bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sheen Surveillance: an Environmental Monitoring Program Subsequent to the 1989 Exxon Valdez Shoreline Cleanup
Authors: Taft DG , Egging DE , Kuhn HA
Published: March 2009

In the fall of 1989, an aerial surveillance program was implemented to locate oil sheens (or slicks) originating from shorelines affected by the Exxon Valdez spill. The objectives of the program were to identify any oil on the water that warranted response and to identify those sections of shoreline that would be priority candidates for further cleanup in 1990. The program initially surveyed the entire affected area, but, because proportionally fewer sheens were spotted in the Gulf of Alaska, the program was refocused on Prince William Sound in early 1990.

The surveillance program consisted of frequent low-altitude flights with trained observers in a deHavilland Twin Otter outfitted with observation ports and communication equipment. The primary surveillance technique used was direct visual observation. Other techniques, including photography, were tested but proved less effective. The flights targeted all shorelines of concern, particularly those near fishing, subsistence, and recreational areas. The observers attempted to locate all sheens, estimate their size and color, and identify the source of the oil found in the sheen. Size and color were used to estimate the volume of oil in each sheen. Samples were collected whenever possible during the summer of 1990 using a floating Teflon™ sampling device that was developed for easy deployment from a boat or the pontoon of a float plane. Forty four samples were analyzed by UV-fluorescence spectroscopy. Eleven of these samples were also analyzed by GC/MS. In general, the analyses confirmed the observers' judgement of source.

The flights from late September 1989 through early September 1990 identified 827 petroleum hydrocarbon sheens. About two-thirds of the sheens were related to the Exxon Valdez or were of indeterminate source. For the purposes of analyses these were combined and treated as if their origins were all from the Exxon Valdez. The numbers and volumes of these sheens decreased dramatically with time after the onset of winter storms.

The Exxon Valdez related sheens sighted during the spring and summer of 1990 contained volumes averaging less than two litres of oil each. By the summer of 1990, the number and size of Exxon Valdez sheens were smaller than those associated with normal vessel activity in Prince William Sound. There was no disruption of commercial fishing activities because of Exxon Valdez related sheens in 1990. The program was discontinued in September 1990 because the number and volume of spill-related sheens had declined to low levels.
An Assessment of Oil-Spill Effects on Pink Salmon Populations Following the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill—Part 1: Early Life History
Authors: Brannon EL , Moulton LL , Gilbertson LG , Maki AW , Skalski JR
Published: March 2009

Pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, is the main salmon species of commercial importance in Prince William Sound. Unlike other Pacific salmon, they have a two-year life cycle and have adapted to spawn in the intertidal reaches of numerous small streams throughout the oil-spill area. Thus, they represent the species at highest potential risk for spill-related injury. This paper discusses results of field programs initiated within a few days of the spill and designed to assess spill effects on critical early life stages of pink salmon in postspill years.

Samples of water and stream sediments from throughout the spill area were used to define the exposure of pink salmon to residual hydrocarbons from the spill. Mean sediment concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) up to 300 ppb were measured in oiled streams in 1989 and generally followed a downward trend toward background in 1990 and 1991. These PAH concentrations were then used in regression analyses of potential effects on key early life stages of pink salmon. Water samples taken from both nearshore feeding and rearing areas and offshore migratory areas show that hydrocarbon concentrations were from one to four orders of magnitude lower than concentrations reported in the literature to cause acute or chronic effects on fish species.

The postspill field and laboratory studies of pink salmon early life stages included examination of potential effects on 1989, 1990, and 1991 eggs, fry, and juveniles. Generally high survival, ranging from 77% to 100%, was observed in both oiled and reference streams in 1989, and a weak correlation was indicated with stream sediment PAH at only one of the three tide levels sampled (12 feet). In 1990, egg viability was 90.6% from reference streams and 91.1% from oiled streams, as determined through incubation studies. Mean condition index, kD, was 1.76 for fry from reference streams and 1.79 from oiled streams, indicating normal developmental timing.

Study results show that no substantial effects on critical early life stages of pink salmon in Prince William Sound are attributable to the spill. Results of incubation experiments with eggs from the spill-affected area provide no indication of sterility or abnormal development. Our results are consistent with the pink salmon returns in 1990 and 1991 that yielded returns over three times the size of the parental year class.
Sea Otter Abundance, Distribution, and Pup Production in Prince William Sound Following the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill
Authors: Johnson CB , Garshelis DL
Published: March 2009

We investigated effects of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill on the abundance, distribution, and pup production of sea otters (Enhydra lutris) in Prince William Sound (PWS) by comparing counts made during 1990 and 1991 with counts made by researchers 5–12 years before the spill. We observed no evidence of avoidance or attraction to spill-affected shorelines 1–2 years after the spill. Despite a substantial loss of sea otters immediately following the spill, we counted fewer otters than prespill investigators at only one of three heavily oiled islands, and from 1990 to 1991 our counts at this one site increased to a level equivalent to the latest (1985) prespill count.

