bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preconditioning in a wavelet basis and its application to some boundary value problems
Authors: Rasajski Marija
Published: August 2008

Standard finite difference methods applied to the boundary value problem a(x)u" (x) + b(x)u'(x) + c(x)u(x) = f (x), u(0) = 0, u(1) = 0, lead to linear systems with large condition numbers. Solving a system, i.e. finding the inverse of a matrix with a large condition number can be achieved by some iterative procedure in a large number of iteration steps. By projecting the matrix of the system into the wavelet basis, and applying a diagonal pre-conditioner, we obtain a matrix with a small condition number. Computing the inverse of such a matrix requires fewer iteration steps, and that number does not grow significantly with the size of the system. Numerical examples, with various operators, are presented to illustrate the effect preconditioners have on the condition number, and the number of iteration steps.
Two shorter proofs in spectral graph theory
Authors: Simic Slobodan , Stevanovic Dragan
Published: August 2008

We give shorter proofs of two inequalities already known in spectral graph theory.
Oscillations of weakly nonlinear systems with no frequencies due to nonlinearity
Authors: Demenchuk Alexandr
Published: August 2008

We consider a nonlinear differential system of the form x. = Ax + ?(t) ?F(t,x); where ? and F are almost periodic in t and ? is a small parameter. Suppose that the frequency moduli Mod (?) and Mod (F) have a zero intersection. Our aim is to give the existence conditions and the construction procedure for the solution x of this system such that Mod (x)?Mod(F) = {0}.
On extensions of two mappings associated with Hermite-Hadamard's inequalities for convex functions
Authors: Liang-Cheng Wang
Published: August 2008

In this paper, we introduce two new mappings closely connected with Hermite-Hadamard's inequalities for convex functions and study their main properties.
A simple algorithm for proving a class of inequalities
Authors: Presic Slavisa
Published: August 2008

Let E(x1,...,xn) be an expression of the form A1?a11x1+???+a1nxn+b1?+???+Am?am1x1+???+am1xn+bm?+?1x1+???+Bnxn+C, where Ai aij, bi, Bj, C are any real numbers. In this paper we introduce an algorithm Elim, by which one can establish whether for all x1,..., xn ? R the inequality E(x1,...,xn)?0 holds, where ? can be > or ?. Such an example is the following inequality ?x1?x2?x3?-?x1+x2?-?x1+x3?-?x2+x3?+?x1+x2+x3??0 which originated from H. Hornich [2]. All results can be transferred to any ordered field.
On Fibonacci powers
Authors: Andrejic Vladica
Published: August 2008

Fibonacci numbers have engaged the attention of mathematicians for several centuries, and whilst many of their properties are easy to establish by very simple methods, there are several unsolved problems connected to them. In this paper we review the history of the conjecture that the only perfect powers in Fibonacci sequence are 1, 8, and 144. Afterwards we consider more stronger conjecture and give the new characterization of closely related Wall-Sun-Sun primes.
On a sum involving powers of the prime counting function
Authors: Belbachir Hacéne , Bencherif Farid
Published: August 2008

An asymptotic formula is derived for the sum of powers of reciprocals of ?(n), where ?((x) denotes the number of primes not exceeding x. This is an extension of previous results of L. Panaitopol and A. Ivic.
On integral graphs which belong to the class αKa,a,...,a,b,b,...,b
Authors: Lepovic Mirko
Published: August 2008

Let G be a simple graph and let G- denote its complement. We say that G is integral if its spectrum consists of integral values. Let Kxa, yb = Ka,a,...,a,b,b...,b be the complete m-partite graph with xa + yb vertices where x and y are positive integers and m = x + y. In this work we consider integral graphs which belong to the class ?Kxa,yb for any ? > 1 and a > b where mG denotes the m-fold union of the graph G.
Orthogonality in 2-normed spaces revisited
Authors: Gunawan Nursupiamin , Mashadi Gemawati , Sihwaningrum Idha
Published: August 2008

In this paper we discuss some existing notions of orthogonality in 2-normed spaces and their drawback. We also formulate new definitions of orthogonality that improve the existing ones. In the standard 2-normed space, our notions of orthogonality coincide with the usual one.
Quasinormability of Db spaces
Authors: Radenovic Stojan
Published: August 2008

In this short paper we shall prove that a space of a Db type ( g(DF) or quasi-DF by some authors) is quasinormable.
Logarithmically complete monotonicity and Shur-convexity for some ratios of gamma functions
Authors: Ai-Jun Li , Wei-Zhen Zhao , Chao-Ping Chen
Published: August 2008

Define F(x) = ?(mx) xm-1?m(x) and G(x)- ?(mx) ?m(x). for x > 0 and m = 2 3,?. In this paper, we consider the logarithmically complete monotonicity properties for the function F and 1/G, and we prove that the function ?(x) = ? n i=1 ?(mxi + 1) ?m (x1 + 1) is strictly Schur-convex (-1/m,+?)n.
The numerical stability of a Laguerre-like method for the simultaneous inclusion of polynomial zeros
Authors: Petkovic Miodrag , Milosevic Dusan
Published: August 2008

