bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new ecologically friendly process for the synthesis of selective flotation reagents
Authors: Milosavljevic Milutin , Marinkovic Aleksandar , Petrovic Slobodan , Sovrlic Milica
Published: January 2010

A new ecologically friendly synthesis of N-alkyl-O-ethylthioncarbamates from ethyl dixanthogenates, waste material from the xanthate production plant, and monoalkylamines has been performed in this work. Structure determination of the synthesized compounds and also corresponding intermediates has been performed by IR, 1H-NMR and MS spectrometric methods. Residual dixanthogenates and thioncarbamates in waste water have been done by the gas chromatographic method and corresponding standard curve. It was confirmed that the reaction product was not present in water, while the concentration of dixanthogenates has been determined to be under the maximum contamination limit.
Synthesis of high-purity carbon nanotubes over alumina and silica supported bimetallic catalysts
Authors: Ratkovic Sanja , Kiss Erne , Boskovic Goran
Published: January 2010

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were synthesized by a catalytic chemical vapor deposition method (CCVD) of ethylene over alumina and silica supported bimetallic catalysts based on Fe, Co and Ni. The catalysts were prepared by a precipitation method, calcined at 600 ?C and in situ reduced in hydrogen flow at 700?C. The CNTs growth was carried out by a flow the mixture of C2H4 and nitrogen over the catalyst powder in a horizontal oven. The structure and morphology of as-synthesized CNTs were characterized using SEM. The as-synthesized nanotubes were purified by acid and basic treatments in order to remove impurities such as amorphous carbon, graphite nanoparticles and metal catalysts. XRD and DTA/TG analyses showed that the amounts of by-products in the purified CNTs samples were reduced significantly. According to the observed results, ethylene is an active carbon source for growing high-density CNTs with high yield but more on alumina-supported catalysts than on their silica-supported counterparts. The last might be explained by SMSI formed in the case of alumina-supported catalysts, resulting in higher active phase dispersion.
The analysis of different processes of extraction: yield of extracts obtained from Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) and sweet bay (Laurus nobilis L.) and the exergy analysis of applied processes
Authors: Ivanovic Jasna , Zizovic Irena , Petrovic Slobodan , Skala Dejan
Published: January 2010

The present study was aimed to investigate and compare the efficiency of different methods for the isolation extract from a plant material. Extracts from dried leaves of Aloe vera (A. barbadensis Mill.) and Sweet Bay (Laurus nobilis L.) were obtained applying the following techniques: supercritical carbon dioxide (SC CO2) extraction at 30 MPa and 100?C, a combined ultrasonic extraction and pre-treatment using SC CO2 (US-SCCO2), and a conventional ultrasonic extraction (US) with 96% ethanol. US-SCCO2 resulted in much higher yields of extracts of aloe and bay compared to SC CO2 extraction. Determined extract's yield was used for calculating the maximum useful work and exergy loss as a measure of irreversibility of the extraction process. Calculated maximum useful work per 1 kg of the extract was ranged from 0.7 to 226 kJ while estimated values of the exergy loss were from 48 to 416 kJ per 1 kg of the extract. The maximum useful work and exergy loss have the largest value for SCE much more than for other processes of extraction (US and US-SCCO2). The pre-treatment of the plant material with SC CO2 before an ultrasound-assisted extraction or the decrease of a particle size used for ultrasound-assisted extraction of Aloe vera has led to the decrease of maximum useful work and exergy loss. Unlike, pre-treatment with SC CO2 followed by ultrasound-assisted extraction increased the exergy loss when bay was used as the plant material.
The effect of gamma radiation on the ageing of sulfur cured NR/CSM and NBR/CSM rubber blends reinforced by carbon black
Authors: Markovic Gordana , Marinovic-Cincovic Milena , Jovanovic Vojislav , Samardzija-Jovanovic Suzana , Budinski-Simendic Jaroslava
Published: January 2010

In this work the effect of the ?-radiation dose on ageing of carbon black reinforced elastomeric materials was studied. The compounds based on natural rubber/chlorosulfonated rubber blend (NR/CSM) and butadiene acrylonitrile rubber/chlorosulfonated rubber blend (NBR/CSM) (50:50, w/w) with different loadings (0, 20, 40, 50, 60, 80 and 100 phr) of the filler with the average particle size of 40 nm were cured by sulfur. The obtained elastomeric composites were subjected to radiation doses (100, 200, 300 and 400 kGy) in the presence of oxygen. The changes of material mechanical properties were estimated after radiation accelerated ageing. By using Fourier transform infrared measurements (ATR-FTIR) it was assessed that after exposure to doses of 100 kGy alcohols, ethers, lactones, anhydrides, esters and carboxylic acids are formed in materials. The formation of shorter polyene sequences and aromatic rings in aged samples are assumed on the basis of the obtained spectra.
Information technology deployment in a transition economy: Results from Slovenia
Authors: Hovelja Tomaz
Published: January 2010