We followed the methods of prespill investigators and found close agreement between our counts of otters and those of two other concurrent investigations using the same survey technique. This agreement among counts, and our involvement in counts made prespill, suggested that inter-observer variability could not explain our unexpectedly high counts at oiled sites. Some otters killed in the spill were likely replaced by otters from other parts of PWS. However, we suggest that a modest population increase prior to the spill, but after the last prespill counts, is the most plausible explanation for the concurrence of our postspill counts and counts from the early 1980s. At three heavily oiled sites, pup production 1–2 years after the spill was as high or higher than witnessed before the spill. Although the increase in pupping observed at one island was greater in lightly oiled than in heavily oiled areas, no such trend occurred at another oil-affected island. Mortality, as indicated by the number of carcasses found on beaches a year after the spill, was similar to what had been observed historically. The diet also was unchanged. If the otter population indeed was growing before the spill, these results indicate the potential for renewed population growth.
Archaeological Site Protection: An Integral Component of the EXXON VALDEZ Shoreline Cleanup
Authors: Wooley CB , Haggarty JC
Published: March 2009

A major cultural site identification and protection program in Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska was conducted as part of the Exxon Valdez spill response. In cooperation with state and federal agencies and Native corporations with historic preservation mandates, the four-year program was designed to identify archaeological sites in the area of the spill, determine the effect of planned cleanup on them, and mitigate impacts to sites during cleanup.

Archaeological site protection constraints, augmented by an extensive cultural resource training program, were an integral part of each shoreline-specific cleanup plan. As a result, impacts attributable to the cleanup were limited to minor disturbances and two vandalism incidents. Impacts from oiling were minimal largely because most intertidal cultural sites had lost their fragile constituents and contextual integrity as a result of prespill erosion. State and federal studies confirmed the efficacy of the site identification and protection program, finding negligible impacts attributable to either direct oiling or the cleanup at intact sites.

The Cultural Resource Program also developed innovative management strategies with implications for future emergency responses involving complex land management and site protection issues. The program greatly enhanced the knowledge of the area's history by collecting and synthesizing considerable new archaeological information.
Mehrbild-Messungen mit einem optischen Bi-Sensor-Messsystem Profilmessungen in der Strangprofil-FertigungMultiple Measurements with an Optical Bi-Sensorial System Measurement of Extruded Profiles in Manufacturing
Authors: Weckenmann Albert , Bernstein Johannes
Published: March 2009

Es wird eine Messmethode zur Aufnahme mehrerer Bilder mit einem optischen Bi-Sensor-Messsystem für Strangprofile vorgestellt, welches ein Schattenwurf- und ein Lichtschnittsystem integriert. Ebenso sind geeignete Methoden zur Analyse “in-line” gemessener Strangprofile vorhanden. Im Ergebnis liegen die Anforderungen an die Lichtquellen, die grundlegende Synchronisation beider Systeme und ein geeignetes Kalibrierverfahren vor. Ziel ist die echtzeitfähige Erkennung der Formabweichung des vollständigen Messobjekts.
Impairment of the p27kip1 function enhances thyroid carcinogenesis in TRK-T1 transgenic mice
Authors: Fedele Monica , Palmieri Dario , Chiappetta Gennaro , Pasquinelli Rosa , De Martino Ivana , Arra Claudio , Palma Giuseppe , Valentino Teresa , Pierantoni Giovanna M , Viglietto Giuseppe , Rothstein Jay L , Santoro Massimo , Fusco Alfredo
Published: March 2009

Impairment of the p27kip1 function, caused by a drastic reduction of its expression or cytoplasmic mislocalization, has been frequently observed in thyroid carcinomas. To understand the role of p27kip1 impairment in thyroid carcinogenesis, we investigated the consequences of the loss of p27kip1 expression in the context of a mouse modeling of papillary thyroid cancer, expressing the TRK-T1 oncogene under the transcriptional control of thyroglobulin promoter. We found that double mutant mice homozygous for a p27kip1 null allele (TRK-T1/p27−/−) display a higher incidence of papillary thyroid carcinomas, with a shorter latency period and increased proliferation index, compared with p27kip1 wild-type compounds (TRK-T1/p27+/+). Consistently, double mutant mice heterozygous for a p27kip1 null allele (TRK-T1/p27+/−) show an incidence of thyroid carcinomas that is intermediate between TRK-T1/p27−/− and TRK-T1/p27+/+ mice. Therefore, our findings suggest a dose-dependent role of p27kip1 function in papillary thyroid cancer development.
Expression of the melanoma-associated antigen is associated with progression of human thyroid cancer
Authors: Cheng Sonia , Liu Wei , Mercado Moises , Ezzat Shereen , Asa Sylvia L
Published: March 2009

