bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ploidy Variations in Floridone-Susceptible and -Resistant Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) Biotypes
Authors: Puri Atul , MacDonald Gregory E. , Haller William T.
Published: November 2007

Hydrilla is one of the most serious aquatic weed problems in the United States, and fluridone is the only U.S. Environment Protection Agency (USEPA)–approved herbicide that provides relatively long-term systemic control. Recently, hydrilla biotypes with varying levels of fluridone resistance have been documented in Florida. Fluridone-susceptible (S) and several fluridone-resistant (R1 to R5) hydrilla biotypes varying in resistance levels were maintained in 950-L tanks under ambient sunlight and day-length conditions. To correlate varying levels of fluridone resistance to ploidy in hydrilla, flow cytometric analysis was performed. Differential ploidy levels (diploid, 2n = 2x = 16; triploid, 2n = 3x = 24; and tetraploid, 2n = 4x = 32) were reported among different hydrilla biotypes, plants within each biotype, and within shoot tissues of the same plant. Triploid plants were predominant in all biotypes. Diploid plants were observed in all hydrilla biotypes except the susceptible hydrilla (S). Plants with tetraploidy were rare within biotypes. The diploid, triploid, and tetraploid plants had nuclear DNA contents of 2.43 to 2.73 pg, 3.44 to 3.71 pg, and 4.64 to 4.90 pg, respectively, and no differences were observed among plants with same ploidy for nuclear DNA content in different hydrilla biotypes. Endoreduplication patterns were observed in diploid plants of R1 and R3 biotypes. However, no plant with higher ploidy levels (triploid or tetraploid) in any hydrilla biotypes showed endoreduplication.
Influence of Intraspecific Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) and Purple Deadnettle (Lamium purpureum) Competition on Soybean Cyst Nematode Reproduction
Authors: Creech J. Earl , Faghihi Jamal , Ferris Virginia R. , Westphal Andreas , Johnson William G.
Published: November 2007

A greenhouse study was conducted to determine the effect of henbit and purple deadnettle density on weed biomass accumulation and soybean cyst nematode (SCN) reproduction. SCN did not impact shoot or root dry weight of purple deadnettle, henbit, or soybean. Foliar and root biomass of henbit and purple deadnettle were comparable but the biomass per stem was higher for purple deadnettle. Shoot and root biomass per pot of henbit and purple deadnettle at corresponding plant densities were statistically similar and were generally higher with increasing plant density. Henbit produced a greater number of stems than purple deadnettle and the least number of stems for both species existed at low densities. Purple deadnettle allowed for more SCN reproduction than did henbit. Weed densities also influenced SCN cyst and egg production but the results were species dependent. The highest SCN reproduction per pot was supported at low to moderate densities of purple deadnettle but at moderate to high densities of henbit. These results suggest that purple deadnettle should be more aggressively managed than henbit in management programs for SCN, but that henbit, especially at high densities, can support SCN reproduction at levels near those of purple deadnettle.
Evolution of Glyphosate-Resistant Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense) in Glyphosate-Resistant Soybean
Authors: Vila-Aiub Martin M. , Balbi Maria C. , Gundel Pedro E. , Ghersa Claudio M. , Powles Stephen B.
Published: November 2007

In Argentinean crop fields, weed control is mainly achieved by intense use of glyphosate as a nonselective and/or selective herbicide. Glyphosate use is very high as more than 95% of the 16 million ha soybean crop consists of glyphosate-resistant cultivars, always treated with this herbicide. From initial success, inconsistent glyphosate control of Johnsongrass, an invading C4 perennial grass of soybean crops, has become evident to producers from northern Argentina over the last 3 yr. Prior to this, glyphosate provided good control. This study evaluated the nature of these recurrent glyphosate failures in Johnsongrass. Experiments conducted with Johnsongrass plants obtained from seed and rhizome phytomers collected from fields with intense glyphosate use history showed that these populations showed differential survival and biomass productivity when glyphosate treated than Johnsongrass plants obtained from similar propagules collected from field sites with no history of glyphosate use. This empirical evidence establishes that the Johnsongrass survival in glyphosate-treated transgenic soybean fields from northern Argentina is due to evolved glyphosate resistance.
An Emergence Model for Wild Oat (Avena fatua)
Authors: Martinson Krishona , Durgan Beverly , Forcella Frank , Wiersma Jochum , Spokas Kurt , Archer David
Published: November 2007

