatocyte proliferation induced by HGF did not interfere with the signaling by IFN. The presence of immunosuppressive drugs was therefore found to negatively affect IFN signaling.
Computer Simulation of Annealing after Cluster Ion Implantation
Authors: Insepov Z. , Aoki T. , Matsuo J. , Yamada I.
Published: June 2011

Molecular Dynamics (MD) and Metropolis Monte-Carlo (MMC) models of monomer B and decaborane implantation into Si and following rapid thermal annealing (RTA) processes have been developed in this paper. The implanted B dopant diffusion coefficients were obtained for different substrate temperatures. The simulation of decaborane ion implantation has revealed the formation of an amorphized area in a subsurface region, much larger than that of a single B+ implantation, with the same energy per ion. The B diffusion coefficient shows an unusual temperature dependence with two different activation energies. Low activation energy, less than 0.2, was obtained for a low-temperature region, and a higher activation energy, ˜ 3 ev, for a higher-temperature region which is typical for the RTA processing. The higher activation energy is comparable with the equilibrium activation energy, 3.4 ev, for B diffusion in Si.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy with or Without Defibrillation Capabilities
Authors: Quesada Aurelio , Jimenez Javier , Osca Joaquin , Palanca Victor
Published: June 2011

This chapter addresses one of the most controversial aspects of cardiac resynchronization, the need of incorporating defibrillation (ICD) capabilities into resynchronization devices (CRT). As will be described, apart from other more or less marginal arguments, the issue is basically one of cost, since the price of a CRT-ICD is more than three times that of a CRT alone system (CRT-PM). This is a theme that is familiar to electrophysiologists used to debate about the efficiency (or the cost-efficiency) of ICD in primary prevention in the field of resynchronization. Although it is generally accepted that ICD implantation is indicated in patients who have suffered from ventricular fibrillation / tachycardia (class I, evidence level A or B) [1-5], and despite a growing number of clinical trials and its inclusion into the latest guidelines as class I [5], ICD utilization still is a subject of controversy that has extended to CRT.

Clearly, we are not in possession of a clear and final answer to this question. Moreover, all arguments are based on the assumption of current costs and the performance of currently available stratifiers. In this chapter, we will describe the most relevant evidence regarding: 1) scientific findings on the reduction of mortality with CRT-ICD; 2) the impact on quality of life associated with CRT and ICD; 3) available cost efficiency analyses; and finally 4) the current situation concerning the indications for the defibrillator, as recognized in guidelines, and future perspectives.
Sequential versus Simultaneous Biventricular Pacing and Biventricular versus Left Univentricular Pacing in Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Victor Bazan  , Ermengol Valles  , Jordi Bruguera-Cortada  , Julio Marti-Almor
Published: June 2011

Multisite ventricular pacing, including left ventricular pacing, is associated with hemodynamic, echocardiographic and clinical benefits in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) and left ventricular dysfunction undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). The clinical outcome of CRT using left univentricular pacing (LVp) is essentially comparable to other CRT pacing modalities (sequential or simultaneous biventricular pacing, BiVp), although BiVp appears to be associated with a greater improvement of the left ventricular performance. Biventricular pacing, unlike LVp, is also associated with a greater reduction in the QRS complex duration, which has been described as a predictor of good outcome in CRT patients. Sequential BiVp appears to be superior to simultaneous BiVp, although the clinical impact of these two CRT pacing modalities is essentially equal in the long-term follow-up. Left univentricular pacing is limited by the increasing indication of devices allowing for antitachycardia/defibrillation therapy in CRT patients, for which a right ventricular lead is needed. However, this pacing modality might be indicated in a selected CHF population with important comorbilities, difficult venous access for the lead implantation and/or unfavorable life time expectancy.
Optimization of the Fermentation Conditions for 1-Deoxynojirimycin Production by Streptomyces lawendulae Applying the Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Wei Zhao-Jun , Zhou Le-Chun , Chen Hua , Chen Gui-Hai
Published: June 2011

