bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling of suspended sediment in a weir reach using EFDC model
Authors: Pak Gijung , Mallari Kristine Joy B. , Baek Jongrak , Kim Deokwoo , Kim Hwansuk , Jung Minjae , Kim Young , Yoon Jaeyoung
Published: December 2015

Construction of hydraulic structures often leads to alteration of river dynamics and water quality. Suspended solids entering the upstream of the weir cause adverse effects to the hydroecological system and, therefore, it is necessary to build a modelling system to predict the changes in the river characteristics for proper water quality management. In this study, the discharges and total suspended solids upstream and downstream of the Baekje Weir installed in Geum River, Korea, was modelled using the environmental fluid dynamics code (EFDC) model. The resulting trend of four rainfall events shows that as rainfall increases, the total suspended solids (TSS) concentration increases as well. For the two larger events, at the upstream of the weir, TSS was observed to decrease or remain constant after the rainfall event depending on the lowering of the open gate. At the downstream, TSS supply was controlled by the weir during and after the rainfall event resulting in decline in the TSS concentration. The modelling produced good results for discharge based on %Diff. (4.37–6.35), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) (0.94–0.99) and correlation coefficient (r) (0.97–0.99) values as well as for TSS with acceptable values for %Diff. (12.08–14.11), NSE (0.75–0.81) and r (0.88–0.91), suggesting good applicability of the model for the weir reach of the river in the study site.
Parametric and energy consumption optimization of Basic Red 2 removal by electrocoagulation/egg shell adsorption coupling using response surface methodology in a batch system
Authors: de Carvalho Helder Pereira , Huang Jiguo , Zhao Meixia , Liu Gang , Yang Xinyu , Dong Lili , Liu Xingjuan
Published: December 2015

In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) model was applied for optimization of Basic Red 2 (BR2) removal using electrocoagulation/eggshell (ES) coupling process in a batch system. Central composite design was used to evaluate the effects and interactions of process parameters including current density, reaction time, initial pH and ES dosage on the BR2 removal efficiency and energy consumption. The analysis of variance revealed high R2 values (≥85%) indicating that the predictions of RSM models are adequately applicable for both responses. The optimum conditions when the dye removal efficiency of 93.18% and energy consumption of 0.840 kWh/kg were observed were 11.40 mA/cm2 current density, 5 min and 3 s reaction time, 6.5 initial pH and 10.91 g/L ES dosage.
Mechanism and kinetics of biofilm growth process influenced by shear stress in sewers
Authors: Ai Hainan , Xu Jingwei , Huang Wei , He Qiang , Ni Bingjie , Wang Yinliang
Published: December 2015

Sewer biofilms play an important role in the biotransformation of substances for methane and sulfide emission in sewer networks. The dynamic flows and the particular shear stress in sewers are the key factors determining the growth of the sewer biofilm. In this work, the development of sewer biofilm with varying shear stress is specifically investigated to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sewer biofilm dynamics. Sewer biofilms were cultivated in laboratory-scale gravity sewers under different hydraulic conditions with the corresponding shell stresses are 1.12 Pa, 1.29 Pa and 1.45 Pa, respectively. The evolution of the biofilm thickness were monitored using microelectrodes, and the variation in total solids (TS) and extracellular polymer substance (EPS) levels in the biofilm were also measured. The results showed that the steady-state biofilm thickness were highly related to the corresponding shear stresses with the biofilm thickness of 2.4 ± 0.1 mm, 2.7 ± 0.1 mm and 2.2 ± 0.1 mm at shear stresses of 1.12 Pa, 1.29 Pa and 1.45 Pa, respectively, which the chemical oxygen demand concentration is 400 mg/L approximately. Based on these observations, a kinetic model for describing the development of sewer biofilms was developed and demonstrated to be capable of reproducing all the experimental data.
Research on the synthesis and scale inhibition performance of a new terpolymer scale inhibitor
Authors: Bao Yufei , Li Meng , Zhang Yanqing
Published: December 2015

A new terpolymer named β-CD-MA-SSS was produced using free-radical polymerization of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), maleic-anhydride (MA) and sodium-styrene-sulfonate (SSS) as monomers, with potassium persulfate (KPS) as initiator. Its performance as a scale inhibitor to prevent deposition of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) has been investigated. Experimental results demonstrated that β-CD-MA-SSS performed excellent scale inhibition and exhibited a high conversion rate under the following conditions: initiator consisting of 6%, molar ratio of reaction monomers SSS:MA = 0.8:1, MA:β-CD = 6:1, reaction temperature of 80 °C, reaction time of 6 h, and dropping time of 40 min when MA was dosed as a substrate, and SSS and KPS were dosed as dropping reactants simultaneously. Use of a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer for this inhibitor showed that the polymerization reaction had taken place with the reaction monomers under the above specified conditions. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that the β-CD-MA-SSS had a strong chelating ability for calcium (Ca2+) and a good dispersion ability for calcium carbonate (CaCO3).
Modified kinetic-hydraulic UASB reactor model for treatment of wastewater containing biodegradable organic substrates
Authors: El-Seddik Mostafa M. , Galal Mona M. , Radwan A. G. , Abdel-Halim Hisham S.
Published: December 2015

