bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proliferative and Protective Effects of Growth Hormone Secretagogues on Adult Rat Hippocampal Progenitor Cells
Authors: Johansson Inger , Destefanis Silvia , Åberg N. David , Åberg Maria A. I. , Blomgren Klas , Zhu Changlian , Ghè Corrado , Granata Riccarda , Ghigo Ezio , Muccioli Giampiero , Eriksson Peter S. , Isgaard Jörgen
Published: January 2008

Progenitor cells in the subgranular zone of the hippocampus may be of significance for functional recovery after various injuries because they have a regenerative potential to form new neuronal cells. The hippocampus has been shown to express the GH secretagogue (GHS) receptor 1a, and recent studies suggest GHS to both promote neurogenesis and have neuroprotective effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether GHS could stimulate cellular proliferation and exert cell protective effects in adult rat hippocampal progenitor (AHP) cells. Both hexarelin and ghrelin stimulated increased incorporation of 3H-thymidine, indicating an increased cell proliferation. Furthermore, hexarelin, but not ghrelin, showed protection against growth factor deprivation-induced apoptosis, as measured by annexin V binding and caspase-3 activity and also against necrosis, as measured by lactate dehydrogenase release. Hexarelin activated the MAPK and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathways, whereas ghrelin activated only the MAPK pathway. AHP cells did not express the GHS receptor 1a, but binding studies could show specific binding of both hexarelin and ghrelin, suggesting effects to be mediated by an alternative GHS receptor subtype. In conclusion, our results suggest a differential effect of hexarelin and ghrelin in AHP cells. We have demonstrated stimulation of 3H-thymidine incorporation with both hexarelin and ghrelin. Hexarelin, but not ghrelin, also showed a significant inhibition of apoptosis and necrosis. These results suggest a novel cell protective and proliferative role for GHS in the central nervous system.
Induction of Type 2 Iodothyronine Deiodinase in the Mediobasal Hypothalamus by Bacterial Lipopolysaccharide: Role of Corticosterone
Authors: Sánchez Edith , Singru Praful S. , Fekete Csaba , Lechan Ronald M.
Published: January 2008

To determine whether endotoxin-induced activation of type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase (D2) in the mediobasal hypothalamus is dependent on circulating levels of corticosterone, the effect of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on D2 gene expression was studied in adrenalectomized, corticosterone-clamped adult, male, Sprague Dawley rats. In sham-adrenalectomized animals, LPS (250 μg/100 g body weight) increased circulating levels of corticosterone and IL-6, as well as tanycyte D2 mRNA in the mediobasal hypothalamus. Adrenalectomized, corticosterone-clamped animals showed no significant rise in corticosterone after LPS, compared with saline-treated controls but increased IL-6 levels and tanycyte D2 mRNA similar to LPS-treated sham controls. To further clarify the potential role of corticosterone in the regulation of D2 gene expression by LPS, animals were administered high doses of corticosterone to attain levels similar to that observed in the LPS-treated group. No significant increase in D2 mRNA was observed in the mediobasal hypothalamus with the exception of a small subpopulation of cells in the lateral walls of the third ventricle. These data indicate that the LPS-induced increase in D2 mRNA in the mediobasal hypothalamus is largely independent of circulating corticosterone and indicate that mechanisms other than adrenal activation are involved in the regulation of most tanycyte D2-expressing cells by endotoxin.
The netrin receptor UNC5B promotes angiogenesis in specific vascular beds
Authors: Navankasattusas Sutip , Whitehead Kevin J. , Suli Arminda , Sorensen Lise K. , Lim Amy H. , Zhao Jia , Park Kye Won , Wythe Joshua D. , Thomas Kirk R. , Chien Chi-Bin , Li Dean Y.
Published: January 2008

There is emerging evidence that the canonical neural guidance factor netrin can also direct the growth of blood vessels. We deleted the gene encoding UNC5B, a receptor for the netrin family of guidance molecules, specifically within the embryonic endothelium of mice. The result is a profound structural and functional deficiency in the arterioles of the placental labyrinth, which leads first to flow reversal in the umbilical artery and ultimately to embryonic death. As this is the only detectable site of vascular abnormality in the mutant embryos, and because the phenotype cannot be rescued by a wild-type trophectoderm, we propose that UNC5B-mediated signaling is a specific and autonomous component of fetal-placental angiogenesis. Disruption of UNC5B represents a unique example of a mutation that acts solely within the fetal-placental vasculature and one that faithfully recapitulates the structural and physiological characteristics of clinical uteroplacental insufficiency. This pro-angiogenic, but spatially restricted requirement for UNC5B is not unique to murine development, as the knock-down of the Unc5b ortholog in zebrafish similarly results in the specific and highly penetrant absence of the parachordal vessel, the precursor to the lymphatic system.
Receptor-mediated delivery of siRNAs by tethered nucleic acid base-paired interactions
Authors: Zhang Kexiong , Wang Qiaoqiao , Xie Yanhua , Mor Gil , Sega Emanuela , Low Philip S. , Huang Yingqun
Published: January 2008