Moranoline (1-Deoxynojirimycin, DNJ) is a piperidine alkaloid, and shows high inhibit activities to glucoamylase and ?-glucosidase. One DNJ high-yield strain of Streptomyces lawendulae was obtained after isolated form soil and mutated with the ultra violet (UV) and ethyl sulfate (DES), which named as TB-412, and can produce DNJ with 35.925 mg/L. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize the parameters of DNJ yield from S. lawendulae TB-412. The effects of independent variables of fermentation, including time, temperature, initial pH and the soluble starch content were investigated. The statistical analysis showed that the fermentation time, pH and the soluble starch content, and the quadratics of time, temperature, pH and the soluble starch content, as well as the interactions between fermentation time and pH, and time and the soluble starch content, showed significant effects on DNJ yield. The optimal process parameters for DNJ production within the experimental range of the variables researched was at 11d, 27 °C, pH 7.5, and 8% soluble starch content. At this condition, the DNJ yield was predicted to be 42.875 mg/L.
Sorption properties of periodate oxidized cotton
Authors: Nikolic Tanja , Kostic Mirjana , Praskalo Jovana , Petronijevic Zivomir , Skundric Petar
Published: June 2011

In this paper the effect of periodate oxidation on the chemical and sorption
properties of cotton yarn was investigated by determining aldehyde group
content, moisture sorption, water retention and iodine sorption. Oxidation
of cotton yarn was performed by varying concentration of sodium periodate
solution and reaction time. To measure the aldehyde content present in the
oxidized cotton, the aldehyde groups were selectively oxidized to carboxyl
groups with sodium chlorite at pH 4-5, at room temperature for 48 h, and
carboxyl group content was determined by modified calcium-acetate method.
Differences in the sorption properties of untreated and oxidized cotton
samples were obtained using conventional methods. The aldehyde groups were
introduced into the oxidized cotton up to 99.2 ?mol/g. Compared to the
untreated fibers, oxidized cotton samples exhibited higher moisture sorption
(up to 9 %) and lower water retention values (up to 19 %) and iodine
sorption values (up to 31 %). Based on the obtained results, it can be
concluded that the crystalline structure of cellulose is not significantly
changed by periodate oxidation, which is of great importance for textile
material production.
Radiation-sensitive field effect transistor response to gamma-ray irradiation
Authors: Pejovic Milic , Pejovic Momcilo , Jaksic Aleksandar
Published: June 2011

The influence of gate bias during gamma-ray irradiation on the threshold
voltage shift of radiation sensitive p-channel MOSFETs determined on the
basis of transfer characteristics in saturation has been investigated. It has
been shown that for the gate bias during the irradiation of 5 V and 10 V the
sensitivity of these transistors can be presented as the threshold voltage
shift and the absorbed irradiation dose ratio. On the bases of the
subthreshold characteristics and transfer characteristics in saturation using
the midgap technique we have determined the densities of radiation induced
oxide traps and interface traps responsible for the threshold voltage shift.
In addition, the charge pumping technique was used to determine the energy
density of true interface traps. It has been shown that radiation-induced
oxide traps have dominant role on threshold voltage shift, especially for
gate biases during the irradiation of 5 V and 10 V.
Influence of the plain-parallel electrode surface dimensions on the type A measurement uncertainty of GM counter
Authors: Stankovic Koviljka
Published: June 2011

This paper investigates, through theory and experiment, the influence of the
plain-parallel electrode surface dimensions change on the type A measurement
uncertainty of a GM counter. The possibilities of applying these results to
practical structures are examined by using the methods of mathematical
statistics. Special attention is devoted to the influence of electrode
surface enlargement on the statistical behavior of the pulse number random
variable, expressed in the form of the enlargement law. In the theoretical
part of the paper, the general surface enlargement law is derived. Comparison
of experimental results with those predicted by the surface enlargement law
proved its validity for expressing the type A measurement uncertainty of GM
counters constructed with a plain-parallel electrode configuration with a
homogenous electric field.
Radiation safety evaluation of the HANARO research reactor spent fuel disposal system
Authors: Kook Dong-Hak , Cho Dong-Keun , Choi Heuijoo , Kim Yong-Soo
Published: June 2011

HANARO is a multi-purpose Korean research reactor with a high neutron flux
and unique fuel types. Recently, a new conceptual disposal system for HANARO
spent fuel has been suggested as a solution to the current spent fuel
accumulation problem in the near future. This paper investigates HANARO
spent fuel characteristics, evaluates radiation intensity by generating
its own cross-section library and, finally, estimates the radiation safety
of its disposal system. By comparing the absorbed dose of the engineering
barrier with the recommended value, it was concluded that the proposed
disposal system has a large enough safety margin.
The direct activity measurement of 133Ba by using HPGe spectrometer
Authors: Novkovic Dusan , Nadjdjerdj Laslo , Djurasevic Mirjana , Vukanac Ivana , Kandic Aleksandar , Milosevic Zoran
Published: June 2011