Information technology (IT) is increasingly establishing itself as one of the major topics of study in the OECD area. The resulting OECD studies found that IT has an enormous productive potential; however before an economy can gain most of IT's benefits, several challenges need to be successfully addressed. The key challenges these studies identified are adequate organizational transformations of the enterprises and adequate reorganization of key national institutions. How these two challenges are tackled by the economies that are going through the transition from a socialist towards a coordinated/liberal market economy is, unfortunately, not equally well documented. To improve this situation in this paper I present new findings from one transition economy concerning the issues that the developed OECD countries already highlighted as critical for the successful deployment of IT, and issues that seem specific to the transition environments. The presented findings are based on the study I conducted into 94 enterprises, representing the population of the 914 biggest added value generating enterprises in Slovenia. This article thus tries to allow Slovenia and other economies in a similar situation to draw broad and important conclusions with managerial and political implications on how to deploy all available IT potential.
Inclusion and neighborhood properties of a certain subclasses of p-valent functions with negative coefficients
Authors: El-Ashwah R.M.
Published: January 2010

By means of Ruscheweyh derivative operator, we introduced and investigated two new subclasses of p-valent analytic functions. The various results obtained here for each of these function class include coefficient bounds and distortion inequalities, associated inclusion relations for the (n, ?)-neighborhoods of subclasses of analytic and multivalent functions with negative coefficients, which are defined by means of non-homogenous differential equation.
Some fixed point theorems on ordered uniform spaces
Authors: Altun Ishak , Imdad Mohammad
Published: January 2010

In this paper, we introduce an order relation on uniform spaces and utilize this relation to prove some fixed point theorems for single and multi valued mappings in ordered uniform spaces.
Multiplicative parameters in gradient descent methods
Authors: Stanimirovic Predrag , Miladinovic Marko , Djordjevic Snezana
Published: January 2010

We introduced an algorithm for unconstrained optimization based on the reduction of the modified Newton method with line search into a gradient descent method. Main idea used in the algorithm construction is approximation of Hessian by a diagonal matrix. The step length calculation algorithm is based on the Taylor's development in two successive iterative points and the backtracking line search procedure.
Chaotic C-distribution semigroups
Authors: Kostic Marko
Published: January 2010

We introduce and analyze hypercyclic and chaotic properties of C-distribution semigroups and global integrated C-semigroups. The obtained results are incorporated in the study of the dynamics of the backwards Lp heat semigroups (p > 2) on symmetric spaces of non-compact type.
Common fixed point theorems for families of maps in complete L-fuzzy metric spaces
Authors: Huang Xianjiu , Zhu Chuanxi , Wen Xi
Published: January 2010

In this paper, we prove some common fixed point theorems for any even number of compatible mappings in complete L-fuzzy metric spaces. Our main results extend and generalize some known results in fuzzy metric spaces, intuitionistic metric spaces and L-fuzzy metric spaces.
Some inequalities for convex functions of selfadjoint operators in Hilbert spaces
Authors: Dragomir Sever
Published: January 2010

Some inequalities for convex functions of selfadjoint operators in Hilbert spaces under suitable assumptions for the involved operators are given. Applications for particular cases of interest are also provided.
Wiener-type invariants of some graph operations
Authors: Hossein-Zadeh S. , Hamzeh A. , Ashrafi A.R.
Published: January 2010

Let d(G, k) be the number of pairs of vertices of a graph G that are at distance k, ? a real number, and W?(G) =?k?1 d(G, k)k?. W?(G) is called the Wiener-type invariant of G associated to real number ?. In this paper, the Wiener-type invariants of some graph operations are computed. As immediate consequences, the formulae for reciprocal Wiener index, Harary index, hyper- Wiener index and Tratch-Stankevich-Zefirov index are calculated. Some upper and lower bounds are also presented.
Green's formula and the Hardy-Stein identities
Authors: Pavlovic Miroslav
Published: January 2010

This is a collection of some known and some new facts on the holomorphic and the harmonic version of the Hardy-Stein identity as well as on their extensions to the real and the complex ball. For example, we prove that if f is holomorphic on the unit disk D, then ??f ??Hp = ?f(0)?p + ?D?f'(z)? p-2 ?f'(z)?2(1-?z?) dA(z), (?) where Hp is the p-Hardy space, which improves a result of Yamashita [Proc. Amer. Math. Soc. 75 (1979), no. 1, 69-72]. An extension of (?) to the unit ball of Cn improves results of Beatrous an Burbea [Kodai Math. J. 8 (1985), 36-51], and of Stoll [J. London Math. Soc. (2) 48 (1993), no. 1, 126-136]. We also prove the analogous result for the harmonic Hardy spaces. The proofs of known results are shorter and more elementary then the existing ones, see Zhu [Spaces of holomorphic functions in the unit ball, Graduate Texts in Mathematics, vol. 226, Springer-Verlag, New York, 2005, Ch. IV]. We correct some constants in that book and in a paper of Jevtic and Pavlovic [Publ. Inst. Math. (Beograd) (N.S.) 64(78) (1998), 36-52].
Fixed point theorems of finite family with errors for asymptotically quasi-nonexpansive mappings in convex metric spaces
Authors: Saluja Singh
Published: January 2010

In this paper, we prove that a multi-step iteration process with errors for a finite family of asymptotically quasi-nonexpansive mappings converges strongly to a common fixed point of the mappings in convex metric spaces. Our results extend and improve the recent result of Kim et al. [9, 10] and many known results.
On stochastic integrodifferential equations via non-linear integral contractors I
Authors: Jovanovic Miljana , Jankovic Svetlana
Published: January 2010