Wild oat is an economically important annual weed throughout small grain producing regions of the United States and Canada. Timely and more accurate control of wild oat may be developed if there is a better understanding of its emergence patterns. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the emergence pattern of wild oat and determine if emergence could be predicted using soil growing degree days (GDD) and/or hydrothermal time (HTT). Research plots were established at Crookston, MN, and Fargo, ND, in 2002 and 2003. On a weekly basis, naturally emerging seedlings were counted and removed from six 0.37-m2permanent quadrats randomly distributed in a wild oat–infested area. This process was repeated until no additional emergence was observed. Wild oat emergence began between May 1 and May 15 at both locations and in both years and continued for 4 to 6 wk. Base soil temperature and soil water potential associated with wild oat emergence were determined to be 1 C and −0.6 MPa, respectively. Seedling emergence was correlated with GDD and HTT but not calendar days (P = 0.15). A Weibull function was fitted to cumulative wild oat emergence and GDD and HTT. The models for GDD (n= 22,r2= 0.93, root mean square error [RMSE] = 10.7) and HTT (n= 22,r2= 0.92, RMSE = 11.2) closely fit observed emergence patterns. The latter model is the first to use HTT to predict wild oat emergence under field conditions. Both models can aid in the future study of wild oat emergence and assist growers and agricultural professionals with planning timely and more accurate wild oat control.
Model tests on geosynthetic-encased stone columns
Authors: Murugesan S. , Rajagopal K.
Published: November 2007

Stone columns (or granular piles) have proven to be ideal ground reinforcement for supporting flexible structures such as embankments and storage tanks. Stone columns installed in very soft soils will have very low lateral confinement: hence they undergo excessive bulging, leading to undue settlement and limited load-carrying capacity. In these situations, the strength and stiffness of the stone column can be enhanced by encasing the individual stone columns with a suitable geosynthetic. The encasement improves load transfer to deeper depths of soil. This paper investigates the qualitative and quantitative improvement of load capacity of individual encased stone columns through laboratory model tests. These tests were performed in a rigid unit cell that represents the stone column and the soil within the contributary area around the stone column. The load tests indicated a clear improvement in the load capacity of the stone column due to encasement. Encasement with geosynthetics having higher modulus resulted in stiffer response. The effect of encasement was found to decrease with increase in the diameter of the stone column. The improvement in the performance of stone columns was found to be significant, even with partial encasement.
Centrifuge model tests on geotextile-reinforced slopes
Authors: Viswanadham B. V. S. , Mahajan R. R.
Published: November 2007

This paper addresses the static response of geotextile-reinforced slopes resting on a firm foundation to the self-weight loading imposed in a geotechnical centrifuge at pre-failure and at failure. A series of centrifuge tests were carried out on model geotextile-reinforced sand slopes with different types of reinforcement, spacing and slope inclination. A wrap-around technique was used to represent a flexible facing. In order to initiate failure in the reinforcement layers, the ratio of the length of the reinforcement to the height of the slope was maintained as 0.85. Reinforced slope models were subjected to varied g-levels (in steps of 5g from 10g onwards) up to a maximum target g-level of 75g or to collapse, whichever occurred first. A digital image analysis technique was employed to arrive at displacement vectors of markers glued to the reinforcement layers. The displacements were used to compute and analyse the strain distribution along the reinforcement layers, and to identify the peak strain distribution pre-failure and at failure. The development of a particular type of failure mechanism was found to depend upon the tensile strength-strain characteristics of a reinforcement layer. Maximum peak strain in the reinforcement layers was observed to occur at mid-height of the slope. With an increase in slope inclination from 2V:1H to 5V:1H, the magnitude of maximum peak strain was observed to increase, and its location was observed to move downwards from mid-height of the slope. Stability analysis of the reinforced slope models was found to be in good agreement with physically observed centrifuge test results.
HER-2/neu overexpression in invasive ductal breast cancer: An association with other prognostic and predictive factors
Authors: Ivkovic-Kapicl Tatjana , Knezevic-Usaj Slavica , Panjkovic Milana , Ðilas-Ivanovic Dragana , Golubovic Mileta
Published: November 2007

Background: HER-2/neu is a proto-oncogene that is amplified/overexpressed in 15 to 30% of invasive breast cancers. The purpose of this study was to determine if any relationship exist between HER-2/neu protein overexpression and estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), grade, size, and lymph node status in female breast cancer. Methods: A total of 100 cases of invasive ductal breast cancer were included in this study. The hormone receptors and HER-2/neu were studied immunohistochemically (IHC). Using the HER-2/neu DAKO scoring system, scores of 0, 1+ and 2+ were defined as negative and 3+ as positive. Results: HER-2/neu protein overexpression was seen in 20 (20%) of cases. HER-2/neu protein overexpression was present in 4 of 52 T1 lesions (8%), in 11 of 37 T2 lesions (30%), in 3 of 6 T3 lesions (50%), and in 2 of 5 T4 lesions (40%), (p<0.05). Protein overexpression was seen in 7 of 17 grade III tumors (41%), and 13 of 61 grade II tumors (21%). Overexpression was not detected in grade I tumors (p<0.01). Of the 20 Her-2/neu positive cases, ER- and PR-negative status was detected in 60% and 70%, respectively. Conclusion: Statistically significant correlation was found between HER-2/neu protein overexpression and large tumor size, high histological grade, and ER-, PR-negativity. There was no correlation with lymphonodal status.
DECENA - cervical cancer primary screening program in Vojvodina
Authors: Rajovic Jelka , Andrijevic Ljiljana , Fajka Robert , Fenyvesi Attila , Malobabic Dragan , Cuk Dragomir , Korovljev Jelena , Kmezic Vesna , Stajer Laslo , Barisic Aleksandar , Masic Adela
Published: November 2007