Thyroid cancer exhibits a spectrum from relatively indolent tumors to tumors that are invasive, metastatic, or progress to poorly differentiated carcinoma. Microarray expression analysis of thyroid cancer cell lines has implicated a member of the melanoma-associated (MAGE) family of cancer–testis antigens in thyroid cancer development and progression. We performed this study to validate the role of MAGE in human thyroid cancers. A tissue microarray (TMA) of samples from 375 patients with thyroid cancer was analyzed with immunohistochemistry (IHC) to localize MAGE. Western blotting of fractionated proteins from MAGE-transfected cells was used to confirm intracellular localization of proteins. Automated analysis of TMA samples was evaluated and subjected to statistical analysis. MAGE immunoreactivity was identified in nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments of normal and malignant tissues. Specificity of staining was proved by fractionation studies that confirmed MAGE expression in nucleus and cytoplasm. Normal thyroid tissue exhibited weak cytoplasmic and strong nuclear MAGE reactivity. Tumors exhibited an increase in cytoplasmic MAGE scores that correlated with clinical behavior: larger tumors had higher MAGE scores, and there was a positive and significant correlation between MAGE cytoplasmic score and the number of histologically proven lymph node metastases. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between cytoplasmic MAGE and the percentage of p53-positive nuclei. Our data confirm gene-profiling evidence that members of the MAGE family play a role in thyroid cancer progression. The use of TMA analyses identifies IHC techniques that are translatable to the clinical setting for prognostic assessment of patients with thyroid cancer.
Hardening of mortars made from cement, rice husk ash and lime
Authors: Cizer O. , Van Balen K. , Van Gemert D. , Elsen J.
Published: March 2009

Hardening of mortars composed of cement, rice husk ash (RHA) and lime in varying compositions were studied using thermal analysis, mechanical strength and scanning electron microscope. When cement is partially replaced with RHA, hardening occurs as a result of combined cement hydration, pozzolanic reaction and carbonation reaction. Although cement hydration contributes to the early strength development of the mortars, carbonation is much more pronounced at later stages with the decrease in the cement content and increase in the porosity of the mortars. Cement–RHA mortars indicate a long-term strength development which was lower than that of the reference cement mortar due to their higher porosity resulted from high water demand of the RHA grains. Strength reduction is recorded at the very early stage for cement–RHA–lime mortars containing 10 wt.% cement. This has been explained as being due to insufficient cement content and carbonation of the existing calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) phase.
Observations and analysis of a 63-year-old reinforced concrete promenade railing exposed to the North Sea
Authors: Melchers R.E. , Li C.Q. , Davison M.A.
Published: March 2009

Despite being exposed to the harsh sea-spray environment of the North Sea at Arbroath, Scotland, for over 63 years, many of the reinforced concrete precast beam elements of the 1·5 km long promenade railing are still in very good condition and show little evidence of reinforcement corrosion. In contrast, railing replacements constructed in about 1968 and in 1993 are almost all badly cracked as a result of extensive corrosion of the longitudinal reinforcement. This is despite the newer concrete appearing to be of better quality than the 1943 concrete. Statistics for maximum crack width for each of the three populations, based on measurements made in 2004 and in 2006, are presented. In situ and laboratory measurements show that the 1943 concrete appears to have high permeability but it also shows high electrical resistivity. Chloride penetration measurements show the 1943 and 1993 concretes to have similar chloride profiles and similar chloride concentrations at the reinforcement bars. This is inconsistent with the 1943 beams showing much less reinforcement corrosion than their later replacements and casts doubt on the conventional practice for durability design focusing on reducing concrete permeability through denser concretes or greater cover.
Engineered Wetland Design and Applications for On-Site Bioremediation of PHC Groundwater and Wastewater
Authors: Wallace Scott , Davis Brian
Published: March 2009

Engineered wetlands are an emerging technology for the on-site bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated (PHC) water. The engineering optimization of natural treatment processes shows that engineered wetlands are a viable alternative to mechanical remediation systems.

An engineered wetland incorporates a horizontal subsurface flow gravel bed reactor, lined with an impermeable liner and equipped with a Forced Bed Aeration™ system to enhance oxygen delivery. Design parameters include biodegradation rate coefficients for petroleum hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX), flowrate, hydraulic residence time, and influent and required effluent concentrations.

Three field-scale applications of this technology in North America are presented. The first application is at a pipeline terminal with contact wastewater containing BTEX and ammonia. A horizontal subsurface flow engineered wetland with Forced Bed Aeration™ and a design flowrate of 1.5 m3/d treats BTEX and ammonia to non-detect concentrations at 40% and 80% of the gravel bed length, respectively. The second application is at a former refinery, where a cascade aerator and surface flow wetland (for iron removal) and horizontal subsurface flow engineered wetland with Forced Bed Aeration™ were constructed in 2003 to treat 6,000 m3/d of BTEX-contaminated extracted groundwater. This system reduces benzene concentrations from 300 μg/L (influent) to <10 μg/L (effluent), and is incorporated into a Robert Trent Jones-designed golf course. The third application is at a former refinery where high ferrous iron concentrations (40 mg/L) favor an alternative design. This system, currently being commissioned, treats 1,060 m3/day of iron and BTEX-contaminated extracted groundwater using a cascade aerator, sedimentation pond, surface flow wetlands, and vertical flow oxic limestone drains. Engineered wetlands are achieving performance goals in field-scale applications, and are a robust and sustainable alternative to mechanical remediation systems.
Grazing Schedule Effect on Forage Production and Nutritive Value of Diverse Forage Mixtures
Authors: Deak A. , Hall M. H. , Sanderson M. A.
Published: March 2009

