bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future species composition will affect forest water use after loss of eastern hemlock from southern Appalachian forests
Authors: Brantley Steven , Ford Chelcy R. , Vose James M.
Published: January 2013

Infestation of eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis (L.) Carr.) with hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA, Adelges tsugae) has caused widespread mortality of this key canopy species throughout much of the southern Appalachian Mountains in the past decade. Because eastern hemlock is heavily concentrated in riparian habitats, maintains a dense canopy, and has an evergreen leaf habit, its loss is expected to have a major impact on forest processes, including transpiration (Et). Our goal was to estimate changes in stand‐level Et since HWA infestation, and predict future effects of forest regeneration on forest Et in declining eastern hemlock stands where hemlock represented 50–60% of forest basal area. We used a combination of community surveys, sap flux measurements, and empirical models relating sap flux‐scaled leaf‐level transpiration (EL) to climate to estimate the change in Et after hemlock mortality and forecast how forest Et will change in the future in response to eastern hemlock loss.

From 2004 to 2011, eastern hemlock mortality reduced annual forest Et by 22% and reduced winter Et by 74%. As hemlock mortality increased, growth of deciduous tree species—especially sweet birch (Betula lenta L.), red maple (Acer rubrum L.), yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.), and the evergreen understory shrub rosebay rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum L.)— also increased, and these species will probably dominate post‐hemlock riparian forests. All of these species have higher daytime EL rates than hemlock, and replacement of hemlock with species that have less conservative transpiration rates will result in rapid recovery of annual stand Et. Further, we predict that annual stand Et will eventually surpass Et levels observed before hemlock was infested with HWA. This long‐term increase in forest Et may eventually reduce stream discharge, especially during the growing season. However, the dominance of deciduous species in the canopy will result in a permanent reduction in winter Et and possible increase in winter stream discharge. The effects of hemlock die‐off and replacement with deciduous species will have a significant impact on the hydrologic flux of forest transpiration, especially in winter. These results highlight the impact that invasive species can have on landscape‐level ecosystem fluxes.
New Attempts to Modify Periodontal Risk Assessment for Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lü Da , Meng Huanxin , Xu Li , Lu Ruifang , Zhang Li , Chen Zhibin , Feng Xianghui , Shi Dong , Tian Yu , Wang Xian'e
Published: January 2013

Background: Periodontal risk assessment (PRA) model was designed for risk evaluation of treated patients with periodontal disease. However, its use on generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP) had been scarcely reported. This study aims to investigate the association of original PRA/modified PRA (MPRA) and compliance of periodontal maintenance with long‐term treatment outcomes of Chinese patients with GAgP.

Methods: Eighty‐eight patients from a GAgP cohort, who completed active periodontal treatment (APT) and accepted reevaluation 3 to 11 years (mean of 5.5 years) afterward, were enrolled. PRA was modified (three strategies involving replacement of bleeding on probing with bleeding index >2, counting sites with probing depth ≥6 mm and changing method of bone loss [BL] calculation) to classify patients into different risk groups based on data at the first recall after APT. PRA and three MPRA models were investigated regarding long‐term association with tooth loss (TL) and alteration of bone level (∆BL).

Results: Based on original PRA, 87 patients (98.8%) had a high‐risk profile. According to three MPRA models, annual TL per patient values were greater in high‐risk groups than in low‐to‐moderate risk groups (MPRA‐1, 0.20 ± 0.33 versus 0.04 ± 0.14; MPRA‐2, 0.18 ± 0.32 versus 0.05 ± 0.14; MPRA‐3, 0.17 ± 0.32 versus 0.05 ± 0.15; P <0.05). By MPRA‐1, irregular compliers with low‐to‐moderate risk profile had greater ∆BL (0.027 ± 0.031, indicating bone increment) than those with high risk (−0.012 ± 0.064, tendency for BL). For regular compliers, no significant differences of annual TL or ∆BL were found between risk groups.

Conclusions: MPRA models could be used for evaluating the long‐term outcomes of Chinese patients with severe GAgP, especially irregular compliers. High‐risk patients of MPRAs exhibited more TL and less bone fill than low‐to‐moderate risk ones.
Re-oligotrophication as a challenge for tropical reservoir management with reference to Itaparica Reservoir, São Francisco, Brazil
Authors: Gunkel G. , Sobral M.
Published: January 2013

The process of reservoir eutrophication has been recognised as a central problem in tropical reservoir environmental quality. Effects of eutrophication are complex interactions involving a decrease in water quality, especially loss of aquatic biodiversity, occurrence of undesired species such as cyanobacteria with its cyanotoxins, mass development of macrophytes such as Egeria densa with its mechanical impact on turbines, and an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, mainly of methane. The eutrophication process can be described by the OECD critical load concept or related models. The phosphorus use efficiency is given by the Chl a–P – relationship, indicating eutrophic conditions by only 10 μg L−1 P in Itaparica Reservoir, Brazil. Eutrophication of the reservoir is quantified for internal phosphorus sources (inflow, mineralisation of inundated soils and vegetation, net cage aquaculture) and external ones (agriculture, emissions of natural caatinga vegetation and rural communities) The actual internal P load is calculated to be 0.40 g m−2 a−1, and the critical P load is given with 1.20 g m−2 a−1. The external P load amounts about 1.16 g m−2 a−1 and thus exceeds the critical export rate of 7.1 kg km−2 a−1 by 50%, thus a bundling of measurements has to be considered when attempting to promote re-oligotrophication.
Magnetic field assisted photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes in the presence of Ag/TiO2 coated composite
Authors: Wang Jian , Gao Jingqun , Wang Jun , Zhai Yu , Wang Zhongxing , Wang Baoxin , Han Guangxi
Published: January 2013