Hc2 DNA test for detection of 13 oncogenic human papillomavirus genotypes (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68) is a real partner to cytology, concerning improvement and better detection of premalignant and malignant cervical diseases. Reliable cytology combined with HPV testing is a useful parameter to gynecologists, in case of various dilemmas: questionable Pap test, follow up of patients with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) and also postoperative control of patients after the treatment of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). HPV status is important additional parameter, especially when making decision about the most adequate treatment protocols and in case of nullparae who have CIN2. In last few years, numerous studies indicate many advantages of using this molecular-diagnostic test in primary screening of cervical carcinoma. In the pilot study of DECENA (detection of cervical neoplasia) program we tested 980 women, in the period from August 2006 to April 2007. DECENA program is based on primary screening of cervical cancer. It is supported with segments of great importance: data base of examined women, data base and communication with all medical professionals included in cervical cancer screening, education of women and their partners, and public education.
Optical potential approach to the slow positron scattering from helium atom
Authors: Tancic Aleksandar , Nikolic M.R.
Published: November 2007

We have extended our previous calculations to include the contribution of the random-phase approximation (RPA) (improved) optical potential to the low energy elastic scattering in the electron+He system. Our improved RPA calculations are shown to be in better agreement with the experimental values than other theoretical results.
Kinetic determination of ultramicro amounts of thiocyanate
Authors: Igov Vladimir , Simonovic Ranko , Igov Rangel
Published: November 2007

A kinetic method is suggested for determing traces of thiocyanate on the basis of their activating effect on the Fe(III) catalysis of oxidation of 4-amino-N,Ndiethylaniline sulphate (ANNS) by hydrogen-peroxide. The sensitivity of the method is 50 ng/cm3. The probably relative error ranges between 5,5-10,5% for concentration interval 300-70 ng/cm3 NCS-. Kinetic equation were proposed for the investigated process. The method has relatively good selectivity.
The study of steel protection effect by application of molten active microalloyed aluminum and by covering that composition by organic coating
Authors: Purenovic Milovan , Miljkovic Milena , Zarubica Aleksandra
Published: November 2007

In this paper, the steel active-passive anticorrosive protection was done. Steel plates samples with dimensions 40 ?100 ?2 millimeters were used. Samples surfaces preparation was done by degreasing, then by sandblasting by pneumatic pistol. The metallising by molten metal was done by hand pistol which worked with metal vein "Protector" (? 3,18 millimeters) of electrochemical active anode material on the basis of microalloyed aluminum. The mentioned application was done twice and obtained layer thickness was 150-200 micrometers. After this operation, organic coating "Vinilpom", the product of Coatings Industry "Pomoravlje", was applied. Coating quality was followed by measuring of coating thickness, of dried film hardness, level of connecting with a base and of gloss. Whole composition steel - "Protector", organic coating electrochemical study was done by measuring of galvanic team electrochemical potential change in 20% NaCl solution, during the time.
Introduction to low frequency local plasmons in bulk extrinsic semiconductors
Authors: Kornyushin Yuri
Published: November 2007

It is shown that restoring force acts on the electronic cloud of the outer electrons of a neutral or charged impurity atom when it is shifted relative to the inner charged core (or expanded). Because of this the dipole oscillations arise which influence considerably the dispersion law of the plasma oscillations in bulk extrinsic semiconductors. Assuming that only one transition of electron from the ground state to the first excited state is essential, the dispersion law is calculated. It is shown that the calculated dispersion law consists of two separate branches, one of them originates from the regular plasma oscillations of the free electrons of a conductivity band, and the other one stems from the local oscillations of the outer electrons bounded to the impurity atoms.
Salting-out extraction of catechol and hydroquinone from aqueous solutions and urine samples
Authors: Nikolic Goran , Perovic Jelica , Nikolic Ruzica , Cakic Milorad
Published: November 2007

The influence of ammonium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium chlorides and sulfates on the extraction of catechol and hydroquinone with diethyl and diisopropyl ether was studied. All the salts investigated in this study largely increased the extraction efficiency of both catechol and hydroquinone from aqueous solutions, magnesium salts being the most efficient salting-out agents. The extraction efficiency in the presence of magnesium salts in comparison to the extraction efficiencies from the salt-free aqueous solutions increased from 14%, in the case of catechol extraction with diethyl ether, up to about 90%, in the case of hydroquinone extraction with diisopropyl ether. The extraction from spiked urine samples proved that investigation of salting-out effect in aqueous solutions could be used as a good model system for the reliable choice of optimal conditions for catechol and hydroquinone extraction from real samples.
Four-body one-channel distorted-wave theories for single electron transfer
Authors: Mancev Ivan
Published: November 2007