The numerical stability of the fourth order iterative method of Laguerre's type for the simultaneous inclusion of polynomial zeros is analyzed in the presence of rounding errors. We state conditions under which the convergence order of the considered method is preserved. If these conditions are relaxed the convergence rate reduces to three.
Wilson's theorem for finite fields
Authors: Hassani Mehdi
Published: August 2008

In this short note, we introduce an analogue of Wilson's theorem for all nonzero elements of a finite filed, which reproves Wilson's theorem and yields some Wilson type identities. Finally, we obtain an analogue of Wolstenholme's theorem for nonzero elements of a finite filed.
Sudden hearing loss: Our experience in treatment with vasoactive therapy
Authors: Zivic Ljubica , Zivic Djordje , Stojanovic Stevan
Published: August 2008

Introduction A specific title "sudden hearing loss" refers to illness which is characterized by a sudden, rapid sensoneural hearing loss mostly in one ear without obvious causes, accompanied with dizziness, and without vestibular symptomatology. It is defined as a hearing loss for more than 30 dB on 3 or more successive frequencies which appear in 72 hours. Objective The main goal of our paper was to estimate success of implementation of vasoactive method in patients with sudden hearing loss of senso-neural type in different ranges in hospital conditions. METHOD Our research covered 37 patients hospitalized because of a sudden hearing loss of sensoneural type in different ranges. Diagnosis, in all patients, was established by clinical ORL examination, audiology and vestibular examination. R including CT and MR, neurological, internist and laboratory examinations were used in order to exclude other aetiology. In monitored patients, we started treatment with vasoactive therapy, ampules of xanthinol nicotinate (one ampule of 2 ml, 300 mg) or ampules of pentoxiphylline (one ampule of 5 ml, 100 mg) in form of infusions with addition of vitamins with an everyday gradual increase of dosage up to 12 ampules of xanthinol nicotinate and up to 5 ampules of pentoxiphylline. Then we started with an everyday decrease of dosage down to the first one. Results After the complete curing protocol, we found out that in patients with light and medium senso-neural damages of hearing sense (23 or 62%), hearing recovery was complete. In patients with heavy damage of hearing (9 or 24%), partial success was evidenced. The most difficult cases, with complete hearing loss, heavy buzzing and vertiginous problem (5 or 14%) responded to therapy, so buzzing and vertiginous problems disappeared but hearing was not improved. Conclusion Usage of vasoactive medicaments in hospital conditions in treatment of sudden hearing loss gives good results and it is the closest to aetiological therapy. .
Clinical impact of platelet rich plasma in treatment of gingival recessions
Authors: Aleksic Zoran , Jankovic Sasa , Dimitrijevic Bozidar , Pucar Ana , Lazic Vojkan , Lekovic Vojislav
Published: August 2008

Introduction Root coverage supported with complete regeneration of lost periodontal tissues represents the ultimate goal of gingival recession treatment. Objective This study was designed to evaluate clinical effectiveness of platelet rich plasma gel (PRP) with connective tissue graft (CTG) in the treatment of gingival recession. METHOD 15 gingival recessions Miller class I or II were treated with CTG and PRP (group PRP). Connective tissue graft was harvested from the premolar region using trap door technique. After elevation of the flap, the regional bone and root surface were smeared with activated PRP gel. CTG was also irrigated with PRP gel before placement over the exposed root surface and local bone. Fixed CTG was covered with a coronally advanced flap. The same number of gingival recessions were treated with CTG in combination with the coronally advanced flap with no PRP gel (group TVT). Clinical recordings included recession depth (RD), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and keratinized tissue width (KT) before and 1 year after mucogingival surgical treatment. Results Mean value of RD was significantly decreased from 4.93?0.86 mm to 0.60?0.37 (p<0.01) with CTG and PRP and from 4.76?0.74 mm to 0.63?0.29 mm (p<0.01) in CTG group. This difference was not statistically significant. Results of the keratinized tissue width showed significant increase from 0.88? 0.30 mm presurgery to 3.78?0.49 mm (p<0.01) six months after treatment in PRP group and from 0.90?0.34 mm to 3.15?0.41 in TVT group (p<0.01). This difference was statistically significant (p>0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed between treatment groups in CAL and PD. Conclusion Clinical results validate both procedures as effective and highly predictable surgical techniques in solving gingival recession problem. Histological evaluation may confirm advantage of PRP use related to regeneration of periodontal tissues. .
Influence of physical treatment on disease activity and health status of patients with chronic arthritis
Authors: Mustur Dusan , Vujasinovic-Stupar Nada , Ille Tatjana
Published: August 2008