Ag/TiO2 coated composite was prepared via sol-gel method in order to elucidate its application in magnetic field assisted photocatalytic degradation of dyes. Through the degradation of organic dyes, the key influences such as Ag amount, heat-treated temperature and time on the photocatalytic activity of Ag/TiO2, as well as UV irradiation time, rotational speed, dye concentration and magnetic sheet number on the photocatalytic degradation were studied. Results showed that the Ag/TiO2 with 25 wt% Ag content heat-treated at 550 °C for 60 min has the best photocatalytic activity. With the increase of UV light irradiation time, rotational speed and magnetic sheet number, the degradation rate is improved. Different dye degradation proved that the method could universally be used.
Removal performance of heavy metals in MBR systems and their influence in water reuse
Authors: Arévalo Juan , Ruiz Luz Marina , Pérez Jorge , Moreno Begoña , Gómez Miguel Ángel
Published: January 2013

The removal performance of heavy metals by two experimental full-scale membrane bioreactors (microfiltration and ultrafiltration) and the influence of activated sludge total suspended solid (TSS) concentration were studied under real operational conditions. Influent and effluent Be, Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Mo, Cd, Ba, Sn, Sb, Pb and U concentrations were analysed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. An average contamination rate for most of the analysed heavy metals was observed in raw wastewater, resulting in effluents without limitation for reuse in agricultural destinations according to Spanish law. Removal efficiencies up to 80% were obtained regardless of whether microfiltration or ultrafiltration membranes were used, except for As, Mo and Sb. The removal yields of different heavy metals can be strengthened by increasing the activated sludge TSS concentration, mainly at concentrations above 10 g/L.
Nutrient solubilization and its availability following anaerobic digestion
Authors: Mehta Chirag M. , Batstone Damien J.
Published: January 2013

This study aims to investigate solubilization of elements (P, N, K, Ca and Mg) during anaerobic digestion (AD) of solid agriculture waste. It is important to maintain particularly phosphorous in the aqueous phase to be able to subsequently recover it in a concentrated form via crystallization. Batch AD was carried out at a mesophilic condition (37 °C) and pH 7.0 ± 0.2 on a variety of piggery and poultry solid waste streams. Less than 10% of the total P, Ca and Mg was in soluble form in the digestate. Most of the N and K remained soluble in the digestate. A bioavailability test (citric acid extraction) showed P, Ca and Mg in the digestate were totally available. Complete solubilization of P, Ca and Mg occurred below a threshold of pH 5.5. This indicates these nutrients were released during digestion, and then either bound to form inorganic compounds or adsorbed on solid surfaces in the digestate. These effects reduce the feasibility of post-digestion recovery of the nutrients via struvite crystallization. Strategies to improve nutrient solubilization and recovery during the AD include addition of complexing chemicals, operation at depressed pH, or otherwise modifying the operating conditions.
Generalization and formalization of the US EPA procedure for design of treated wastewater aquifer recharge basins: II. Retrofit of Souhil Wadi (Nabeul, Tunisia) pilot plant
Authors: Kallali Hamadi , Yoshida Mitsuo , Tarhouni Jamila , Jedidi Naceur
Published: January 2013

The ‘Cap Bon’ peninsula in Tunisia suffers from intensive tourist activities, high demographic increase and industrial development. As groundwater had been for a long time the main water source, aquifers had been subject to a severe depletion and seawater intrusion. Despite the measures taken prohibiting new drillings and water carrying by the construction of a waterway linking the region to the north-west region of Tunisia, the problem of water shortage persists. Artificial recharge of groundwater with treated wastewater has been decided as a technique to replenish the region aquifers. A pilot plant was constructed in the early 1980s in Souhil Wadi (Nabeul) area. Many experiments have been carried out on this plant and have led to controversial opinions about its performance and its impact on groundwater contamination. This contribution concerns the application of the procedure that we developed from the generalization and the formalization of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) methodology for the design of treated wastewater aquifer recharge basins. This upgrading procedure implemented in a spreadsheet, has been used to retrofit the Souhil Wadi facility in order to improve its performance. This method highlighted the importance of the safety factor to estimate wastewater infiltration rate from clean water permeability measurements. It has, also, demonstrated the discordance between the initial design parameters of Souhil Wadi facility and their current status as they have changed with time and the infiltration capacity of the basins has been affected by clogging. Indeed, it has been demonstrated that with the current state of clogging of the basins, the design infiltration rate limited by the most restrictive layer (6.1 cm/hr) corresponds to 22% of the surface infiltration rate reached after a drying period of 10 d, which means that we need more basins to absorb the daily loading rate. The design method leads to the construct ion of five basins of 961 m2 (31 × 31 m) each, with one basin being flooded for 3 d with 27 cm of water daily and rested for 10 d. The current status is completely different as only four basins are constructed with 324 m2 each. Many actions in the short, medium and long term have been advised in order to improve the system performance.
Granular activated carbon for removal of organic matter and turbidity from secondary wastewater
Authors: Hatt J. W. , Germain E. , Judd S. J.
Published: January 2013