The two versions of the Born distorted wave (BDW) models are formulated within the framework of the four-body scattering theory. As an illustration the BDW approximation is applied to compute the differential cross sections for a single charge exchange in p + H e collision at 500 keV. The present calculated results are found to be in good agreement with experimental data.
Thermodynamic designing of a solar block of flats with a tromb's wall with ventuce holes
Authors: Radosavljevic Jasmina , Lambic Miroslav , Pavlovic Tomislav
Published: November 2007

The paper examines the effects of passive solar heating of an individual residential object, located in Nis, that occur by the use of a combined passive system consisting of a Tromb's wall with ventuce holes and windows for direct insulation. The diagrams are included that show the inner air temperatures of a thermally insulated residential object with A Tromb's wall made of brick and concrete, 20cm and 45cm thick, with ventuce openings.
Electrochemical behavior of the catalyst with kaolinite-bentonite substrate in water
Authors: Cvetkovic Vesna , Purenovic Jelena , Zarubica Aleksandra
Published: November 2007

Due to the fact that oxidation-reduction potential and rH2 value of every water are its crucial features, numerous efforts have been made to use electrochemical means for water preparation. In this paper, we report the results of electrochemical influence research of magnesium-aluminium silicate catalyst, in the form of ceramics made of kaolinite and bentonite clays, on the rH2, pH and EOR changes of the waters of particular characteristics in the wanted direction. Particularly, the possibility of changing "active water" characteristics was investigated. The composite made with micro alloyed aluminium exhibits a very negative stationary potential and its interaction with water results in water reduction. Addition of some active components to the mixture of kaolin and bentonite can provide clay mixtures, which after sintering at high temperatures produce very porous ceramics with microcrystalline and amorphous regions of stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric new oxides and some metallized surface (in our case-mainly with magnesium surplus). Nonstoichiometric oxide mixtures and metallized amorphous ceramics regions show high electrochemical and chemical activities in contact with water. This leads to redox potential changes and appearance of Mg2+ ions in the magnesium aluminium silicate-water system.
Flavonoids from flower of linum capitatum kit
Authors: Ilic Slavica , Konstantinovic Sandra , Todorovic Zoran
Published: November 2007

A phytochemical investigation of the flowers of Linum capitatimi Kit (Linacea) of Serbian origin yielded five additional known Flavonoids including: kaempferol, kaempferol-3-O-galactoside, rutin (quercetin-3-O-rutinosid), genistin (genistein-7-O-glucoside) and orientin (luteolin-8-C-glucoside). The characterization of these compounds was achieved by microanalysis, as well as various Chromatographic and spectroscopic methods ( UV/VIS and 1HNMR).
Explanation of the memory effect in argon
Authors: Markovic Vidosav , Gocic Sasa , Stamenkovic Suzana
Published: November 2007

Memory effect - the long time variation of the electrical breakdown time delay on the relaxation time td (?) was observed in argon 24 hours after relaxation times and explained by the long-lived metastable states remaining from the preceding glow. However, the quenching processes reducing the effective lifetime of metastable states several orders of magnitude below that relevant for the time scale of observation were neglected. By applying approximate gas phase models it was found that the early afterglow kinetics up to hundreds of milliseconds is dominated by the decay of molecular argon ions Ar2+ and the approximate value of their ambipolar diffusion coefficient is determined. After that, nitrogen atoms present as impurities and recombined on the cathode surface and/or field emission determine the breakdown time delay down to the cosmic rays and natural radioactivity level.
A study of the initial stages of the electrochemical deposition of thallium on copper, Part IV. The potential step results: Underpotential deposition on (111), (110) and (100) oriented copper single c
Authors: Jovicevic Jovan , Bewick Alan
Published: November 2007

The underpotential deposition and dissolution of thallium onto carefully chemically polished single crystal copper (111), (110) and (100) electrode surfaces from acetate, sulphate and perchlorate solutions have been investigated using single and double potential step techniques. It appeared that the different anions used did not change the current-time response characteristics significantly. Current-time responses to the potential steps applied strongly resemble those observed in the case of thallium underpotential deposition on silver single crystals [1]. The characteristics of i-t transients obtained by single potential step suggest very fast 2D crystal growth processes taking place. Sharp linear voltammetry peaks, which are observed for both thallium and lead deposition on Cu(111) [3,8] and on Ag(111) [1,3], probably always indicate nucleative phase formation processes but the rate of the lattice growth step will vary from system to system. Comparison of the obtained results with those for lead underpotential deposition [8-13] on Cu(111), (110) and (100) suggests that, in the present case, the rate of the 2D lattice building process for both thallium underpotential monolayers formed on three copper single crystal surfaces examined is so fast that it becomes controlled by diffusive processes; this will probably be surface diffusion [24,25] initially and, at longer times planar bulk diffusion. Double pulse experiments did not help significantly in attempts to obtain i-t transients capable of providing data suitable for showing conclusively the occurrence of 2D crystal formation processes. A similar situation occurred also with silver substrates [1].
A study of the initial stages of the electrochemical deposition of thallium on copper, Part V. The potential step results: Overpotential deposition on (111), (110) and (100) oriented copper single cry
Authors: Jovicevic Jovan , Bewick Alan
Published: November 2007