The aim of this paper is to study the existence and uniqueness of solutions for a general stochastic integrodifferential equation of the Ito type, by using the concept of non-linear bounded random integral contractors, which includes the Lipschitz condition as a special case. The method applied in this consideration follows partially the basic ideas of the contractor theory introduced earlier by Altman [1, 2] and Kuo [6]. It is also shown that the Lipschitz condition and the condition based on a bounded random integral contractor for the coefficients of the considered equation, in general, cannot be compared.
On the modulus of continuity of harmonic quasiregular mappings on the unit ball in Rn
Authors: Arsenovic Milos , Manojlovic Vesna
Published: January 2010

We show that, for a class of moduli functions ?(?), 0 ? ? ? 2, the property ??(?) - ?(?) ?? ? (?? - ??), ?, ?? Sn-1 implies the corresponding property ?u(x)-u(y) ?? C?(?x-y?) x, y ? Bn; for u = P[?], provided u is a quasiregular mapping. Our class of moduli functions includes ?(?) = ?? (0 < ? ? 1), so our result generalizes earlier results on H?lder continuity (see [1]) and Lipschitz continuity (see [2]).
Some Jensen's type inequalities for twice differentiable functions of selfadjoint operators in Hilbert spaces
Authors: Dragomir Sever
Published: January 2010

Some Jensen's type inequalities for twice differentiable functions of selfadjoint operators in Hilbert spaces under suitable assumptions for the involved operators are given. Applications for particular cases of interest are also provided.
Univalence of two general integral operators
Authors: Frasin B.A.
Published: January 2010

In this paper, we give some sufficient conditions for general two integral operators to be univalent in the open unit disk.
Products of integral-type and composition operators from generally weighted Bloch space to F(p,q,s) space
Authors: Li Haiying , Yang Xiangzhao
Published: January 2010

Products of integral-type and composition operators has been recently introduced by Li and Stevic and studied in a series of their papers. In this note we study the boundedness and compactness of these products from generally weighted Bloch space to F(p; q; s) space, where 0 < p; s < ?; q > -2; ? > 0.
On the oriented incidence energy and decomposable graphs
Authors: Stevanovic Dragan , de Abreu , de Freitas , Vinagre Cybele , Del-Vecchio Renata
Published: January 2010

Let G be a simple graph with n vertices and m edges. Let edges of G be given an arbitrary orientation, and let Q be the vertex-edge incidence matrix of such oriented graph. The oriented incidence energy of G is then the sum of singular values of Q. We show that for any n 2 N, there exists a set of n graphs with O(n) vertices having equal oriented incidence energy.
Unicyclic reflexive graphs with seven loaded vertices of the cycle
Authors: Koledin Tamara , Radosavljevic Zoran
Published: January 2010

A simple graph is reflexive if the second largest eigenvalue of its (0, 1)- adjacency matrix does not exceed 2. A vertex of the cycle of unicyclic simple graph is said to be loaded if its degree is greater than 2. In this paper we establish that the length of the cycle of unicyclic reflexive graph with seven loaded vertices is at most 10 and find all such graphs with the length of the cycle 10, 9 and 8.
Polynomials related to generalized Chebyshev polynomials
Authors: Djordjevic Gospava
Published: January 2010

We study several classes of polynomials, which are related to the Chebyshev, Morgan-Voyce, Horadam and Jacobsthal polynomials. Thus, we unify some of well-known results.
Subclass of harmonic univalent functions associated with Salagean derivative
Authors: Joshi Sayali
Published: January 2010

In the present paper a new subclass of Harmonic univalent functions is defined using Salegaon derivative operator and several interesting properties like coefficient bound, distortion theorem are obtained.
Flexural fatigue characteristics of steel fiber reinforced recycled aggregate concrete (SFRRAC)
Authors: Heeralal M. , Kumar Rathish , Rao Y.V.
Published: January 2010

This research work is aimed at investigating the flexural fatigue behavior of Steel Fiber Reinforced Recycled Aggregate Concrete (SFRRAC). This study gains importance in view of the wide potential for demolished concrete to serve as a source of quality aggregate feed stock in a variety of structural and non-structural applications. This is a continuation of a series of investigations being conducted aimed at optimizing the utilization of recycled aggregate concrete in rigid pavements. A total of 72 standard flexure specimens of 100mm x 100mm x 450mm were cast and tested for flexure under both static and fatigue loading. The parameters of the investigation included the different replacements of recycled aggregate in natural aggregate, presence of steel fiber and different stress levels. The study showed that the recycled aggregates can be used in rigid pavements also and the inclusion of fibers can benefit the fatigue performance of recycled aggregate concrete.
Experimental analysis of an original type of steel space truss node joint
Authors: Vacev Todor , Kisin Srdjan , Rankovic Slobodan
Published: January 2010

In the paper is presented experimental analysis of an original type of node joint for a steel space truss. The joint sample was loaded by spatial set of forces that simulate real condition of the structure with eight balanced member forces (4 chord and 4 diagonal members), up to structure failure. It was realized in a specially designed test facility. Tested node joint samples were made in real scale, according to the model originated after FE analysis and optimization. Basic idea was to construct and test a node joint that can be made in average technology conditions, without special tools and requirements. Besides, results of a stress-strain FE analysis are presented and comparison of the two analyses is given for the most critical regions of the node joint. Values of measured and calculated strains across model samples and characteristic measuring points are presented.
Forming of science and technology park as an aspect of civil engineering
Authors: Stankovic Ivan , Gocic Milan , Trajkovic Slavisa
Published: January 2010