Introduction This is an open uncontrolled study about effects of physical treatment on disease activity parameters of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Objective The aim of the study was to establish if there was any improvement of disease activity parameters after four weeks of physical and spa treatment. METHOD We compared morning stiffness, tender and swollen joint count, body pain level and Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS-28) in patients with rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, and assessed the effect of physical and spa treatment on those parameters. The research encompassed 109 patients: 69 with rheumatoid arthritis (RA group) and 40 with psoriatic arthritis (PA group). They were from Norway, staying for four weeks in June-September 2003. The groups served as their own controls - "one group pre-test post test" study. Disease activity measurement was made twice: at the beginning and at the end of treatment. The therapeutic set consisted of mud applications, kinesitherapy, mineral water pool and electrotherapy. Results At the beginning there was no significant difference in observed disease activity parameters between patients with rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis (p>0.05). After four weeks of physical and spa treatment disease activity was significantly reduced in all observed parameters in both groups: morning stiffness (p<0.001 RA+PA), tender joint count (p<0.01 RA+PA), swollen joint count (p<0.01 RA; p<0.05 PA), body pain (p<0.01 RA+PA) and DAS-28 score (p<0.01 RA+PA). Conclusion Physical and spa treatment, together with climatic factors in Igalo, lead to a significant reduction of disease activity parameters of patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. .
Glucoregulation in normal weight schizophrenia patients treated by first generation antipsychotics
Authors: Maric Nadja , Doknic Mirjana , Damjanovic Aleksandar , Pekic Sandra , Jasovic-Gasic Miroslava , Popovic Vera
Published: August 2008

Introduction Schizophrenia patients are at greater risk of obesity, diabetes mellitus (DM), lipid abnormalities and cardiovascular disorders. The metabolic complications in patients are associated with several risk factors: family history of DM, lifestyle, smoking, dietary habits, physical inactivity, but also with antipsychotic medication. In literature, most publications have been focused on the effects of the second generation antipsychotics (SGA) on glucose metabolism. However, less attention has been paid to abnormality in glucoregulation, patients with schizophrenia treated with the first generation antipsychotics (FGA). Objective The present study evaluated glucose metabolism in normal weight schizophrenia patients treated with FGA. METHOD The cross-sectional study included 18 patients (FGA treated) and 20 healthy controls with neither group differences in sex distribution, age, nor in BMI. Inclusion criteria were normal BMI (20-25 kg/m2). The glucose levels, insulin levels and growth hormone levels during oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) were measured. Results Fasting glucose and insulin levels did not differ significantly between groups. Groups differed in OGTT glucose and insulin peak and area under curve (AUC), level of significance p<0.05 (patients vs. controls: glucose peak 8.3?0.4 vs.6.9?0.5 mmol/l, glucose AUC 758?28 vs. 640?36 mU/l/120 min; insulin peak in patients 92.7?15.6 mU/l; insulin AUC 6060?1016 mU/l/120 min, insulin peak in controls 47.9?6.5 mU/l; insulin AUC 2597?256 mU/l/120 min). Conclusion Patients with schizophrenia, although with normal body mass index, are at high risk of abnormal glucose regulation. Not only SGA increase the risk of impaired glucoregulation and metabolic syndrome, but this may also be due to FGA or schizophrenia per se. .
Upper gastrointestinal bleeding: Five-year experience from one centre
Authors: Jovanovic Ivan , Popovic Dragan , Djuranovic Srdjan , Pavlovic Aleksandra , Mijalkovic Nenad , Krstic Miodrag
Published: August 2008

Introduction Acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding is the commonest emergency managed by gastroenterologists. Objective To assess the frequency of erosive gastropathy and duodenal ulcer as a cause of upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding as well as its relation to age, gender and known risk factors. METHOD We conducted retrospective observational analysis of emergency endoscopy reports from the records of the Emergency Department of Clinic for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Clinical Centre of Serbia, during the period from 2000 to 2005. Data consisted of patients' demographics, endoscopic findings and potential risk factors. Results During the period 2000-2005, three thousand nine hundred and fifty four emergency upper endoscopies were performed for acute bleeding. In one quarter of cases, acute gastric erosions were the actual cause of bleeding. One half of them were associated with excessive consumption of salicylates and NSAIDs. In most of the examined cases, bleeding stopped spontaneously, while 7.6% of the cases required endoscopic intervention. Duodenal ulcer was detected as a source of bleeding in 1320 (33.4%) patients and was significantly associated with a male gender (71.8%) and salicylate or NSAID abuse (59.1%) (?2-test; p=0.007). Conclusion Erosive gastropathy and duodenal ulcer represent a significant cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding accounting for up to 60% of all cases that required emergency endoscopy during the 5- year period. Consumption of NSAIDs and salicylates was associated more frequently with bleeding from a duodenal ulcer than with erosive gastropathy leading to a conclusion that we must explore other causes of erosive gastropathy more thoroughly. .
Elevated body mass index and fatty liver
Authors: Marovic Dragana
Published: August 2008

Introduction Obesity and overweight, expressed by elevated Body Mass Index (BMI), result from excessive consumption of fatty food and carbohydrates above the body needs. The fat from the blood, through free fatty acids, is taken directly into the liver. Objective The aim of this study was to examine correlation among the accepted ultrasonography findings of the fatty liver and the normal ultrasonography findings and the elevated average level of BMI and those with normal BMI in examinees in one investigation. All was done aimed at proving that the BMI is one of the direct factors of the increased occurence of fatty liver. METHOD The method of the investigation consisted of anthropometric measuring of height and weight on the basis of which there were established BMI values. Consequently, the examinees were divided in two groups: one with normal BMI (under 24.9 kg/m2) and the other with increased BMI (over 25 kg/m2). Fatty liver was diagnosed when the liver of the examinees was observed by ultrasonography. Thus there were given subgroups of the examinees, one with the findings of fatty liver and the second with a normal finding, without changes. After that, the obtained results were statistically analysed. Results It was found that the average level of BMI in the examinees was by two units higher in the subgroup with ultrasonography findings of fatty liver than the average value of BMI in the subgroup with the normal ultrasonography findings of the liver. The difference was tested by the Student's t-test and a significant difference was found. The difference in frequencies of the appearance of the finding of fatty liver in the subgroups was tested by ?2-test. A statistically significant difference was found in frequencies of the appearance of fatty liver in the subgroup with the increased value of BMI. Conclusion The increased BMI, which is represented by overweight and obesity, is one of the direct risk factors which cause fatty liver, checked by the US findings. Fatty liver can later progress to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). .
Y chromosome microdeletions in infertile male candidates for microfertilization
Authors: Ristanovic Momcilo , Bunjevacki Vera , Tulic Cane , Novakovic Ivana , Ille Tatjana , Radojkovic Dragica , Nikolic Aleksandra
Published: August 2008