We report a new strategy for cell-type-specific delivery of functional siRNAs into cells. The method involves the noncovalent attachment of siRNAs to ligand-conjugated oligodeoxynucleotides via nucleic acid base-paired interactions. The resulting complexes can be directly applied to cells, leading to specific cellular uptake and gene silencing. The method is simple, economical, and can be easily adapted for other cell surface receptors. Here we show the application of this method for the delivery of siRNAs to folate receptor-expressing cells.
Measurement of Allelic-Expression Ratios in Trisomy 21 Placentas by Quencher Extension of Heterozygous Samples Identified by Partially Denaturing HPLC
Authors: Go Attie T J I , Visser Allerdien , Betsalel Ofir T , van Vugt John M G , Blankenstein Marinus A , Oudejans Cees B M
Published: January 2008

Background: Measuring the allelic ratios of placental transcripts in maternal plasma permits noninvasive prenatal detection of chromosomal aneuploidy. Current methods, however, require highly specialized equipment (MALDI-TOF), limiting the widespread implementation of this powerful RNA single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) strategy in routine diagnostic settings. We adapted and applied the Transgenomic WAVE System and quencher extension (QEXT) for this purpose.

Methods: The expressed SNP (rs2187247) in exon 2 of the placentally expressed C21orf105 gene (chromosome 21 open reading frame 105) on chromosome 21 was tested in a trisomy 21 model system in which we obtained RNA selectively released from syncytiotrophoblasts of normal and trisomy 21 placentas during first trimester.

Results: In identifying heterozygous samples, we observed an exact correspondence between sequencing results and results obtained with the WAVE System. With respect to the analysis time required, the WAVE System was superior. In addition, the real-time QEXT assay (as optimized and validated with calibration standards consisting of 262-bp C21orf105 cDNA amplicons) accurately measured allele ratios after we optimized fragment purification, concentrations of input DNA and quencher label, and calculations of reporter signals. Finally, the optimized and validated QEXT assay correctly distinguished normal placentas from trisomy 21 placentas in tests of the following clinically relevant combinations: diploid homozygous (CC), diploid heterozygous (AC), triploid homozygous (AAA), and triploid heterozygous (AAC or ACC).

Conclusion: The QEXT method, which is directly adaptable to current real-time PCR equipment, along with rapid identification of informative samples with the WAVE System, may facilitate routine implementation of the RNA-SNP assay for noninvasive aneuploidy diagnostics.
Variation in Leukocyte Subset Concentrations Affects Calcineurin Activity Measurement: Implications for Pharmacodynamic Monitoring Strategies
Authors: van Rossum Huub H , Romijn Fred P H T M , Sellar Kathryn J , Smit Nico P M , van der Boog Paul J M , de Fijter Johan W , van Pelt Johannes
Published: January 2008

Background: In renal transplantation patients, therapeutic drug monitoring of the calcineurin (CN) inhibitor cyclosporin A (CsA) is mandatory because of the drug’s narrow therapeutic index. Pharmacodynamic monitoring of CN inhibition therapy could provide a tool to define and maintain the therapeutic efficacy of CsA therapy. We investigated the effect of variation in cell counts of leukocyte subsets on leukocyte CN activity measurement in renal transplant recipients.

Methods: We measured leukocyte CN activity, whole blood CsA concentrations, and leukocyte subset cell counts in 25 renal transplant recipients. Blood was collected before graft implantation and CsA therapy, 1 day before transplantation when CsA therapy was already started, and 5 days after transplantation. Monocyte, granulocyte, CD4+ T-cell, CD8+ T-cell, B-cell, and natural killer–cell CN activities and CsA inhibition sensitivities were determined in vitro by a spectrophotometric CN assay.

Results: Leukocyte CN activity was inhibited after drug intake. Inter- and intrapatient variation in leukocyte subset cell counts resulted in variation of sample composition. The mean (SD) CN activity varied among leukocyte cell subsets, ranging from 650 (230) to 166 (26) pmol/min/106 cells for monocytes and CD4+ T cells, respectively. CsA half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values ranged from 15 to 78 μg/L for monocytes and B cells, respectively.

Conclusion: Inter- and intraindividual leukocyte subset cell count variation can affect measured CN activity independent of CsA concentration. Cell-specific activity and drug sensitivity should be considered for sample validation to optimize method specificity when pharmacodynamic monitoring strategies are applied in a clinical setting.
Anti–α-enolase Antibodies in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Vermeulen Nathalie , Arijs Ingrid , Joossens Sofie , Vermeire Severine , Clerens Stefan , Van den Bergh Karolien , Michiels Georges , Arckens Lutgarde , Schuit Frans , Van Lommel Leentje , Rutgeerts Paul , Bossuyt Xavier
Published: January 2008

Background: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) carry autoantibodies such as perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (pANCA). α-Enolase has been proposed as a target antigen in IBD. We evaluated the prevalence and diagnostic value of anti–α-enolase antibodies in IBD and related disorders.

Methods: We used a classic proteomic approach with extracts from granulocytes and pANCA-positive ulcerative colitis (UC) sera to confirm α-enolase as a target antigen. By means of Western blot analysis, we screened a cohort of 525 subjects for the presence of anti–α-enolase antibodies. We performed GeneArray experiments on RNA extracted from colonic mucosal biopsies from 35 IBD and 6 control patients.

