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This paper is motivated by the paper [2]. The main aim of this paper is to extend the stability result from [16], related to the θ-Euler- Maruyama method (θ ∈ (12{1 \over 2}, 1)) for a class of neutral stochastic differential equations with time-dependent delay. The theta method is defined such that, in general case, it is implicit in both drift coefficient and neutral term. Sufficient conditions of the a.s. exponential stability of the θ-Euler-Maruyama method, including the linear growth condition on the drift coefficient of the equation, are revealed. The stability result is established for larger class of neutral terms than that considered in the second cited paper. An example is provided to support the main results of the paper.

Examination of radioactivity in edible liquids is very important because large amounts are taken into the body during the day. This scientific paper presents a comprehensive study on the gamma spectrometry analysis and health risk assessment of edible liquids. The study involved samples of various liquid products such as alcoholic beverages, juices, and milk. Milk is an important part of our regular diet for everyone, from newborns to adults, so we determined the active concentrations of radionuclides for both milk from farms directly and milk bought in a supermarket. The gamma spectrometry analysis was performed using a high-purity germanium detector to determine the concentration of natural and artificial radionuclides. The radioactivity of each sample is presented as the mean value of the measured sample from five different manufacturers. In conclusion, the gamma spectrometry analysis and health risk assessment of edible liquids demonstrated that the concentration of radionuclides in the selected liquid food products was not a major health concern. However, continuous monitoring and evaluation are recommended to ensure that the safety of the products is maintained within the permissible limits.

As mobile phones have become a necessity in modern society, and there is an increasing number of users of various ages, it is imperative to investigate the impact of mobile phone radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF) on humans. Because the human head is one of the most exposed and sensitive organs in the body, this paper investigated the propagation of the electromagnetic (EM) field through it. Additionally, the Specific absorption rate (SAR) was examined to study how RF radiation affects the human head. A program code using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method was created to simulate the propagation of RF radiation through the six layers that make up the human head (skin, fat, bone, dura mater, CSF, and brain). RF radiation at the following frequencies was investigated: 0.9 GHz, 1.8 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 3.35 GHz, and 4.5 GHz. Values of the thickness and parameters of the layers can also be changed in the program. It was discovered that the majority of the EM energy is absorbed in the skin of the human head.

Introduction. Even though lipomas are the most common benign tumors, they are rarely found in the pericardial cavity. Although histopathologically benign, they can cause life-threatening complications by rapid growth and may there-fore be clinically considered malignant. Case report. We present an 80-year-old female who was injured during a syncopal episode when falling from a standing height and suffered bodily injuries for which she was hospitalized. In the further course of her short-term hospital treatment, death occurred, and the cause of death was marked as “un-known”. At the autopsy, a dilated and tense pericardium filling up a large part of the chest cavity was noted. A well-encapsulated soft tissue mass, 2 0 × 1 8 × 3 cm in size, weighing 820 g, was visualized in the pericardial cavity. Histopathological examination revealed that the mass was a lipoma and showed acute myocardial necrosis; therefore, it was assumed that the cause of death was probably due to the compression of lipoma on coronary arteries. Conclusion. Even though intrapericardial lipomas are benign tumors, they can cause life-threatening complications and sudden cardiac death. There are numerous diagnostic methods capable of detecting intrapericardial lipomas, and with timely treatment, the patient can be cured.

Logical thinking represents an important process of reasoning and a basic skill in building students' knowledge and experience which should accompany the learning process and develop students' potential at all levels of education. The program of teaching and learning mathematics in primary education in Serbia contains a large number of topics that support the goal of learning mathematics, but there is also room for improvement. The paper deals with the possibility of propaedeutics of logic and the encouragement of logical thinking, the application of open-ended tasks in the initial teaching of mathematics. Respectively to the program contents of the mathematics class, examples of open-ended tasks are presented, as support and analog to teachers in creating teaching practice, in order to promote the development of students' logical thinking, as an important component of mathematics learning outcomes.