Introduction Y chromosome microdeletions are the second most frequent genetic cause of male infertility after Klinefelter's syndrome. Objective The aim of the study was to determine the frequency of Y chromosome microdeletions in a group of infertile men with an idiophatic cause of infertility, candidates for microfertilization (Intra-cytoplasmic Sperm Injection - ICSI) in Serbia and to correlate genotype-phenotype in patients with Y chromosome microdeletions. METHOD One hundred and sixty patients with low sperm count (less than 5x106 spermatozoa/ml) were enrolled in the study. Forty patients were excluded from the study: ten because they were diagnosed with cytogenetic abnormality and thirty patients were diagnosed with other known causes of infertility. The control group consisted of 150 men who fathered at least one child in the last two years. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples and two multiplex polymerase chain reactions (PCR) analyses were performed using specific primers to confirm the presence or absence of Y chromosome microdeletions. Results Microdeletions were detected in 12 of 120 (10%) cases, while no deletions were detected in the control group. Of total number of 12 deletions, nine were detected in AZFc region (75%), one in AZFa (8%), and two in AZFbc (17%). Conclusion Testing for Y chromosome microdeletions should be considered as an important element in diagnosis and genetic counselling of infertile couples in Serbia. Decisions regarding the assisted reproduction should be made based on the detailed clinical, endocrinological and cytogenetic examinations, spermogram, presence or absence and type of AZF microdeletions and CFTR gene mutations. .
Frequency of alcohol use among elementary school pupils at Belgrade territory
Authors: Pavlovic Zorana , Jakovljevic Branko
Published: August 2008

Introduction Alcoholism is one of the most frequent modern diseases. These kinds of epidemiological studies have not been carried out in this country at a global level. Objective The aim of the study was to establish the spread of alcohol abuse among the young regarding the sex, and find the connection between the alcohol abuse and the consumption of drugs and cigarettes. Methods The study was carried out among the elementary school pupils of the seventh and eighth grade in the area of Belgrade from October 2003 to January 2004. Total of 457 pupils were involved; 229 (50.1%) were boys and 228 (49.9%) girls, aged 12-15 years, the average age being 13.4 years. The method used was the modified questionnaire European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs, which the pupils filled in individually, voluntarily and anonymously. ?2-test, Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney Logistic Regression Test were used in statistical processing of the data. Results Almost 70% of the examinees have tried alcohol. Most of the examinees had the first contact with alcohol at the age of 11. Half of our examinees got drunk at least once in their life and about one fifth more than 20 times. The binge form of consumption (five or more drinks in a row) was evident in a quarter of our examinees. Our examinees use alcohol together with other psychoactive substances, mostly marijuana. It was observed that certain types of behavior, such as frequent going out in the evening, were directly related to the abuse of alcohol. Conclusion Two thirds of the examinees have tried alcohol. The first contact with alcohol is shifted to an earlier age (11 years). New trends of alcohol abuse have been noticed, such as binge form of consumption and the connection of use with other psychoactive substances. .
Osteomyelitis of right frontal sinus anterior wall
Authors: Sente Marko , Kljajic-Milekic Nada
Published: August 2008

Introduction The paper describes a very rare, isolated exocranial complication of the purulent frontal sinus inflammation. Frontal bone osteomyelitis occurs either in the course of an acute episode or during the exacerbation of a chronic disease. By distribution, it can be diffuse or circumscript. It is more common in younger males. Case Outline The case described is one of a 43-year-old patient with purulent frontal sinusitis developing into osteomyelitis of the anterior wall of the right frontal sinus, accompanied by the exteriorisation of the process into the frontal region soft tissues. The classical paranasal sinus radiography did not find any pathological changes in bony structures. Computerised tomography findings pointed to purulent inflammation of the frontal and part of the ethmoid sinuses, with a defect of the anterior wall of the right frontal sinus. Conclusion Surgical exploration established a defect in the anterior wall of the right frontal sinus, with an organised purulent collection, 1.3 cm in diameter. During surgery, evacuation of the inflamed mucosa and obliteration of the right frontal sinus were performed. Having analyzed the anamnestic data, radiography and laboratory results, and intraoperative findings, we were not able to conclude decisively whether it was a complication of acute or chronic inflammation. .
Fibromyxoid sarcoma of the pancreas
Authors: Colovic Radoje , Grubor Nikica , Micev Marijan , Jovanovic Miodrag , Radak Vladimir
Published: August 2008