The use of complex mixtures (mixtures of more than three species) may increase yield of pastures; however, we know little about how grazing management affects the productivity of mixtures. A grazing experiment was performed during 2005 and 2006 near State College, PA, to compare mixtures of grasses, legumes, and chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) for their botanical composition, nutritive value, and forage production under two grazing schedules: when the sward reached 25 cm in height (sward height schedule, SH) or when alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) reached the bud stage (morphology or MP schedule). The SH schedule produced 30% more dry matter (DM) than the MP schedule averaged for 2 yr. Forage yield of the five‐species (6427 kg ha−1 in 2005 and 6624 kg ha−1 in 2006) and seven‐species (6816 kg ha−1 in 2005 and 6772 kg ha−1 in 2006) mixtures was stable during the contrasting weather of 2005 and 2006. Grass monoculture with N and simple mixtures (two species, grass–legume) produced 989 kg ha−1 more DM than the complex mixtures in 2006 when weather conditions were favorable. The SH schedule produced forage of better nutritive value compared with the MP schedule at first harvest in both years [20 g kg−1 less acid detergent fiber (ADF) in 2006; 25 g kg−1 in 2005, 53 g kg−1 in 2006 more neutral detergent fiber (NDF); 21 g kg−1 in 2005, 30 g kg−1 in 2006 more crude protein (CP); and 33 g kg−1 in 2006, 53 g kg−1 more in vitro true dry matter digestibility (IVTDMD)]. Complex mixtures of forage species provide more consistent yields of DM than binary grass–legume mixtures or grass monocultures in variable environments.
A Method to Predict Weekly Strawberry Fruit Yields from Extended Season Production Systems
Authors: MacKenzie Steven J. , Chandler Craig K.
Published: March 2009

In major strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) production areas, fruit are harvested continuously for 4 to 6 mo. During the season, weekly yields vary. To improve weekly forecasts, a yield prediction equation was developed for ‘Strawberry Festival’ using input variables derived from flower counts and temperature data over two seasons in Florida. Weekly yields are dependent on the number, size, and quality of ripe fruit. Variation in the mean fruit number per plant for a 1‐wk interval was explained by the equation 1.502 × adjFC + 0.375 × adjFC × (TFDP – TFDP‐Harvest week) with good accuracy (), where adjFC = the mean number of flowers per plant counted during a prior 1‐wk interval determined from temperature data and (TFDP – TFDP‐Harvest week) is a measure of the temperature trend during the harvest week. The size of fruit and percentage of fruit culled due to poor quality could be predicted from flower count trends, but correlations between actual and predicted values were low ( for fruit weight and for fruit culled due to size and shape). No input variables were identified to predict disease or damage. The final yield equation, mean yield (g plant−1) = 19.624 × adjFC + 5.343 × adjFC × (TFDP – TFDP‐Harvest week), included only the input variables used to predict fruit number. The coefficient of determination () for a regression of actual yields on yields estimated using this equation was 0.89. Based on historic temperatures, an expected value for (TFDP – TFDP‐Harvest week) and flower counts from an expected flowering interval were also determined for 1‐wk harvests. The coefficient of determination was 0.84 for yield estimates based on these values.
Oligopolistic Certification
Authors: Hvide Hans K.
Published: March 2009

The paper develops a simple theory of segmentation and fee-setting in certification markets. The basis for the theory is that certifiers offer differentiated tests; for a given object it is more difficult to pass the test of certifier i than the test of certifier j. Given the test standards, certifiers compete for customers via their fee-setting. Segmentation occurs in equilibrium: sellers with low unobservable quality self-select to an easy test and sellers with high unobservable quality self-select to a hard test. Moreover, sellers choosing an easy test pay a lower (endogenous) certification fee than sellers choosing a hard test. These results are consistent with evidence from the market for auditors and other markets, not readily explained by existing theories.
Mitral valve prolapse
Authors: Ivanov Igor , Dejanovic Jadranka , Radisic Biljana , Ivanov Dejan , Cikos Josip
Published: March 2009

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a common finding in everyday clinical practice. However, despite simple diagnostics, clinicians remain interested in it due to its undetermined prevalence, various etiology, clinical features and echocardiographic findings. Etiology and prevalence MVP exists as a primary condition and is commonly associated with tissue diseases of familial origin. It is more common in people with asthenic constitution and congenital thoracic abnormalities. Secondary etiology occurs in rheumatic processes on mitral valve, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and ischemic heart disease. The prevalence varies between 0.33-17%. Diagnosis and complications Clinical manifestations are different and in most patients asymptomatic. The diagnosis is established by anamnesis, physical examination, M-mode and 2-dimensional transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography, left ventriculography and direct histopathologic investigation of mitral apparatus. Although MVP is a benign condition, there are certain complications such as infective endocarditis, severe mitral regurgitation, heart failure, cerebral and coronary embolism events arrhythmias and sudden death. Complications mostly occur in patients with heart murmurs and mitral insufficiency in contrast to patients with cusps.
Concentrating ability of the kidneys in proteinuric patients
Authors: Petrovic Dejan , Obrenovic Radmila , Poskurica Mileta , Stojimirovic Biljana
Published: March 2009