Results: We detected anti–α-enolase antibodies 49.0% of patients with UC, 50.0% of patients with Crohn’s disease, 30.5% of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis, 37.8% of patients with autoimmune hepatitis, 34.0% of patients with ANCA-positive vasculitis, 31.0% of non-IBD gastrointestinal controls, and 8.5% of healthy controls. Gene array experiments showed a significant upregulation of α-enolase mRNA in colonic mucosal biopsies from patients with IBD, but not from controls. There was no association between the presence of pANCA and anti–α-enolase antibodies. Preabsorption with α-enolase did not eliminate the pANCA pattern on indirect immunofluorescence.

Conclusions: Anti–α-enolase antibodies are present in a substantial proportion of patients with IBD, patients with various inflammatory/autoimmune disorders, and non-IBD gastrointestinal controls. Therefore, anti–α-enolase antibodies are of limited diagnostic value for the diagnosis of IBD.
Identification problems for parabolic delay differential equations with measurement on the boundary
Authors: Blasio G. Di , Lorenzi A.
Published: January 2008

This paper deals with the problem of recovering a scalar time-dependent function in the source term in an abstract parabolic equation with delay. Both the so-called singular and nonsingular cases are considered. For such problems existence and uniqueness results as well as continuous dependence upon the data are proved. Applications to partial differential equations, with measurement of the flux on the boundary, are given.
Inversion of the scalar and vector attenuated X-ray transforms in a unit disc
Authors: Kazantsev S. G. , Bukhgeim A. A.
Published: January 2008

This paper summarizes some of the old results obtained for the problems of inverting the two-dimensional attenuated X-ray transform and the attenuated vectorial X-ray transform, both using the fan-beam geometry. These inverse problems are considered on the language of the transport equation and two approaches are described for solving them. The first one, dating back to 1996, gives the inversion formulae on the basis of the theory of so-called A-analytic functions. And the second method (developed by the authors in 2002) yields the inversion formulae for the scalar and vector attenuated X-ray transforms without using the theory of A-analytic functions, but merely by reducing the arising inverse problems to the unattenuated case by the change of variables. Numerical implementation details are also provided.
Regularization methods for the analysis of EXAFS spectra of chemical complexes
Authors: Ageev A. L. , Korshunov M. E. , Reich T. Ye. , Reich T. , Moll H.
Published: January 2008

The analysis of EXAFS data aimed at extracting information on the local atomic structure of materials is discussed. To identify the structure of interest, one has to solve a system of Fredholm integral equations of the first kind. The situation is considered in which three functions, that characterize the structure under study, are to be determined from one equation. In practice, in this case a nonuniqueness arises in the reconstruction of the unknown functions within a prescribed accuracy, so that additional information has to be used. For a broad range of materials, the functions that are reconstructed possess a rather specific form; namely, these functions appear to be a sum of several narrow peaks that can be approximated by δ functions. This qualitative information about the functions is non-classical. The proposed new analysis procedure is based on the classical theory of ill-posed problems and on using the available non-classical information. The efficiency of the algorithms proposed is illustrated by applying them to model and experimental data of a test compound consisting of uranium, silicon and oxygen, whose structure was previously identified by other authors.
Identification of stress corrosion cracking of SUS samples arising in electromagnetic nondestructive testing
Authors: Kojima F. , Ausri A.
Published: January 2008

This paper is concerned with deep-lying profiles identification of stress corrosion cracking related to eddy current testing. A nondestructive testing is described by quasi-steady state vector potential problems in three dimensions. An analytical approach is proposed with the background knowledge of domain identification problem. Applying the method of mapping to the problem treated here, a computational method is proposed for recovering stress corrosion crack shape.
Enumeration of Neural Stem and Progenitor Cells in the Neural Colony-Forming Cell Assay
Authors: Louis Sharon A. , Rietze Rodney L. , Deleyrolle Loic , Wagey Ravenska E. , Thomas Terry E. , Eaves Allen C. , Reynolds Brent A.
Published: January 2008

Advancement in our understanding of the biology of adult stem cells and their therapeutic potential relies heavily on meaningful functional assays that can identify and measure stem cell activity in vivo and in vitro. In the mammalian nervous system, neural stem cells (NSCs) are often studied using a culture system referred to as the neurosphere assay. We previously challenged a central tenet of this assay, that all neurospheres are derived from a NSC, and provided evidence that it overestimates NSC frequency, rendering it inappropriate for quantitation of NSC frequency in relation to NSC regulation. Here we report the development and validation of the neural colony-forming cell assay (NCFCA), which discriminates stem from progenitor cells on the basis of their proliferative potential. We anticipate that the NCFCA will provide additional clarity in discerning the regulation of NSCs, thereby facilitating further advances in the promising application of NSCs for therapeutic use.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
On-site characterisation of loessic deposits in Kent, UK
Authors: Northmore K. J. , Jefferson I. , Jackson P. D. , Entwisle D. C. , Milodowski A. E. , Raines M. R. , Gunn D. A. , Boardman D. I. , Zourmpakis A. , Nelder L. M. , Rogers C. D. F. , Dixon N. , Smalley I. J.
Published: January 2008