A range of commercial granular activated carbon (GAC) media have been assessed as pretreatment technologies for a downstream microfiltration (MF) process. Media were assessed on the basis of reduction in both organic matter and turbidity, since these are known to cause fouling in MF membranes. Isotherm adsorption analysis through jar testing with supplementary column trials revealed a wide variation between the different adsorbent materials with regard to organics removal and adsorption kinetics. Comparison with previous work using powdered activated carbon (PAC) revealed that for organic removal above 60% the use of GAC media incurs a significantly lower carbon usage rate than PAC. All GACs tested achieved a minimum of 80% turbidity removal. This combination of turbidity and organic removal suggests that GAC would be expected to provide a significant reduction in fouling of a downstream MF process with improved product water quality.
Removal of APIs and bacteria from hospital wastewater by MBR plus O3, O3 + H2O2, PAC or ClO2
Authors: Nielsen U. , Hastrup C. , Klausen M. M. , Pedersen B. M. , Kristensen G. H. , Jansen J. L. C. , Bak S. N. , Tuerk J.
Published: January 2013

The objective of this study has been to develop technologies that can reduce the content of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and bacteria from hospital wastewater. The results from the laboratory- and pilot-scale testings showed that efficient removal of the vast majority of APIs could be achieved by a membrane bioreactor (MBR) followed by ozone, ozone + hydrogen peroxide or powdered activated carbon (PAC). Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) was significantly less effective. MBR + PAC (450 mg/l) was the most efficient technology, while the most cost-efficient technology was MBR + ozone (156 mg O3/l applied over 20 min). With MBR an efficient removal of Escherichia coli and enterococci was measured, and no antibiotic resistant bacteria were detected in the effluent. With MBR + ozone and MBR + PAC also the measured effluent concentrations of APIs (e.g. ciprofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole and sulfamethizole) were below available predicted no-effect concentrations (PNEC) for the marine environment without dilution. Iodinated contrast media were also reduced significantly (80–99% for iohexol, iopromide and ioversol and 40–99% for amidotrizoateacid). A full-scale MBR treatment plant with ozone at a hospital with 900 beds is estimated to require an investment cost of €1.6 mill. and an operating cost of €1/m3 of treated water.
Comparative Evaluation of HIV-1 Neutralization in External Secretions and Sera of HIV-1-Infected Women
Authors: Wei Qing , Moldoveanu Zina , Huang Wen-Qiang , Alexander Rashada C , Goepfert Paul A , Mestecky Jiri
Published: January 2013

Objectives:

Although human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-specific antibodies are detectable in external secretions by ELISA and western blot (WB), the presence of HIV-1 neutralizing antibodies is difficult to evaluate due to the low levels of immunoglobulins (Ig) and the presence of humoral factors of innate immunity. The objective of this study was to determine virus neutralization activity and the relative contribution of HIV-1-specific antibodies of various isotypes to virus neutralization in serum/plasma samples, cervicovaginal lavages (CVL), and rectal lavages (RL).

Design:

Serum/plasma, CVL, and RL samples were examined by ELISA, WB and HIV-1 neutralization assays. Selected samples were Ig depleted and analyzed for virus neutralization.

Results:

IgG specific for three HIV-1 ENV antigens was detected in all serum/plasma samples, while IgA to at least one ENV glycoprotein was found at the low levels in 95% samples. Serum/plasma samples had the ability to neutralize at least one of three clade B and two clade C viruses. The neutralizing titers were reduced significantly or became undetectable after IgG removal. In corresponding CVL and RL, HIV-1 ENV-specific IgG antibodies were readily detected compared to IgA. Furthermore, IgG in CVL had greater ability than IgA to reduce virus infectivity. The difference in HIV-1 neutralization before and after Ig depletion was not observed in RL, implying that innate humoral factors were involved in anti-HIV-1 activity.

Conclusions:

Results demonstrate that HIV-1-specific neutralizing antibodies are almost exclusively of the IgG isotype in serum/plasma and CVL samples. HIV-1-specific binding antibodies detected in RL are not responsible for neutralization activity, suggesting that the antibody-mediated virus neutralization in external secretions should be verified by means of a selective depletion of Ig.
Biomarker Approach in Marine Monitoring and Assessment: New Insights and Perspectives
Authors: Schettino T. , Caricato R. , Calisi A. , Giordano M.E. , Lionetto M.G.
Published: January 2013