This paper addresses a modified kinetic-hydraulic model for up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor aimed to treat wastewater of biodegradable organic substrates as acetic acid based on Van der Meer model incorporated with biological granules inclusion. This dynamic model illustrates the biomass kinetic reaction rate for both direct and indirect growth of microorganisms coupled with the amount of biogas produced by methanogenic bacteria in bed and blanket zones of reactor. Moreover, the pH value required for substrate degradation at the peak specific growth rate of bacteria is discussed for Andrews' kinetics. The sensitivity analyses of biomass concentration with respect to fraction of volume of reactor occupied by granules and up-flow velocity are also demonstrated. Furthermore, the modified mass balance equations of reactor are applied during steady state using Newton Raphson technique to obtain a suitable degree of freedom for the modified model matching with the measured results of UASB Sanhour wastewater treatment plant in Fayoum, Egypt.
The farmers' perceptions of ANPS pollution and its influencing factors in Poyang Lake Region, China
Authors: Chen Meiqiu , Chen Mengjiao , Lu Yanfei , Wang Liguo , Huang Yujiao
Published: December 2015

Individual farmers represent the main management entities of agricultural production under the family-contract responsibility system in China, and thus play crucial roles in the prevention and control of agricultural nonpoint source (ANPS) pollution. The analysis of the farmers' perceptions of ANPS pollution as well as the factors affecting their perceptions can provide valuable information for relevant policy-making to preserve high quality water in Poyang Lake and regional quality of arable land. Through a survey titled ‘Farmers' perceptions of ANPS pollution and farming behaviors in the Poyang Lake Region’, the data related to the perceptions of farmers on ANPS pollution were collected. The factors that affect their awareness of ANPS pollution were identified with the method of boosted regression trees (BRT). The results indicated that the farmers had awareness of the risk of ANPS pollution to some extent, but they lacked adequate scientific knowledge. Generally, they had no consciousness about how to prevent and control ANPS pollution and did not understand techniques needed for proper scientifically sound application of fertilizers and pesticides. The main factors that influenced their perceptions of ANPS pollution are (from high to low): the ratio of total income which comes from farming, per capita farmland, age, education level, and household income. Some measures targeted to improve the prevention and control of ANPS pollution were proposed: developing modern agricultural techniques and promoting large-scale farming, increasing public campaigns related to ANPS pollution prevention and control with the goal of raising the level of awareness of farmers, and reforming the methods used to promote science and technology in agriculture and encourage the proper use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Removal of barium and strontium from aqueous solution using zeolite 4A
Authors: Araissi Manel , Ayed Imen , Elaloui Elimame , Moussaoui Younes
Published: December 2015

The adsorption efficiency of Sr2+ and Ba2+ from aqueous solutions by zeolite 4A was investigated. Adsorption studies were carried out both in single and binary component systems. The single ion equilibrium adsorption data were fitted to three isotherm models: Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich. The Langmuir model represents the equilibrium data better than the Freundlich model in the studied initial metal concentration (0.3–25 mmol L−1) in both the single and binary component systems. The obtained RL (separation factor or Langmuir parameter) values were in the range of 0–1 indicating that Sr2+ and Ba2+ sorption were favorable. The obtained mean free energy value for adsorption of Ba2+ and Sr2+ was 8.45 kJ mol−1 and 9.12 kJ mol−1, respectively, indicating that both ions were uptaken through an ion exchange process. The maximum adsorption capacities (Qmax) were 2.25 mmol g−1 and 2.34 mmol g−1 for Ba2+ and Sr2+ ions, respectively. Also, the study of the competitive sorption of ions in the binary system showed that zeolite 4A preferentially adsorbs cations in the following order: Ba2+ < Sr2+.
Modelling real-time control of WWTP influent flow under data scarcity
Authors: Kroll Stefan , Dirckx Geert , Donckels Brecht M. R. , Van Dorpe Mieke , Weemaes Marjoleine , Willems Patrick
Published: December 2015

In order to comply with effluent standards, wastewater operators need to avoid hydraulic overloading of the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), as this can result in the washout of activated sludge from secondary settling tanks. Hydraulic overloading can occur in a systematic way, for instance when sewer network connections are extended without increasing the WWTP's capacity accordingly. This study demonstrates the use of rule-based real-time control (RTC) to reduce the load to the WWTP while restricting the overall overflow volume of the sewer system to a minimum. Further, it shows the added value of RTC despite the limited availability of monitoring data and information on the catchment through a parsimonious simulation approach, using relocation of spatial system boundaries and creating required input data through reverse modelling. Focus was hereby on the accurate modelling of pump hydraulics and control. Finally, two different methods of global sensitivity analysis were employed to verify the influence of parameters of both the model and the implemented control algorithm. Both methods show the importance of good knowledge of the system properties, but that monitoring errors play a minor role.
Evaluation of the role of inherent Ca2+ in phosphorus removal from wastewater system
Authors: Han Chong , Wang Zhen , Wu Qianqian , Yang Wangjin , Yang He , Xue Xiangxin
Published: December 2015

