bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Robust Predictive Fault–Tolerant Control for a Battery Assembly System
Authors: Seybold Lothar , Witczak Marcin , Majdzik Paweł , Stetter Ralf
Published: January 2016

The paper deals with the modeling and fault-tolerant control of a real battery assembly system which is under implementation at the RAFI GmbH company (one of the leading electronic manufacturing service providers in Germany). To model and control the battery assembly system, a unified max-plus algebra and model predictive control framework is introduced. Subsequently, the control strategy is enhanced with fault-tolerance features that increase the overall performance of the production system being considered. In particular, it enables tolerating (up to some degree) mobile robot, processing and transportation faults. The paper discusses also robustness issues, which are inevitable in real production systems. As a result, a novel robust predictive fault-tolerant strategy is developed that is applied to the battery assembly system. The last part of the paper shows illustrative examples, which clearly exhibit the performance of the proposed approach.
New methods for positive selection of yeast ethanol overproducing mutants
Authors: Dmytruk Kostyantyn V. , Kshanovska Barbara V. , Abbas Charles A. , Sibirny Andriy
Published: January 2016

Fuel ethanol is an environmentally friendly alternative liquid fuel to the widely used petroleum derived transportation liquid fuels. Since 2007, worldwide fuel ethanol production has increased. Currently ethanol is primarily produced from carbohydrates such as sucrose and starch by fermentation using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this work, new approaches for the selection of S. cerevisiae strains with increased ethanol production from hydrolyzed corn meal are described. An industrial production strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae AS400 was subjected to positive selection of mutants resistant to toxic concentrations of oxythiamine, trehalose, 3-bromopyruvate, glyoxylic acid, and glucosamine. The selected mutants are characterized by 5-8% increase in ethanol yield (g g-1 of consumed glucose) as compared to the parental industrial ethanol-producing strain. A three-step selection approach that consisted of the use of glyoxylic acid, glucosamine and bromopyruvate resulted in a 12% increase in ethanol yield during fermentation on industrial media. These results indicate that the selected strains are promising candidates for industrial ethanol production.
Optimization of pre-treatment of de-oiled oil seed cake for release of reducing sugars by response surface methodology
Authors: Sharmada N , Punja Apoorva , Shetty Sonali S , Shet Vinayaka B , Goveas Louella Concepta , Rao C Vaman
Published: January 2016

Pre-treatment is a process that releases simple sugars from complex lignocellulosic biomass by using chemicals like acid and alkali which are one of the simplest and cost effective techniques. In this study, the conditions for sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide pretreatment of de-oiled oil seed cake (DOSC) were optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). The levels of factors (DOSC concentration, agitation speed, sulphuric acid (H2SO4), sodium hydroxide (NaOH) concentration and reaction time) that affect release of reducing sugars by pre-treatment were obtained by one factor at a time (OFAT) approach of which only H2SO4 concentration, NaOH concentration and reaction time showed significance. The levels of factors were optimized by central composite design. Optimized conditions were found to be 11.65% (v/v) of H2SO4 concentration at 1.28h and, 4 N of NaOH at 3.7 h for acid and alkali hydrolysis respectively. Under optimized conditions, the release of reducing sugars was found to be 0.69 g/L (41.36 mg RRS/ g cellulose) and 0.40 g/L (23.98 mg RRS/ g cellulose) for acid hydrolysis and alkali hydrolysis of DOSC, respectively. Hence, RSM was found to be an efficient technique to optimize the hydrolysis process and ensure maximum release of reducing sugars.
Repetitive harvesting of Macrocystis pyrifera (Phaeophyceae) and its effects on chemical constituents of economic value
Authors: Borras-Chavez Renato , Edwards Matthew S. , Arvizu-Higuera Dora Luz , Rodríguez-Montesinos Yoloxochitl Elizabeth , Hernández-Carmona Gustavo , Briceño-Domínguez Diego
Published: January 2016

Kelp harvesting has increased globally in recent decades and is expected to continue rising as the demand for kelp-derived products for use in aquaculture and industrial applications increases. In response, numerous studies have examined how harvesting impacts kelp populations and their associated communities, but the effects of repeated harvesting of the same individuals on the chemical properties for which they are extracted remain poorly understood. This knowledge gap may be especially crucial in areas where the same kelps are necessarily harvested multiple times per year due to their overall low abundance. To address this, we examined how repetitive harvesting of the same individuals of giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera, over a 3-month period influences tissue chemical properties (i.e. alginate yield, viscosity and strength, nutritional quality, such as protein, carbohydrate, lipid, crude fiber, ash and energy content, and tissue carbon/nitrogen ratios). Our results indicate that, while these properties vary over time, presumably due to variability in oceanographic conditions, repetitive harvesting of the same individuals does not significantly impact these properties.
Lignin reinforcement of urea-crosslinked starch films for reduction of starch biodegradability to improve slow nitrogen release properties under natural aerobic soil condition
Authors: Majeed Zahid , Mansor Nurlidia , Man Zakaria , Wahid Samsuri Abd
Published: January 2016