The measurement of cellular and sub cellular responses to chemical contaminants (referred to as biomarkers) in
living organisms represents a recent tool in environmental monitoring. It answers to the need to detect exposure and to
assess effects of pollutants on biota. Biomarkers have recently become an integral component of environmental
monitoring programmes of marine environments in several countries as a supplement to the commonly used contaminant
monitoring. The review reports and analyzes new insights and perspectives in the biomarker approach, including its recent
application to the detection of the impact of biological pollution in marine environment.
Genetics and Outcome of Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Authors: Fremeaux-Bacchi Véronique , Fakhouri Fadi , Garnier Arnaud , Bienaimé Frank , Dragon-Durey Marie-Agnès , Ngo Stéphanie , Moulin Bruno , Servais Aude , Provot François , Rostaing Lionel , Burtey Stéphane , Niaudet Patrick , Deschênes Georges , Lebranchu Yvon , Zuber Julien , Loirat Chantal
Published: January 2013

Background and objectives

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare complement-mediated kidney disease that was first recognized in children but also affects adults. This study assessed the disease presentation and outcome in a nationwide cohort of patients with aHUS according to the age at onset and the underlying complement abnormalities.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

A total of 214 patients with aHUS were enrolled between 2000 and 2008 and screened for mutations in the six susceptibility factors for aHUS and for anti–factor H antibodies.

Results

Onset of aHUS occurred as frequently during adulthood (58.4%) as during childhood (41.6%). The percentages of patients who developed the disease were 23%, 40%, 70%, and 98% by age 2, 18, 40, and 60 years, respectively. Mortality was higher in children than in adults (6.7% versus 0.8% at 1 year) (P=0.02), but progression to ESRD after the first aHUS episode was more frequent in adults (46% versus 16%; P<0.001). Sixty-one percent of patients had mutations in their complement genes. The renal outcome was not significantly different in adults regardless of genetic background. Only membrane cofactor protein (MCP) and undetermined aHUS were less severe in children than adults. The frequency of relapse after 1 year was 92% in children with MCP-associated HUS and approximately 30% in all other subgroups.

Conclusion

Mortality rate was higher in children than adults with aHUS, but renal prognosis was worse in adults than children. In children, the prognosis strongly depends on the genetic background.
The justification for application and development trends	of non-conventional rodenticides in protection of alfalfa from rodents
Authors: Vuksa M. , Jokic G. , Djedovic S. , Vuksa P. , Stojnic B.
Published: January 2013

This paper presents the harmful rodents in alfalfa in Serbia in the first
decade of this century. We also review the products registered and assessed
the efficiency of conventional (acute) rodenticides, anticoagulant and
rodenticides based on environmentally friendly active ingredients. In
addition to anticoagulants of second generation, whose mechanism of action is
based on a synthesis of the factors preventing blood coagulation, in the
latest of the eighties, and in early of nineties introduced products based on
vitamin D3-cholecalciferol. Their mechanism of action is based on the
mobilization of calcium from bone and tissue and calcification of blood
vessels, kidney, liver, heart muscle leading to delays in the work of these
bodies. The last decade of the last century have been recorded and products
based on trace element selenium (Se), the mechanism of action is based on the
replacement of thiol functional enzymes SS groups. Also presents the
possibility of application of ecological cellulose product in the field. In
the world, so far, cellulose based rodenticides are only registered in
municipal buildings. Its mechanism of action is based on interference with
the absorption of water leading to dehydration in rodents. Rodents do not
develop resistance to products based on vitamin D3 and selenium, a cellulose
product is favourable toxicological and eco-toxicological point.
An assessment of dairy farm structure and characteristics of dairy production systems in Serbia
Authors: Bogdanovic V. , Djedovic R. , Perisic P. , Stanojevic D. , Petrovic M.D. , Trivunovic S. , Kucevic D. , Petrovic M.M.
Published: January 2013

In order to have a more precise description of dairy farm structure and
characteristics of dairy production systems, as well as to assess
possibilities for improving production and farming conditions in which milk
production is organized, a survey based research was directed at a select
group of farms across the Serbia. 1180 questionnaires have been mailed to
farmers whose farms are registered for either cattle or mixed production.
Questionnaire was divided into 6 sections: general information of the farm,
agricultural and structural information, zootechnical information, sanitary
and veterinarian information, information about education and extension, and
information on the perspectives of future farming. About 59% of analyzed
farms have size up to 20 ha, with average size of about 10 ha. On the other
hand, about 55% farms raises up to 15 cows and heifers with average of 6
heads per farm, while 3% of farms have more than 200 cows and heifers. Over
86% of surveyed farmers intend to expand existing farm production, mainly by
increasing the number of animals, stricter selection and improvement of the
conditions for feeding, housing, care and milking. About 75% of farmers have
expressed a positive expectation from future membership of Serbia in EU,
although these expectations are not clearly defined.
Relationship among blood metabolites and lipid content in the liver in transitional dairy cows
Authors: Djokovic R. , Samanc H. , Petrovic M.D. , Ilic Z. , Kurcubic V.
Published: January 2013