A detailed site characterisation was undertaken in order to assess methods that could be used to determine the depth and lateral extent of a potentially collapsible loessic brickearth deposit at a site in Kent. The investigation presented in this paper covers both geotechnical and geophysical evaluations, correlated to detailed lithological logs of trial pits at the site. This enabled cone penetrometer profiles to be compared directly with a suite of rapid geophysical survey techniques, which included electromagnetic (EM31 and EM34), electrical resistivity surveys and shear wave profiles, calibrated against the same soil profile. From this it was possible to determine the variability and extent of a collapsible loessic soil across the entire test site, thus demonstrating that appropriately calibrated geophysical techniques can provide a rapid indication of the presence at depth of a potentially unstable soil.
Effective-stress analysis of berm-supported retaining walls
Authors: Smethurst J. A. , Powrie W.
Published: January 2008

Earth berms left in place against a wall during bulk excavation can provide an effective means of enhancing the stability and reducing the displacement of an embedded wall. Stability calculations for an earth berm supported wall will often need to be carried out using effective stress (rather than total stress) analysis representing long-term or drained (rather than short-term or undrained) conditions. In this paper, a multiple Coulomb wedge analysis using effective stress soil parameters is used to estimate the pressure distribution on the wall as the result of the presence of the berm. Its use in limit equilibrium wall stability calculations is compared with two commonly used empirical methods of representing a berm in such an analysis. It is shown that the raised effective formation method of representing a berm—which gives good results in an undrained or total stress analysis—is unconservative for an analysis using effective stress soil parameters, and a modified raised effective formation method is proposed.
Nutritive characteristics of probiotic quark as influenced by type of starter
Authors: Djuric Mirjana , Ilicic Mirela , Milanovic Spasenija , Caric Marijana , Tekic Miodrag
Published: January 2008

Quark was manufactured, under laboratory conditions, by standard batch process, from two types of milk: I) partially skimmed, with 1.6 % of fat and II) whole milk, with 3.5 % of fat. As starters, two probiotic cultures were applied: I) DVS-Probio-TecTM ABT- 1, Lactobacillus acidophilus-5, Bifidobacterium-12, S. thermophilus and II) DVS-Probio-TecTM ABT-2, Lactobacillus acidophilus-5, Bifidobacterium-12, S. thermophilus. Also, the traditional cheese culture (CH - N22) was used. The obtained Quark samples were tested by standard methods in order to determine their nutritive characteristics. The results have shown that probiotic starter ABT-1 ensured the highest level of utilization of fat, proteins, lactose and phosphorus from partially skimmed milk. Probiotic culture ABT-2 was less effective, but combined with the traditional starter and applied to a whole milk could give Quark with acceptable nutritive characteristics. When sensory characteristics of products were tested, it has been proven that the application of ABT-2 culture and combination of probiotic starters ABT-2 and traditional culture gave good products with typical mild flavor. On the contrary, inoculation with ABT-1 probiotic starter resulted in lower-quality products in case of both kinds of milk applied. .
Influence of protective characteristics of packaging material on packed dried fruits
Authors: Gvozdenovic Jasna , Aljilji Ajka , Lazic Vera , Tepic Aleksandra , Svrzic Gordana
Published: January 2008

Dried fruits are very delicate to biochemical changes during storage, due to low water content, as well as low aw value. The shelf life of these products depends on aw value. Materials for dry fruits packaging are necessary to have appropriate barrier characteristics for water, oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide molecules, as well as for electromagnetic rays, especially those with low wavelengths in UV region. During storage of packed dry fruits, qualitative changes, influenced by different packaging materials, may occur. The results of tested characteristics of different packaging materials, combination and their barrier features, as well as the qualitative changes of packaged dried apples are presented in this paper. The qualitative changes of color and sensory characteristics of packaged dried apples point out to influence of the type, combination as well as the barrier features of used packaging materials. .
Physico-chemical properties of probiotic yoghurt produced with transglutaminase
Authors: Milanovic Spasenija , Caric Marijana , Djuric Mirjana , Ilicic Mirela , Durakovic Katarina
Published: January 2008

The effect of different concentration of transglutaminase - TG (0.02%, 0.06% and 0.12%) on physico-chemical properties of probiotic yoghurt was investigated. Two series of yoghurt were manufactured on a laboratory scale from pasteurised skim milk (0.1 % w/w fat). Series I was produced with TGase activation during a period of 2 h at 40?C, while series II was produced without enzyme activation. Then, the adequate quantities of TGase and probiotic starter culture ABT-4 (Chr. Hansen A/S Denmark) were added. Chemical composition, physico-chemical properties (water holding capacity and whey separation) and sensory characteristics of yoghurt samples were determined after production and during 5 days of storage. Addition of TGase to milk (direct or after activation) for probiotic yoghurt manufacture improved its overall characteristics. Activation of TG in yoghurt production increases water holding capacity as well as decreases syneresis during the storage.
Catalyst component interactions in nickel/alumina catalyst
Authors: Kis Erne , Lazic Matilda , Boskovic Goran
Published: January 2008