The urea-crosslinked starch (UcS) film has a major drawback of very rapid biodegradability when applied as slow release fertilizer in soil. Lignin reinforcement of the UcS was used to prepare composite films, aimed to reduce the starch biodegradability and slow the release of nitrogen in aerobic soil condition. Study results revealed that mineralization of the composite films was delayed from 6.40 to 13.58% more than UcS film. Inhibition of composite films mixing with soil, the Michaelis-Menten reaction rates for α-amylase were inhibited ~1.72–2.03 times whereas the Michaelis-Menten reaction rates for manganese peroxidase were increased ~1.07–1.41 times compared to UcS film. Saccharides–glucose, maltose and maltotriose demonstrated that their rates of formation (zero-order reaction) and depletion (first-order reaction); both were slowed more in aerobic soil which received the composite films. Increasing of lignin in composite films, the acid to aldehyde ratios of vanillyl and syringyl phenols of the lignin declined from 1.18 to 1.17 (~0.76%) and 1.59–1.56 (~1.78%), respectively. The diffusivity of nitrogen was effectively slowed 0.66–0.94 times by the lignin in composite films and showed a “Fickian diffusion” mechanism (release exponent n=0.095–0.143).
Sulfated metal oxides: eco-friendly green catalysts for esterification of nonanoic acid with methanol
Authors: Kaur Kamalpreet , Jain Pranjal , Sobti Amit , Toor Amrit Pal
Published: January 2016

Considering the need of applicability of green chemistry in research, a series of heterogeneous catalysts, viz., sulfated iron oxide, zirconia supported tungstophosphoric acid and sulfated zirconia have been synthesized by a solvent-free method. The prepared catalysts were used in the esterification of nonanoic acid with methanol and were compared with ion exchange resins for the assessment of their catalytic performance. Sulfated iron oxide was found to be best with an acid conversion of 83%, which is quite comparable with Amberlyst 15 and Dowex50Wx2. The high catalyst loading, cost, low thermal stability, and long reaction time make ion exchange resins uneconomical to use over other alternatives that result in same efficiency with low cost. Sulfated iron oxide was further optimized for its preparation conditions for high catalytic performance in the esterification reaction. The catalysts were characterized for their crystallinity, surface morphology, composition, weight loss, and structure by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The evaluated catalysts were compared on the basis of their preparation time, catalytic performance, catalyst loading, reaction time, and overall cost.
Modeling Superionic Behavior of Plutonium Dioxide
Authors: Günay S.D. , Akgenç B. , Taşseven Ç.
Published: January 2016

The Bredig transition to the superionic phase indicated with the $$\lambda $$-peak in $${C_p}$$ was highly expected for plutonium dioxide ($${\rm{Pu}}{{\rm{O}}_2}$$) as other actinide dioxides. However, least-square fit and local smoothing techniques applied to the experimental enthalpy data of PuO2 in 1980s could not detect a $$\lambda $$-peak in specific heat that might be due to too scattered and insufficient experimental data. Therefore, this issue has not been yet put beyond the doubts. In the current article, a superionic model of $${\rm{Pu}}{{\rm{O}}_2}$$ is developed with partially ionic model of a rigid ion potential. Thermophysical properties were calculated in constant pressure–temperature ensemble using molecular dynamics simulation. The Bredig transition with vicinity of a $$\lambda $$-peak in specific heat was successfully observed for the model system at about 2,100 K. Moreover, the experimental enthalpy change was well reproduced before and after the estimated transition temperature.
Simple Thermal Decompose Method for Synthesis of Nickel Disulfide Nanostructures
Authors: Seyghalkar Hamideh , Sabet Mohammad , Salavati-Niasari Masoud
Published: January 2016

In this work, a simple thermal decompose method was served to synthesize NiS2nanostructures via a nickel complex. Also polyethylene glycol (PEG) was used as surfactant to increase the steric effect around nanostructure surfaces and decrease the particles size. The product was characterized with different analysis methods. The crystal structure of the product was studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern. The particle size and morphology were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). To study the nanostructures surface purity, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) was used. And finally to study the optical properties of the product photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy was served.
Risk and protective factors for adolescent substance use: a comparative study of secondary school students in rural and urban areas of Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogunsola Olabanjo O. , Fatusi Adesegun O.
Published: January 2016

Background: Substance use is a leading adolescent health problem globally, but little is known regarding associated factors for adolescent substance use in Nigeria. This study compared the prevalence of substance use among in-school adolescents in urban and rural areas of Osun State, Nigeria, and identified risk and protective factors.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 600 randomly selected adolescents (aged 10–19 years) from rural and urban areas of Osun State, Nigeria. Data were collected using the facilitated self-completed questionnaire method. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the association of individual, peer, and parental factors with adolescent substance use. Adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were obtained.

Results: About two-thirds of respondents had used substances in both rural (65.7%) and urban areas (66.0%) (p=0.93). Logistic analysis showed private school attendance as a risk factor for substance use (OR=2.32, 95% CI=1.20–4.46) and adolescent disapproval of adult substance use as a protective factor (OR=0.47, 95% CI=0.27–0.82) in rural areas. For urban areas, having friends who use substances (OR=4.04, 95% CI=1.39–11.6) and a mother having had tertiary education (OR=3.34, 95% CI=1.06–10.4) were risk factors while parental disapproval of substance use (OR=0.50, 95% CI=0.28–0.90) was a protective factor.