The direct measurement of 133Ba source activity by the application of the
theoretical count rate equations has been recently developed by Novkovic et
al. The analytical and Monte Carlo calculation of activity measurement
uncertainties were described in previously published papers for the case of
one recorded spectra. The procedure of uncertainty calculation for a sequence
of successively recorded spectra, enabling the determination of the
correlation between peak count rates, is presented in this paper. The
uncertainty of activity obtained by the described method is caused by the
uncertainty of the experimentally obtained input data and uncertainties of
the used nuclear decay data.
Construction of an autogenerator dynamic model applicable to nuclear processes
Authors: Dolicanin Diana , Amelkin Vladimir , Stefanovic Milisav , Vujisic Milos
Published: June 2011

We propose a new method for constructing a mathematical model of a non-linear
system in an auto-oscillation regime. The method is based on the divergence
of a vector field having a constant value along the corresponding periodical
motion. The variants of the obtained model could be used for describing
nuclear processes that are represented by the systems of differential
equations analogous to that of the presented model.
Factors influencing early results of femoro-femoral crossover bypass
Authors: Djoric Predrag , Davidovic Lazar , Jadranin Dragica , Markovic Miroslav , Koncar Igor , Zeleskov-Djoric Jelena , Cinara Ilijas
Published: June 2011

Introduction. Femoro-femoral crossover bypass is an extraanatomic
reconstruction used for revascularization of lower limb with contralatateral
femoral artery as an inflow vessel, and the graft placed in the suprapubic
region. We perform this procedure when anatomic reconstruction is not
possible or is contraindicated. Objective. To analyze the influence of
different risk factors on early patency of femoro-femoral crossover bypass.
Methods. This retrospective study analyzed the results of 88 femoro-femoral
bypass grafting during an 11-year period. There were 66 (75%) males and 22
(25%) females of average age 64.93 years (42-79 years). In 76 patients the
operations were performed due to critical limb ischemia. Revascularization
was urgent in 12 patients, while 76 patients were elective. Dacron prosthesis
was used in 81 patients, while PTFE was used in 7 patients. Statistical
analysis was made by logistic regression. Results. During hospitalisation the
graft remained patent in 82 patients, and graft thrombosis occurred in 6
patients. Limb salvage rate was 90.91%. Early morbidity rate (within the
first post-operative month) was 13.64%, while early mortality rate was 4.55%.
Using logistic regression we established that early graft patency was
statistically more significant in males (p<0.05). Age (p=0.07) and
hypertension (p=0.08) appeared to be predicting influence of the graft
patency on the border of the accepted statistical significance level.
Conclusion. Femoro-femoral crossover bypass is a good alternative for
revascularization in high risk patients for standard anatomic reconstructions
due to comorbid conditions or local problems.
Ultrasonography of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in gout
Authors: Radak-Perovic Marija , Savic Viktorija , Milutinovic Sanja , Zlatkovic-Svenda Mirjana
Published: June 2011