The over potential deposition of thallium onto carefully chemically polished single crystal copper (111), (110) and (100) electrode from sulfate and perchlorate solutions have been investigated using single and double potential step techniques. It appears that the different anions used did not change the current-time response characteristics significantly. The charge corresponding to UPD monolayers of thallium (?210?10-6 Ascm-2 for the first, and ?400?10-6 Ascm-2 for both, first and second, monolayers on all three orientations of the copper substrates used) were observed under the initial falloff seen on the current-time transients obtained at very short times, preceding the currenttime relationships for the overpotential deposition. Indication of a rising i-t transient reflecting bulk thallium deposition on Cu(111) and Cu(100) were usually observed at ?=-9mVvs.Tl while an over potential of ?=-10mVvs. Tl was needed for similar effects on Cu(110). The observed i vs. t2 linearity is characteristic to 3D instantaneous nucleation and further growth of 3D centres. The results show no appreciable 3D nucleation occurring until the UPD monolayers were completed. It must be concluded, therefore, that thallium over potential deposition on copper single crystal surfaces starts with a charge transfer controlled 3D instantaneous nucleation and proceeds by 3D growth. After some time the individual 3D centres overlap and the rate of increase of current falls off until finally the limiting current is reached. Similarly to the cases of lead deposition on Ag18 and Cu30 crystals, bulk deposition of thallium commences only after the two UPD close-packed thallium monolayers have been completed on the underlying substrate. Formation of the two UPD thallium close-packed monolayers, in the case of copper (111), (110) and (100) substrates, is an essential precursor to thicker thallium deposits their influence on the initiation of the over potential deposition and its growth mechanism, was shown to be very significant.
A study of the initial stages of the electrochemical deposition of metals on foreign substrates: Lead and thallium on copper and silver surfaces: General discussion
Authors: Jovicevic Jovan , Bewick Alan
Published: November 2007

The basic applicability of the UPD theory of Gerischer et al. has been confirmed in the case of lead and thallium deposition on copper and silver single crystals, but it was shown also that this is only one of the important factors. It was established that the effect of substrate structure on the mechanism of the UPD monolayer formation plays an important role in the addition to the effect of electronegativity difference between the substrate and depositing atoms. An effect of changing the concentration of depositing metal and specifically adsorbing anion were found and attributed to the changes in the electronegativity of the substrate and underpotential layer as a result of changing the electrode potential. It was conclusively proven by the analysis of the peaked current-time transients obtained by potential step measurements and the very sharp voltammetry peaks, that first order 2D phase transformations are possible in UPD systems. It was also found that the L.S.V. peaks reflecting such processes must not be expected to be free from the influence of slow kinetics. It was established that the 2D crystalline metal-like phases with the closest-packed epitaxial structure exist as a stable, final product in UPD. Moreover, the possibility of higher order 2D transformations in UPD has been given strong support by the evidence of gradual monolayer density change with increasing driving force. Lead UPD on vitreous carbon was found to be the result of substrate reconstruction induced by the repeated deposition and dissolution leading to surface condition changes favoring deposition of the first layer. UPD monolayers on copper and silver surfaces always preceded OPD and had a profound effect on its nucleation overpotential (making it very small indeed) or even changing its character from 3D into 2D (in the case of vitreous carbon substrate). It was also shown that lead and thallium OPD on copper and silver single crystals starts off by charge transfer controlled instantaneous 3D nucleation and subsequent growth of 3D centers. Finally, the results obtained in the experiments performed have shown that electrochemical techniques can prove very suitable in the study of 2D phase transformation kinetics and that their further employment in this field should prove particularly rewarding.
Radon indoor concentrations and activity of radionuclides in building materials in Serbia
Authors: Popovic Dragana , Todorovic Dragana
Published: November 2007

The paper presents the results of radon indoor concentrations measurements in homes and public institutions (kindergardens) in Belgrade, as well as the results of the radionuclides content determination in building materials from Serbia, during the eighties and up to the mid-nineties of the 20th century. The activity of the radionuclides was determined on an HPGe detector (ORTEC relative efficiency 20%) by standard gamma spectrometry. Radon indoor concentrations on the grab samples of air were determined by alpha scintillation technique (Lucas scintilation cell with ZnS/Ag). Mean effective dose equivevalents of radon and its progenies in closed space were estimated at 0.074 mSv for radon and 1.22 mSv for its short-lived daughters, in total 1.3 mSv.
Strategic directions in implementation of environmental noise directive in international and national legislation
Authors: Cvetkovic D. , Prascevic M.
Published: November 2007