Conclusion: Lifetime prevalence of substances is high among in-school adolescents in Osun State. The risk and protective factors for adolescent substance use somewhat differ for rural and urban areas, and these have implications for designing effective intervention strategies.
Economic Impact of Wind Energy Development in Illinois
Authors: Loomis David G. , Hayden Jared , Noll Sarah , Payne James E.
Published: January 2016

A number of factors have contributed to the rapid growth of wind power capacity in Illinois from 50 MW in 2003 to 3,334.91 MW in 2012, including: federal and state policies, energy security, energy costs, environmental benefits, economic development opportunities, and state-specific factors. One key policy driver in Illinois was the passage of the Illinois Power Agency Act in 2007, which included a renewable portfolio standard of 25 % by 2025, 75 % of the renewable energy resources employed to meet the renewable portfolio standard were designated to wind energy. This study analyzes the economic impacts from the 23 wind projects in Illinois that exceed 50 MW of capacity. These wind projects account for 3,334.91 MW or 99 % of the state’s wind energy generating capacity. Using the JEDI input-output model, the 23 largest wind farms in Illinois created approximately 19,047 full-time equivalent jobs during construction periods with a total payroll of over $1.1 billion. In addition, approximately 814 permanent jobs in rural Illinois areas with a total annual payroll of nearly $48 million are supported. Furthermore, wind farms generated roughly $28.5 million in annual property taxes for local economies as well as $13 million annually in extra income for Illinois landowners who lease their land to wind farm developers. The lifetime total economic benefit of the 23 wind farm projects is estimated at $5.98 billion.
On the Chabauty continuity of certain functions
Authors: Hamrouni Hatem , Omri Abdellatif
Published: January 2016

Let G be a locally compact group. We denote by

𝒮
⁢

𝒰

⁢
ℬ
⁢

(
G
)

${{\mathcal{S\kern-1.422638ptU\hskip-0.9ptB}}(G)}$

the hyperspace of closed subgroups of G endowed with the Chabauty topology.
In this article we study the continuity of the following map:

λ
G

:

𝒮
⁢

𝒰

⁢
ℬ
⁢

(
G
)

×
𝒮

⁢

𝒰

⁢
ℬ
⁢

(
G
)

→

𝒮
⁢

𝒰

⁢
ℬ
⁢

(
G
)

,

(
K
,
L
)

↦

K
∩
L

.

$\lambda_{G}:{\mathcal{S\kern-1.422638ptU\hskip-0.9ptB}}(G)\times{\mathcal{S%
\kern-1.422638ptU\hskip-0.9ptB}}(G)\to{\mathcal{S\kern-1.422638ptU\hskip-0.9%
ptB}}(G),\quad(K,L)\mapsto K\cap L.$

A correction and improvement of a theorem of I. V. Protasov and Y. V. Tsybenko is given.
Familial Turner syndrome: the importance of information
Authors: Periquito Isabel , Carrusca Catarina , Morgado Joana , Robalo Brígida , Pereira Carla , de Lurdes Sampaio Maria
Published: January 2016

Turner syndrome is a common genetic disorder with an incidence of 1 in 2500 live births. Spontaneous fertility is rare in such patients and is most likely in women with mosaicism or very distal Xp deletions. The authors report an unusual case of familial Turner syndrome in a woman with mosaicism 45,X/46,Xdel(Xp) karyotype with three documented spontaneous pregnancies, which resulted in two daughters with 46,Xdel(X)(p11.4)mat karyotype and a healthy son. The mother was first diagnosed by the age of 11 and did not receive contraceptive medication, due to information that she would be infertile. Both daughters were referred to an endocrinology unit and are now under growth hormone treatment, and have been growing in the 3rd percentile. This family illustrates the complexity and difficulties in counseling, follow-up and treatment in Turner syndrome, namely referring to a tertiary center, fertility and treatment such as growth hormone and hormonal replacement, due to the heterogeneity of the clinical spectrum.
A 33-year-old male patient with paternal derived duplication of 14q11.2–14q22.1~22.3: clinical course, phenotypic and genotypic findings
Authors: Wannenmacher Bardo , Mitter Diana , Kießling Franziska , Liehr Thomas , Weise Anja , Siekmeyer Manuela , Kiess Wieland
Published: January 2016

We report on a 33-year-old patient with mosaic interstitial duplication on chromosome 14q11.2–14q22.1~22.3 with severe physical and mental retardation and multiple dysmorphisms. This patient was admitted to our pediatric hospital due to severe dehydration and malnutrition as a result of food refusal. It is an actual phenomenon that patients with severe inborn clinical problems nowadays survive due to progress and care of modern medicine. Nevertheless, transition from pediatric care to adult medicine seems to remain a challenging problem. We demonstrate the clinical course as well as clinical and genetic findings of this adult patient. Comparisons are made to previously reported cases with mosaic trisomy 14 involving a proximal interstitial duplication on the long arm of chromosome 14.
The Language of the Achaemenid Imperial Diplomacy towards the Greeks: The Meaning of Earth and Water
Authors: Rung Eduard
Published: January 2016