Forming of science and technology parks is followed by the establishment of the appropriate building infrastructure that will form the park basis, as well as accompanying infrastructure facilities in which the professional staff would live and spend their time, and thus create the environment to live and work in. The science and technology park is the term which is used to describe various attempts to encourage the development of entrepreneurship through the establishment of knowledge-based small and medium-sized enterprises. The main goal of science and technology parks is joining the economic and intellectual resources in the region in which the park is established in one unit, in order to improve and enhance the existing companies' business conditions and to concentrate knowledge in one place. For this type of organization it is necessary to choose the area where the park will be built and determine the function of the complex of buildings to ensure the work of the scientists and research workers. In this paper the general conditions, which are required so that the management of the organization that founds the park would achieve the successful results, will be shown. It will present the conditions which are concerned with the necessary human, technological and infrastructural resources for the establishment of science and technology park on one territory, appropriate examples in the world and the beginning of the process of forming the science and technology park in Nis.
Spatial interpolation of mean monthly flow series by nonlinear correlation model applied in the Ibar river basin
Authors: Blagojevic Borislava , Prohaska Stevan , Radivojevic Dragan , Ilic Aleksandra
Published: January 2010

When providing hydrologic indicators needed for hydro power plant design, knowledge of mean monthly flows allows for estimation of majority of indicators. The paper deals with a problem of obtaining mean monthly flows at the location where flow observation data do not exist. The closest gauge station from the observation network is selected as an analogue location/basin. Since the selected gauge station observation period is rather short, the extension of the data set is achieved by generating synthetic mean monthly flow series by the nonlinear correlation method explained within the paper. Attention is paid to finding the best fit for correlation within the observation period. Four segmentation types of the correlation curve of transformed values are studied. Observed data are used for estimation of applied model quality i.e. spatial interpolation of surrounding gauge stations to the analogue station. At the selected hydro power plant location, synthetic series of mean monthly flow is calculated by scaling series from the analogue gauge station, using basin area ratio as scaling coefficient. Apart from mean annual flow and annual flow distribution, based on the synthetic mean monthly series, daily flow duration curve and maintenance flow were calculated.
Inheritance of stem height and second-internode length in barley hybrids
Authors: Madic Milomirka , Knezevic Desimir , Paunovic Aleksandar , Zecevic Veselinka
Published: January 2010

Stem height and second (basal) internode are highly important components of lodging resistance in barley. A diallel crossing of five divergent barley genotypes (KG-1/90, NS-293, Jagodinac, KG-15 and KG-10/90) was carried out in order to examine the modes of inheritance of stem height and second-internode length. The dominance of a parent with a higher stem was the prevailing mode of stem height inheritance in most of the combinations in F1 and F2 generations, the degree of dominance ranging from partial to superdominance. Partial dominance mostly occurred in the inheritance of second-internode length in most crossing combinations. An analysis of genetic variance components showed that the dominant gene effect was the most contributing factor to the inheritance of stem height. Additive effect genes prevailed in the inheritance of second-internode length in the F1 generation. Both additive and dominant gene effects played an important role in the F2 generation.
Effect of genotype and environment on wheat quality
Authors: Zecevic Veselinka , Knezevic Desimir , Boskovic Jelena , Madic Milomirka
Published: January 2010

Five winter wheat cultivars created in Small Grains Research Centre of Kragujevac (Ana Morava, Toplica, Vizija, Takovcanka and Lazarica) were grown at the macro field trial in three locations (Kragujevac, Sombor and Backa Topola) during three years (2004-2006). Influence of genetic and agro-ecological conditions of locations on wheat quality components (sedimentation value and wet gluten content) was investigated. The analysis of variance suggested there were highly significant differences among genotypes (G), investigated years (Y) and locations (L) for sedimentation value and wet gluten content. Apart from individual influence of the factors, their interactions (G x Y, G x L, Y x L, G x Y x L) were also high significant for both investigated traits. In average the highest sedimentation value (40.6 ml) and wet gluten content (31.85 %) established at Backa Topola locality. The highest value of all investigated cultivars and localities established at cultivar Vizija (45.3 ml) in Backa Topola, while the lowest at Lazarica (31.7 ml) in Sombor. The highest wet gluten content was measured at Backa Topola locality by cultivar Toplica (38.53 %). In this investigation Backa Topola locality was favourable for both investigated quality traits.
Chemical compositions as quality parameters of ZP soybean and wheat genotypes
Authors: Zilic Sladjana , Hadzi-Taskovic-Sukalovic Vesna , Srebric Mirjana , Dodig Dejan , Maksimovic Milan , Mladenovic-Drinic Snezana , Crevar Milos
Published: January 2010