Introduction. About one half of the first gout attacks occur in the first
metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ1); in the disease course this joint is
practically inevitably affected. Radiographic evidence of bone erosions is
the indication for hypouricaemic therapy in order to prevent joint
destruction and nephropathy. Advantages of ultrasonography (US) comparing to
conventional x-ray findings in depicting early bone erosions in various
inflammatory arthropathies have been demonstrated by several studies.
Objective. The aims of this study were to compare US and x-ray findings in
the detection of MTPJ1 erosions in patients with gout, to correlate
sonographic and clinical features, and to detect possible characteristic
sonographic features of gout. Methods. Thirty patients (60 MTPJ1) with
primary gout (ACR) and 10 age-matched control subjects (20 MTPJ1) with
different inflammatory arthropathies were clinically evaluated. Standard
dorsiplantar weight bearing and lateral weight bearing x-ray views of both
feet were taken. US was performed and interpreted by an independent
sonographer on the presence of bone erosions, synovial fluid, synovial
hypertrophy, Doppler signal and hyperechoic spots. Statistical analysis was
performed (Spearman and Pearson correlation coefficient, Wilcoxon and ?2
test.) Results. Twenty-four studied MTPJ1 had evidence of erosions, 17 only
on US and seven both on x-ray and on US (Z=-4.123; p=0.000). US findings
showed that hyperechoic spots were the most prominent feature of gouty MTPJ1
(?2=40.909; p=0.000), followed by erosions and synovial fluid presentation.
Conclusion. US of MTPJ1 in gout discovers significantly more erosions than
x-ray, which may have therapeutic implications. The evidence of hyperechoic
spots (surrogate crystals) of the different size, number and orientation is a
major sonographic feature of the MTPJ1 in gout, which may be of importance in
the diagnosis of certain cases (low serum urate, unavailable synovial fluid
or the urate crystals absence).
Henoch-Schönlein purpura outcome in children: A ten-year clinical study
Authors: Spasojevic-Dimitrijeva Brankica , Kostic Mirjana , Peco-Antic Amira , Kruscic Divna , Cvetkovic Mirjana , Milosevski-Lomic Gordana , Paripovic Dusan
Published: June 2011

Introduction. Henoch-Sch?nlein purpura (HSP) is the most common vasculitis of
childhood. It is characterized by symptoms including nonthrombocytopenic
purpura, abdominal pain, haematuria/proteinuria, and arthralgia/arthritis.
The pleiomorphism of clinical signs in HSP could be confused with other
conditions or other vasculitis forms. Objective. Evaluation of HSP clinical
presentation, the onset and severity of renal manifestation in affected
children and their outcome. Methods. A retrospective study of 49 patients
diagnosed with HSP was conducted from September 1999 to September 2009.
Children with severe renal manifestations (nephrotic range proteinuria, with
or without nephrotic or nephritic syndrome) have undergone kidney biopsy.
Results. Twenty-five patients developed renal manifestations after onset of
the disease. In our study child?s older age was a risk factor for association
with HSP nephritis. Six of the patients required kidney biopsy. They were
successfully treated with various immunosuppressive protocols, as well as
three of nine patients with nephrotic range proteinuria. Two patients
developed most severe form of HSP nephritis, nephrotic-nephritic syndrome
with histology grade IIIb/IVb. During the study period (average follow-up 6
years), all patients had a normal global renal function with mild proteinuria
in only two cases. The prognosis of renal involvement was better than reports
from other patient series. Conclusion. Long-term morbidity of HSP is
predominantly attributed to renal involvement. During the study period, no
patient had renal insufficiency or end stage renal disease after various
combinations of immunosuppressive treatment. It is recommended that patients
with HSP nephritis are followed for longer periods of time with a regular
measurement of renal function and proteinuria.
Operation of traumatic cataract with metal foreign body in the lens
Authors: Veselinovic Dragan , Stefanovic Ivan , Jovanovic Milos , Veselinovic Aleksandar , Trenkic-Bozinovic Marija , Cvetanovic Marija
Published: June 2011

Introduction. We present a patient with perforative eye injury, a metal
foreign body in the lens and traumatic cataract. The paper emphasises the
importance of phacoemulsification in case of patients with a traumatic
cataract and the presence of a metal foreign body. Case Outline. A
41-year-old patient had a perforative wound of the cornea caused by a metal
foreign body that also perforated the anterior lens capsule and remained in
the paracentral anterior part of the lens. The injury, which happened upon
hitting of a hammer against a metal object, showed the presence of a
tangential wound of the cornea adapted edges, and a formed anterior eye
chamber. The presence of a metal spear-shaped foreign body was partly inside
the anterior eye chamber and partly in the central area of the lens. The
visual acuity of the injured eye was 0.2. The technique of removing the
foreign body out of the lens and the phacoemulsification of the lens with the
implantation of intraocular lens is presented. The paracentral wound on the
cornea was not sutured because of well-adapted edges. On the first
postoperative day there were no inflammatory signs, and best uncorrected
visual acuity of 0.8. Conclusion. Posttraumatic cataracts with a metal
foreign body in the lens require operative treatment in order to remove the
foreign body, phacoemulsification and implantation of artificial lens.
Because of anterior capsule lesion, special care should be taken in regard to
anterior capsulorhexis and appropriate hydrodisection. Ocular hypotonia and
possible damage of the posterior capsule in some cases can make
phacoemulsification more difficult to perform.
Prevention of oral diseases in children with acute leukaemia
Authors: Ivanovic Mirjana , Jovicic Olivera , Mandic Jelena , Bogetic Dusko , Madalone Marcelo
Published: June 2011