The problem of the meaning of earth and water in the context of the language of Achaemenid imperial diplomacy towards the Greeks is considered in this paper. It is concluded that the Persian demand for subjugation was a verbal expression of Persian diplomacy while earth and water themselves as material things that could have different symbolic meanings for different peoples was its non-verbal expression. The Greeks might have perceived the giving of earth and water simply as an acknowledgement of the Persians’ superiority by both land and sea. It is argued in this paper that the Persian official conception of earth and water would have been dependent on imperial ideology seeing the earth as meaning a land / territory and the water as symbolizing seas or / and rivers as limit of this territory.
Crystal structure of catena-poly-(diaqua-(μ
2-1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethene-κ2
N:N′)-(4-methylphthalato-κ2
O,O′)-cobalt(II)trihydrate, C21H26CoN2O9
Authors: Xing-Hong Chang
Published: January 2016

C21H26CoN2O9, orthorhombic, Pca21 (no. 29), a = 16.387(4) Å, b = 12.389(3) Å, c = 11.167(3) Å, V = 2267.1(10) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0444, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.0839, T = 296 K.
Crystal structure of 5-(adamantan-1-yl)-3-[(4-chloroanilino)methyl]-2,3-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thione, C19H22ClN3OS
Authors: Al-Alshaikh Monirah A. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Al-Tamimi Abdul-Malek S. , Abdelbaky Mohammed S.M. , Garcia-Granda Santiago , El-Emam Ali A.
Published: January 2016

C19H22ClN3OS, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 7.0418(2) Å, b = 10.8802(3) Å, c = 23.5506(6) Å, V = 1804.36(8) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0413, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1110, T = 100 K.
Completely green synthesis of silver nanoparticle decorated MWCNT and its antibacterial and catalytic properties
Authors: Mohan Sneha , Oluwafemi Oluwatobi S. , Songca Sandile P. , Rouxel Didier , Miska Patrice , Lewu Francis B. , Kalarikkal Nandakumar , Thomas Sabu
Published: January 2016

We herein report a simple large scale green synthesis route for the synthesis of silver nanoparticle (Ag-NP) multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) hybrid nanocomposite (Ag-MWCNTs). The as-synthesized hybrid nanocomposite were characterized using UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). Raman spectroscopy analysis showed an increase in the D/G ratio of Ag-MWCNTs hybrid nanocomposites when compare with that of functionalized MWCNTs (F-MWCNTs) attributed to the presence of Ag-NPs on the surface of the F-MWCNTs. The as-synthesized Ag-MWCNTs nanocomposites showed strong antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli compared to the Ag-NPs and MWCNTs. The catalytic potential of the Ag-MWCNTs hybrid nanocomposite was investigated for the first time by studying the reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol in the presence of sodium borohydride at 299 K at various reaction times. The reaction follows first order kinetics with a rate constant of 5.18×10−1 s−1. It is believed that, the large scale synthesis of such hybrid nanocomposites via simple method using non-toxic reagent will not only enhance its antibacterial efficacy, durability and biocompatibility, it will also minimize its biotoxcity and environmental impacts.
Green synthetic approach for starch capped silver nanoparticles and their antibacterial activity
Authors: Sibiya Precious Nokwethemba , Xaba Thokozani , Moloto Makwena Justice
Published: January 2016

In this work silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been prepared from silver nitrate (AgNO3) precursor using a green synthesis method at room temperature. Starch with its abundance of hydroxyl groups and its biocompatibility was used as a capping and reducing agent. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by absorption spectroscopy with the surface plasmon resonance peak at 400 nm. The sharp reflection at (111), (200), (220) and (311) was observed by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), which indicated the presence of cubic phase AgNPs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the average size of AgNPs were between 0.5 and 4 nm with a spherical shape under optimum conditions. The nanoparticles showed a decrease in size with an increase in precursor concentration as well as the increase in capping agent concentration. The nanoparticles also showed to be bactericidal towards the tested Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria.
Protection of multimaterial assemblies
Authors: Mikhail L. Zheludkevich , Silvar Kallip , Maria Serdechnova
Published: January 2016

The light-weight design calls for broader utilization of multimaterial mixes (M3) in different engineering structures, especially in the transportation area. Together with joining technologies for hybrid structures, the optimization of the life cycle of such systems is an issue of prime importance. Multimaterial structures are often prone to faster degradation under service conditions because of galvanically forced electrochemical corrosion. The protection technologies traditionally used for single-material structures are not always applicable for multimaterial design because of compatibility issues and a stronger thermodynamic driving force for degradation. In this chapter different strategies for protection of multimaterials structures are briefly overviewed. The main focus is on new alternative protection systems based on combination of synergistic inhibiting mixtures introduced into protective coatings. A road map which can be followed in order to create an efficient active protection coating for hybrid structures is suggested.
A sociosemiotic approach to the legal dispute over the crime of whoring with an underage girl in China
Authors: Meng Xingcan , Wen Bing
Published: January 2016