Proteinuria causes damage to renal tubulointerstitium. The study included 50 patients (24 males and 26 females), mean age 46.50?13.08 years, with average endogenous creatinine clearance 87.29?31.17 ml/min. Regarding level of glomerular proteinuria patients were divided into three groups. The first group, with proteinuria less than 0.3 g/24h, included 19 patients (7 male and 12 female), average age 45.12?13.28 years and mean clearance of endogenous creatinine 94.27?34.70 ml/min. The second group, with proteinuria between 0.3 and 3.0 g/24h, comprised 18 patients (8 male and 10 female), mean age 45.39?12.64 years, and with mean clearance of endogenous creatinine 90.07?31.89 ml/min. The third group consisted of 13 patients (9 male and 4 female) with proteinuria values higher than 3,0 g/24h, average age 50.08?13.73 years and mean endogenous creatinine clearance 73.25?20.44 ml/min. In order to assess the concentrating ability of the kidneys we investigated: urine osmolality, osmolar concentration index, fractional osmolar excretion, fractional urea excretion and free water clearance. Results were statistically analyzed using Student, Mann-Whitney U test and (? test. Proteinuria leads to deterioration of concentrating ability of the kidneys.
Child care in Vrsac and its development
Authors: Sljapic Ziva , Sljapic-Roganovic Miljana
Published: March 2009

Documents concerning history of medicine during the Turkish reign (1552-1716) are very rare. However, there is evidence of plague epidemic in 18th century and cholera epidemic in the 19th century. The first medical institutions: The German Communal Hospital, The Serbian Hospital and the Pharmacy were founded in the second half of the 18th century. In the year 1803, children were vaccinated against variola. The first Serbian book about child care ? "Cadoljub" was written by Dr. Gavrilo Pekarovic (1812-1851) during his studies of medicine in Budapest. In 1927 the city founded a dispensary for the newborn. The Polyclinic for schoolchildren was established as a part of the Health Center in 1934. After World War II, Children's Department was opened in the Health Center, later on it was turned into Mother and Child Center. At the beginning of 1955, a provisional children's ward with 18 beds was established in the former sanatorium, whereas till the end of the year it had 49 beds. In May 1965, it was moved into a new hospital building. After integration of Hospital and the Health Center into a Medical Center in 1967, a department for children was founded and it consisted of the emergency center and a hospital. Parents counseling, dispensary for children and dispensary for schoolchildren were founded in August 1971. .
Telemedicine and cardiology
Authors: Jelkic Nikola , Canji Tibor , Ivanovic Vladimir , Srdanovic Ilija , Mirkovic Milena , Vujin Bojan
Published: March 2009

Introduction Telecommunications and information technology provide clinical care at distance by means of telemedicine. Hospitals and other health care facilities use medical telemetry devices for monitoring patients' vital signs. These portable devices are used for measuring patient vital signs such as ECG, blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, capnography (CO2) and other important parameters and then transmit these information to a remote location using a nearby receiver. Application of telemetry Eliminating the need for wired connection with the patient, monitors allow, otherwise bedridden patients to be mobile, which shortens the recovery time. Wireless technology is also useful in the emergency care units, because emergency physicians need not leave their patients while consulting a handheld wireless device. This equipment also enables a paramedic to communicate with emergency physicians for early assessment, well before patients' arrive in hospital. Telemedicine Certain types of medical telemetry devices may be used in home conditions. Telemetry can provide monitoring and home health care services at distance, using advanced telecommunications and information technology in patients with reasonably stable, but a severe, chronic, difficult condition and caring home environment. This information can enable health-care providers to effectively manage treatment without need for acute emergency treatment and hospitalization. Conclusion Hospitals worldwide are under constant pressure to decrease healthcare cost and to improve treatment outcome. Telemedicine and home health care may be one of the solutions for the problem.
The beginnings of endocrinology in Serbia
Authors: Manojlovic Dragoljub
Published: March 2009

The beginnings of endocrinology in Serbia date back to the second half of the 19th century. At that time some empiric case reports were published, mostly in Serbian Archives of Medicine and today we know that they belonged to the field of endocrinology. Between two World Wars professional articles and more serious studies in endocrinology were also published, but sporadically and non-systematically. Rapid progress in endocrinology in Serbia occurred after the Second World War, in many segments reaching European and World levels. Enormous contribution to development of clinical endocrinology was made by Prof. Dr. Mioljub Kicic, Prof. Dr. Dusan Djuric and Academician Prof. Dr. Borislav Bozovic, and to basic, experimental endocrinology by Academician Prof. Dr. Radivoj Milin. Apart from chronological reviews concerning foundation of certain endocrinology clinics and institutes in Belgrade, this paper also deals with foundation of endocrinology institutions in Novi Sad and other university centers in Serbia.
Umbilical hernia in children
Authors: Marinkovic Smiljana , Bukarica Svetlana
Published: March 2009