Oral manifestations are often present in all types of leukaemia, and are
particularly severe in children. Oral diseases may result as complications of
aggressive cytotoxic therapy. On the other hand, oral diseases that are
already present in the oral cavity could be aggravating the patient?s general
condition and lead to serious life-threatening infections. The aim of this
paper was to highlight the importance of preventive measures in maintaining
oral health, as well the measures for controlling oral disorders onset during
the course of illness and applied therapy in children with acute leukaemia.
All preventive measures that include proper, regular hygiene and intervention
depend on the patient?s haematological status and general health condition,
and are performed with the consultation and approval of the
haematologists-in-charge. The preventive program can be implicated in three
stages; before the beginning of cytotoxic therapy, during active cytotoxic
therapy and after cytotoxic therapy. Having in mind that oral disease can
influence general treatment in children with acute leukaemia dramatically,
developing protocols on the implementation of all measures of oral prevention
and treatment is mandatory.
Heart failure in haemodialysis patients: Evaluation and treatment
Authors: Petrovic Dejan , Miloradovic Vladimir , Poskurica Mileta , Stojimirovic Biljana
Published: June 2011

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in patients on
haemodialysis. Cardiovascular mortality rate in these patients is
approximately 9% per year, with the highest prevalence of left ventricular
hypertrophy, ischemic heart disease and congestive heart failure being the
most frequent cardiovascular complications. Risk factors for cardiac failure
include hypertension, disturbed lipid metabolism, oxidative stress,
microinflammation, hypoalbuminemia, anaemia, hyperhomocysteinemia, and
increased concentration of asymmetric dimethylarginine, increased shunt blood
flow and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Diagnostic strategy for early
detection of patients with increased risk for the development of asymptomatic
disturbances of systolic and diastolic left ventricular function should
include echocardiografic examination, tests for determining coronary vascular
disease, as well as tests of myocardial function (BNP, Nt-proBNP). Early
detection of patients with a high risk of congestive heart failure enables
timely implementation of adequate therapeutic strategy to provide high
survival rate of HD patients.
Crossbow fibulae from Gamzigrad (Romuliana)
Authors: Petkovic Sofija
Published: June 2011

In the site of Gamzigrad - Felix Romuliana 31 crossbow fibulae
(Zwiebelknopffibeln) were found. Except the finds from large Roman
necropolis, the crossbow fibulae from Gamzigrad compose a large collection
from one site in Serbia. The most of them were found in the exactly
stratified archaeological units of two horizons of life in Romuliana from the
beginning of 4th to the middle of 5th century. Two kinds of analysis of the
crossbow fibulae from Romuliana were made: morphological - typological and
statigraphical - chronological. Conclusions about the function and production
of the crossbow fibulae have been made according the results of these
analysis.
Exostoses of the external auditory canal
Authors: Miladinovic-Radmilovic Natasa
Published: June 2011

The direct motive for this study was the find of exostoses of the external
auditory canal on three skulls from ancient period (2nd-3rd century) which
were excavated on site No. 80 in 1996 in Sremska Mitrovica (Sirmium). Among
37 buried individuals, only nine of them had temporal bones preserved.
According to archaeological documentation they were probably part of the
urban poor, slaves or freedmen manual laborers. In any case they belonged to
the lowest social status of ancient Sirmium, which was confirmed by
anthropological analysis. Auditory exostoses are bone masses located in the
external auditory canal. Most researches agree that the environment
(especially water temperature, but also water salinity, atmospheric
temperature and wind action) plays a significant role in the development of
this trait.
Fusarium species and their mycotoxins in wheat grain
Authors: Krnjaja Vesna , Levic Jelena , Stankovic Slavica , Stepanic Ana
Published: June 2011