Treatment-resistant hypertension is one of the most significant causes of poor blood pressure regulation. Patients with resistant hypertension are at a higher risk of developing comorbidities compared to the general hypertensive population. As a result, these patients have an increased incidence of disability and premature death, as well as increased treatment costs. Due to the above-mentioned, in the last decade, there has been an increase in researchers' interest in elucidating the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of resistant hypertension. However, recent data indicate that 20% of female and 24% of male patients with arterial hypertension still have uncontrolled blood pressure, despite maximum doses of three antihypertensive drugs (including a diuretic) and appropriate lifestyle measures. New treatment modalities (i.e. devicebased interventions - catheter-based renal denervation and baroreceptor stimulation) offer hope for achieving adequate blood pressure regulation in these patients. In this paper, we have summarized previous knowledge about the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of resistant hypertension, as well as optimal diagnostic methods to differentiate true from pseudo-resistant hypertension. We have also given an overview of the current therapeutic approach, including optimal medical therapy and new treatment modalities (i.e. device-based interventions) and their role in the treatment of resistant hypertension.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine involved in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation exerting an important role in the immune and inflammatory response. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of three increasing concentrations of IL-6 (1 pg/mL, 5 pg/mL, and 10 pg/mL) on cell viability, redox homeostasis parameters (O2∙, NO2-, glutathione) and migratory potential in human trophoblast cell line JEG-3 under chemically induced hypoxia in short-term (24 h) and long-term (72 h) exposure. The obtained results show a dose-dependent reduction of cell viability and NO levels, while the concentration of O2 ∙increased. Levels of total glutathione increased in a dose-dependent manner compared to control cells, suggesting its significant antioxidative contribution in hypoxic conditions. The migratory potential of cells was significantly elevated in the two highest applied doses implying the disturbance of cell invasive homeostasis at its pathological concentrations, which could represent a risk factor in some pregnancy disorders.

The subject of this paper is an analytic approximate method for a class of stochastic functional differential equations with coefficients that do not necessarily satisfy the Lipschitz condition nor linear growth condition but they satisfy some polynomial conditions. Also, equations from the observed class have unique solutions with bounded moments. Approximate equations are defined on partitions of the time interval and their drift and diffusion coefficients are Taylor approximations of the coefficients of the initial equation. Taylor approximations require Fréchet derivatives since the coefficients of the initial equation are functionals. The main results of this paper are the Lp and almost sure convergence of the sequence of the approximate solutions to the exact solution of the initial equation. An example that illustrates the theoretical results and contains the proof of the existence, uniqueness and moment boundedness of the approximate solution is displayed.

Background/Aim. Decision-making by the Heart Team is an established way of making appropriate decisions regarding the management of patients with coronary artery dis-ease. In clinical practice, it is not infrequent to see changes in decisions made by different Heart Teams. However, clinical implications regarding changes in the Heart Team decisions are not clear. The aim of this study was to determine clinical implications of change in the Heart Team decision in patients in whom surgical myocardial revascularization was advised first but consequently changed to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods. We retrospectively analyzed data for 1,501 patients admitted to a single tertiary care high-volume center for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). In all patients, decisions were made by the Heart Team prior to admission. Upon admission, decisions were reevaluated by another Heart Team. The decision regarding the mode of revascularization was changed in 73 (4.86%) of patients. Propensity matching was made with patients from the same population who underwent CABG. Patients in both groups were followed for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and total mortality for 12 months. Results. PCI and CABG groups were balanced with respect to demo-graphic and clinical characteristics. All patients had two- and three vessel disease, with similar incidence of left main stenosis (26% in the PCI group and 30.10% in the CABG group). EuroSCORE II was similar between the groups (2.48 ± 2.38 vs. 2.36 ± 2.92). During the follow-up period, a total of 5 (6.80%) MACE in the PCI group and 12 (5.80%) MACE in the CABG group were observed (log rank 0.096, p = 0.757). A total of 6 (8.20%) patients died in the PCI group, and 15 (7.30%) patients died in the CABG group (log rank 0.067, p = 0.796). Conclusion. Our data indicate that patients in whom CABG was advised first but consequently changed to PCI have a prognosis similar to CABG patients over 12 months after the index procedure.