Introduction Umbilical hernia is a common condition in the pediatric population. Embryology Umbilical hernia is a consequence of incomplete closure or weakness at the umbilical ring, where protrusion of intraabdominal contents may occur. Anatomy Fascia posterior to the canal is thinner creating an area of weakness. Congenital or direct hernia occurs in this area, while herniation in the umbilical canal leads to indirect or acquired hernia. Incidence The incidence of umbilical hernia is 1.9% to l8.5% in white population. Clinical manifestations The great majority of pediatric umbilical hernias are asymptomatic. Incarceration and strangulation are uncommon Rupture of umbilical hernia with resultant evisceration is extremely rare Umbilical hernia may also be the source of intermittent umbilical or abdominal pain. Treatment Treatment options for umbilical hernias range from simple observation to surgical repair. The great majority close spontaneously and observation with periodic follow-up is appropriate in most cases. There are no available data to suggest that strapping improves or accelerates closure. Operation would be recommended for defects greater than 1cm, by the age 3 to 4. Persistence or enlargement of fascial defect during the period of observation are reasons to consider repair, whatever the age. Complications Complications of operative repair of umbilical hernias include those related to anesthesia and local wound infections. Conclusion Umbilical hernia is a common condition among infants and children. In the great majority of cases the natural history is one of eventual closure without treatment. If spontaneous closure does not occur until the age of 3-4 years, operative correction is recommended.
Body composition analysis in female ballet dancers
Authors: Mihajlovic Bojan , Mijatov Sasa , Srdic Biljana , Stokic Edita
Published: March 2009

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the nutritional status and body composition in female ballet dancers and a group of non-athletic female controls. Materials and methods The study group consisted of 30 female ballet dancers, aged 17.4?2.01, whereas the control group included 30 non-athletic female examinees, aged 18.00 years on average. Height and weight were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated in all subjects. Body composition was estimated using the bioelectrical impedance method. Results Body composition analysis of ballet dancers revealed significantly lower values of body fat mass compared to the control group (18.85?4.50% vs. 23.41?4.34). Most examinees in both groups were of normal weight. 50% of ballet dancers and 23.33% of examinees in the control group were underweight, while overweight subjects were registered only in the control group. Most underweight ballet dancers had lower body fat mass, whereas majority of underweight examinees in the control group presented with normal body fat mass. Normal-weight obesity was established in 40.91% candidates in the control and 6.67% in the study group. Conclusion Ballet dancers had significantly lower values of body mass and BMI, compared to the study group. In order to prevent very serious complications caused by changes in size and proportion of some body compartments, it is necessary to carry out assessment of body composition more often in high-risk groups, such as the study group of ballet dancers.
The history of audiology
Authors: Sente Marko
Published: March 2009

Introduction The paper presents historical data on development of audiology as a medical specialty. It gives the chronological overview of the most significant discoveries which have contributed to the progress and constant development of the science of hearing. The insights and discoveries encompass the ancient, medieval and contemporary medical science. The term "audiology" and first associations of audiologists The paper reviews the origin of the term ?audiology? and the time of its occurrence. The First World Congress of Audiologists was held in 1948, and the Conference of Audiologists and Phoniatrists of Yugoslavia was established in 1974. Historical overview The ancient scientists and philosophers mentioned in the paper are as follows: Democritus, Hippocrates, Empedocles, Plato, Aristotle, and Galenus. Discoveries of Vesalius, Fallopio, Eustachio, Duverney, Schelhammer, Catugno and Helmholtz marked their epochs and made a great contribution to the development of the entire medical science, including audiology. A significant contribution to audiology was made by Schwartz in 1920 and Fletcher in 1926, constructors of audiometers. Fowler, Weigel and Fletcher promoted an audiogram in 1922. Wever and Bray first introduced the cochlear microphonic potentials. The first modern audiometer with a flat zero line for all pitches was constructed in 1937. In 1947, B?k?sy constructed the automatic audiometer, and the theory of mobile waves was introduced in 1928. Fletcher and Steinberg promoted speech audiometries in 1929. Mendel and Goldstein described medium latency responses in 1969. The first hearing aids worn within the ear appeared in the same year. William House pioneered the cochlear implantation in adults in 1969, and the program of infant cochlear implants. Jewett described the evoked auditory potentials in 1970. James Jerger classified tympanometric curves into three tympanogram types (A, B, C). Portmann and Arran introduced transtympanic electrocochleography in 1971. Kemp introduced otoacoustic emission in 1978. Instead of conclusion Finally, the paper lists the titles of available dissertations and subspecialisations in the field of audiology defended in Novi Sad and Belgrade.
Origin and distribution of brain metastases
Authors: Popovic Nemanja , Kalacun Dario , Kopitovic Aleksandar
Published: March 2009