Until 1996, the noise policy in Europe had concentrated on the regulations of noise emission from noise sources as road traffic, aircraft and equipment used outdoors. Although noise limits have become increasingly stringent over the years, no corresponding significant reduction in noise emission has been observed. In response to this, the European noise policy has been revised to focus on noise reception. Thus, the Green Paper from 1996 defines as the basic aim of future noise policy that "no person should be exposed to noise levels which endanger health and quality of life". The structure of a new future noise policy has to be based on the Directive on the Assessment and Management of Environmental Noise, 2002/43/EC. The Directive defines the three key elements: assessment of environmental noise through strategic noise mapping, implementation of action plans to reduce noise where necessary and information for the public about noise levels and its effects. The Directive defines the common noise indicators and methods for strategic noise mapping as well as the deadline for the Directive implementation. The Directive implementation at national and local level means enacting the new acts or amending existing acts. In this paper, the proposal of steps that can be taken for harmonization of national acts with the basic principles and elements of the Directive is presented and discussed.
Using lasers to measure pollutants
Authors: Terzic Mira , Mozina Janez , Horvat Darja
Published: November 2007

In recent years, a large number of linear and nonlinear laser-based diagnostic techniques for detection of pollutions in different environments have been developed. Applications of laser spectroscopy constitute a vast field, which is difficult to cover comprehensively in a review. Due to that here are presented only a few spectroscopic methods, chosen to illustrate the power of applied laser spectroscopy in environmental pollution investigation. The paper also gives a brief presentation of main laser spectroscopy methods.
Two step current increases in glow discharge development in neon filled diode at 4 mbar
Authors: Radovic Miodrag , Maluckov Cedomir , Mitic Slobodan , Radovanovic Bratislav
Published: November 2007

The results are presented of investigating temporal and spatial development of electrical glow discharge in a neon filled tube under 4mbar pressure. Linear increasing voltage (at 5 V/s increasing voltage rate) is applied to the gas diode. Time dependence of 585.2 nm line light emitted from negative glow is observed from various positions in the diode during formation of electrical discharge. The results show that the development of glow discharge starts in the gap, and propagates to the cathode and in the space around and behind the cathode. An unexpected two-step current rise is found. In the stationary regime, most of the emitted light occupied the cathode carrier rod. This indicates the position where the secondary electron emission is intensive. It corresponds to the second step in the current increase app. 3 ms after the breakdown has already taken place. It is assumed that this step originates from different surface characteristics of the rode material. The analysis of time dependencies of the current and light from the negative glow, from different positions in the gas diode, suggests that the observation of deexcitation processes in gas can be used for determination of early discharge formative processes, as well as processes that lead to the stationary regime in the gas diode tube.
Physics background as a systematic effect in luminosity measurement at International Linear Collider
Authors: Bozovic-Jelisavcic Ivanka , Pandurovic Mila , Mudrinic Mihajlo , Smiljanic Ivan
Published: November 2007

In order to achieve required precision of luminosity measurement at the International Linear Collider (ILC), that is, of order of 10-4, systematic effects have to be understood at the level of this precision. Apart from machine background originating from pairs converted from beamstrahlung, physics background from 2- photon processes is one of the main systematic effects. Properties of these processes, as well as their separation from the Bhabha signal have been studied.
Kinetic theory of electrostatic ion cyclotron waves (QPESIC) in multicomponent plasmas with negative ions
Authors: Simic Darko , Gajic Dragan
Published: November 2007

The instabilities of the quasi-perpendicular electrostatic (?B = 0) ioncyclotron waves (QPESIC) are investigated. The kinetic theory with BGK model collision integrals is used to estimate the critical electron drift velocity in the presence of positively or negatively charged resonant ions in multi-component plasma. Analytical evaluation for the ion-cyclotron modes and instabilities in the long-wave range in a weakly-ionized Maxwellian plasma with two positive ion species, one negative ion species and with electrons, drifting along magnetic lines of force is demonstrated. The spectrum in these situations is also given. It is shown that the critical drift decreases as the state of plasma approaches the isothermic state.
A comparative analysis of the fatty acids of Yaka, Prilep and Otlja tobaccos
Authors: Stojanovic Gordana , Palic Radosav , Arsic Biljana , Velickovic Dragan , Alagic Sladjana
Published: November 2007

Content and composition of total and free fatty acids of the air dried leaves of the Serbian selected tobaccos type Prilep, Yaka and Otlja were investigated by GC. In all three tobacco types palmitic acid was the major component: 47.1% of the total acids and 17.0% of the free acids for Prilep, 43.9% of the total acids and 16.0% of the free acids for Yaka and 34.2% of the total acids and 5.0% of the free acids for Otlja tobacco. The U/S values for free and total fatty acids, as well as the content of free fatty acids for the semioriental tobacco Otlja, were almost twice higher than in oriental Yaka and Prilep making them a good marker characteristic distinguishing the two tobacco types.
Influence of different parameters on dyeing of knitting material with reactive dyes
Authors: Miljkovic Milena , Ignjatovic Vesna , Zarubica Aleksandra
Published: November 2007