Introduction/Objective: A healthy diet is a basic prerequisite for a healthy child. Numerous studies have proven the importance of breastfeeding, which has many advantages. Breast milk is the best choice of food for a newborn. Healthcare professionals, doctors and nurses, play a key role in shaping a mother's attitude towards breastfeeding, as well as helping her overcome barriers to successful breastfeeding. To examine the level of knowledge mothers have about the importance of proper nutrition and breastfeeding of a newborn and to evaluate any obstacles to successful breastfeeding. Methods: The first part of the research is designed as a cross-sectional study. As a research instrument, a questionnaire was constructed to assess the mothers' level of knowledge about the importance of breastfeeding. In the second part of the research, a telephone survey was conducted after the mothers and babies were discharged from the hospital, and the mothers were asked questions about any obstacles they may have encountered to successful breastfeeding. The study included a sample of 47 women. The study was conducted in the Valjevo General Hospital from June to August 2018. Participation in the study was voluntary and anonymous and the research was approved by the Ethics Committee of the institution. Results: Descriptive statistic methods were used to analyse the results. Respondents ranged in age from 21 to 40, the largest number of women were between 21 and 25 years old (57%), 88% of children received a grade 9 at birth, 10% of the respondents attended parenting school, 78% of the women started breastfeeding the very next day after delivery and most believed that they had been successfully trained to breastfeed in the maternity ward. Seven days after discharge from the hospital, 7% of women did not breastfeed and the most common obstacles to successful breastfeeding were cracked nipples (35%). Conclusion: The results of the research indicate the need for a greater degree of education of future mothers about the importance of breastfeeding and proper breastfeeding techniques. It is necessary to carry out health education work at all levels of health care to minimize obstacles to natural nutrition

Cardiovascular and reproductive health of women have been going hand in hand since the dawn of time, yet links have been poorly studied. Still, once basis of their connections started to be established, it depended on local regional abilities and level of progressive thinking to afford women comprehensive care beyond the “bikini medicine”. Further research identified different associations rendering more conditions sex-specific and launching therefore a slow, yet initial turn around in clinical trials’ concept as the majority of global cardiovascular guidelines rely on the results of research conducted on a very modest percentage of women and even less on the women of color. Currently, the concept of women’s heart centers varies depending on the local demographics’ guided needs, available logistics driven by budgeting and societal support of a broad-minded thinking environment, free of bias for everyone: from young adults questioning their gender identity, via women of reproductive age both struggling to conceive or keep working part time when healthy and line of work permits it during pregnancy, up to aging and the elderly. Using “Investigate-Educate-Advocate-Legislate” as the four pillars of advancing cardiovascular care of women, we aimed to summarize standing of women’s health in Serbia, present ongoing projects and propose actionable solutions for the future.

This paper present a novel methodological approach in the design of integrated tactical telecommunications and computer networks for command information system and defining the elements for the OPNET simulation model. The elements proposed for design of network information architecture. For that purpose, the way established to set up relationships between elements that uses for network topologies design, building of network elements and network traffic. They are integrated with its parameters in the preliminary model defined by an OPNET simulation model. We propose the measure of efficiency for accomplishment of tactical command requirements to use the design model network. This measure of efficiency is mean time delay that described with mathematical relations, involving the communication parameters speed of generating traffic, packet size, link capacity and adequately reflects the projected network. Furthermore, the applications of the proposed approach and given instructions allow to designers full examination of the network architecture, and provide translation into preliminary model and design OPNET simulation model.