The role of inherent Ca2+ in phosphorus removal from wastewater was evaluated by batch tests. Precipitates were characterized by an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscope with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) system. Effects of inherent Ca2+ on phosphorus removal through basic oxygen furnace slag (BOFS) were also analyzed. The results show that upon adjusting the pH to higher than 7.0, inherent Ca2+ can remove phosphorus from wastewater and form Ca-P precipitates. Residual phosphorus exhibited a linear decreasing trend with increasing the pH from 7.0 to 10.0 and then remained unchanged at higher pH than 10.0. EDS determined that the precipitates contained the elements Ca, P and O. FT-IR spectra demonstrated that the functional groups of precipitates involved PO43−, OH− and CO32−. XRD indicated that the precipitates may consist of CaCO3 and some Ca-P phosphates such as CaHPO4, Ca4H(PO4)3, Ca3(PO4)2, and Ca5(PO4)3(OH). During the removal process of phosphorus by BOFS, due to the presence of inherent Ca2+ in wastewater, the removal efficiency and rate of phosphorus increased by 15.5% and by a factor of about 3.0, respectively.
Analysis of methane emissions from digested sludge
Authors: Schaum C. , Fundneider T. , Cornel P.
Published: December 2015

The energetic use of sewage sludge is an important step in the generation of electricity and heat within a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). For a holistic approach, methane emissions derived from anaerobic treatment have to be considered. Measurements show that methane dissolved in digested sludge can be analyzed via the vacuum salting out degassing method. At different WWTPs, dissolved methane was measured, showing a concentration range of approximately 7–37 mg CH4/L. The average concentration of dissolved methane in mesophilic digested sludge was approximately 29 mg CH4/L, which corresponds to an estimated yearly specific load of approximately 14–21 g CH4 per population equivalent. Comparisons between continuous and discontinuous digester feeding show that a temporary rise in the volume load causes increased concentrations of dissolved methane. Investigations using an industrial-scale digestion plant, consisting of three digestion tank operated in series, show comparable results.
Highly efficient electro-generation of hydrogen peroxide using NCNT/NF/CNT air diffusion electrode for electro-Fenton degradation of p-nitrophenol
Authors: Tang Q. , Wang D. , Yao D. M. , Yang C. W. , Sun Y. C.
Published: December 2015