The influence of nickel loading (5; 10; 20 wt% Ni), temperature of heat treatment (400; 700; 1100?C) and way of catalyst preparation on the catalyst component interactions (CCI) in the impregnated, mechanical powder mixed and co-precipitated catalyst was investigated. For sample characterization, low temperature nitrogen adsorption (LTNA) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were applied. Significant differences were revealed, concerning CCI in dependence of nickel loading, temperature of heat treatment and way of catalyst preparation. The obtained results show that the support metal oxide interactions (SMI) in impregnated and co-precipitated catalysts are more intensive than in the mechanical powder mixed catalyst. The degree and intensity of CCI is expressed by the ratio of real and theoretical surface area of the catalyst. This ratio can be used for a quantitative estimation of CCI and it is generally applicable to all types of heterogeneous catalysts.
Numerical method for the prediction of bending properties of glass-epoxy composites
Authors: Stamenovic Marina , Putic Slavisa , Bajceta Branislav , Vitkovic Dragana
Published: January 2008

Mechanical properties of composite materials are conditioned by their structure and depend on the characteristics of structural components. In this paper is presented a numerical model by which the bending properties can be predicted on the basis of known mechanical properties of tension and pressure. Determining the relationship between these properties is justified having in mind the mechanics of fracture during bending, where the fracture takes place on the outer layer which is subjected to bending while the break ends on the layer subjected to pressure. The paper gives the values of tension, pressure and bending properties obtained by the corresponding mechanical test. A comparison of the numerical results of bending properties obtained on the basis of the model with the experimental ones, shows their satisfactory agreement. Therefore, this model can be used for some future research to predict bending properties without experiments.
The extremely high stability of carbofuran pesticide in acidic media
Authors: Tomasevic Andjelka , Boskovic Goran , Mijin Dusan , Djilas Sonja , Kis Erne
Published: January 2008

Environment friendly iron catalysts were applied in the decomposition reactions of some toxic compounds like phenol, methomyl and corbofuran pesticide. The applied catalytic processes belong to photo-Fenton reactions. Heterogeneous iron catalysts showed significant activity in phenol and methomyl conversion, however, these catalysts were completely inactive in destruction of carbofuran molecule, even in the catalytic reaction promoted with UV light at high temperature.
Solid-phase extraction of antioxidant compounds from commercial cranberry extract and its antiradical activity
Authors: Tumbas Vesna , Djilas Sonja , Canadanovic-Brunet Jasna , Cetkovic Gordana , Savatovic Sladjana
Published: January 2008

This study is concerned with the fractionation and determination of major antioxidant compounds (phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins and vitamin C) in commercial cranberry extract. The total content of phenolics, flavonoids and total and monomers of anthocyanins, determined spectrophotometrically, was 1.67 mg/g, 0.41 mg/g, 5.12 mg/g and 3.32 mg/g. The content of vitamin C, determined volumetrically, was 121.74 mg/g. Commercial cranberry extract was dissolved in 80 % acetone and the solution was fractionated using solid phase extraction (SPE) in order to abstract vitamin C, neutral and acidic phenols. The free radical scavenging activity of the cranberry extract and its fractions was investigated on stable 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and reactive hydroxyl radicals employing electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. The most effective fractions were those containing vitamin C (AADPPH= AAOH=100%), neutral (AADPPH=89.50% and AAOH=43.11%) and acidic (AADPPH=83.98% and AAOH=38.58%) phenols. The presence of vitamin C, abstracted from cranberry extract, was determined by Fe(III)-mediated ascorbate oxidation which yields characteristic ESR doublet spectrum of ascorbyl radical.
Non-culpable ignorance and Just war theory
Authors: Babic Jovan
Published: January 2008

The so called ?non-culpable ignorance? is an instrument to justify participating in a war on a defeated side, on condition that fighters sincerely believe that they are defending a just cause and had some valid reasons to believe in having a chance to win. Within the just war theory this instrument is needed to make both sides prima facie right, otherwise the theory would imply that those who lose are guilty in advance, especially if they are the weaker side. However, in contemporary context of criminalizing war the very concept of war is changing and becoming extremely vague. As wars are more and more ?asymmetric?, just war theory might face serious challenges regarding incorporation of ?non-culpable ignorance? within its scope, as well as difficulties in showing that justice goes with the victory, opening thus the issues of articulation of a just peace.
Was Faust a member of ′Otpor′? On subjectivistic objectivism and objectivistic subjectivism in the interpretation of (post)modern social and political movements
Authors: Naumovic Slobodan
Published: January 2008

The paper represents an attempt to channel polemical exchanges concerning the process of democratization in Serbia into the frames of scientific dialogue which is considered here to be a more productive genre of scientific communication than are polemics. The most important issue addressed concerns providing adequate theoretical explanations of the ?revolution of October the 5th? and of the roles that the student / popular movement ?Otpor? played in it. According to the thesis defended by the author, the models of ?waves of democratization? and of ?electoral revolution? offer an adequate theoretical frame for the discussion of such problems. Among the questions that are addressed in the paper are the following: how much can relying on external sources blur the understanding of local processes; what is the difference between ?exported/imported? and ?electoral revolutions?; how should one situate the Serbian ?October revolution? in the waves of post communist democratization; what are the particularities of the Serbian electoral revolution compared to other ?colored revolutions?; how should the respective roles of external and internal players in the Serbian case be evaluated; what are the particularities of projects of democratization based on synergy as opposed to those based on hierarchy and relations of rower what binds together the strategy of non-violent resistance, proactive politics and Otpor?s ?Plan B?; finally, can a direct link between the amount of foreign assistance and the degree of loss of control over the results of political reform be presupposed. In the final section, offered is an assessment of the negative and positive aspects of Otpor?s political legacy as well as an attempt to link this legacy with an understanding of the ?dynamics of hope? as a political project on which Otpor worked systematically.
Cultural identity and democracy standards: Integration processes in Serbia
Authors: Djuric Jelena
Published: January 2008