Our studies concern the effects of different parameters on dyeing process of knitting materials with reactive vinyl sulphonic dyes. Based on the corresponding parameters correlations, an estimation of ultrasound application validity in dyeing processes of cotton - type textile substrates has been established. Desired color hue may be attained with application of ultrasound reducing dye concentration or shortening dyeing time for 20 min with reduction of salt concentration even to 20 g/dm3.
Nosocomial infections in patients with acute central nervous system infections
Authors: Gajovic Olgica , Canovic Predrag , Mijailovic Zeljko , Lazic Zorica
Published: November 2007

Due to current increase in the rate of nosocomial infections, our objective was to examine the frequency, risk factors, clinical presentation and etiology of nosocomial infections in patients with central nervous system infections. 2246 patients with central nervous system infections, treated in the intensive care units of the Institute of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Center of Serbia in Belgrade and at the Department of Infectious Diseases of the Clinical Hospital Center Kragujevac, were included in this retrospective and prospective study. Clinical manifestations of nosocomial infections were registered in 180 (12.7%) patients. Direct risk factors for nosocomial infections were: venous lines, urinary catheter, length of stay over 20 days, inhibitors of gastric secretion, consciousness disorders and coma, endotracheal intubation, tracheotomy and controlled ventilation for 5 days or more. The most frequent clinical presentations of nosocomial infections were: tract urinary infections, bacteriemia/sepsis and nosocomial pneumonia. Significantly higher frequency of death outcomes was registered in patients with nosocomial infections.
Characteristics of galanin and vasoactive intestinal peptide immunoreactivity in the rat amygdala complex
Authors: Puskas Laslo , Puskas Nela , Malobabic Slobodan , Krivokuca Dragan , Stankovic Gordana , Radonjic Vidosava
Published: November 2007

Introduction Morphological features and morphometric parameters of galanin (GAL) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) immunoreactive neurons and neuronal fibres were studied in all nuclei of adult male rat amygdala. Material and methods After perfusion and fixation, rat brains were immunohistochemically stained with antibodies against GAL and VIP and then visualized by avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex. Results and Discussion The greatest number of galanin-immunoreactive neurons were identified in the medial part of the central nucleus and in the dorsal part of the medial nucleus. In the first case, most neurons were bipolar (37%), and in the second, they were ovoid (45%). GAL-immunoreactive fibers were identified in the medial nucleus, "bed nucleus" of the accessory olfactory tract, frontal cortical nucleus, amygdalo-hippocampal area and basolateral nucleus. VIP-immunoreactive neurons were diffusely distributed in more nuclei than the previous, mostly in the lateral, basolateral, and basomedial nucleus. They were mostly ovoid (40%). VIP-immunoreactive fibers were observed in the lateral part of the central nucleus, while long and radially oriented fibers were present in the frontal and dorsal cortical nucleus. Conclusion By distribution analysis of GAL and VIP immunoreactive neurons and fibers, and according to literature data, it can be assumed that the medial part of the central nucleus receives VIP fibers from other parts of the amygdaloid body, and then sends GAL fibers to the medial nucleus.
Surgical techniques and outcomes in the treatment of malignant tongue base tumors
Authors: Kljajic Vladimir , Jovic Rajko , Canji Karol , Nikolin Borislava , Gavrilovic Milan
Published: November 2007

Introduction Prognosis of patients with malignant tongue base tumors is poor. Survival is low, in spite of different treatment modalities. Most patients seek treatment too late, when their disease has already progressed to stage III or IV. The aim of this investigation was to compare different treatment modalities in patients with malignant tongue base tumors. Material and methods We have analyzed a total of 82 patients (72 men and 6 women) treated at the ENT Clinic, Clinical Center Novi Sad, between 1992 and 2004. The average age of our patients was 59 years. In regard to lifestyle habits, out of 82 patients, 67 were smokers and 57 were alcohol users (16 of the latter were treated alcoholics). The majority (54/82) of patients were both smokers and alcohol users. Results There were 6% of patients (5/82) with stage I disease, 15% of patients (12/82) with stage II, 24% of patients (20/82) with stage III and 55% of patient (45/82) with stage IV disease. Planocellular cancer was diagnosed in 79/82 patients, and the remaining (3/82) had transitional cell carcinoma. Surgical treatment alone was performed in 17 patients, seven were treated with radiation only, and nine only with chemotherapy. Combined surgical and radiation therapy was performed in 28 patients, and 5 were treated with all three. Ten patients were not treated with any therapy. Tongue base resection only was performed in 12 patients, tongue base resection with epiglottectomy in 20, tongue base resection with supraglottic laryngectomy in 13 and tongue base resection with total laryngectomy in 5 patients. In radiation only cases, 25% of patients survived 20 months, whereas in surgery only cases, 25% of patients survived 27 months. Five-year survival after combined surgical and radiation therapy was 35%. Conclusion Development of tongue base carcinoma is strongly associated with alcohol and tobacco consumption. Survival is low, despite various treatment modalities. However, combined therapy is the therapy of choice in cases with tongue base carcinoma.
Acute appendicitis in a femoral hernia
Authors: Zdravkovic Darko , Masirevic Radivoj , Bilanovic Dragoljub , Masirevic Vesna , Zdravkovic Marija , Milinic Nikola
Published: November 2007