To promote the in situ generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in electro-Fenton system, a new air diffusion electrode (ADE) was put forward in the present work using N-doped multi-walled carbon nanotubes (NCNT) as the catalyst layer, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) as the diffusion layer, and nickel foam (NF) as the supporting material, respectively. The catalyst layer in ADE was characterized by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Then the performances of H2O2 accumulation and p-nitrophenol (p-NP) degradation with the electrode (NCNT/NF/CNT ADE) were investigated. The experimental results showed that H2O2 accumulation on the NCNT/NF/CNT ADE was greatly improved by the presence of N doping, and H2O2 accumulation concentration could reach 307 mg L−1 after 120 min at the current intensity of 100 mA. Moreover, the NCNT/NF/CNT ADE presented more effective performance on p-NP degradation than the CNT/NF/CNT ADE or the NF ADE. p-NP of initial 50 mg L−1 could be almost completely removed after 30 min, and the total organic carbon removal efficiency reached 62.61% after 120 min when 0.4 mM Fe2+ was added into the system. The repeatability test suggested that the stability of the NCNT/NF/CNT ADE was very good.
Bone-patellar tendon-bone graft preparation technique to increase cross-sectional area of the graft in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Milankov Miroslav , Obradovic Mirko , Vranjes Miodrag , Budinski Zlatko
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Not much has changed in the way the bone-patellar tendon-bone
graft is prepared before implantation. We present a modified bone-patellar
tendon-bone graft preparation technique by implying the increased
cross-sectional area. Material and Methods. Measurements of bone-patellar
tendon-bone graft were made during the reconstruction of the anterior
cruciate ligament in 93 male patients. The bone part of bone-patellar
tendon-bone graft 10 mm wide and the tendon part 12-14 mm wide was placed on
the holder with a handle in a way which allowed sewing the edges of the
patellar tendon in a shape of a tube. The circumference of the central part
of the graft was measured using a suture tightened around the graft. The
diameters of the circle and cross-sectional areas were then calculated using
geometrical calculation. Results. After preparation of the bone-patellar
tendon-bone graft, the following measures were recorded: the circumference of
30 mm, the diameter of 9.55 mm, and the cross-sectional area of 72 mm2 in 9
patients; the circumference of 31mm, the diameter of 9.87 mm, and the
cross-sectional area of 76 mm2 in 15 patients, and the circumference of 32
mm, the diameter of 10.19 mm, and the cross-sectional area of 82 mm2 in 69
patients. Conclusion. For the average thickness (3-5 mm) and width (10 mm) of
the patellar tendon graft, the cross-sectional area will be 30-50 mm2. The
modified bone-patellar tendon-bone graft preparation technique made it
possible to increase its cross-sectional area to 71-81 mm2.
Diagnostic role of fluorine-18 (18F) fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography computed tomography in detecting recurrent disease in patients with colorectal cancer and elevated carcinoembryonic antigen
Authors: Matovina Emil , Mihailovic Jasna , Nikoletic Katarina , Srbovan Dolores
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Early detection of recurrence is an important factor for long
term survival of patients with colorectal cancer. Measurement of serum levels
of carcinoembryonic antigen has been commonly used in the postoperative
surveillance of colorectal cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate
the ability of positron emission tomography-computed tomography to detect
pathological substrate of elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen in patients
with colorectal cancer. Material and Methods. The patients with colorectal
cancer who underwent curative surgical resection and/ or chemotherapy, who
were found in our database, were analyzed retrospectively. Forty-eight 18F-
fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography studies
including 45 patients (14 women, 31 men; mean age: 62.93 years) with elevated
serum, carcinoembryonic antigen levels, which had been performed between
January 2011 and January 2014, were evaluated. Serum levels of
carcinoembryonic antigen were measured within 3 months after positron
emission tomography-computed tomography examination. Final diagnosis of
recurrence was made by histopathological findings, radiology studies or
clinical follow-up. Results. Recurrences were diagnosed in 37 patients, the
prevalence being 77.1%. Liver metastases were found in 18 patients,
abdominal, pelvic and/or mediastinal lymph nodes were positive in 19
patients, 11 patients had loco regional recurrences and 4 patients had
pulmonary metastasis, and bone metastases were found in one patient. One
patient was diagnosed with metastasis in scar tissue. The overall sensitivity
and specificity of positron emission tomography-computed tomography was
90.24% and 71.42%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values
were 94.87% and 55.56%, respectively. Conclusion. 18F- fluorodeoxyglucose
positron emission tomography-computed tomography is a powerful tool that
could be used in determining colorectal cancer recurrence in patients with
elevated carcinoembryonic antigen levels and could have an important clinical
impact on the management in patients with suspected recurrent colorectal
cancer.
Knowledge and attitudes of health care science students toward older people
Authors: Milutinovic Dragana , Simin Dragana , Kacavendic Jelena , Turkulov Vesna
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Education of health science students in geriatrics is important
in order to provide optimal care for the growing number of elderly people
because it is the attitudes of health professionals toward the elderly that
play the key role in the quality of care provided. Therefore, the aim of this
study was to assess the knowledge and attitudes of health care science
students towards ageing and care for the elderly. Material and Methods. The
present cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 130 students
(medical, nursing and special education and rehabilitation) of the Faculty of
Medicine, University of Novi Sad. The students were divided into two groups.
The first group (E) included students having been taught geriatrics and
nursing older adults and the other group (C) included students who had not
been trained in this subject. The authors used Palmore?s facts on Ageing Quiz
for the knowledge evaluation and Kogan?s Attitude toward Older People Scale
for the attitude evaluation. Results. The results of Facts on Aging Quiz
showed the average level of students? knowledge and statistically significant
difference between E and C group. The analysis of Kogan?s Attitudes toward
Old People Scale showed that both groups had neutral attitudes toward older
people. Furthermore, a positive correlation between students? knowledge and
attitudes was found. Conclusion. There is increasing evidence on the
correlation between education, knowledge and attitudes toward older people
which suggests that by acquiring better insights into all aspects of ageing
through their education the students develop more positive attitudes and
interest in working with older adults.
The role of nutrition in caries prevention and maintenance of oral health during pregnancy
Authors: Jevtic Marija , Pantelinac Jelena , Jovanovic-Ilic Tatjana , Petrovic Vasa , Grgic Olja , Blazic Larisa
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Pregnancy may pose an increased risk for the development of
caries and other oral health problems. Continuous screening of oral health
status, implementing appropriate preventive measures (particularly oral
hygiene, healthy diet plans and education) is of paramount importance not
only for oral health but also for the general health status of the future
mother and her offspring. Effects of Food on Caries Development. Caries
prevention through healthy diet implicates the reduction in frequency and
amount of intake of cariogenic food, above all of refined carbohydrates, i.e.
sugars and sweets. Foods known to have caries-prophylactic effects should
predominate in healthy diet plans. They mainly include solid foods, which
have mechanical effects on teeth cleaning, as well as foods providing
sufficient amounts of vitamins (A, C, D) and a variety of elements and
compounds (calcium, phosphates, fluorides) favoring the preservation and
remineralization of tooth structures. Education of Pregnant Women on Healthy
Deit. In accomplishing these goals, education and direct positive
communication between the educator and the pregnant woman play a crucial
role. Educative approach is always individual and determined by the patient?s
specific cultural and socioeconomic features and status, as well as her
habits, motivation and willingness to accept relevant recommendations.
Accomplishing the aforementioned goals requires the appropriate organization
and professional competence within the preventive dental service and its
close cooperation with the relevant medical institutions and social support
in the framework of public health protection. Conclusion. Preserving of oral
health during pregnancy is predominantly influenced by the following factors:
1) healthy diet, 2) oral hygiene, 3) patients? education, 4) regular control
of oral health, 5) appropriate organization of dental services and 6)
community engagement.
Energy systems in surgery
Authors: Pantelic Milos , Ljikar Jelena , Devecerski Gordana , Karadzic Jelena
Published: December 2015