Incidence of fungi and concentration of mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON),
zearalenone (ZON) and fumonisin (FB1) were studied in the grain of the winter
wheat collected subsequently after harvesting in 2010. In the analyzed
samples the highest incidence was determined for the species of Fusarium
(84.7%) genus, significantly lower incidence was determined for the species
of genus Alternaria (12.35%), and especially for species of genera
Acremoniella (2.05%), Acremonium (0.65%) and Penicillium (0.25%). F.
graminearum (99.05%) was the most present species of Fusarium genus, whereas
the following species F. sporotrichioides (0.4%), F. subglutinans (0.4%), F.
poae (0.05%), F. proliferatum (0.05%) and F. verticillioides (0.05%) were
only sporadic. The presence of DON, ZON and FB1 mycotoxins was established in
all studied wheat samples. DON was detected in concentrations from 123 to 393
?g kg-1 (average 214 ?g kg-1), ZON from 157.144 to 471.055 ?g kg-1 (average
299.934 ?g kg-1), and FB1 from 2.715 to 16.488 ?g kg-1 (average 6.286 ?g
kg-1).
Fumonisins and co-occurring mycotoxins in north Serbian corn
Authors: Jaksic Sandra , Prunic Bojana , Milanov Dubravka , Jajic Igor , Bjelica Luka , Abramovic Biljana
Published: June 2011

The presence of fumonisin has not been regulated in the legislation of the
Republic of Serbia. Therefore, the data on contamination of cereals,
especially corn, which is highly susceptible to contamination by this toxin,
are not sufficient. This paper presents the results of testing the corn
samples collected in the autumn 2009 on the territory of Backa. Samples were
analyzed for the contents of fumonisins and it was determined whether there
is a correlation between the moisture content, total number and class of
fungi, as well as the content of aflatoxin, ochratoxin and zearalenone. Using
enzymatic immunoaffinity method it was discovered that the highest percentage
of samples were contaminated with fumonisins, which was probably due to the
presence of Fusarium molds as the most abundant ones. The positive samples
contained fumonisin in the concentrations from 0.030 to 1.52 mg kg?1. The
influence of the climate and moisture content of grain on fungal
contamination and mycotoxin production was analyzed in order to investigate
the predictability of the presence of mycotoxins.
Influence of degree of wheat infestation with Fusarium on its technological quality and safety
Authors: Janic-Hajnal Elizabet , Torbica Aleksandra , Mastilovic Jasna
Published: June 2011

Climatic conditions prior to wheat harvest 2010 were favorable for the
development of field molds. The most important wheat contamination that
should be determined is the presence and frequency of grain lots infected
with Fusarium. This paper presents the results of content of fusarious
kernels found in samples collected from all wheat growing regions of Serbia.
Investigations were performed according to the regulations which foresee
sensory determination of content of infected kernels. Determined average
content of fusarious kernels was 6.01%, varying in range from 0% to 29.65 %.
The obtained results, which exceeded the upper limits of permitted contents
defined by national and EU regulations, pointed to the need for investigation
of presence of Fusarium metabolic products, i.e. mycotoxins (zearalenone
(ZEA) and deoxinivalenol (DON)) in wheat. Mycotoxin content was determined in
average wheat samples and in wheat samples with increased content of
fusarious kernels. Direct enzymatic immunoaffinity test (ELISA) was applied
for determination of mycotoxin content. Although high content of fusarious
kernels characterizes wheat crop in 2010, the determined quantities of two
investigated mycotoxins did not exceed maximal permitted content.
Consequences of unfavorable quantity and structure of total impurities in
wheat crop in 2010 reflect decreased commercial and technological quality of
wheat and point out to the need of necessary wheat safety control.
Mycopopulations and ochratoxin A: Potential contaminants of Petrovská klobása
Authors: Skrinjar Marija , Nemet Nevena , Petrovic Ljiljana , Veskovic-Moracanin Slavica , Cabarkapa Ivana , Soso Vladislava
Published: June 2011