Introduction Fibromyxoid sarcoma is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm, usually appearing in the soft tissue of the extremities, less frequently in the groin, trunk, neck, and upper extremities. Within the abdomen, the tumour is usually localised within the retroperitoneum. Case OutlineWe present a 56-year-old woman in whom, during the routinely performed investigation for atacks of choking with lots of bronchial secretion, and arterial hypertension, an ultrasonographer found a tumour within the head of the pancreas 6?6 cm in diameter. At operation, a dark pink, lobulated soft tumour, surrounded by a tiny capsule, clearly different from the completely normal pancreatic tissue of the posterior side of the head of the pancreas, was easily and ideally excised.The postoperative recovery was stormy. She developed postoperative pancreatitis, temporary biliary and duodenal fistula, which all settled by conservative treatment. The histology of the 80 g weighing tumour showed a circumscribed fibromyxoid sarcoma of low malignancy. Immunohistochemistry showed diffuse vimentin and CD34 strong positivity, as well as focal anti-SMA and anti-EMA immunopositivity. Six months after surgery, she died with signs of cerebrovascular insult, asthmatic status, and recurrent suppurative abdominal fistula, probably related to the previous pancreatitis. Ultrasonography showed a possible liver secondary. The exact cause of death was not confirmed as the autopsy was refused by the family. Conclusion Primary sarcomas of the pancreas are very rare, but should be considered in differential diagnosis of pancreatic neoplasms. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no previously described fibromyxoid sarcoma of the pancreas. .
Spondylitis of thoracic spine: Case report
Authors: Timotijevic Sladjan , Basara Vojislav , Vukasinovic Zoran , Jovanovic Petar , Timotijevic Ljiljana
Published: August 2008

Introduction Spondylitis is a rare bone and joint infection. It is a disease with long clinical history. Often, it is difficult to recognise symptoms at a proper time, and, due to the complex clinical outcome of spondylitis, a clinician may think about other problems in the body. Case Outline A case report of a 59-year-old male patient with thoracic spine spondylitis is presented, formerly treated as pulmonary thromboembolism with pericarditis. Only after neurological disorder such as paraplegia and orthopaedic consultative examination, real diagnosis was established. After that, the patient was hospitalized and operated on. Conclusion A therapeutic approach to spondylitis is based on surgery, antibiotic drugs and symptomatic therapy. Due to the frequent occurrence of neurologic disorders, therapy could be prolonged and uncertain. .
Dementia and diabetes mellitus
Authors: Pavlovic Dragan , Pavlovic Aleksandra
Published: August 2008

Dementia and Diabetes mellitus (DM) are major health problems nowadays. DM leads to a significant cognitive decline and increases the risk of dementia, mostly Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) by 50-100% and 100-150%, respectively. Amyloid beta (Abeta), the main pathogenic factor in AD development, is eliminated by advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and degraded by insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) for which it competes with insulin. Insulin stimulates secretion of Abeta and promotes brain inflammation. DM I and II cause slowing down of mental speed, lowering of mental flexibility and DM II learning and memory disturbances. DM acts both directly by hyperglycaemia and hyperinsulinaemia and by the blood vessel changes. Hyperglycaemia changes synapse plasticity and leads to cognitive decline. AGEs disrupt the neuron function and bonding to Abeta increases its aggregability. Glycation of tau protein promotes production of neurofibrillary tangles (NFT), the main intracellular pathogenic factor in AD. AGE2 in DM causes pathological angiogenesis and apoptosis of neurons. AGE receptor (RAGE) is also the specific Abeta receptor with which it produces reactive oxygen species that has, as a result, disruption of mitochondrial function and reduction of neuronal energy resources. Insulinoresistance is linked with the dysexecutive syndrome, and hyperinsulinaemia increases the risk of AD especially by enhancing phosphorylation of tau protein and formation of NFT. Application of insulin showed improvement of memory, behaviour and affect in AD patients. Good glycoregulation emerged as an important factor in dementia prevention, and a better insight in relations of DM and brain function will lead to new potential dementia therapies. .
Aortic stenosis: From diagnosis to optimal treatment
Authors: Tavciovski Dragan , Davicevic Zaklina
Published: August 2008

Aortic stenosis is the most frequent valvular heart disease. Aortic sclerosis is the first characteristic lesion of the cusps, which is considered today as the process similar to atherosclerosis. Progression of the disease is an active process leading to forming of bone matrix and heavily calcified stiff cusps by inflammatory cells and osteopontin. It is a chronic, progressive disease which can remain asymptomatic for a long time even in the presence of severe aortic stenosis. Proper physical examination remains an essential diagnostic tool in aortic stenosis. Recognition of characteristic systolic murmur draws attention and guides further diagnosis in the right direction. Doppler echocardiography is an ideal tool to confirm diagnosis. It is well known that exercise tests help in stratification risk of asymptomatic aortic stenosis. Serial measurements of brain natriuretic peptide during a follow-up period may help to identify the optimal time for surgery. Heart catheterization is mostly restricted to preoperative evaluation of coronary arteries rather than to evaluation of the valve lesion itself. Currently, there is no ideal medical treatment for slowing down the disease progression. The first results about the effect of ACE inhibitors and statins in aortic sclerosis and stenosis are encouraging, but there is still not enough evidence. Onset symptoms based on current ACC/AHA/ESC recommendations are I class indication for aortic valve replacement. Aortic valve can be replaced with a biological or prosthetic valve. There is a possibility of percutaneous aortic valve implantation and transapical operation for patients that are contraindicated for standard cardiac surgery.
Why carotid endarterectomy is method of choice in treatment of carotid stenosis
Authors: Radak Djordje , Davidovic Lazar
Published: August 2008