Introduction. The systems of energy in surgery are applied in order to
achieve better and more effective performing of procedures. Whereas various
energy sources, including electricity, ultrasound, laser and argon gas, may
be used, the fundamental principle involves tissue necrosis and hemostasis by
heating. Electro Surgery. Electro Surgery is a surgical technique by which
surgical procedures are performed by focused heating of the tissue using
devices based on high-frequency currents. It represents one of the most
frequently used energy systems in laparoscopy. Ultrasound Energy. The basic
principle of operation of the ultrasound surgical instruments is the usage of
low-frequency mechanic vibrations (ultrasound energy within the range of
20-60 kHz) for cutting and coagulation of tissue. Laser. Laser is the
abbreviation for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation,
aimed at increasing light by stimulated emission of radiation and it is the
name of the instrument which generates coherent beam of light. Argon Plasma
Coagulation. It has been in use since 1991 for endoscopic hemostasis. It uses
highfrequency electric current and ionized gas argon. The successful
application of devices depends on the type of surgical procedure, training of
the surgeon and his knowledge about the device. Surgeons do not agree on the
choice of device which would be optimal for a certain procedure. Conclusion.
The whole team in the operating room must have the basic knowledge of the way
an energy system works so as to provide a safe and effective treatment of
patients. The advantages and shortcomings of different systems of energy have
to be taken into account while we use a special mode.
Clinical characteristics and treatment of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome - overview of six patients
Authors: Raskovic Sanvila , Bolpacic Jasna , Peric-Popadic Aleksandra , Jovicic Zikica , Miskovic Rada , Bogic Mirjana
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is a rare disease of unknown
etiology. Histopathologically, it presents as granulomatous cheilitis. From
laboratory aspect, it is a nonspecific, differential diagnostically and
therapeutically complex condition. Case Report. This is a report of six cases
treated at the Department of Allergology and Immunology of the Clinical
Center of Serbia, who had presented with the referral diagnosis of recurring
or persistent lip edema, and who were diagnosed with Melkersson-Rosenthal
syndrome upon detailed evaluation. Three patients had complete triad of
symptoms, two had the oligosymptomatic form and one manifested the
monosymptomatic form of the disease. Histopathological findings of the oral
mucosa specimens verified the presence of non-necrotic epithelioid granulomas
in all patients. The patients were treated with the H1 and H2 antihistamines,
corticosteroids, followed by anabolic drugs and antibiotics, resulting in
transient and unfavorable effects. Conclusion. In differential diagnosis,
Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome diagnosis primarily refers to conditions of
angioneurotic edema and hereditary angioedema, as well as granulomatous
diseases such as sarcoidosis, tuberculosis and Chron?s disease. It is
necessary to follow-up these patients in view of monitoring the effects of
the therapy and possible development of systemic granulomatous diseases.
Management of a distal femoral non-union with coexisting failure of the knee extensor mechanism using osteobridge knee-arthrodesis system: A case report
Authors: Begkas Dimitrios , Pastroudis Alexandros , Katsenis Dimitrios , Tsamados Stamatios
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Reconstruction of bone defects is a long, challenging process
both for the patient and for the treating surgeon. Bone defects frequently
occur as a result of aggressive surgical debridement and bone resection in
case of acute trauma, open fractures, chronic bone infections, tumors and
non-unions. Early amputation is often superior to prolonged attempts at
salvage because they can create serious problems in the patients? lives.
There are numerous alternative methods of limb-salvage nowadays. Case Report.
We report a case of a fifty-year-old man with a distal femoral non-union and
a co-existing failure of the knee extensor mechanism, who was treated using
an intramedullary segmental defect bridging knee arthrodesis system
(Osteobridge). At the final check-up twenty four months later, he had
excellent clinical, functional and radiological results. Conclusion.
Osteobridge is an excellent knee arthrodesis system, which is preferable to
other methods in case of resection of the distal femur along with the failure
of the knee extensor mechanism.
Pentalogy of Cantrell in twins: A case report
Authors: Ilic-Sabo Jelena , Boskovic Tamara , Zivojinov Mirjana , Fejsa-Levakov Aleksandra
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Pentalogy of Cantrell is a very rare congenital multiple
malformation with the poor outcome. Syndrome included the following pentad:
abdominal wall defect, a defect of the lower sternum, anterior diaphragm
defect, ectopia cordis, as well as a variety of intracardiac anomalies. Case
Report. In the fifteenth week of the twin pregnancy, ultrasound examination
showed multiple anomalies in one, as well as the absence of the nose apex in
the other twin. The autopsy of the fetuses was performed after the abortion
had been approved by the Ethics Committee. The external examination of the
fetus number one showed ectopic heart and omphalocele. The internal
examination revealed the existence of sternum cleft, ectopic heart and part
of the left lung outside the thoracic cavity, the presence of diaphragmatic
hernia with protrusion of abdominal organs, heart with only one large vessel
and the horseshoe kidney. The full expression of the Pentalogy of Cantrell
was confirmed. The external and internal examination of the other twin showed
just agenesis of the nose apex. Conclusion. Recognition and diagnosis of the
syndrome is of the exceptional importance. Proper and timely diagnosis should
contribute to good outcome of the pregnancy and delivery.
Colitis and “diaphragm disease” of the colon in hemodialysis patient due to prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
Authors: Dimkovic Nada , Bojic Danijela , Svorcan Petar , Jankovic Aleksandar , Djuric Petar , Tosic Jelena
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are the most common mesenchymal
tumors of the digestive tract. Leiomyosarcomas of the gastrointestinal tract
are rare mesenchymal neoplasms which grossly and histologically resemble
gastrointestinal stromal tumors. They may be differentiated from
gastrointestinal stromal tumors by using immunohistochemistry and they are
typically positive for ? smooth muscle actin and desmin and negative for
c-kit, CD34 and DOG1.1. They often express calponin and h-caldesmon. Case
Report. We present a case of a 59-year-old male with anemia, weight loss,
intermittent abdominal pain and right abdominal mass. Colonoscopy revealed an
exophytic ulcerated neoplastic mass in the ascending colon and abdominal
computed tomography scan showed an ill-defined heterogeneous tumor mass which
surrounded almost the whole ascending colon. The patient underwent right
hemicolectomy and partial resection of ileum. Histopathological examination
revealed a leiomyosarcoma composed of atypical spindle cells positive for ?
smooth muscle actin, desmin and vimentin, and negative for c-kit, CD34, S100
and neuron specific enolase. The patient is alive 8 months after the
operation, undergoing chemotherapy. Conclusion. We have concluded that the
multimodal approach comprising chemotherapy and complete surgical resection
controls the leiomyosarcomas.
Retrospective study of spontaneous bone regeneration after decompression of large odontogenic cystic lesions in children
Authors: Pejovic Marko , Stepic Jelena , Markovic Aleksa , Dragovic Miroslav , Milicic Biljana , Colic Snjezana
Published: December 2015