Petrovsk? klob?sa is traditionally produced dry fermented sausage from the
area of Backi Petrovac (Vojvodina Province, Serbia) that has been protected
with designation of origin (PDO) according to Serbian legislation.
Contamination of this kind of sausage casings by different mould species
often occur during the production process, mainly during the ripening and
storage. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify moulds that
contaminate ingredients used for Petrovsk? klob?sa production and its casings
during different phases of ripening and storage. Sampling was done during the
production process and after 2, 6, 9, 11, 14, 34, 65, 90, 120, 217 and 270
days. Total mould counts in components ranged from 1.60 (mechanically mixed
filling) to 4.14 (red hot paprika powder) log10 CFU/g, while the number of
moulds isolated from sausage casing surfaces ranged from 0.01 (C3 sausage,
217th day) to 1.60 (C1 sausage, 270th day) log10 CFU/cm2. After total mould
counts were determined, isolates were identified and classified in five
genera for components (Penicillium - 7 species; Fusarium - 2 species;
Aspergillus - 1 species; Alternaria - 1 species; Verticilium - 1 species) and
3 genera for casings surfaces (Penicllium - 3 species; Aspergillus - 1
species; Eurotium - 1 species). It was appointed that 83.33% of isolated
species are potential producers of toxic metabolites. The analyses of
ingredients and sausages on the presence of ochratoxin A, following the ELISA
method, gave the negative results.
Mycotoxicological tests from the aspect of the HACCP system and legislation
Authors: Jaksic Sandra , Stojanov Igor , Zivkov-Balos Milica , Masic Zoran , Mihaljev Zeljko , Abramovic Biljana
Published: June 2011

Mycotoxins, as secondary metabolic products of molds, are common contaminants
of raw feed materials and compound feeds. Depending on the
agro-meteorological and storage conditions, molds can contaminate grains and
produce mycotoxins in the field, before and after harvest and during storage.
Way of preventing animal mycotoxicoses and transfer of mycotoxins to humans
through food chain is regular inspection on mycotoxicological feed safety.
This paper presents the results of examination of aflatoxin, ochratoxin and
zearalenone in 89 samples tested under laboratory conditions during a one
year period. The analyses of types of samples, contamination, and their
origin demonstrated the need for preventive control of mycotoxin content,
primarily in grains. The results of testing the content of aflatoxin in milk
indicate the existence of risks to human health. In order to protect humans
and animals from mycotoxicological contamination, we propose the use of the
system hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP), which has been
proved to be an effective strategy in food safety control. The basic
principles of HACCP approach in the production of feed and foodstuffs, as
well as the compliance and harmonization of legislations with those in the
European Union, in the field of mycotoxicological tests, are the best
prevention against mycotoxin effects on health and economy. Implementation of
HACCP system currently presents one of the basic preconditions for the export
of our products and their placement on the European market.
Antifungal activity of indigenous bacillus sp. isolate Q3 against marshmallow mycobiota
Authors: Josic Dragana , Pivic Radmila , Pavlovic Snezana , Stojanovic Sasa , Aleksic Goran , Starovic Mira
Published: June 2011

Marshmallow is a host of a number of saprophytic and parasitic fungi in
Serbia. The seeds of marshmallow are contaminated with fungi from different
genera, especially Alternaria and Fusarium, which significantly reduced seed
germination and caused seedling decay. In this study we investigate
antagnonism of indigenous Bacillus sp. isolate Q3 against marshmallow
mycopopulation. Bacillus sp. Q3 was isolated from maize rhizosphere,
characterized by polyphasic approch and tested for plant growth promoting
treats. Bacillus sp. Q3 produced antifungal metabolites with growth
inhibition activity against numerous fungi in dual culture: 61.8% of
Alternaria alternata, 74.8% of Myrothecium verrucaria and 33.6% of
Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. That effect could be caused by different antifungal
metabolites including siderophores, hydrolytic enzymes, organic acids and
indole acetic acid (IAA). Suppression of natural marshmallow seed infection
by Q3 isolate was observed. The seeds were immersed in different
concentrations of bacterial suspension during 2h and their infections by
phytopathogenic fungi were estimated. The results showed significant
reduction of seed infection by Alternaria spp. The presented results indicate
possible application of this isolate as promising biological agent for
control of marshmallow seed pathogenic fungi.
The effect of fungicide treatment on mycotoxin content and yield parameters of wheat
Authors: Bagi Ferenc , Bodroza-Solarov Marija , Balaz Ferenc , Mastilovic Jasna , Stojsin Vera , Budakov Dragana , Lazic Sanja
Published: June 2011