The objective of the present study was to determine a relationship among
blood indicators of hepatic function and lipid content in the liver during
transitional period in dairy cows. Late pregnant and calved cows (n= 40) were
selected from a Holstein dairy herd and allocated to four groups: a late
pregnant cows (n=10) from day 15 to day 5 before calving; late pregnant cows
(n=10) from day 5 to day 1 before calving; clinically puerperal healthy cows
(n=10) and clinically ketotic puerperal cows (n=10). Liver and blood samples
were taken from all cows. The results of present investigation have shown
that the lipid content in the liver and the blood non-esterificed fatty
acids, ?-hydroxybutyrate, total bilirubin concentrations and the AST
activities were significantly higher (P<0.05) as well the blood glucose,
total cholesterol, triglycerides and albumin concentrations were
significantly lower (P<0.05) in puerperal ketotic cows as compared to the
values of these parameters in the blood of healthy cows. The fat proportions
in liver were positively (P<0.05) associated with the AST activities and with
the serum NEFA and BHB concentrations, but negatively correlated (P<0.05)
with the circulating triglyceride, total cholesterol and albumin
concentrations, All these biochemical metabolites may be used as important
biochemical indicators in the determination of the functional status of the
liver in dairy cows during the transition period.
The influence of corn silage in dairy cows feeding on calcium, phosphorus and magnesium contents in the blood serum
Authors: Stojkovic J. , Ilic Z. , Ciric S. , Ristanovic B. , Petrovic M.P. , Caro-Petrovic V. , Djokovic R.
Published: January 2013

The amount of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium in milking cows, blood was
tested and it is one of indicators that cows were fed with these substances.
The average amount of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium in blood of milking
cows was tested and it is one of indicators that cows were fed with these
substances. The average amount of calcium in tested cows, blood is 2.82
mmol/l, the average amount of phosphorus is 1.66 and the average amount of
magnesium is 1.29 mmol/l. Cows, were fed by corn silage, alfalfa hay, along
with concentrate of standard mineral composition.
Comparative description of the mammary gland of Dubska pramenka during the dry period and lactation
Authors: Katica A. , Mlaco N. , Hamamdzic M. , Varatanovic N. , Cengic B.
Published: January 2013

Glandulla mammae is a secondary sexual characteristic. The composition and
structure of the mammary gland depends on the functional state of the gland
and is affected by hormones. The mammary gland reaches its full development
during gestation and it becomes functional and secretory upon delivery.
Lactocytes of the mammary gland may be squamous in shape, low or high
prismatic, depending on the phase of the glandular cycle. Lactocytes are
affected by LTH hormones due to which they are called prolactin. The function
of the mammary gland is also affected by STH, and indirectly by TTH. Examined
material was taken from Central Bosnia Canton, under field conditions of
veterinary practice. The assay of histological features of the mammary gland
of Dubska pramenka was conducted during the dry period as well as during
lactation. The total number of animals was 16, eight (8) during the dry
period and eight (8) during lactation period. Following the development of
histological preparations, we conducted a descriptive overview -
interpretation of the histological structures. The study of histological
preparations of the mammary gland of Dubska pramenka during the dry period
and lactation shows that the parenchyma is well developed, more or less, with
reduced intersticium. Histological appereance of the lactocytes resembles
that of the perifollicular tissue, the presence of different cells is higher
during the lactation - the onset of glandural cycle. Well-developed
lactiferous ducts with cavity, with or without secretion, but with preserved
epithelium are the characteristics of both periods. The glandural tissue is
well-developed and the secretion was present regardless of the examination
period.
Genetic and phenotypic aspects of the body measured traits in merinolandschaf breed of sheep
Authors: Petrovic M.P. , Caro-Petrovic V. , Ruzic-Muslic D. , Ilic Z. , Spasic Z. , Stojkovic J. , Milenkovic M.
Published: January 2013

Merinolandschaf sheep breed was used to estimate relationship between the
next traits: Body weight of adult ewes (BW), Height to withers (HW), Body
length (BL), Girth of Chest (GC), Rump Width (RW), Body weight of lambs at
birth (BWB), Body weight of lambs at weaning (BWW). The collected data were
from 750 sheep and their lambs during the period of three year. Estimates of
means and standard errors for linear body measures and body weight of adult
ewes and lambs, were obtained using the software program SPSS (2006). To
estimate genetic and phenotypic correlations of observed traits, the ASREML
program was used. Research has shown that genetic correlations between BW and
all body measures of dams, ranging from 0.728 (BW-GC) to 0.976 (BW-HW).
Genetic correlation between body measures of dams have also been positive and
ranged in the interval from 0.873 (HW-GC) to 0.999 (BL-GC). Values for
phenotypic correlations were lower compared with the genetic and the range
varied from 0.183 (RW-BWB) to 0.421 (GC-BWW). The weaker phenotype
correlations can be interpreted as play of more complex genetic and residual
factors.
The effect of crossing on meat yield and quality of weaned lambs
Authors: Ruzic-Muslic D. , Petrovic M.P. , Petrovic M.M. , Bijelic Z. , Pantelic V. , Perisic P. , Caro-Petrovic V.
Published: January 2013