Focusing on the legal dispute over the crime of whoring with an underage girl, the present study explores why many Chinese appeal to abolish the legal statute on the crime of whoring with an underage girl from a sociosemiotic perspective. The authors argue that the legislation of this legal statute neglects that the Chinese social system, including social customs and conventions, could also influence Chinese social semiotic systems. This legal dispute originates from the lack of an overview of the Chinese social, legal, and semiotic systems. By situating the dispute in the Chinese historical and cultural settings, the authors reveal why it is unreasonable to promulgate this legal statute. By situating the dispute in the Chinese and world legal settings, the authors further reveal the causal factors of this dispute: (1) labeling underage schoolgirls as prostitutes; (2) classifying statutory rape as crimes in prostitution; (3) the potential legal contradiction between the crime of rape and the crime of whoring with underage girl; (4) aiming to punish the perpetrator more severely and safeguard the underage girl more effectively, but giving rise to more similar crimes and doing more psychological harm to the underage girl by using language violence in reality. Therefore, the authors suggest that it be necessary to amend or modify, and to systematize some relevant legal provisions on sex offences against minors timely according to the social, linguistic, and legal realities.
Stem Cells: New Hope For Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Gazdic Marina , Volarevic Vladislav , Stojkovic Miodrag
Published: January 2016

Stem cell therapy offers several attractive strategies for spinal cord repair. The regenerative potential of pluripotent stem cells was confirmed in an animal model of Spinal Cord Injury (SCI); nevertheless, optimized growth and differentiation protocols along with reliable safety assays should be established prior to the clinical application of hESCs and iPSCs. Th e therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in SCI result from neurotrophin secretion, angiogenesis, and antiinflammatory actions. Several preclinical SCI studies have reported that the occurrence of axonal extension, remyelination and neuroprotection occur after the transplantation of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs). The transplantation of neural stem cells NSCs (NSCs) promotes partial functional improvement after SCI because of their potential to differentiate into neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes. The ideal source of stem cells for safe and efficient cell-based therapy for SCI remains a challenging issue that requires further investigation.
Periodontal Disease And Risk For Pre-Term Birth: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Andonova Irena , Iliev Vasil , Živković Nikica
Published: January 2016

Maternal periodontal infection has been recognizsed as a risk factor for preterm and low birth weight infants. It is hypothesized that pathogens causing periodontal disease might translocate to the amniotic cavity and contribute to triggering an adverse pregnancy outcome. The growing evidence that an infection remote from the foetal-placental unit might have a role in preterm delivery has led to an increased awareness of the potential role of chronic bacterial infections in the body. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the presence of chronic periodontitis might influence the incidence of preterm labour and preterm birth.

This study was designed as a hospital-based case-control study. Seventy pregnant women aged 18-40 years, with a single live pregnancy were recruited from the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of a general hospital in Sibenik, Croatia, from March 2013 to March 2014.

The case group included: 30 pregnant women who were hospitalized with signs of preterm labour. The control group included 40 normal pregnancy patients, who were analysed for up to 48 h after the delivery of a term baby having a birth weight of more than 1500 g. A full-mouth periodontal examination was performed on all the patients. Information was collected on the demographics, health behaviours, and obstetric and systemic diseases that might have an influence in preterm delivery.

The presence of chronic periodontitis tended to be higher in women with a preterm delivery (the case group), with 20 cases (66%), than in the women in the, control group, in which chronic periodontitis was found in 14 cases (35%); this difference reached statistical significance (p≤0.01). The PTB cases had a significantly worse periodontal status than the controls (p≤0.001). From the PTL group, 18 patients delivered preterm, and chronic periodontitis, found in 15 cases (83%), was more prevalent than in the control group. The risk of women having periodontitis or attachment loss ≥ 4 mm developing PTB showed an OR of 3.7 (95% CI: 1.91 to 4.86; P< 0.001).

The study shows a significant association between periodontal chronic disease and an adverse pregnancy outcome. Periodontal disease represents a strong, independent risk factor for preterm births, and periodontal prevention and therapy should be a part of preventive prenatal care.
Comparison Of Medial Arch-Supporting Insoles And Heel Pads In The Treatment Of Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Malkoc Melih , Korkmaz Ozgur , Kara Adnan , Oltulu Ismail , Say Ferhat
Published: January 2016

Plantar fasciitis is a disorder caused by inflammation of the insertion point of the plantar fascia over the medial tubercle of the calcaneus. Foot orthotics are used to treat plantar fasciitis. Heel pads medialise the centre of force, whereas medial arch supporting insoles lateralise the force. We assessed the clinical results of the treatment of plantar fasciitis with silicone heel pads and medial arch-supported silicone insoles.

We retrospectively reviewed 75 patients with heel pain. A total of 35 patients in the first group were treated with medial arch supporting insoles, and 40 patients in the second group were treated with heel pads. The patients were evaluated with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) at the first and last examinations.

The mean VAS score in the first group was 8.6±1,2 (6-10); the FAAM daily activity score was 66.2±16 (41.2-95.0), and the sporting activity score was 45.4±24,4 (0.1-81) before treatment. At the last follow-up in this group, the mean VAS score was 5.3±1,5 (0-9); the FAAM daily activity score was 83,0±15,1 (55,9-100), and the sporting activity score was 73,5±26,2 (25-100). The mean VAS score in the second group was 8,6±0,9 (7-10); the FAAM daily activity score was 66.4±17 (41.4-95.2), and the sporting activity score was 45.8±24,2 (0.8-81, 3) before the treatment. At the last follow-up in this group, the mean VAS score was 5.5±1,2 (0-9); the FAAM daily activity score was 83.4±14,9 (60, 2-100), and the sporting activity score was 73.8±26 (28-100).