INTRODUCTION Acute appendicitis in a femoral hernia is an uncommon condition that can be serious. Complications are more frequent if the diagnosis is delayed and surgery is not performed on time. CASE REPORT We present a 71-year-old man with a painful swollen mass. The patient presented with fatigue and loss of appetite, while body temperature was normal. The abdomen was not painful, and peristaltic was normal. All laboratory findings were normal. After anamnesis and physical examination, the presumed diagnosis was incarcerated femoral hernia and the patient was sent to the operating room. Intraoperative findings revealed an incarcerated femoral hernia within a phlegmonous inflammated appendix. Appendectomy and McVay hernioplastics were done. The postoperative course was without complications. CONCLUSION It is very important to bear in mind that right femoral hernia with signs of incarceration and inflammation may contain an acutely inflamed appendix. Delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis cause greater morbidity and mortality.
Hyperopia in preschool and school children
Authors: Bolinovska Sofija
Published: November 2007

Hypermetropia (hyperopia) is a refractive error of the eye in which parallel light rays focus behind the macula luthea without accommodation giving an unclear retinal image. The involvement of accommodation in correction of far-sightedness leads to the following three clinical types of hyperopia: total, latent and manifest. Minor hyperopias can be successfully corrected by accommodation higher than +3.0D. If not corrected timely, they may cause amblyopia and esotropia, while high hyperopic anisometropia of a hyperopic eye, usually results in an amblyopic eye. The study included 200 children (400 eyes) within the age range of 3 to 18 years, and it was done following the assigned protocol in the course of clinical ophthalmologic check-ups. The most frequent refractive error in the examined children was hyperopia with hyperopic astigmatism, while anisometropia was found in 22% of children but the frequency was reduced in older children. Refractive family history was found in 60.50% of children. Hyperopia can result in poor visual development, occurrence of amblyopia and strabismus and therefore it represents a significant public health problem. As one of the most frequent amblyogenic factors in children, it can be eliminated/prevented by a screening program and adequate treatment providing prevention of amblyopia, which is a form of blindness. .
Altered state of consciousness as a factor affecting the course and consequences of acute viral encephalitis
Authors: Nesic Ljiljana , Todorovic Zoran , Gajovic Olgica , Canovic Predrag
Published: November 2007

Introduction. Acute viral encephalitis is an infectious disease, which is characterized by sudden onset, serious clinical picture and with an uncertain outcome. Disturbances of consciousness are common in the course of acute viral encephalitis. Consciousness is the highest form of psychic life and consciousness disturbances may include quantitative (somnolentia, sopor, coma) and qualitative symptoms (convulsions, twilight state). Material and methods. We investigated 63 patients with acute viral encephalitis. The youngest patient was 15, and the oldest one 69 years of age. We examined the state of consciousness in all patients. Results Of all examined patients, 54 (85.72%) patients had disturbances of consciousness, 9 (14.25%) patients had no consciousness disturbances, 11 (17.46%) patients had sopor and 24 (38.09%) patients were in coma. The highest percentage of lethal outcomes was recorded in coma patients (12.5%). The longer the duration of consciousness disturbances, the higher the mortality among these patients. Discussion Subjective and objective factors cause different grades and duration of consciousness disturbances. The highest percentage of patients who recovered without consequences was established in the group of patients (81.82%) with somnolence. The highest percentage of patients who recovered with consequences (20.8%) and patients (12.5%) with lethal outcome was recorded in the group of patients in coma. These findings are in correlation with literature data. .
Anemia in patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Dimkovic Nada
Published: November 2007

Introduction: Anemia is more common and pronounced in patients with diabetic, than in patients with non-diabetic renal disease. While several factors contribute to its pathogenesis, the failure of the kidney to increase erythropoietin in response to falling hemoglobin appears to be the dominant factor. The most frequent complications of anemia in diabetic patients include decreased quality of life and work capacity and increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional multicenter study included a total of 539 patients with type I (~20%) and type II diabetes (~80%) classified into five stages according to the glomerular filtration rate. Results Diabetic nephropathy appears in stage I, and progresses in all patients to the stage V (p=0.045). The presence of anemia progressively increased from stage I to stage V (from 60% to 100%, p=0.008). Only 62% of patients with anemia were treated (mainly with iron) and only 3.4% received erythropoietin treatment. Hypertension was present in 90% of patients in stage I and in 100% of patients in stage V nephropathy. The presence of heart failure increased from 0% (stage I) to 51% (stage IV, p=0.03). Around 62% of patients were referred to a nephrologist, and according to the logistic regression model, renal failure and presence of anemia were significant predictors of patients' referral to nephrologist. Conclusion: In a primary care setting, anemia is a frequent finding, even in the very beginning of diabetic renal disease. Currently available guidelines for management of anemia are not followed; this may explain high percentage of patients with heart failure in pre-dialysis stage. Early referral to a nephrologist and regular follow-up by an endocrinologist and cardiologist are the best way for the prevention of diabetic complications and comorbidity.