Procedures used in treatment of carotid stenosis are endarterectomy, PTA with stent implantation, resection with graft interposition and by-pass procedure. Segmental lesions are found more often and treated by the first two mentioned procedures. In case of longer lesions and extension to the greater part of the common carotid artery, the other two procedures are performed. For the past few years, the main dilemma has been whether to perform carotid endarterectomy or PTA with stent implantation. Both early and long-term results speak in favour of carotid endarterectomy, regardless of an increased number of PTA and carotid stenting. At the same time, PTA and carotid stenting are more expensive procedures. Both methods have their defined and important roles in treatment of segmental occlusive carotid lesions. Severe cardiac, pulmonary and renal conditions, which increase the risk of general anaesthesia, are not an absolute indication for PTA and stenting, since endarterectomy can be done in regional anaesthesia. Main indications for PTA with stent implantation are: surgically inaccessible lesions (at or above C2; or subclavian); radiation- induced carotid stenosis; prior ipsilateral radical neck dissection; prior carotid endarterectomy (restenosis).
Molecular mechanisms involved in chemoresistance in paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Stankovic Tatjana , Marston Eliot
Published: August 2008

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is the most common paediatric cancer. Despite cure rates approaching 80%, resistance to treatment and disease relapse remain a significant clinical problem. Identification of the genes and biological pathways responsible for chemoresistance is therefore crucial for the design of novel therapeutic approaches aiming to improve patient survival. Mutations in the membrane transporter P-glycoprotein genes, genetic variations in drug-metabolising enzymes and defects in apoptotic pathways are mechanisms of chemoresistance common to a wide spectrum of cancers and also play a role in paediatric ALL. In addition, several recent microarray studies have identified transcriptional profiles specifically associated with chemoresistance and pointed to a number of potentially novel therapeutic targets. These microarray studies have shown that genes discriminating between clinically responsive and resistant leukaemias tend to be involved in cellular processes such as regulation of cell cycle, proliferation, and DNA repair. Here we review the outcomes of these microarray studies and also present our own investigations into apoptotic resistance to DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) in paediatric ALL. We present stratification of paediatric ALL by the profile of DNA damage response following ionising radiation (IR) in vitro. This approach allows classification of ALL tumours at presentation into IR-apoptotic sensitive and IR-apoptotic resistant. Furthermore, apoptotic resistant leukaemias exhibit abnormal response of NFkB pathway following irradiation and inhibition of this pathway can sensitise leukaemic cells to IR-induced DSBs.
Focused ultrasound for treatment of uterine myoma: From experimental model to clinical practice
Authors: Terzic Milan
Published: August 2008

It is well known that focused ultrasound has a biologic effect on tissue. High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) on a small target area raises the temperature of the tissue enough to denaturate proteins and cause irreversible cell damage. The tight focus of the ultrasound energy allows delivery of the intended dose to a very precise location. The resulting coagulation necrosis is relatively painless. The application of this method in the human clinical setting has required pilot studies on an animal model. Although the treatment had a high success rate, there was a significant percentage of complications, mainly attributed to the technical drawbacks of the procedure. Therefore, this method has been modified for use in humans, and the HIFU is now guided, monitored and controlled by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In October 2004, Food and Drug Adiministration (FDA) approved MRI guided focused ultrasound treatment of uterine fibroids in humans. Since then, successful treatment of uterine myomas by HIFU has been performed in thousands of women.
Typology of chipped stone artefacts in the Early and Middle Neolithic in Serbia
Authors: Saric Josip
Published: August 2008

After studying the material from twenty sites dating from the Early and Middle Neolithic we propose the typology of chipped stone artefacts based on the established morphological characteristics but supplemented with data provided by the analysis of traces of use. We can conclude at the present stage of investigation that evolution of the chipped stone artefacts during the Early and Middle Neolithic reveals without doubt characteristics of stagnation and gradual decline, thus indicating the end in the long evolution of this kind of implement.
On the issue of an ossuary: Pit dwelling Z in the oldest horizon at Vinca
Authors: Peric Slavisa , Nikolic Dubravka
Published: August 2008

This paper deals with the issue of a common grave or so-called ossuary with entrance hall - found in the deepest layer at Vinca. The paper is based on the research conducted by M. Vasic in 1931 and 1934. The published information and interpretations of the grave have been corrected and supplemented with analysis of unpublished field documentation and study collection.
Regional characteristics of the Brnjica cultural group
Authors: Stojic Milorad
Published: August 2008