There was no significant difference in the clinical results of both groups. The force distribution by the use of silicone heel pads and medial arch-supported silicone insoles had no effect on the clinical results of the treatment of plantar fasciitis.
Macroeconomic Policy Impact On Oncology-Related Public Expenditure In An Emerging European Market – Signs Of Early Recovery
Authors: Dagovic Aleksandar , Zugic Ana , Jakovljevic Mihajlo B
Published: January 2016

Healthcare financing in Serbia has faced many challenges over the past few decades. One of the most severe challenges is a global macroeconomic recession whose far-reaching consequences deserve particular attention from policymakers in cases of the most demanding major prosperity diseases, such as cancer. The objective of the study was to assess the precise cost matrix of oncology medical care and its chronological evolution during the key years of the macroeconomic recessionary period during 2010-2013.

A retrospective database of hospital discharge invoices was analysed, encompassing 37, 978 hospital admissions and 12, 505 patients during a four-year period. Insight into microeconomic patterns of consumption across groups of medical services was provided. A payer's perspective and one-year time horizon have been adopted.

Total hospital direct medical costs of cancer diagnostics and treatment in the observed tertiary care facility decreased from €7, 411, 446 in 2010 to €5, 715, 884 in 2012 and then increased to an extraordinary €8, 536, 364 in 2013. The costs of oncology nursing care, imaging diagnostics and radiotherapy have increased considerably while those of pharmaceuticals and surgery have decreased radically - completely transforming the resource allocation landscape of public cancer care.

The financial burden of cancer in Serbia is considerable and, unfortunately, expected to increase further in the coming years. Worldwide economic recession and consecutive domestic policy constraints of reimbursement limitations have heavily affected the affordability of cancer treatment for ordinary citizens. Promising signs of market recovery are clearly visible in 2013, which will likely improve both access and equity of medical care in Serbian oncology clinics.
Isolated Carpal Dislocation Of The Trapezium
Authors: Kilinc Bekir Eray , Kara Adnan , Sonmez Mehmet Mesut , Oc Yunus , Camur Savas
Published: January 2016

Trapezium fractures and dislocations of the trapezium are both extremely rare injuries whether they occured with or without fractures of the surrounding bones. Specific radiological images can be difficult to help for the diagnosis. CT scan may be necessary for the diagnosis and adequate treatment. We are presenting an unusual case of volar and radial isolated trapezium dislocation concomitant second metacarpal basis fracture in which is treated by using open reduction and Kirschner wire fixation. In our case, isolated dislocation of trapezium was a result of violent and direct trauma. Different techniques have been proposed to achieve a stable fixation and the treatment outcomes. In our case, open reduction, Kirschner wire fixation and intercarpal ligament repair through dorsal approach are recommended for satisfactory outcomes in similiar cases.
Secondary Haemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis – The Differential Diagnosis Dilemma In Paediatrics
Authors: Medovic Rasa , Vuletic Biljana , Raskovic Zorica , Simovic Aleksandra , Nestorovic–Tanaskovic Jelena , Igrutinovic Zoran
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACT

Secondary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (SHFLH) is a rare, potentially fatal disorder, most commonly caused by the Epstein–Barr virus. It is characterized by neoplastic proliferation of cells that belong to the monocyte–macrophage system and by varied clinical expression.

A girl aged 3 years and 7 months was hospitalized due to continuing high febricity, yellow skin colouring, hepatosplenomegaly and cytopenia in a complete blood count (CBC). Four weeks before hospitalization, she had a lacunar angina and lymphadenopathy.

A low number of erythrocytes, leukocytes and thrombocytes were noted in CBC, with anaemia and the presence of virocytes in a peripheral blood smear. Biochemical blood analyses indicated hyperbilirubinaemia, increased values of transaminases, lactic dehydrogenase, ferritin, triglycerides, D-dimer, acceleration of the activated partial thromboplastin time and decreased values of fibrinogen, with increased values of C-reactive protein and procalcitonin. Using an ultrasound examination of the abdomen, hepatosplenomegaly was perceived; using echocardiographic examination, pericardium layering was noticed; and using a roentgen graphic picture of the lungs, the presence of pleural effusion was detected. In a bone marrow biopsy, the percentage of blasts did not exceed 25%, and rare chemophagocytes were noticed. Using serologic tests, positivity to Epstein-Barr virus in IgM class was demonstrated.

According to the criteria by Histiocyte Society, there were sufficient criteria to establish a diagnosis of SHFLH. With the exception of symptomatic therapies, according to the protocol for SHFLH treatment, a double antibiotic therapy and IV immunoglobulins were given, to which the patient responded with a clinical and laboratory recovery. Therefore, there was no demand for a treatment protocol with cytostatics or bone marrow transplantation.