Effects of treatment with triazole fungicide were evaluated on 14 wheat
genotypes with respect to mycotoxin (aflatoxins, ochratoxin A and
deoxynivalenol), yield, 1000 kernel weight and hectoliter weight.
Mycopopulation of seed samples was also determined. According to the results,
fungicide treatment can reduce the level of mycotoxins in seed samples in
order to improve the quality parameters and reduce the level of fungal
contamination.
ELF electro-magnetic fields as stress factors in some yeasts and molds
Authors: Galonja-Coghill Tamara , Kostadinovic Ljiljana , Cvijanovic Gorica , Boskovic Jelena , Parkin Dzejn
Published: June 2011

The possibility of species targeted growth inhibition of three yeast (Candida
albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and one mold
species (Aspergillus fumigatus) by electromagnetic fields of certain
characteristics was investigated. Cultures were exposed to sinusoidal 50 Hz
fields, and 10, 40 and 70 mT magnetic components and 20 V/m electric
component, for 30 minutes. Cell density in yeast cultures and germination
time and rate in mold cultures were investigated.
Microbiological and mycotoxicological correctness of protein feed ingredients in Vojvodina
Authors: Bocarov-Stancic Aleksandra , Salma Natasa , Pantic Vladimir , Adamovic Milan , Miljkovic Aleksandra , Suzic Svetlana
Published: June 2011

During 2009 and 2010, the microbiological tests of a total of 40 samples of
protein feed ingredients (sunflower meal, soybean, soybean cake, soybean
grits and soybean meal) originating from Vojvodina were carried out. The most
of the samples (57.5%) matched the Serbian regulations on feed.
Microbiologically, there was not adequate quality of protein ingredients,
which was a consequence of the presence of pathogenic bacteria: Proteus spp.
in 12 samples of sunflower meal, 1 sample of soybean meal and 2 samples of
soybean cake, and E. coli in 2 samples of soybean meal. The highest total
number of bacteria (1 x 107 g-1) and the highest number of yeasts and molds
(148.000 g-1) was identified in one sample of sunflower meal. Mycological
analysis of protein feed established the dominance of species from the genera
Aspergillus (A. flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger and A. ochraceus), Fusarium
(F. solani, F. subglutinans and F. verticillioides) and Mucor (Mucor hiemalis
f. hiemalis and M. racemosus f. racemosus). The study of biochemical
characteristics of 10 fungal isolates from sunflower meal, soybean grits and
cake has established that: a) 2 cultures of Aspergillus spp. possessed
antagonistic activity against other fungal species, b) 1 isolate F. solani
biosynthesized T-2 toxin, c) 1 culture of F. subglutinans produced
zearalenone, d) 4 isolates of Mucor spp. showed the ability to degrade one or
both trichothecenes of type A (diacetoxyscirpenol - DAS and T-2 toxin).
Mycotoxicological studies that included 24 samples of protein ingredients
showed the absence of mycotoxins (aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, zearalenone,
deoxynivalenol, DAS and T-2 toxin) in all 15 samples of sunflower meal. In
the samples of soybean and its products (meal and cake) only T-2 toxin was
detected in 3 analyzed samples. The amount of this fusariotoxin did not
exceed 375 ?g kg-1 .
Diagnosis of mycotoxicoses in veterinary medicine
Authors: Nesic Ksenija , Jakic-Dimic Dobrila , Jojic-Malicevic Ljiljana , Savic Bozidar
Published: June 2011

The problem of mycotoxin presence in animal feed and the consequences that
arise due to this, represent a great challenge for anyone encountering them.
In the chain which includes studies from prevention to treatment, a very
important place and a frequent source of confusion is the process of
diagnosing diseases caused by mycotoxins. The aim of this paper is to present
a long experience of the team of experts at the Institute of Veterinary
Medicine of Serbia in Belgrade, who follows this issue in terms of clinical
manifestations of mycotoxicoses in different animal species,
pathomorphological and pathohistological changes that characterize them, and
laboratory analysis of feed which is the source of those biological hazards
and natural contaminants. Based on the findings it could be concluded that
mycotoxin contamination is common. Although these levels usually do not
exceed the limits laid by the legislation, considering the cumulative effects
and possible chronic exposure of animals to their harmful influence,
appropriate and competent approach is necessary. Namely, even when direct
losses, such as animals? mortality, are not present, indirect losses, due to
a drop of animal performances and production, as well as the occurrence of
secondary infections, should not be neglected.