This research is focused on the analysis of chemical characteristics of ZP soybean and wheat genotypes, as well as, on nutritional differences between this two complementary plant species. The experimental material consisted of two bread (ZP 96/I and ZP 87/Ip), two durum (ZP 34/I ZP and ZP DSP/01-66M) wheat genotypes and four soybean varieties (Nena, Lidija, Lana and Bosa) of different genetic background. All ZP soybean genotypes, except the Lana, had over 40% of total proteins by dry matter. Lana and Lidija, variety of recent creation, developed as a result of selection for specific traits, had high oil content. Wheat genotypes had much a lower content of ash, oil, total and water soluble proteins than soybean cultivars. The highest oil, total and water soluble proteins content was detected in grain of durum genotype ZP DSP/01-66M. Lignin content varies much more among soybean than among the wheat genotypes. Generally, contents of total phenolics, carotenes and tocopherol were more abundant in ZP soybean than bread and durum wheat genotypes.
Examination of genotoxic effects of fumagillin in vivo
Authors: Kulic Milan , Aleksic Nevenka , Stanimirovic Zoran , Ristic Sinisa , Medenica Snezana
Published: January 2010

Fumagillin is an antibiotic derived from the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. It has been used successfully for the treatment of intestinal microsporidiosis in HIV-positive humans, as well as in those suffering from intestinal amebiasis and microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis. In veterinary medicine it is approved for the treatment of microsporidiosis in bees and fish. In this research fumagillin was tested for the ability to provoke chromosomal aberrations in mouse bone marrow cells. BALB/c mice were administered fumagillin by gastric probe in doses of 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg b.w. Water-sugary syrup was the negative and cyclophosphamide (15 mg/kg b.w.) the positive control. Significantly increased frequencies (p<0.01 or p<0.001) of numerical chromosomal aberrations (aneuploidies and poliploidies) was observed both in the medium (10 mg/kg b.w.) and the highest (20 mg/kg b.w.) dose of fumagillin. Structural chromosomal aberrations (gaps, breaks and insertions) were noticeably more frequent in comparison to negative control only in the highest experimental dose of dycikloheksilamine. These results clearly showed that fumagillin in concetrations 10 and 20 mg/kg b.w. had a genotoxic potential in vivo.
Dominant lactic acid bacteria in artisanal Pirot cheeses of different ripening period
Authors: Terzic-Vidojevic Amarela , Lozo Jelena , Topisirovic Ljubisa
Published: January 2010

In this study two raw cow's milk cheeses of a different ripening period were examined. The cheeses were taken from a country household in the region of mountain Stara Planina and manufactured without adding of starter culture. A total 106 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were isolated from both cheeses. They are tested by classical physiological tests as well as by API 50 CH tests. Proteolytic and antimicrobial activities were done too. Identification of LAB isolates was done by repetitive extragenic palindromic-polimerase chain reaction (rep-PCR) with (GTG)5 primer. The LAB isolates from cheese BGPT9 (four days old) belonged to the eight species of LAB (Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Lactobacillus brevis, Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus durans and Leuconostoc garlicum), while in the BGPT10 cheese (eight months old) only two species were present (Lactobacillus plantarum and Enterococcus faecium). Proteolytic activity showed 30 LAB from BGPT9 cheese, mainly enterococci. From BGPT10 cheese only one isolate (which belonged to the Lactobacillus plantarum species) possessed partial ability to hydrolyze ?-casein. Seven enterococci from BGPT9 cheese and four enterococci from BGPT10 cheese produced antimicrobial compounds.
Process and effects of financial liberalization in transition countries: A selective literature survey
Authors: Berthomieu Claude , Ri Anastasia
Published: January 2010

This paper aims at reviewing selected literature on (1) structural financial changes observed in a large sample of transition economies in the Central and/or Oriental Europe during the last two decades, (2) efficiency of this financial liberalization in relative terms (in macroeconomic sense), and (3) impact of liberalization on financial problems of small and medium-size enterprises, a specific 'puzzle' concerning this very important economic sector as for its role in the employment and growth of these economies.
Radio detection of 18 RASS BL Lac objects
Authors: Anderson M.W.B. , Filipovic M.D.
Published: January 2010

We present the radio detection of 18 BL Lac objects from our survey of over 575 deg2 of sky. These 18 objects are located within 20'' of the X-ray position, of which 11 have a measured red-shift. All candidates are radio emitters above ~1 mJy and fall within the range of existing samples on the two colour, ?RO vs ?OX, diagram with a transitional population of three evident. Two unusual sources have been identified, a candidate radio quiet BL Lac, RX J0140.9-4130, and an extreme HBL, RX J0109.9-4020, with log (?peak) ?19:2. The BL Lac log(N)-log(S) relation is consistent with other samples and indicates the ROSAT All Sky Survey (RASS) could contain (2000?400) BL Lac objects.
Measurement of the Lick indices in early-type galaxies: Line-of-sight velocity distribution corrections for IC 1459
Authors: Samurovic Srdjan
Published: January 2010

In this paper we analyze the measurements of the absorption line-strength Lick indices in the early-type galaxy IC 1459. We use the long-slit spectra of the elliptical galaxy IC 1459 from which its kinematics had previously been extracted to calculate the Lick indices for the observed spectral region (Mg2, Fe5270, Fe5335 and H?). We apply the usual procedure and correct the indices to the Lick spectral resolution and for the zero velocity dispersion. The procedure applied in this paper also corrects to non-Gaussian line-of-sight velocity distribution (LOSVD) observed in this galaxy, especially in its outer parts. The findings of Kuntschner (2004) were tested and it is shown that the departures from the Gaussian LOSVD may indeed cause erroneous determinations of the Lick indices. The impact of the introduction of non-Gaussian LOSVD differs for different indices. For the galaxy IC 1459 it is shown that the iron indices are especially sensitive when the correction due to anistropies is introduced: the corrections for Fe5270 and Fe5335 are ~10 and ~19 percent larger, respectively, than the corrections obtained in case of a pure Gaussian. The corrections for Mg2 index are shown to be negligible and the corrections of the H? index due to anisotropies are also small (below ~ 4 per cent at most).
Multifrequency observations of one of the largest supernova remnants in the local group of galaxies, LMC - SNR J0450-709
Authors: Cajko K.O. , Crawford E.J. , Filipovic M.D.
Published: January 2010