To resolve a differential diagnosis dilemma in solving cases of uncertain febrile neutropenia.
Influence Of The Number Of Platelets And Hemoglobin Concentrations In Predicting The Development Of Proteinuria Induced By The Administration Of Bevacizumab
Authors: Dabanovic Vera
Published: January 2016

Bevacizumab neutralizes a key stimulation factor in tumour angiogenesis - vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The origin of VEGF is related to platelets, and the basic stimulus for its production is hypoxia. By neutralizing VEGF, changes occur in the blood that are manifested at the platelet and haemoglobin levels. Study results indicate that proteinuria is a side effect of bevacizumab treatment. The aim of the present study was to examine the percentages of proteinuria in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer after the administration of bevacizumab. The correlation between the degree of proteinuria and changes in the number of platelets and concentration of haemoglobin in patients, as well as in relation to the age (< 60 i ≥ 60) and gender of the patients, was examined.

The study group of respondents included 20 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (9 men and 11 women) ranging in age from 43 to 73 years. Proteinuria was tested using “Laboquick” test strips. The levels of platelets and haemoglobin were measured using an autoanalyser, the type Cell Dyn 3700 – Abbott, according to the protocol prescribed by The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC).

Statistically significant differences were recorded for the platelet measurements before and after therapy in the overall group of respondents (p= 0.025). Statistically significant decreases in platelet counts and increases in haemoglobin concentrations were also noted in women (Plt: p=0.0036; Hb: p=0.0286) and in patients < 60 years old (Plt: p=0.0270; Hb: p=0.0553). No significant differences were identified in men or in patients ≥ 60 years of age. Proteinuria was detected in one case in which demonstrating an increase in only the recorded number of platelets and a decrease in the level of haemoglobin.

Platelets and haemoglobin may serve as prognostic biomarkers of the risk of proteinuria. Based on the initial values of these parameters, we can predict the target group, in terms of gender and age, that may obtain the most benefit from bevacizumab therapy.
Vitamin C In Neuropsychiatry
Authors: Pavlović Dragan M. , Markišić Merdin Š. , Pavlović Aleksandra M.
Published: January 2016

Vitamins are necessary factors in human development and normal brain function. Vitamin C is a hydrosoluble compound that humans cannot produce; therefore, we are completely dependent on food intake for vitamin C. Ascorbic acid is an important antioxidative agent and is present in high concentrations in neurons and is also crucial for collagen synthesis throughout the body. Ascorbic acid has a role in modulating many essential neurotransmitters, enables neurogenesis in adult brain and protects cells against infection. While SVCT1 enables the absorption of vitamin C in the intestine, SVCT2 is primarily located in the brain.

Ascorbate deficiency is classically expressed as scurvy, which is lethal if not treated. However, subclinical deficiencies are probably much more frequent. Potential fields of vitamin C therapy are in neurodegenerative, cerebrovascular and affective diseases, cancer, brain trauma and others. For example, there is some data on its positive effects in Alzheimer’s disease. Various dosing regimes are used, but ascorbate is safe, even in high doses for protracted periods. Better designed studies are needed to elucidate all of the potential therapeutic roles of vitamin C.
Effects Of The Direct Renin Inhibitor Aliskiren On Oxidative Stress In Isolated Rat Heart
Authors: Plecevic Sasa , Pechanova Olga , Barta Andrej , Vranic Aleksandra , Jeremic Jovana , Arsenijevic Ljiljana , Jeremic Nevena , Jakovljevic Vladimir , Jevdjevic Maja , Stanojevic Dejan
Published: January 2016

Increased activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a significant role in the development and progression of various cardio-metabolic diseases, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis and heart failure. Aliskiren is the newest antihypertensive drug and the first orally active direct renin inhibitor to become available for clinical use. This study investigated the acute and direct effects of Aliskiren on different parameters of oxidative stress on isolated rat heart. The hearts of male Wistar albino rats (n = 24, 8 per experimental group, age 8 weeks, body mass 180–200 g), were excised and retrogradely perfused according to the Langendorfftechnique at a gradually increasing perfusion pressure (40-120 cmH2O). Markers of oxidative stress (NO2
−, TBARS, H2O2 and O2
−) were measured spectrophotometrically after perfusion with three different concentrations of Aliskiren (0.1 μM, 1 μM, and 10 μM). The results demonstrated possible dose-dependent cardioprotective properties of Aliskiren, particularly with higher CPP. Lipid peroxidation (TBARS) levels decreased with the highest dose of Aliskiren and higher CPP, and the same trend was observed in nitrite (NO2
−) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels. These findings indicate that the acute effects of Aliskiren do not likely promote the production of reactive oxygen species upon higher pressure with the highest dose. Aliskiren may exert beneficial effects on oxidative stress biomarkers.
Plasma Homocysteine Concentrations In Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Vasiljevic Dragan , Tomic-Lucic Aleksandra , Zivanovic Sandra , Milosavljevic Mirjana , Radovanovic Snezana , Andjelkovic Nebojsa , Djuric Dragan , Veselinovic Mirjana
Published: January 2016