This study examines the impact of two-breed (PXW) and three- breed (PxWxIDF)
system of sheep crossing on the results in terms of yield and quality of meat
of lambs, weaned at 60 days of age and fattened up to 120 days of age. Study
was carried out on the experimental sheep farm of the Institute for Animal
Husbandry, Belgrade-Zemun, and the following breeds of sheep were used for
crossing: Pirot pramenka (P) W?rttemberg (W) and Ile de France (IDF). As
maternal basis the Pirot Pramenka and two breed crosses were used, and as
improvement breed - Ile de France rams. Pre-slaughter body mass of two-breed
and three-breed crosses was: 32.63 and 34.48 kg. Values of dressing
percentage warm carcass with head and offal were: 59.0 and 58.4%. The share
of the category I meat on analogue treatments was: 37.07: 37.48%, meat of
category II: 33.98: 32.41%, and the meat of category III - 28.69: 26.87%.
Meat to bone ratio was: 2.3:1 in two- breed crosses, whereas in the
three-breed crosses it was 2.7:1. MLD surface was 11:49 and 11:45 cm2.
Regarding the chemical and technological characteristics, there were no
significant differences among the treatments (P> 0.05).
Heritability and correlation of litter traits in pigs determined by REML method
Authors: Radojkovic D. , Petrovic M. , Radovic C. , Parunovic N. , Popovac M. , Gogic M.
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the heritability coefficients and the
correlation between the number of live born piglets (NBA), the number of
stillborn piglets (NSB), the number of total born piglets (NTB) and the
number of weaned piglets (NW) in the part of population in Swedish Landrace
sows in R. Serbia. The results obtained should enable the selection of litter
size traits that would be proposed to be included in the selection - breeding
program for this breed. The analysis of parameters was carried out on the
basis of data on fertility of 4.061 Swedish Landrace sows and their 15.209
litters realized on two pig farms in R. Serbia. There was a genetic
relationship between animals among the farms. Components of variance and
covariance of observed traits, the share of additive genetic variance
component in the phenotypic and correlation of traits at phenotypic and
genetic levels, were evaluated using the method of Restricted Maximum
Likelihood (REML) using the Multitrait Model (MM). Heritability estimates for
the NBA, NSB, NTB and NW amounted to 6.4, 1.6, 6.7 and 1.1%, respectively.
Correlation between the NBA and NTB at the phenotypic and genetic level was
complete (rP = 0986, rG = 0938). Correlation between the NBA and NW at the
phenotypic level has not been established, while at the genetic level it was
weak. We believe that this is the result of the procedure of equalizing of
litters after farrowing. In order to obtain objective genetic parameters for
NW this procedure should not be applied in pure breed sows.
The effect of different fixed factors on carcass quality three breed fattening pigs
Authors: Radovic C. , Petrovic M. , Zivkovic B. , Radojkovic D. , Parunovic N. , Stanisic N. , Gogic M.
Published: January 2013

Objective of the paper was to investigate the effect of sire breed and sex of
their progeny as well as to study methods for assessment of carcass side
quality. Quality of carcass of the progeny was determined according to
Rulebook (1985) and share of meat on left carcass sides determined by
dissection according to methodology recommended by EU (Commission Regulation
EC No 3127/94 and Commission regulation EC No 1197/06) on 84 pigs-progeny of
investigated sires. Animals investigated in this study were descendants of
dams of F1 genotype Swedish Landrace x Large White (the first one designated
is the dam) and two boars Duroc breed (n=36 progeny) and three boars Pietrain
breed (n=48 progeny). Of total number of progeny, 42 animals were male
castrates and 42 animals were female. It was established that sire breed
influences (P<0.01) only the fat thickness on the rump (BFTR), whereas sires
of Duroc breed influenced (P<0.05 to P<0.001) pre-slaughter mass (PSM), fat
thickness in the middle of the back (BFT), share of meat in carcass sides EC
No 3127/94 (EC 94) and share of meat in carcass sides EC No 1197/06 (EC 06).
Sires within Pietrain breed exhibited effect on (P<0.05 to P<0.001) BFTR, EC
94 and EC 06. All investigated traits were influenced by sex (gender) (P<0.05
and P<0.001) except PSM, whereas the effect of genotype (P<0.001) was present
only on PSM. Season of birth influenced only EC 94 and EC 06 (P<0.001). By
implementation of new methods of assessment of meatiness (EC 94 and EC 06)
was determined to have a higher proportion of meat (13.33% respectively
16.46%) relation to the Rulebook (1985).
The effect of lighting program and type of litter on production and carcass performance of two broiler genotypes
Authors: Skrbic Z. , Pavlovski Z. , Lukic M. , Petricevic V. , Milic D.
Published: January 2013

Light program and quality of litter are important for forming of the
environment and have a direct impact on the performance and welfare of
broilers. In conditions of short-photoperiod, the welfare of broilers is
improved, but they lead to reduced body mass. In this sense, the aim of this
study was to investigate the effects of two light programs and two types of
litter on production and carcass characteristics of broilers of different
genotypes. Trial was conducted on 800 day-old chicks of genotype Hubbard
classic and Ross 308. For litter, two types of materials were used - chopped
straw and sawdust, the same thickness. Chickens were exposed to light program
with constant moderate photoperiod (LP1), and gradual extending of the
photoperiod (LP2). The results suggest that the LP2 would slow down the
initial growth of broilers and the occurrence of compensatory growth, without
any negative effect on the final body weight and production efficiency. LP1
effect was confirmed in increasing the yield of the carcass. The effects of
both light programs are not the result of their major influence, but they are
consequence of the interaction with genotype. From the point established of
production and carcass parameters in treatments with litter, the criteria for
selection of materials for the litter should include indicators of welfare,
as well as the availability and cost of certain materials.
Performances and sensory quality of broilers fed with different levels of extruded rapeseed meal
Authors: Milic D. , Stanacev V. , Stanacev V. , Milosevic N. , Puvaca N. , Dzinic N. , Skrbic Z.
Published: January 2013