A large number of newly registered and researched sites help to distinguish regional characteristics in the Brnjica cultural group development. On the basis of special features in the material culture, pottery in the first place, several regional entities were identified: (1) Kosovo with the Raska Region and Pester, (2) The Juzna and Zapadna Morava confluence zone is characterized by interweaving of the Brnjica and Paracin cultural groups and afterwards, by a mixture of Brnjica cultural group elements with the Iron Age I a - b cultural groups from the Velika Morava basin, (3) The Leskovac-Nis region is characterized by symbiosis, after the initial phase, and later on by integration of the Brnjica cultural group with the ethno-cultural complex Iron Age I b in the Morava basin, and (4) the Juzna Morava Region, upstream from Grdelica Gorge, the Pcinja and the Upper Vardar Regions, is characterized by specific Brnjica cultural group archaeological material. The sites with Brnjica type pottery finds in Blagoevgrad, Plovdiv as well as on a number of sites in Pelagonia, Lower Vardar basin, on the island of Thasos and Thessaly, show the extent of influence of the Brnjica cultural group within the period between the 13th and 12th centuries BC and portend the role of the Brnjica population in the events designated as the Aegean Migration.
Marble sculptures from the imperial palace in Sirmium
Authors: Popovic Ivana
Published: August 2008

Few fragments of marble sculpture have been found in the course of the archaeological excavations conducted in Sirmium between 2003 and 2005 at site 85 which is believed to be part of the imperial palace complex. The most important are two almost completely preserved heads of deities. The head of a young person made of milky white, fine-grained marble of exceptionally fine texture from Pentelicon was found under the Late Roman floor in room 7 of the residential structure. The sculpture, of exceptional quality, is from the second half of the 1st century and represents a deity, most probably Venus or Apollo. Another head made of Carrara marble, from the 4th century, was found in a secondary position and on the basis of its mural crown is identified as the Tyche of Sirmium.
Rectangular grave vessels and stamped ceramics from the roman period in the Central Balkans: A contribution to the study of prehistoric traditions during the Roman period
Authors: Bulatovic Aleksandar
Published: August 2008

This paper discusses the rectangular grave vessels discovered, with cremated human remains, at several Roman period cemeteries in western Bulgaria northeast Macedonia and southeast Serbia. All the cemeteries show similar funerary rites, burial procedures and ceramics, suggesting a very conservative population whose culture was based on prehistoric traditions. In the second part of the paper, on the basis of the presented archaeological material and historic sources, the author tries to determine the ethnicity of the population who buried their dead at these sites.
Early Christian baptistries in Northern Illyricum
Authors: Ilic Olivera
Published: August 2008

This paper discusses early Christian baptistries in the territory of northern Illyricum, which are dated to the period from the 4th to the beginning of the 7th century. The analysis of architectural shapes, positions and decorative elements makes it possible to define the basic types of baptistries, and their chronological attribution. The results of the analysis provides insight into the local specifics of the rite of baptism itself. Likewise, an attempt has been made to reconstruct the liturgical procedures that accompanied it.
Vertebrate fauna of Vinca - Belo Brdo: Excavation campaigns 1998-2003
Authors: Dimitrijevic Vesna
Published: August 2008

Vertebrate remains from the Late Vinca layers of the site Belo Brdo in the present day village of Vinca are studied. These include the bones of mammals birds, tortoises, fish, in addition to mollusc shells. The most important are remains of mammals, among which domestic animals slightly outnumber game. Five species of domestic animal are present: dog, and four economically important species - cattle, pigs, sheep and goats. Cattle bones preponderate within domestic animals, but pig remains are also numerous. Red deer, wild boar and roe deer are the most frequently hunted prey. Birds were rarely hunted, but fishing was a regular activity. Occasionally, tortoises and river clams were collected as an additional food supply.
Sacred groves of the tribali on Miroc mountain
Authors: Jevtic Milos
Published: August 2008

In this work are presented the results of the archaeological investigations at the site Mihajlov ponor (spring) conducted in 2005 and 2006. Few groups of densely concentrated circular stone structures, from 4 to 10 meters in diameter, have been discovered in the thick forest. The structures consist of outer stone circle made of few courses of broken stone and smaller inner circle made of the same stone. Various archaeological objects - fragments of pottery vessels, pieces of jewelry (iron and bronze single-looped fibulae with rectangular catchplate), iron knives, large iron arrowheads of Ferigile type and fragments of two pairs of bridle bits ending with horse head and gryphon head have been discovered within two investigated structures. Particularly important are the finds of wild animal bones (deer, chamois doe) and one human mandible that are like the other finds scattered within the stone structures.
Silver jewelry of Hellenistic and Celtic type from Hrtkovci in Srem
Authors: Dautova-Rusevljan Velika , Jevtic Milos
Published: August 2008

Group find of the silver jewelry of the Hellenistic and Celtic type has been discovered by chance in the area of the Hrtkovci village. The find consists of gilded hinged fibula, three fibulae of the Middle La T?ne type and many pendants made of thin silver foil. Most of the finds are dated in the 2nd-1st century BC and only the new type of hinged fibula dates from considerably earlier period, possibly from the end of 4th or the beginning of the 3rd century BC. The new finds of silver jewelry discovered in the area of eastern Srem and dating from the Pre-Roman times confirm the existence of the local workshop connected most probably to the Pre-Roman fortified settlement in Sremska Mitrovica.
Unilateral antler combs from Romuliana
Authors: Petkovic Sofija
Published: August 2008