This text is aimed at showing that particularity of different cultural identities is compatible with the generality of standards - the differences can be organically included in the whole which gives them the meaning. Global meaning of the identity transformation is in the need for freedom and real democracy, that means overcoming mechanisms of instrumental reasoning and power usurpation. The process of cultural transformations requires deliberate choices which provide us identity and value to our humane standards.
Harmonic scalpel® hemorrhoidectomy: A painless procedure?
Authors: Ivanov Dejan , Babovic Sinisa , Selesi Dora , Ivanov Mirjana , Cvijanovic Radovan
Published: January 2008

Since the surgical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease has been characterized by intense postoperative pain, recent studies have tried to modify the standard Milligan-Morgans technique. The up-to-date literature, in the experience of authors, has confirmed that the new method of Harmonic Scalpel? hemorrhoidectomy reduces postoperative pain. The aim of our study was to statistically evaluate, based on our experience, the efficacy of this surgical approach in terms of reducing postoperative pain and establishing a stable hemostasis. Seventy-seven (77) patients suffering from hemorrhoid disease, stage III and IV, underwent surgery in our clinic during the last five years. The postoperative pain was determined using the visual analog scale on the 1st, 2nd and 7th postoperative days. Patients were divided into two groups in regard to the surgical procedure applied. The data were statistically processed using the Statistica 7.0 software. We concluded that Harmonic Scalpel? hemorrhoidectomy, due to less thermal damage, statistically significantly reduced postoperative pain with better hemostasis, compared with Milligan-Morgan's method of treating hemorrhoidal disease. .
The assessment of anaerobic capacity in athletes of various sports
Authors: Ponorac Nenad , Matavulj Amela , Rajkovaca Zvezdana , Kovacevic Pedja
Published: January 2008

Introduction. The present study deals with anaerobic power capacity in athletes, differences between power capabilities of these athletes in relation to the type of sports and differences in regard to non-athletes. The goal of this study was to analyze parameters of anaerobic capacity and also to examine if the type and duration of the training period affect values of anaerobic capacity. Material and Methods. This study included 95 male subjects: non-athletes and athletes of various sports: judo players, rowers and soccer players. Anaerobic capacity was determined using the Wingate test. Results and Discussion. The obtained results show a statistically higher anaerobic capacity in judo players (PP 798 W - 9.64 W/kg) in regard to soccer players (PP 763 W - 9.75W/kg), rowers (PP 691 W - 8.8 W/kg) and non-athletes (PP 557 W - 6.93W/kg). Judo is a sport which requires high anaerobic capacity. Our results show that athletes have a higher anaerobic power capacity in regard to non-athletes. It can be explained solely by physical training. .
Delta sleep-inducing peptide and its analogues alleviate the severity of metaphit-induced audiogenic seizures in rats
Authors: Stanojlovic Olivera , Hrncic Dragan , Turjacanin Drenka , Zivanovic Dragana , Susic Veselinka
Published: January 2008

Introduction. We investigated the potential of delta sleep-inducing peptide (DSIP) and its analogue DSIP-12 (a nonapeptide with alanine in position 2 of DISP molecule substituted by beta-alanine) and tetrapeptide analogue DSIP1-4, to antagonize metaphit- (1-1(3-isothiocyanatophenyl)-cyclohexyl piperidine) induced generalized reflex audiogenic seizures in adult male Wistar albino rats. Material and Methods. Five groups of adult male Wistar rats were intraperitoneally treated with: 1. saline; 2. metaphit; 3. metaphit + DSIP; 4. metaphit + DSIP1-4 and 5. metaphit + DSIP-12. To examine the blocking effects of DSIP and its analogues on fully developed metaphit seizures, in the last three groups they were administered 8h after metaphit injection. The rats were stimulated using an electric bell (1003 dB, 5-8 kHz, 60 s) one hour after metaphit injection and afterwards at hourly intervals during the experiment. For EEG recordings and power spectra three gold-plated screws were implanted into the skull. Results. In metaphit-treated animals EEGs appeared as polyspikes and spike-wave complexes, while power spectra were increasing. The incidence and severity of metaphit-induced audiogenic seizures reached a peak value at 7-12 h after injection. Both DSIP and DSIP analogues significantly increased power spectra of delta waves and decreased the incidence of seizures, as well as mean seizure grade and tonic component of metaphit-induced convulsions. Conclusion. Taken together, these results suggest that DSIP and its analogues should be considered as potential antiepileptic agents. .
Zoonoses: A current issue in contemporary infectology
Authors: Antonijevic Bozidar , Madle-Samardzija Nadezda , Turkulov Vesna , Canak Grozdana , Gavrancic Cedomir , Petrovic-Milosevic Ivana
Published: January 2008