Background/Aim. Surgical treatment of odontogenic cysts in childhood could be
accompanied by injury of important anatomical structures. Even though
enucleation is considered to be preferable treatment of odontogenic cysts,
the specificities of pediatric age favor more conservative surgical approach.
The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of decompression as the
uttermost treatment of odontogenic cysts in the pediatric age. Methods. This
retrospective study included 22 patients, 7?16 years old, with a single jaw
cystic lesion. The majority of these lesions were dentigerous cyst (14), and
the rest belonged to keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) (8). All lesions
were primarily treated with decompression; it was a final treatment
(one-stage procedure) in 13 dentigerous cysts, and it was followed by
enucleation (twostage procedure) in one dentigerous cyst and all the KCOT.
Results. A total of 13 (59.1%) dentigerous cysts were treated successfully
only with decompression as one stage procedure, while the other 9 (40.9%)
cysts required enucleation (1 dentigerous and 8 KCOT), after decompression (p
? 0.001). Conclusion. Related to non-aggressive lesions, more conservative
treatment approach, such as decompression as one-stage procedure, should be
considered. On the other hand, KCOTs in children require a two-stage
procedure for a successful treatment outcome.
Therapist’s interpersonal style and therapy benefit as the determinants of personality self-reports in clients
Authors: Hadziahmetovic Nina , Alispahic Sabina , Tuce Djenita , Hasanbegovic-Anic Enedina
Published: December 2015

Background/Aim. In (counter)transference relationship therapist?s
interpersonal style, implying the perceived relation of therapist to a client
(patient) in terms of control, autonomy, care and positive feedback, has been
shown to be important. The aim of our study was to assess the relationship
between therapist?s interpersonal style and clients? personality
self-reports. Within therapist?s interpersonal style, preliminary validation
of the Therapist?s Interpersonal Style Scale has been conducted, which
included double translation method, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory
factor analysis, as well as the reliability tests of the derived components.
Methods. This research was conducted on a group of 206 clients, attending one
of the four psychotherapy modalities: psychoanalysis, gestalt therapy,
cognitive-behavioral and systemic family therapy. Beside Therapist?s
Interpersonal Style Scale, Big Five Questionnaire and Therapy Benefit Scale
were administered, showing good internal consistency. Results. Principal
component analysis of therapist?s interpersonal style singled out two
components Supportive Autonomy and Ignoring Control, explaining 42% of
variance. Two-factor model of the therapist?s styles was better fitted in
confirmatory factor analysis than the original 4-factor model. Structural
model showing indirect and direct effects of therapist?s interpersonal styles
on selfreports in clients indicates good fitness (?2(12) = 8.932, p = 0.709;
goodness-of-fit index = 0.989), with Ignoring Control having direct effect on
Stability, Supportive Autonomy on Therapy Benefit, and Therapy Benefit on
Plasticity. Conclusion. The results of this study indicate the importance of
further research on therapist?s interpersonal style, as well as further
validation of the instrument that measures this construct. Besides, a
client?s perception that the therapy is being helpful could instigate more
explorative and approach-oriented behavior, what indirectly might contribute
to a client?s stability.
Effects of atorvastatin and artichoke leaf tincture on oxidative stress in hypercholesterolemic rats
Authors: Crevar-Sakac Milkica , Vujic Zorica , Kotur-Stevuljevic Jelena , Ivanisevic Jasmina , Jelic Ivanovic , Milenkovic Marina , Markelic Milica , Vujcic Zoran
Published: December 2015