In the course of investigations at Romuliana nine antler three-partite combs with a single row of teeth were found in the Late Roman horizons dating from the late 4th - mid 5th century. They were found in Tower 19, in the Palace II sector and in the Thermae sector. The combs can be classified as two types: three-partite unilateral combs with semicircular handle (Petkovic comb type VII) and three-partite unilateral combs with triangular handle decorated with horse protomes (Petkovic comb type VI). Two groups of these finds were distinguished after more detailed analysis; the earlier one including specimens originating from the Chernyahov-S?ntana de Mure? culture and later one including specimens made under "barbarian"influence and produced in Romuliana. These finds confirm the continuity of settlement at Romuliana in the Late Roman period, from the final quarter of the 4th until the end of the 5th century and open up the question of the character of the settlement.
Stigmatization as a social process
Authors: Jugovic Aleksandar
Published: August 2008

The paper deals with the analysis of stigmatization as a social process. The main purpose is to explain multidimensional aspects of stigmatization. This paper reviews the key theoretical roots of ideas about stigmatization as a social process and explores a notion of social deviance, as well as the social construction and production of the deviance. The analyses indicate the main dimensions of stigmatization as a social process. These are following dimensions: time, spatial or socio-cultural, socio-stratification, gender-consequential, ideological-political, reactive and socio-psychological dimension. .
Football and sex: The 2006 FIFA World Cup and sex trafficking
Authors: Milivojevic Sanja , Pickering Sharon
Published: August 2008

The staging of the 2006 Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) World Cup brought together a wide ranging coalition of interests in fuelling a moral panic around sex trafficking in Europe. This coalition of diverse groups aimed to protect innocent third world women and prevent organized crime networks from luring them into the sex industry. In this article we will argue that as a result of increased attention prior to the World Cup 'protective measures' imposed by nation-states and the international community to prevent "disastrous human right abuses" (Crouse, 2006) have seriously undermined women's human rights, especially in relation to migration and mobility. We survey media sources in the lead up to the World Cup to identify the nature of the coalition seeking to protect women considered to be vulnerable to trafficking and the discourses relied upon that have served to undermine women's agency and diverse experiences of increased border and mobility controls. We conclude that measures introduced around the 2006 World Cup in relation to sex trafficking did not end with its final whistle.
Protection of the child right to privacy in a criminal procedure and media reporting
Authors: Stevanovic Ivana
Published: August 2008

Practice demonstrates the importance of raising awareness about the problem of violence against children as well as the necessity of full protection of the right to privacy of minors as participants of criminal proceedings. Journalists must have special knowledge in order to report on criminal justice proceedings dealing with minors. On the other hand, authorized representatives of departments and institutions that participate in criminal justice protection of minors must be trained to present information to the media in a manner that would hinder its random interpretation in public information resources. Furthermore, the author insists on the practical obligation of the state to take systemic measures in suppressing and protecting minors from violations of their right to privacy and the consistent sanctioning of any violation of this right by representatives of the media, as well as by professionals authorized for protection of the right to privacy of minors.
Fungi and ochratoxin A: Frequency in food and raw materials for their production in Serbia
Authors: Skrinjar Marija , Masic Zoran , Kocic-Tanackov Suncica
Published: August 2008

Contamination of various types of foods (cereals and their products, raisins dry sausages, cheese) with moulds and ochratoxin A (OTA) was examined. All samples were contaminated with moulds to a different degree. About 25% of wheat samples from the localities Nis and Leskovac, 70% from the locality Kikinda, graham flour (1 sample), barley flakes (1 sample), graham bread barley bread, 60% of "healthy food" product samples, 20% of dry sausage samples and 20% of melted cheese samples were contaminated with OTA.
Evaluation of feed components contamination with ochratoxin in Vojvodina
Authors: Juric Verica , Abramovic Biljana , Bursic Vojislava , Radanov-Pelagic Veselina , Jajic Igor , Juric Jelena
Published: August 2008

Ochratoxin A is cancerogenic, teratogenetic, immunotoxic and nephrotoxic The mentioned order stresses the importance of this toxin concerning its harm to human health. The harmful effects of ochratoxin A include the effects at molecular level, such as DNA fragmentation, protein synthesis inhibition gluconeogenesis, lipid peroxidation, disorder of oxydative phosphorization in mitochondria, inhibition of blood coagulation and apoptosis. The presence of ochratoxin A in a great number of food samples, both of plant and animal origin, is the obvious risk to human health, which is confirmed by the high incidence of this toxin in samples of human serum and milk. It could be stated, with certainty, that the above - mentioned facts are the reason for which the EU has paid great attention to this mycotoxin in recent years. This paper deals with the results of the analysis of the animal feed component samples for the period 2000-2003 concerning the ochratoxin A content. The analysed feed components were taken from the farms with significant health problems of animals (not monitoring). The samples were analysed by chromatography on a thin layer and with a limited detection method for ochratoxin A of 40 ppb. The analysis was carried out on 108 maize samples, 11 barley samples, 21 wheat samples, 42 sunflower pellets samples and 47 soybean pellets samples (Table 1). The samples of sunflower pellets were contaminated in the greatest percentage, which indicates the inadequate storage of this feed component.