In this paper the effect of extruded rapeseed meal on the performance and
sensory quality of the breast meat of broilers was investigated. The
experiments were performed with hybrid line ROSS 308. The control group was
fed soybean meal, and two levels of extruded rapeseed meal were added in
experimental groups, 4% and 8% during a period of 42 days. Final body masses
of chicken in the experimental groups were lower for 1.79% and 3.05% than the
control group. Conversion of feed was satisfactory in all groups, and the
best in the control group. Including extruded rapeseed meal in the meal did
not show negative effect on the sensory quality, the smell and the colour, of
fresh breast meat. Sensory quality (smell, taste and sensitivity) of
heat-treated breast meat of the chickens in the control and experimental
groups was marked as "very good", or optimal.
Alternative international currencies
Authors: Rozhentsova Vladimirovna
Published: January 2013

The modern international monetary system has a number of flaws and therefore
needs cardinal change. Hence, economists from all over the world are
suggesting alternative international currencies that would make the
international monetary system more efficient. However, it is essential when
approaching the creation of a new international currency to analyze and take
into account the experience of all the past international currencies.
Therefore this paper begins with an exploration of the drawbacks of each of
the past and present international currencies. Drawing on this analysis a
justification will be made for the necessity of introducing a new
international currency, pointing to the requirements it should meet. Further
on, this paper proposes an alternative theoretically possible variant of the
international currency, with a fixed value relative to a commodity basket.
An abstract example is used to demonstrate its composition and circulation
mechanism.
The role of rules in the evolution of the market system: Hayek’s concept of evolutionary epistemology
Authors: Krstic Milos
Published: January 2013

Starting from the concept of the Darwinian paradigm that, by using Darwin?s
principles of variation, selection, and retention, all domains from biology
to economic systems can be explained, the advocates of modern evolutionary
epistemology have analyzed the role of thoughtful institutional design in the
process of cultural evolution. In light of the issue of how human intention
and evolutionary forces interact in socioeconomic processes, this paper
examines the views of F. A. Hayek, the most famous follower of evolutionary
epistemology, on the evolution of the market economy system. In this paper
special attention will be devoted to Hayek?s concept of rational liberalism
and his evolutionary epistemology.
Reading sentences in Serbian: Effects of alphabet and reading mode in self-paced reading task
Authors: Vejnovic Dusan , Jovanovic Tamara
Published: January 2013

The study examined the influence of alphabet (Cyrillic vs. Latin) and reading
mode (silent reading vs. reading aloud) on sentence reading speed in Serbian.
Entire-sentence and single-word reading times were obtained from the moving
window paradigm in the self-paced sentence reading task. Sentences printed in
Latin took less time for reading than sentences printed in Cyrillic and
silent reading was more rapid than reading aloud. Single-word processing
results followed the pattern observed in entire-sentence analysis. Faster
reading of Latin sentences and words is likely a consequence of subjects?
predominant exposure to this alphabet. Reading aloud was slower than silent
reading due to the articulation process, which is present in the former but
not in the latter. The effect of the alphabet did not depend on reading mode,
suggesting that the two modes of reading involve essentially same cognitive
processes. Aloud reading procedures do not seem inappropriate for the
research of bialphabetism.
Automatic processes in aesthetic judgment: Insights from the implicit association test
Authors: Pavlovic Masa , Markovic Slobodan
Published: January 2013

This study employed the Implicit Association Test (IAT) with aim to examine
the nature of automatic aesthetic judgment. The main hypothesis was that
basic hedonic tone of artwork is one of important factors influencing
automatic aesthetic evaluation. We conducted two experiments in which we
varied hedonic valence of paintings of figural (Experiment 1) and abstract
art (Experiment 2), measured participants? implicit association between these
paintings and evaluative attribute dimension via IAT and registered their
explicit judgments of paintings? hedonic tone. In both experiments we found
that participants were significantly faster in those dual-categorization
tasks in the IAT where preselected hedonically ?positive? paintings were
paired with the positive attributes and hedonically ?negative? ones with the
negative attributes than the other way around. We additionally found that
explicit assessments of the hedonic tone were substantially related to the
individual IAT effects in the case of abstract art, but not in the case of
figural art. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Predictors and correlates of youth political knowledge in Serbia
Authors: Pavlovic Zoran
Published: January 2013

It is considered that political knowledge is one of the most prominent
features of democratic citizenship, which makes its analysis especially
relevant in a democratising society. This paper explores the predictors and
correlates of youth political knowledge in Serbia. Political knowledge was
measured by 12 multiple-choice questions pertaining to three areas: everyday
politics, the rules of political game and foreign politics. Research
participants were 788 fourth-grade students from 25 Belgrade secondary
schools. The results show that the level of youth political knowledge is
generally low and unevenly distributed among students. Its main predictors
are interest in politics, academic achievement, gender and father?s interest
in politics. Other predictors that are usually regarded as very important
(e.g. socioeconomic status, civic education) proved to be non-significant.
Although political knowledge is positively correlated with political
tolerance, political activism and diffuse political support, the coefficients
are very low. The concluding part discusses possible causes of the obtained
results.
Transitional justice and reconciliation in Bosnia-Herzegovina: Whose memories, whose justice?
Authors: Kostic Roland
Published: January 2013