We present the results of new Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA) observations of one of the largest supernova remnants, SNR J0450-709, in the Local Group of galaxies. We found that this Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) object exhibits a typical morphology of an old supernova remnant (SNR) with diameter D=102x75?1 pc and radio spectral index ?=-0.43?0.06. Regions of high polarization were detected with peak value of ~40%.
Evolution of density perturbations in a cylindrical molecular cloud using smoothed particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Nejad-Asghar M. , Soltani J.
Published: January 2010

Molecular clouds have a hierarchical structure from few tens of parsecs for giants to few tenth of a parsec for proto-stellar cores. Nowadays, our observational techniques are so advanced that it has become possible to detect the small-scale substructures inside the molecular cores. The question that arises is how these small condensations are formed. In the present research, we study the effect of ambipolar diffusion heating on the ubiquitous perturbations in a molecular cloud and investigate the possibility of converting them to dense substructures. For this purpose, a small azimuthal perturbation is implemented on the density of an axisymmetric two-dimensional cylindrical cloud, and its evolution is simulated by the technique of two-fluid smoothed particle hydrodynamics. The self-gravity is not included and the initial state has uniform density, temperature and magnetic field, parallel to the axis of cylinder. In addition, all perturbed quantities are assumed to depend only on azimuth angle and time. Computer experiments show that if the ambipolar diffusion heating is ignored, the perturbation will be dispersed over the time. Including the heating due to ambipolar diffusion heats the matter in regions adjacent to the perturbation, thus, leading to the transfer of matter into the perturbed area. In this case, the density of perturbations can be increased. Also, the results of simulations show that an increase of the initial magnetic pressure leads to the intensification of difference between density of perturbations and their surroundings (i.e. increasing of density contrast). This effect is due to the direct relationship of the drift velocity to the intensity of the magnetic field and its gradient. Simulations with different initial uniform densities show that the growth of relative density contrast is more clear with a special density. This result can be explained by the intensification of thermal instability in this special density.
Semi-analytical formulas for the fundamental parameters of galactic early B supergiants
Authors: Zaninetti L.
Published: January 2010

The publication of new tables of calibration of some fundamental parameters of Galactic B0-B5 supergiants in the two classes Ia and Ib allows to particularize the eight parameters conjecture that model five fundamental parameters. The numerical expressions for visual magnitude, radius, mass, luminosity and surface gravity are derived for supergiants in the range of temperature between 29700 K and 15200 K. The availability of accurate tables of calibration allows us to estimate the efficiency of the derived formulas in reproducing the observed values. The average efficiency of the new formulas, expressed in percent, is 94 for the visual magnitude, 81 for the mass, 96 for the radius, 99 for the logarithm of the luminosity and 97 for the logarithm of the surface gravity.
Optical observations of M81 galaxy group in narrow band [SII] and Hα filters: Holmberg IX
Authors: Arbutina B. , Ilic D. , Stavrev K. , Urosevic D. , Vukotic B. , Onic D.
Published: January 2010

We present observations of the nearby tidal dwarf galaxy Holmberg IX in M81 galaxy group in narrow band [SII] and H? filters, carried out in March and November 2008 with the 2m RCC telescope at NAO Rozhen, Bulgaria. Our search for resident supernova remnants (identified as sources with enhanced [SII] emission relative to their H? emission) in this galaxy yielded no sources of this kind, besides M&H 10-11 or HoIX X-1. Nevertheless, we found a number of objects with significant H? emission that probably represent uncatalogued HII regions.
On the effective temperature of sunspot umbrae using beryllium hydride isotopomer lines
Authors: Sangeetha R. , Sriramachandran P. , Bagare S.P. , Rajamanickam N. , Shanmugavel R.
Published: January 2010

A search for fourteen bands of the visible and infrared systems of the beryllium hydride isotopomers, in addition to the previously identified bands A - X(0, 0; 1, 1; 2, 2) for BeH, A - X(0, 0; 1, 1; 2, 2) for BeD and A - X(0, 0; 1, 1; 2, 2) for BeT molecules was conducted. The equivalent widths were measured for the well isolated identified lines of the strongest band and the effective temperatures were estimated for the systems for which the presence of hints is confirmed.
Keynes' theory of conventional decision-making in financial markets
Authors: Radonjic Ognjen
Published: January 2010

The question addressed in this paper is whether financial markets actually function in the manner described by the today still dominant modern theory of efficient financial markets. We argue that the theory's conclusions are based on unreal assumptions that the future is predictable and ergodic. Since assumptions of a model determine its conclusions, unreal assumptions imply incorrect and inapplicable theoretical models. In contrast to neoclassical theory, Keynes insisted that future was fundamentally uncertain and nonergodic. Under such circumstances, when it is not possible to calculate the future, the only rational thing for agents in financial markets to do is to base their decisions on socially acceptable conventions. Consequently, since convention-based expectations are unstable and since expectations create future it is possible to prove that financial markets are inherently unstable.
Structurational aspect of Georg Simmel's sociology
Authors: Prodanovic Srdjan
Published: January 2010