In this study, we investigated the concentration of serum homocysteine (Hcy) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared with the control group and the connection between homocysteine and parameters of inflammation and disease activity. Sixty RA patients and 20 healthy controls were included in the study, and clinical examination and investigation were performed during which disease activity was assessed. Peripheral blood samples were used for all of the assays. Levels of Hcy were 33% higher in the RA patients than in the control subjects (mean +/− SD 11.79±3.72 μmol/L versus 8.90±1.38 μmol/L; p< 0.01). A significant correlation was found between parameters of inflammation (C-reactive protein) and homocysteine in patients (r=0.322, p=0.012). Patients with high disease activity had a significantly greater increase in homocysteine (p<0.05). An increase in plasma homocysteine in RA patients is related to the parameters of inflammation and disease activity. Elevated Hcy levels occur commonly in patients with RA and may explain some of the increased cardiovascular mortality seen in RA patients.
Anthropometric Characteristics, Nutritional Status And Dietary Habits In A College Population
Authors: Miljanovic Gora , Mutavdzic Beba , Marjanovic Milan , Zivaljevic Zvonko , Janosevic Miljojko , Masic Sinisa , Pelva Denis
Published: January 2016

The college student population is prone to irregular food intake and the excessive intake of carbohydrates and snacks. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationships among anthropometric characteristics, dietary habits and nutritional knowledge in female students attending a healthcare college.

Our investigation enrolled 100 college students at the High Health School of Professional Studies in Belgrade, 19-30 years old, who underwent anthropometric measurements and an investigation by questionnaire of their nutritional knowledge as well as recorded a 7-day food diary. The results were interpreted in relation to their location of nutritional intake.

The majority of students showed good nutritional knowledge. Of the total population, 83% were of normal weight, 11% were overweight, and 5% were underweight. The average Body Mass Index values, as well as body fat percentage, were similar regardless of the type of eating location, but all overweight and obese students were recorded in the groups that ate in the student dining facility and that prepared food and ate by themselves. Students who ate with their families ate significantly fewer fats and proteins but significantly more carbohydrates compared to students in the other two groups. Higher fat intake and snack consumption are significantly related to an increased percentage of body fat. Fruit intake is inversely related to body fat percentage.

Despite the relatively low prevalence of overweight, obesity, and underweight in the investigated population, the given results indicate that students may benefit from health promotion activities, increased knowledge and improved eating habits. This is especially important considering that they are future health professionals.
Acute Urinary Tract Obstruction
Authors: Aleksic Djordje
Published: January 2016

The kidneys are paired organs with the primary function of helping to remove toxins from the body and regulate water balance. They are vital to survival. After urine is produced in the kidneys, it must pass into the bladder, where it can be stored before being eliminated from the body through the urethra. Urinary tract obstruction is a common problem encountered by urologists, primary care physicians, and emergency medicine physicians. Urine can become obstructed at any point in this pathway. There are three groups of urinary tract obstructions: 1) obstruction of the urinary tract lumen; 2) obstruction of the urinary tract wall; and 3) extrinsic obstruction, which can press on the urinary tract lumen. An obstruction can be present from birth or develop later in life. The most common causes of obstruction include stones, strictures, tumours, and bladder dysfunction. These obstructions may result in the hydronephrosis of one or both kidneys, which, if left untreated, may lead to the deterioration of renal function. The goal of an initial treatment of urinary tract obstruction is to remove the obstruction. Later, we treat the cause that led to the obstruction. The bottom line is that all efforts should be made to preserve kidney function to avoid the need for dialysis or renal transplantation.
Immunohistomorphometric Characteristics Of Pituitary GH Cells In Infant And Peripubertal Female Rats After Treatment With Estradiol Or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Authors: Ristic Natasa , Ajdzanovic Vladimir , Trifunovic Svetlana , Tanic Nasta , Bujisic Nada , Milosevic Verica
Published: January 2016

The effects of estradiol-dipropionate (EDP) or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on immunohistomorphometric characteristics of pituitary GH cells in infant and peripubertal female rats were investigated. The first group of females received five injections of EDP (0.25 mg/kg b.w.) during the neonatal period of life, and was further divided into two subgroups which were sacrificed at the infantile period (17th day) or at the peripubertal period (38th day). The second group received two doses of hCG (50 IU/kg b.w.) on the 15th and 16th day of life in the first subgroup, and on the 36th and 37th days of life in the second subgroup, while they were sacrificed 24 h after the last treatment, respectively. The control females were injected with an equivalent volume of the vehicle and sacrificed according to the appropriate schedules as the hormone treated rats. EDP treatment decreased GH cell volume density in infant and peripubertal females, by 38% and 76% (p<0.05) respectively, in comparison with the controls. The number of GH cells per mm2 in infantile and peripubertal period was decreased in EDP treated animals by 26% and 53% (p<0.05) respectively, compared to the controls. Also, upon EDP treatment in both periods, GH cells were diminished in size and less intensely immunolabelled than in the control groups. The morphometric parameters in animals treated with hCG were insignificantly changed in both analyzed periods, in comparison with the controls. Unlike hCG, EDP manifested clear inhibitory effects on the immunohistomorphometric characteristics of GH cells in examined female rats.
Mobilität und Standortwahl höherqualifizierter Existenzgründer in Deutschland und den Niederlanden
Authors: Janssen Manfred
Published: January 2016

The rise of new enterprises is associated with job growth and regional economic change. Due to a lack of adequate theories, however, little is known about the job location of graduate- entrepreneurs. Primary data from surveys in Germany and the Netherlands show a strong correspondence between the brain drain of employees and entrepreneurs. Logit-models are applied to explain the locational distribution of entrepreneurs by using labour market mobility approaches for employees.