Introduction Malignant neoplasmas account for 20% of overall mortality in developed countries, and are the second leading cause of death. According to the World Health Organization central nervous system tumors account for 4% of all tumors and brain tumors cause 0.2-2.4% of all hospital deaths. By their origin, brain tumors are classified into primary and secondary tumors or metastases. The aims of this study were to examine the number of metastases, their origin and distribution and to compare the prevalence of primary and secondary brain tumors during the same period. Material and methods A retrospective cohort study included 63 adults (40 males and 23 females) with diagnosed brain tumors treated during 2001 and 2002 at the Department of Neurology in Novi Sad. Tumors were diagnosed by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Results Secondary tumors were also diagnosed, but without statistical significance (2 =0.38; p>0.05) and metastases were significantly more frequent among men (2 =14.22; p<0.01). Supratentorial metastases were significantly more frequent than tumors in other localizations (2 =23.6; p<0.01). Multiple metastases were estimated in 56% of patients and solitary tumors in 44%, without statistical significance (2 =0.48; p>0.05). In most cases metastases originated from primary lung cancers and tumors of unknown origin. Conclusions During the studied period more secondary than primary tumors have been diagnosed and more multiple than solitary metastases. They were more frequent in men with supratentorial distribution as most frequent. Lung cancer proved to be their most common source.
One thousand laryngectomies performed at the Novi Sad University ENT clinic: Historical review and important data on treatment of laryngeal tumors
Authors: Jovic Rajko
Published: March 2009

Introduction. The first EKT Department in Novi Sad was established in 1926. In I960 the ENT Clime became a part of the Facility of medicine Novi Sad and treatment of malignant disease started in 1973 at the Laryngology Department. Surgical treatment of malignant laryngeal tumors. Treatment of laryngeal cancers in Novi Sad started in 1960's. Until 1971, the treatment of choice was radiotherapy, and surgical treatment started in 1971, when the first laryngectomy was performed. After the first surgery, 31 years have passed until we have reached the number of one thousand performed laryngectomies at ENT Clinic in Novi Sad. Period: 1971-1988. During this period, 138 laryngectomies were performed at ENT Clinic. Total laryngectomies were done as salvage surgeries in 136 cases, and 2 patients underwent functional partial lariigectomies. Direct laryngomicroscopy was introduced by Zivko Majdevac in 1972. Oncology consilium was founded. Period: 1990-2002. New protocol was adopted. Surgery became me primary treatment of laryngeal carcinoma, while radiotherapy remained a valid therapeutic alternative. All known surgical techniques were introduced, including Pearson's near-total laryngectomy. In this period 834 patients were operated, and 873 laryngectomies were performed, out of which 388 total laryngectomies. Year after year the number of patients increased and in 2002. 90 laryngectomies were performed. The number of functional reconstructive operations has increased to 67.8% in comparison to 32.2 % of total laryngectomies. .
Native and contrast-radiographic examination of the urinary tract
Authors: Govorcin Mira , Hadnadjev Dusan , Stojanovic Sanja , Lucic Zorka , Lukac Ilona
Published: March 2009

Introduction Plain x-rays and contrast urography are important for diagnosing urinary tract diseases. The first plain film of the urinary tract was made in 1896, and the first tests using contrasts started in 1904. Excretory urography has been used since 1930. Plain film of the urinary tract Plain films of the urinary tract are used in the kidney area, the area of the ureter and urinary bladder. They also show structures (lumbar and sacral spine and pelvis), muscles (m. iliopsoas) as well as calculi. Excretory urography X-ray visualization of the urinary tract with contrast substances is intravenous urography. It is used for diagnosing diseases of the upper urinary system with symptoms such as: pain, colic, hydronephrosis, as well as acute cortical infections, urinary bladder tumors, etc. Retrograde urography Retrograde urography is a procedure recommended when either the pyelocalyx system or the ureter are not seen unilaterally or bilaterally. Cystography and urethrocystography Cystography is used to visualize the bladder. It is recommended in case of intravesical obstruction. Urethrocystography is a technique for investigation of the anterior and prostatic urethra as well as the neck of the urinary bladder. Conclusion Plain film of the urinary tract, excretory urography, retrograde pyelography, cystography and urethrocystography, used along with ultrasonography, computerized tomography and magnetic resonance, are useful diagnostic procedures which provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Diagnosis of ureteral calculi using ultrasonography, intravenous urography and unenhanced Helical Computed Tomography
Authors: Govorcin Mira , Stojanovic Sanja , Hadnadjev Dusan , Lucic Zorka , Lukac Ilona
Published: March 2009

Ultrasonography Ultrasonography is an efficient tool in the detection of calculi in the pyelocalyx system, but it may not be sufficient for the area of renal pelvis and ureter, as well as for the ureter and the ureterovesical junction. Intravenous urography Radiolucent stones, dilatation of the ureter and of the pyelocalyx system were identified on the urogram, which are common signs of ureter calctilosis. Defects in the contrast can be caused by blood clots and papillary or malignant tumors of the ureter, thus causing a differential diagnosis problem. Unenhanced Helical Computed Tomography Noncontrast spiral CT is useful for detection for calculi as small as 3mm. It can identify their localization and size without enlargements. The primary and secondary CT signs also confirm the established diagnosis. Conclusion The noncontrast spiral CT is a highly precise method for assessment of kidney pain. It is a reliable and rapid diagnostic modality for the detection of urinary stones which differentiates them from blood clots, tumors, air and other factors which create a differential diagnosis problem.
Scottish women's hospitals: The 90th anniversary of their work in Serbia
Authors: Mikic Zelimir
Published: March 2009