In this paper attempt will be made in explaining some basic notions of Simmel's sociology, especially those regarding his very complex comprehension of money and causality in history. In analysis of his work, I will argue that Simmel stands very close to the contemporary structurational point of view, and that there are three levels of freedom and structural givens (overlapping each other) in society. These are: meta-theoretical level, level of integration into the World, and the historical level. Besides that, less explicit aims of this paper are to show that in Simmlel's thought there are no disciplinary borders between sociology and philosophy, as well as to depict some of the potential benefits that sociology might get from this line of reasoning.
Women in political arena: Insiders or outsiders?
Authors: Cickaric Lilijana
Published: January 2010

This article focuses on two questions. Why are women underrepresented in democratic institutions and what are the barriers for their larger inclusion in political arena? Problems are analyzed from global perspective. Structural, cultural and political barriers are elaborated. The gender sensitive concept of representative democracy demonstrates legitimacy and difference in political processes. The hegemonic form of masculinity in all state institutions and procedures, in the election system, political culture and media, influences the exclusion of women on all levels of representation. Different theoretical concepts about gender representation in politics are analyzed. The author stresses greater influence of political factors - political culture, type of electoral system, party competitiveness, ideological differences, number of candidates, party and district magnitude, quota system - on women's representation in parliaments. The state of the art in representative bodies and in decision-making processes on the global level are analyzed in the third section of the article.
Increased CYP2J3 Expression Reduces Insulin Resistance in Fructose-Treated Rats and db/db Mice
Authors: Xu Xizhen , Zhao Chun Xia , Wang Luyun , Tu Ling , Fang Xiaosai , Zheng Changlong , Edin Matthew L. , Zeldin Darryl C. , Wang Dao Wen
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Accumulating evidence suggests that cytochrome P450 (CYP) epoxygenases metabolize arachidonic acid into epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), which play crucial and diverse roles in cardiovascular homeostasis. The anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and pro-proliferative effects of EETs suggest a possible beneficial role for EETs on insulin resistance and diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study investigated the effects of CYP2J3 epoxygenase gene therapy on insulin resistance and blood pressure in diabetic db/db mice and in a model of fructose-induced hypertension and insulin resistance in rats.

RESULTS

CYP2J3 gene delivery in vivo increased EET generation, reduced blood pressure, and reversed insulin resistance as determined by plasma glucose levels, homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance index, and glucose tolerance test. Furthermore, CYP2J3 treatment prevented fructose-induced decreases in insulin receptor signaling and phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinases (AMPKs) in liver, muscle, heart, kidney, and aorta. Thus, overexpression of CYP2J3 protected against diabetes and insulin resistance in peripheral tissues through activation of insulin receptor and AMPK pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the beneficial roles of the CYP epoxygenase-EET system in diabetes and insulin resistance.
Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Blockade Ameliorates Albuminuria in Experimental Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Barutta Federica , Corbelli Alessandro , Mastrocola Raffaella , Gambino Roberto , Di Marzo Vincenzo , Pinach Silvia , Rastaldi Maria Pia , Perin Paolo Cavallo , Gruden Gabriella
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is localized in the central nervous system and in peripheral tissues involved in energy metabolism control. However, CB1 receptors are also expressed at low level within the glomeruli, and the aim of this study was to investigate their potential relevance in the pathogenesis of proteinuria in experimental type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice were treated with N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-iodophenyl)-1-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide (AM251), a selective CB1-receptor antagonist, at the dosage of 1 mg · kg−1 · day−1 via intraperitoneal injection for 14 weeks. Urinary albumin excretion was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. CB1 receptor expression was studied by immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and real-time PCR. Expression of nephrin, podocin, synaptopodin, and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) was assessed by immunofluorescence and real-time PCR. Fibronectin, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) mRNA levels were quantitated by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

In diabetic mice, the CB1 receptor was overexpressed within the glomeruli, predominantly by glomerular podocytes. Blockade of the CB1 receptor did not affect body weight, blood glucose, and blood pressure levels in either diabetic or control mice. Albuminuria was increased in diabetic mice compared with control animals and was significantly ameliorated by treatment with AM251. Furthermore, CB1 blockade completely prevented diabetes-induced downregulation of nephrin, podocin, and ZO-1. By contrast overexpression of fibronectin, TGF-β1, and CTGF in renal cortex of diabetic mice was unaltered by AM251 administration.

CONCLUSIONS

In experimental type 1 diabetes, the CB1 receptor is overexpressed by glomerular podocytes, and blockade of the CB1 receptor ameliorates albuminuria possibly via prevention of nephrin, podocin, and ZO-1 loss.
Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 Suppresses Lipolysis, Stimulates Lipogenesis, and Promotes Fat Storage
Authors: Chakrabarti Partha , English Taylor , Shi Jun , Smas Cynthia M. , Kandror Konstantin V.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

In metazoans, target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1) plays the key role in nutrient- and hormone-dependent control of metabolism. However, the role of TORC1 in regulation of triglyceride storage and metabolism remains largely unknown.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this study, we analyzed the effect of activation and inhibition of the mammalian TORC1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway on the expression of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), lipolysis, lipogenesis, and lipid storage in different mammalian cells.