Backgroung/Aim. Since combining conventional drugs with herbal medicinal
products is in current research focus and possible of great interest as
therapy improvement way, the aim of this study was to determine the effects
of wellestablished antiatherosclerotic drug atorvastatin (CAS number
134523-00-5) and commercially available artichoke leaf tincture (ALTINC),
used as combined therapy, as well as to compare effects of these two
treatments separately. Methods. Experimental animals were divided into five
groups: the group I (the control group of rats fed with standard diet during
11 weeks), and the remaining 4 groups of rats (II, III, IV and V) fed with
standard diet during the first week and then with hypercholesterolemic diet
during the next 10 weeks. The group II of rats were left without treatment,
while in the groups III, IV and V were rats treated per os with atorvastatin
(1.15 mg/kg body wright ? b.w.), ALTINC (0.1 mL/kg b.w.) and their
combination in same doses, respectively, for the last six weeks. Results. The
cholesterol rich diet led to pronounced hyperlipidemia which could not be
overcame with the therapy. However, the therapy showed positive effects on
abdominal aorta wall thickness and parameters of oxidative stress
(malondialdehyde ? MDA, proxidative-antioxidative balance ? PAB) and
antioxidative protection (reduced glutathione ? GSH, paraoxanase 1 ? PON1,
superoxide dismutase ? SODA SH groups), especially ALTINC was successful in
oxidative status improvement. Conclusion. Separate treatments comparison
showed that artichoke leaf tincture is very potent antioxidant with
beneficial effects in early stages of atherosclerosis. Since atorvastatin and
constituents of ALTINC probably have different mechanisms of action,
simultaneous use of both therapies could be beneficial but should be further
investigated since our results showed that ALTINC is less effective when used
in combination with atorvastatin.
Lung parenchima changes in neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Ilic Aleksandra , Raljevic Snezana , Adzic Tatjana , Skodric-Trifunovic Vesna , Stanimirovic Jelena
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), also known as von
Recklinghausen disease, is one of the most common single-gene disorders
(mutation on chromosome 17q) and usually associated with cutaneous,
musculoskeletal and neurological disorders in humans. NF1 is generally
complicated with one or more neurobehavioral disorders or tumors located in
the peripheral nervous system such as neurofibromas, peripheral nerve sheath
tumor, pheochromocytoma, etc. In the available medical literature, the
thoracic manifestations of NF1 have been rarely described in these patients.
There are few reports about intrathoracic neurogenic tumors, kyphoscoliosis,
pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis in patients with NF1. Case report. A
65-year-old female was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at the Lung Clinic
of Belgrade University Clinical Center of Serbia. The patient?s general
condition was poor with shortness of breath and present cyanosis. At the same
time, the skin changes similar to NF1 were noticed, which were additionally
documented by her medical history and diagnosed as NF1. After the application
of noninvasive mechanical ventilation and other emergency respiratory
medicine measures, the patient soon felt better. The parenchymal changes were
viewed by subsequent X-rays and CT scanning of the thorax. Conclusion. This
is a case report presenting the NF1 associated with the abnormality of lung
parenchyma established during diagnostic procedures at the Intensive Care
Unit, Clinic of Pulmonology.
Solitary extramedullary plasmacytoma of the duodenum and pancreas: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ignjatovic Mile , Bezmarevic Mihailo , Cerovic Snezana
Published: December 2015

Introduction. The extramedullary plasmacytomas (EMPs) are rare tumors of
plasma cell disorders which are rarely found in the duodenum. We presented a
case of solitary EMPs involving the duodenum and pancreas successfully
treated by surgical resection after failure of chemotherapy. Case report. A
55-year-old female with previously diagnosed solitary EMP of the duodenum was
admitted to our institution after failure of three cycles of vincristine,
adriablastine, dexamethasone (VAD) chemotherapy regimen with an upper
gastrointestinal obstruction. On admission computed tomography of the abdomen
showed tumor in the region of the second part of duodenum and uncinate
process of the pancreas with a complete duodenal obstruction.
Intraoperatively a tumor formation was in the region of the second duodenal
part, originated from the wall of duodenum with the total diameter of 7 x 5 cm, covering the entire circumference of duodenal wall leaded to a narrowing
of duodenal lumen to the thigh gap with an upper gastrointestinal
obstruction. Infiltration in the head of the pancreas and uncinate process were also found. The Whipple?s procedure was performed but postoperative
course was complicated by rapidly refilling chylous ascites which was
resolved 4 days after the surgery. Conclusion. Each patient with
gastrointestinal EMPs should be considered separately and in timely manner,
thus adequate treatment could provide local disease control.
The prevalence and socioeconomic correlates of depressive and anxiety symptoms in a group of 1,940 Serbian university students
Authors: Simic-Vukomanovic Ivana , Mihajlovic Goran , Kocic Sanja , Djonovic Nela , Bankovic Dragic , Vukomanovic Vladimir , Djukic-Dejanovic Slavica
Published: December 2015