This paper shows that transitional justice initiatives such as the trials at
the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia and the State
Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Commission for Srebrenica and the
establishment of accurate statistics on deaths during the conflict have had
only a limited impact on inter-group reconciliation in Bosnia and
Herzegovina. Popular attitudes towards these initiatives are captured in
surveys conducted in 2005 and 2010. The results are not surprising given that
the absence, due to the level of external regulation and control, of a
politics of post-Dayton state-building means that domestic politics takes
place in an arena of dealing with the past. The international community
legitimised the three prevalent conflict narratives as a way of achieving a
peace settlement in Dayton. These communal narratives were used in the
peace-building phase by the local elites to defend concessions gained during
negotiations and to oppose changes imposed by external supervisors of the
Dayton Peace Accords. This has transformed the debate over the recent
conflict from a transitional process of coming to terms with the past to a
permanent state of affairs. This process precludes reconciliation in terms of
mutual acknowledgment of suffering and a nuanced understanding of the causes
and dynamics of the violent conflict.
Strengthening peace: Quest for the transformative energy and prospects for change
Authors: Petrovic Nebojsa
Published: January 2013

This paper considers possibilities of postconflict societies to move forward
and to assure stable and long-standing peace in spite of different
psychological and structural obstacles. Author, from the positive psychology
standpoint, proposes that human energy and envisioning of a better future for
all could be the main engine in overcoming existing problems. Special
attention has been addressed to the problem of how to find appropriate
visionary leaders, what their desirable characteristics are and how to
enhance their existing features as well as initiate the development of
others. An educational course aiming at combining the acquisition of both
knowledge of different aspects of postconflict problems and virtues like
devotion and compassion, has been proposed. Prospects for expected outcomes
and challenges on the way have been discussed in light of the approaches
developed within positive psychology, as well as of the ever broader
influence of globalization. The proposed solution has been confirmed by the
results of a recent empirical research from the postconflict region of the
Balkans. The paper ends with the optimistic conclusion that positive
transformation is possible.
The economic model of socialist Yugoslavia: The saga of self-destruction
Authors: Zec Miodrag , Radonjic Ognjen
Published: January 2013

This paper analyzes causes of the collapse of the economy of socialist
Yugoslavia. At the heart of the problem was the inability of the Yugoslav
economy to generate accumulation capable of financing sustainable economic
growth and development. In the absence of clear ownership relations, in the
entire post-war period, Yugoslav economy generated systemic deficits that
would fall on the shoulders of future generations. After half a century of
redistribution and not creating new value, growing political and social
tensions at the federal and inter-republic level eventually led to the
disintegration of the state. Unfortunately, camouflaged as "anti-communist
communism" this paradigm is the lifeblood of Serbian society today. If the
Serbian society does not build a new value system based on a new political
and social philosophy it will experience a thorough devastation with
unforeseeable harmful consequences.
Investigations of Late Vinca house 1/2010 at Crkvine in Stubline
Authors: Crnobrnja Adam
Published: January 2013

The Crkvine site is situated around 40 km southwest of Belgrade (Serbia) in
the vicinity of the village of Stubline, in the borough of Obrenovac.
Extensive geophysical investigations were carried out during the 2010
campaign and, based on the results, we started investigations of the Late
Vinca house 01/2010. The following comprehensive report details the method of
construction and organisation of life in that house, which dates from the
Vinca culture phase D. The house was very well preserved and we paid special
attention to two large ovens inside the house as well as to some interesting
portable finds (a clay table, a clay millstone structure and three large clay
heads).
Domino et fraturi: An unpublished graffito from roman Sirmium
Authors: Nedeljkovic Vojin , Stojanovic Sanja
Published: January 2013

In the Regional Museum of Srem in Sremska Mitrovica, Serbia, a Roman brick is
preserved, containing an inscription (Inv. A/5342). Originating from any of
the numerous Roman structures in the capital city of Sirmium - most probably
from Site 4 (Villa) or Site 1a (Palace) - the brick exhibits a graffito in
Latin which reads as follows: Domino et fraturi Maxime salutem Valerus
Januarius Written before the brick was baked, this greeting obviously went
from somebody present at the brick plant to another person engaged locally in
the business of construction. To address the recipient of a message as
dominus frater is a well-attested style in Roman military circles, especially
between equals, from the early 2nd century on. Phonologically, the spelling
fraturi (for fratri) is a remarkable instance of anaptyxis, vulgar, but only
rarely occurring in the sources. The pendent vocative Maxime is probably due
to the actual formula being a contamination of two known types, Maximo
salutem and Maxime vale. Judging by their cognomenta, both men, Januarius and
Maximus, may very well have been of indigenous origin, whereas the nomen
Valerius may have been acquired through service in the imperial army or
administration under the Tetrarchs.