Introduction. Animal infectious diseases which can be transmitted to humans are as old as the civilization itself. It is thought that 75% of all human infectious diseases are of zoonotic origin. Zoonoses are of significant public health importance, with major social and economic impact. General facts about zoonoses. Depending on their life cycle, four groups of zoonoses are distinguished: orthozoonoses, cyclozoonoses, metazoonoses and saprozoonoses. Some zoonoses are of bacterial or viral origin, some are caused by rickettsia or chlamydia, others are mycotic or parasitic infections, whereas some are caused by arthropods or prions. Transmission of zoonoses to humans. Three stages are differentiated during the transmission of the causative agent to humans: excretion, presence in the environment and entry into the new host. There are two transmission mechanisms: transmissive (vector-borne) and non-transmissive (fecally-orally). Conclusion. Undoubtedly, new zoonoses will continue to emerge, and that is why we need to take seriously the warning of the Third Congress for the European Society for Emerging Infections "to expect the unexpected." .
The role of the Brezovik hospital in education of health professionals on the implementation of directly observed treatment strategy
Authors: Glusica Dobrislav , Djuric Branislav
Published: January 2008

Introduction. In 2003, the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (IUATLD) reported that tuberculosis is increasing globally more than ever in the history of mankind. Thus, tuberculosis is one of the major health problems of the twenty-first century. Implementation of DOTS strategy. Directly Observed Therapy Short-Course (DOTS) is the WHO's strategy for tuberculosis control. All HBCs (High-burden Countries) have a strategic plan for DOTS expansion for the next five years. The DOTS strategy is included in the country?s basic package of health-care services. With the introduction of the DOTS strategy in late 1990s, the surveillance was improved, although the 2003 estimate of 53% DOTS coverage is probably optimistic. The role of the Brezovik Hospital in the National TB Program. The Special Hospital for lung diseases Brezovik is the main regional hospital for tuberculosis treatment in Montenegro, and the place where the DOTS strategy is being implemented. Conclusion. The Special Hospital for lung diseases Brezovik plays a very important role in education of health care professionals. .
Health priorities in the city of Novi Sad
Authors: Uveric-Radovic Mila
Published: January 2008

Introduction. Health is the expression of two mutually related aspects of the socioecological system - health balance and health potential, which integrate the main aspects of the socioecological paradigm. Responsibility for health. Individuals, families, community members and the local government are of special importance for public health in the city of Novi Sad. Their partnership and collaboration are the key elements of successful public health practices and reduction of health inequalities. Health status of the population of the Novi Sad. Indicators of health status and follow-up of the population of Novi Sad (sample included the population aged 24-74, part of the WHO MONICA project), point to low population growth rate, accelerating trend of population aging, high prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases and behavioral and biological risk factors related with non-communicable diseases (smoking, physical inactivity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol level). Strategy framework for health promotion. At present situation, in the health policy and in the health care system of the city of Novi Sad, priority has been given to prevention programs and projects aimed at health promotion. Conclusion. Effective implementation of health promotion and prevention programs and projects, followed by close cooperation of medical and non-medical experts, as well as organizations and institutions, is a good base for achieving the main goal - Health for All in the 21st Century. .
Weil’s syndrome (Leptospiral infection): A case report
Authors: Mijailovic Zeljko , Canovic Predrag , Gajovic Olgica
Published: January 2008

Introduction. Leptospirosis is an acute zoonotic infection, caused by spirochetes of the genus Leptospira. It is characterized by extensive vasculitis. It is usually transmitted indirectly, per contaminated water, rarely directly, through contact with infected animals. Leptospira bacteria commonly enter the body through damaged skin or mucous membranes. The clinical syndromes may vary from a subclinical infection and mild febrile condition to severe clinical symptoms with jaundice and renal failure. Case report. This is a case report of a patient with leptospirosis (Weil's disease) whose clinical manifestations included: icterus, renal failure, hemorrhagic syndrome and disturbances of consciousness. After the use of antibiotics, symptomatic and substitution therapy, all symptoms resolved completely. However, in our patient, hemodialysis was necessary due to renal failure, as a palliative measure. Discussion. Weil?s syndrome is a severe form of leptospirosis, which can be fatal. Early clinical diagnosis of the disease, as well as serologic verification of infection, are very important prerequisites, followed by antibiotic and other symptomatic therapy, as soon as possible. Conclusion. This is a case report of a patient with rare clinical manifestations of leptosirosis. Although presenting with severe symptoms, thanks to palliative therapeutic measures, complete and fast recovery was achieved. We especially point out the role of hemodialysis in the treatment of this patient. .
Optimal batch production strategies under continuous price decrease and time discounting
Authors: Mandal S. , Giri B.C. , Chaudhuri K.S.
Published: January 2008