Background/Aim. Mental health of university students is under increasing
concern worldwide, because they face challenges which predisposes them to
depression and anxiety. The aim of this study was to identify demographic and
socioeconomic variables associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms among
university students. Methods. This cross-sectional study on 1,940 university
students was performed using a questionnaire including demographic and
socioeconomic variables, Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety
Inventory. Results. The prevalence of depressive symptoms in students was
23.6%, while the prevalence of anxiety symptoms was 33.5%. The depressive
symptoms were significantly related to the study year (p = 0.002), type of
faculty (p = 0.014), satisfaction with college major choice (p < 0.001),
satisfaction with grade point average (p < 0.001). Female students (odds
ratio - OR = 1.791, 95% confidence interval - CI = 1.351-2.374), older
students (OR = 1.110, 95% CI = 1.051-1.172), students who reported low family
economic situation (OR = 2.091, 95% CI = 1.383-3.162), not owning the room
(OR = 1.512, 95% CI = 1.103-2.074), dissatisfaction with graduate education
(OR = 1.537, 95% CI = 1.165-2.027) were more likely to show depressive
symptoms. The anxiety symptoms were significantly related to study year (p =
0.034), type of faculty (p < 0.001), family economic situation (p = 0.011),
college residence (p = 0.001) satisfaction with the college major choice (p =
0.001), and satisfaction with graduate education (p < 0.001). Female students
(OR = 1.901, 95% CI = 1.490-2.425), and students who reported parents high
expectations of academic success (OR = 1.290, 95% CI = 1.022-1.630) were more
likely to show anxiety symptoms. Conclusion. This is one of the largest study
examining mental disorders in a sample of university students in Serbia.
These findings underscore the importance of early detections of mental
problems and prevention interventions in university students.
Voice analysis before and after vocal rehabilitation in patients following open surgery on vocal cords
Authors: Bunijevac Mila , Petrovic-Lazic Mirjana , Jovanovic-Simic Nadica , Vukovic Mile
Published: December 2015

Background/Aim. The major role of larynx in speech, respiration and
swallowing makes carcinomas of this region and their treatment very
influential for patients? life quality. The aim of this study was to assess
the importance of voice therapy in patients after open surgery on vocal
cords. Methods. This study included 21 male patients and the control group
of 19 subjects. The vowel (A) was recorded and analyzed for each examinee.
All the patients were recorded twice: firstly, when they contacted the
clinic and secondly, after a three-month vocal therapy, which was held twice
per week on an outpatient basis. The voice analysis was carried out in the
Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Clinic, Clinical Hospital Center ?Zvezdara? in
Belgrade. Results. The values of the acoustic parameters in the patients
submitted to open surgery on the vocal cords before vocal rehabilitation and
the control group subjects were significantly different in all specified
parameters. These results suggest that the voice of the patients was damaged
before vocal rehabilitation. The results of the acoustic parameters of the
vowel (A) before and after vocal rehabilitation of the patients with open
surgery on vocal cords were statistically significantly different. Among the
parameters - Jitter (%), Shimmer (%) - the observed difference was highly
statistically significant (p < 0.01). The voice turbulence index and the
noise/harmonic ratio were also notably improved, and the observed difference
was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The analysis of the tremor
intensity index showed no significant improvement and the observed
difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05 ). Conclusion. There
was a significant improvement of the acoustic parameters of the vowel (A) in
the study subjects three months following vocal therapy. Only one out of
five representative parameters showed no significant improvement.
Combination of axitinib and dasatinib for anti-cancer activities in two prostate cancer cell lines
Authors: Peng Nai-Xiong , Liu Chun-Xiao , Wang Xi-Sheng , Zhang Ze-Jian , Liao Su-Cai
Published: December 2015

Prostate cancer is major cause of cancer related deaths worldwide in men. There are new treatment methods and drugs are being developed with promising results in two of the prostate cancer cell lines (PPC-1 and TSU-Pr1). These two cells were treated with 20 uM of axitinib combined with dasatinib for 6-72 hours. The cell viability assessed by the cytotoxicity assay. Various regulatory genes such as c-KIT, cell cycle and apoptosis and angiogenic factors were also studied. The enzyme activity of apoptosis efector caspase-3 was colorimetrically determined. Axitinib and dasatinib combination lowered the survival rate of PPC-1 cells but enhanced the survival rate of TSU-Pr1 cells. The protein expression levels in apoptosis and angiogenesis factors were also found to be in contrast between the two cell lines. PPC-1 and TSU-Pr1 cells displayed a different response to axitinib with dasatinib, which explains different expression levels of regulators of cell-cycle, apoptosis and angiogenesis.

 
Antitubercular activity of the pigment from forest soil Streptomyces sp SFA5
Authors: Manikkam Radhakrishnan , Ponnuswamy Shekar , Joseph Jerrine , Kumar Vanaja
Published: December 2015

Extracellular pigment from the forest soil Streptomyces sp SFA5 was produced by submerged fermentation using yeast extract malt extract broth. Crude pigment from the medium was extracted using ethyl acetate. Antitubercular activity of the pigment was tested against M. tuberculosis H37Rv by microplate alamar blue assay and luciferase reporter phage assay. The pigment was also tested for inhibitory activity against M. tuberculosis lysine aminotransferase by colorimetric method. In both microplate alamar blue and luciferase reporter phage assay, the crude pigment showed activity against M. tuberculosis H37Rv at 125 and 250 µg/mL concentration, respectively. The M. tuberculosis lysine aminotransferase was inhibited at the IC50 value of 4.5 µg/mL concentration.

 