The Scottish Women's Hospitals (SWH), a unique health institution in the history of medicine, staffed entirely by women, was founded soon after the outbreak of the First World War, August 12, 1914 in Edinburgh, by the National Union of Women's Suffrage Societies. The founder and the main driving force behind this organization was Dr. Elsie Inglis (1864-1917). Although her proposition to the British War Office had been rejected, she offered her services to the Allies (France, Belgium, Russia and Serbia). The first 200 bed SWH unit was sent to France in November 1914, and soon after followed other units, so at the end '.here were 13 very well equipped SWH units working in the various theatres of war in Belgium, Serbia, Russia, Rumania and Greece. The first unit of SWH came to Serbia in early January 1915, and was located at Kragujevac. Soon after, three other SWH units arrived to Serbia and were stationed at Mladenovac, Valjevo and Lazarevac. It was an enormous help to Serbia, full of wounded and sick people, due to the dreadful typhus epidemic which was devastating the country. A large SWH unit, attached to the Southern Slav Volunteer Division, had worked on the Dobrudza front, and there were three hospitals and a special transport unit on the Salonika Front, which were all engaged in the treatment of Serbian wounded soldiers until the end of the First World War. Two other SWH units, located in France, were treating the Serbian refugees. Serving bravely and honorably on the various theatres of war, the legendary Scottish Women's Hospitals made enormous contributions to the allied war efforts, and helped Serbian people a great deal.
Suppression of tumor immunity by electromagnetic fields and glucocorticoids in mice with implanted Ehrlich carcinoma
Authors: Knezevic Dusko
Published: March 2009

Introduction The immune system plays a major role in the origin, growth and evolution of tumors: factors that decrease the immune response in any way can cause higher tumor incidence and its faster or uncontrolled growth and evolution. Material and methods The research included 18 healthy male Han- NMRI mice, weighing between 25 and 30g, with ten-day-old tumor deposits, divided into three groups consisting of six mice each. The first group was continuously exposed to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (intensity 70-320 ?T). The second group was treated with high doses of Corticosteroids (dexamethasone). The control group was not treated with Corticosteroids, nor was exposed to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields. The exposure period lasted for ten days. The criteria used to evaluate tumor immunity were: histologicai findings of leukocyte infiltration around the tumor cells and white blood cell count. The control group presented with excellent immune response to tumor cells. Lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates widely surrounded the tumor. Numerous tumor cells showed signs of cell death. The results showed that exposure of animals to high doses of glucocorticoids resulted in extremely decreased leukocyte infiltration in the tumor tissue (single lymphocytes), while exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields significantly-decreased leukocyte infiltration in comparison to the control group. Comparison of white blood cell count in treated groups revealed that the white blood cell count in both treated groups was decreased, compared with the control group. Conclusion Extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields significantly suppress the immune response to tumor cells. Dexamethasone treatment resulted in almost complete absence of immune response to tumor cells. Electromagnetic fields and dexamethosone both decrease the while blood cell count. .
Midazolam (dormicum®): Clinical practice guidelines
Authors: Stevanovic Predrag
Published: March 2009

Introduction. Three benzodiazepines are available for IV injection and are commonly used in anesthesia practice: diazepam, lorazepam, and midazolam. The last is the most frequently used in anaesthesia practice. Benzodiazepines induce amnesia and sedation secondary to potentiation of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA). Although sleep inducing doses of midazolam (0,2-0,4 mg/kg) may produce unconsciousness in one to three minutes it is commonly used for sedation and to ensure amnesia and premedication. The effects of midazolam on the cardiovascular system are minimal. Mild decreases in blood pressure and heart rate are indicative of its sedative effect. There have been reports of respiratory depression with diazepam, however this response is dose dependent and can be marked if concomitant doses of narcotics are used. Because of its potential for depressing respiration, especially if given with narcotics, the respiratory response of these patients needs to be monitored. Intravenous midazolam should be titrated to effect and the benzodiazepine antagonist flumazenil should be immediately available. .
Divna Vekovic (1886-1944): The first woman physician in Montenegro
Authors: Martinovic Marina , Jokanovic Vladimir
Published: March 2009

The authors are dealing with historical and political situation in Montenegro in the second part of the 19th century. They emphasized the importance of foundation of the Empress Maria Girls' Institute, which was financed by the Empress of Russia. Many famous South-Slav intellectuals have graduated from this Institute. Among them, the name of Divna Vekovic, the first woman physician in Montenegro, particularly stands out. A Sorbonne student, she was an outstanding physician and hu?manitarian during the First World War. Between the two World Wars, she revealed the spiritual wealth of Montenegro to Europe. She was the first to translate the Mountain of Wreath into French. She also translated the poetry of J. J. Zmaj and of other poets. During the World War II she continued her work in her birth place. She cared for the sick, the wounded and the poor. She died at the end of the war under mysterious circumstances. In the history of Montenegrin medicine, she has almost been forgotten. The aim of this paper is to lift the veil of oblivion from the life and work of this noble woman. .