RESULTS

Activation of mTORC1 signaling in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by ectopic expression of Rheb inhibits expression of ATGL and HSL at the level of transcription, suppresses lipolysis, increases de novo lipogenesis, and promotes intracellular accumulation of triglycerides. Inhibition of mTORC1 signaling by rapamycin or by knockdown of raptor stimulates lipolysis primarily via activation of ATGL expression. Analogous results have been obtained in C2C12 myoblasts and mouse embryonic fibroblasts with genetic ablation of tuberous sclerosis 2 (TSC2) gene. Overexpression of ATGL in these cells antagonized the lipogenic effect of TSC2 knockout.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that mTORC1 promotes fat storage in mammalian cells by suppression of lipolysis and stimulation of de novo lipogenesis.
Urine Ochratoxin A and Sphinganine/Sphingosine Ratio in Residents of the Endemic Nephropathy Area in Croatia
Authors: Domijan Ana-Marija , Peraica Maja , Markov Ksenija , Fuchs Radovan
Published: January 2010

Urine Ochratoxin A and Sphinganine/Sphingosine Ratio in Residents of the Endemic Nephropathy Area in Croatia

The most plausible theory of the aetiology of endemic nephropathy links it with exposure to nephrotoxic mycotoxin ochratoxin A (OTA). In this study, the concentration of OTA and sphinganine/sphingosine (Sa/So) ratio, the biomarker of another nephrotoxic mycotoxin fumonisin B1 exposure, were analysed in 45 human urine samples collected in the endemic village of Kaniža in Croatia and in 18 samples from control village. Samples were collected twice from the same persons in 2000 and 2005. In both years the frequency of OTA-positive samples was higher in Kaniža (43 % and 18 %, respectively) than in the control village (28 % and 6 %, respectively). OTA concentrations in samples collected in Kaniža were higher in 2000 than in 2005 (p<0.005). Although in both years Sa/So ratio was higher in Kaniža, the difference from the control group was not statistically significant. No control sample contained OTA and had the Sa/So ratio >1 at the same time, while in Kaniža four such samples were collected in 2000 and one in 2005.
Co-occurrence of Aflatoxins, Ochratoxin A, Fumonisins, and Zearalenone in Cereals and Feed, Determined by Competitive Direct Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Thin-Layer Chromatography
Authors: Klarić Maja , Cvetnić Zdenka , Pepeljnjak Stjepan , Kosalec Ivan
Published: January 2010

Co-occurrence of Aflatoxins, Ochratoxin A, Fumonisins, and Zearalenone in Cereals and Feed, Determined by Competitive Direct Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Thin-Layer Chromatography

Aspergillus, Penicillium, andFusariumspecies frequently contaminate crops. For this reason mycotoxins such as aflatoxins (AFs), ochratoxin A (OTA), fumonisins (FBs), and zearalenone (ZEA) are found in food and feed in a wide range of concentrations, depending on environmental and storage conditions. Consumption of mycotoxin-contaminated food and feed has been associated with acute and chronic poisoning and carcinoma. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and co-occurrence of AFs (B1+B2+G1+G2), OTA, FBs (B1+B2+B3), and ZEA in 37 samples of cereals and feed randomly collected in 2007 from households of an endemic nephropathy (EN) area in Croatia. The mycotoxins were determined using the competitive direct ELISA test (CD-ELISA) in combination with thin-layer chromatography (TLC). The most frequent mycotoxin was ZEA (92%, mean 318.3 μg kg-1), followed by FBs (27%, 3690 μg kg-1), AFs (24.3%, 4.6 μg kg-1), and OTA (16.2%, 9.8 μg kg-1). Levels of AFs, ZEA, and FBs detected by CD-ELISA significantly correlated with the TLC results. However, only one OTA-positive sample was confirmed by TLC due to its high limit of detection. The levels of these mycotoxins were below the permissible limit for animal feed. Twenty-nine percent of cereals were contaminated with FBs, OTA, or ZEA in mass fractions above the permissible limit for humans. Co-occurrence of two toxins varied between 4.2% and 54% and of three between 4.2% and 7.6%. Prolonged co-exposure to AFs, OTA, FBs, and ZEA might increase the risk of various chronic diseases.
Salt effect on the enthalpy of mixing of 2-propanol + acetic acid at 303.15 K
Authors: Tamilarasan R. , Baffna Sunil , Anand-Prabu A. , Dharmendira-Kumar M.
Published: January 2010

Salt effect on the enthalpy of mixing of 2-propanol + acetic acid at 303.15 K

This paper presents the effect of two dissolved inorganic salts (zinc chloride, ZnCl2 and ammonium chloride, NH4Cl) on the enthalpy of mixing (H
E) of 2-propanol + acetic acid binary system measured at 303.15 K using an isothermal displacement calorimeter with vapour space. A decreasing trend in the excess enthalpy of mixing values in the presence of ZnCl2 and NH4Cl indicate the endothermic behavior of this system. The Redlich-Kister equation has been used to fit the experimental H
E data. The deviations from the ideal value and binary parameters were calculated and reported.