Single price discount in unit cost for bulk purchasing is quite common in reality as well as in inventory literature. However, in today's high-tech industries such as personal computers and mobile industries, continuous decrease in unit cost is a regular phenomenon. In the present paper, an attempt has been made to investigate the effects of continuous price decrease and time-value of money on optimal decisions for inventoried goods having time-dependent demand and production rates. The proposed models are developed over a finite time horizon considering both shortages and without shortages in inventory. Numerical examples are taken to illustrate the developed models and to examine the sensitivity of model parameters.
An EPQ model under cash discount and permissible delay in payments derived without derivatives
Authors: Huang Yung-Fu , Chou Chung-Li , Liao Jui-Jung
Published: January 2008

The main purpose of this paper is to investigate the case where the retailer?s unit selling price and the purchasing price per unit are not necessarily equal within the economic production quantity (EPQ) framework under cash discount and permissible delay in payments. We establish the retailer?s inventory system as a cost minimization problem to determine the retailer?s optimal inventory cycle time, optimal order quantity and optimal payment time. This paper provides an algebraic approach to determine the optimal cycle time, optimal order quantity and optimal payment time. This approach provides one theorem to efficiently determine the optimal solution. Some previously published results of other researchers are deduced as special cases. Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the result and the managerial insights are also obtained.
Fuzzy approach to business improvement of holding equipment in the conditions of decreased production range
Authors: Tadic Branko , Tadic Danijela , Marjanovic Nenad
Published: January 2008

In recent years, manufacturing industry has been characterized by a decreased production range and a demand for a rapid change of production programs. In such conditions holding equipment costs are considerably larger. In this paper, we review and analyze possible ways of business improvement concerning holding equipment in specific production conditions characterized by the decreased production range and lack of financial sources for applying systems of assembled and disassembled equipment. Classification of elements and group of elements of those systems is performed by applying a new fuzzy ABC method presented in this paper. Selected optimization criteria describe the performance measures of elements and group of elements of assembled and disassembled equipment whereas their relative weights are not the same. It is assumed that the values of imprecise optimization criteria and their relative weights are described by discrete fuzzy numbers. The developed procedure is illustrated by an example with real input data.
The reliability of systems with stair-type consecutive minimal cuts
Authors: Hsieh Y.C. , Chen T.C.
Published: January 2008

This paper considers the component system with stair-type consecutive minimal cuts. The system consists of n components and the set of minimal cuts can be linearly ordered. The proposed system generalizes the typical consecutive-k-out-of-n: F systems. By using integer linear programming, this paper shows that such a system can be converted into the consecutive-k-out-of-n: F systems with the insertion of artificial "broken-down" components. Then the system reliability can be obtained by the product form of component reliability matrices and the limit behavior of system could be easily analyzed. Additionally, we show that the integer constraints of the linear programming can be relaxed due to the total unimodularity. Thus, a general linear programming can be used to solve the problem. Numerical examples show the simple and effective new approach.
Effects of the application of conventional methods in the process of forming the pick-up trains
Authors: Ivic Milos , Markovic Milan , Markovic Aleksandar
Published: January 2008

This paper examines a problem of forming the pick-up trains by conventional methods (the Futhner method and Special method), aiming at establishing basic characteristics of track facilities and values of shunting operations indicators important for evaluation of the effects of these methods application. The problem under consideration has so far not been examined in the literature to a sufficient extent, although in practice it has been proved to be necessary. For this reason, in this work a simulation study has been undertaken the results of which have to give the values and measures for assessing the quality of station/yard operations, as well as the assessment of new-designed station solutions.
Novi podaci o Kapadokiji u IX veku - crkva u Iceridere
Authors: Jolivet-Levy Catherine
Published: January 2008

(francuski) Analyse des peintures conserv?es dans un complexe rupestre in?dit de la r?gion d?Urgup. L'int?r?t du programme, lie a la fonction fun?raire de l??glise, r?side en particulier dans la composition du Jugement dernier qui inclut les vierges sages et folles de la parabole. Les particularit?s de l?iconographie et du style, l??pigraphie des inscriptions sugg?rent une datation dans la seconde moitie du IXe si?cle, et le d?cor peut ?tre attribue au m?me atelier que l??glise Saint-Theodore (Pancarlik kilise).
Prilog poznavanju jednobrodnih crkava sa kupolom na dubrovackom podrucju
Authors: Korac Vojislav
Published: January 2008

(francuski) L?objet du travail sont les dessins architectoniques du groupe d??glises a une nef du haut moyen ?ge dans la r?gion de Dubrovnik. Les dessins sont accompagnes de br?ves descriptions des monuments. L?auteur les publie en les destinant a une meilleure connaissance des monuments gr?ce aux dessins plus complets et faits avec plus de pr?cision que les dessins publies. Ils sont le fruit des recherches faites en 1962 et ils n?ont pas ?t? publies en raison du changement d?orientation de l?auteur vers des th?mes que la pratique lui imposait. Un texte bref explique la raison de la publication des dessins avec citation de la litt?rature sur les monuments. Le plus en vue de ces monuments est l??glise de Saint Michel a Stone, ?uvre du roi de Zeta Mihailo (Michel). Dans leur ensemble ces monuments repr?sentent un chapitre important de l?histoire de l?architecture serbe m?di?vale, ou l??glise a une nef avec la coupole, d?origine byzantine, ?tait dominante. Le fait que les historiens de l?art aussi bien serbes que croates ont accorde leur attention a ces ?uvres indiquent toute l?importance de ces monuments.