Background/Aim: Current approaches in therapy of head and neck cancers are surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, recurrence, development of multidrug resistance, side effects, and high costs of therapy are significant problems which point to the need for more efficient and less toxic drugs and interventions.

Health care has witnessed considerable progresses toward quality improvement over the past two decades. More precisely, there have been global efforts aimed to improve this aspect of health care along with experts and decision-makers reaching the consensus that quality is one of the most significant dimensions and features of health system. Quality health care implies highly efficient resource use in order to meet patient's needs in terms of prevention and treatment. Quality health care is provided in a safe way while meeting patients' expectations and avoiding unnecessary losses. The mission of continuous improvement in quality of care is to achieve safe and reliable health care through mutual efforts of all the key supporters of health system to protect patients' interests. A systematic approach to measuring the process of care through quality indicators (QIs) poses the greatest challenge to continuous quality improvement in health care. Quality indicators are quantitative indicators used for monitoring and evaluating quality of patient care and treatment, continuous professional development (CPD), maintaining waiting lists, patients and staff satisfaction, and patient safety.

The state estimation of the voltage conversion process (with Kalman filtering) in a solar power system is shown in this paper. Theoretical principles of solar power systems are presented, along with the position and working principles of a DC-DC boost converter in a solar power system. Different modes of state estimation of the voltage conversion process are shown, along with a detailed explanation of the Kalman filter appliance. This approach can be applied to one of the maximum power point tracking systems (MPPT). In the practical section of this paper, the implementation of noise filtering concepts in a solar power system is shown, by using the National Instruments LabVIEW programming suite. Processes that occur in this type of system are simulated, and the basic principles of noise cancellation are explained, in order to achieve optimal working conditions.

Introduction: Denture stomatitis is the most common inflammatory reaction that occurs in people who wear dentures, localized mostly in the palatal mucosa. Etiophatogenesis of inflammation is multifactorial and complex. Infection by yeast of the genus Candida, mainly Candida albicans, poor oral hygiene and long-term wearing of dentures are the most important etiological factors. Factors that may contribute to the development of inflammatory reactions are some general factors, such as smoking, use of different drugs, and systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. As the inflammation usually goes without any symptoms and has high prevalence among denture wearers, it is desirable for patients to schedule regular examinations to obtain diagnosis early and to receive adequate therapy. Conclusion. The manuscript presents the etiopathogenesis of denture stomatitis and usual therapeutic procedures that are carried out during treatment.

Amorphous iron (III) oxide was obtained from clay, using ammonium hydroxide as a precipitating agent. Influence of freeze drying under vacuum, as a drying method, on particle size, chemical composition, and crystallinity of obtained iron (III) oxide powder was investigated. After freeze drying, precipitate was annealed in air at 500°C and 900°C. X-ray diffraction, particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis were used to characterize obtained iron (III) oxide powder. All of three powders obtained by freeze drying and annealing, have low crystallinity and particles with irregular layered shape. Narrow particle size distribution was given by an average diameter value of around 50 μm for all observed powders. Iron-bearing materials like α-Fe2O3 and γ- Fe2O3 are obtained. Differential thermal analysis curve of obtained samples showed endothermic reaction at 620°C which could be ascribed to phase transition from cubic form γ- → α- Fe2O3. Thermal transformations of iron (III) oxide, obtained from clay as a natural source, is suitable to explore in the framework of materials chemistry, and opens the possibility to synthesize materials based on Fe2O3 with specific magnetic behavior. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. III-45012, Grant no. OI-172045, Grant no. III-45015, Grant no. OI-176010, Grant no. OI-172056 and Grant no. III-45007]

The aim of the paper is to point out the importance and role of venture capital in creation of new values based on the knowledge economy. By reviewing relevant literature about venture capital, this paper presents the importance of the venture capital investments in innovative activities of SMEs that have an impact on economic growth. Pointing to the importance and quantifying the overall effects of venture capital investments, will be used the overview and trends in venture capital investments in the sectors of economy in Europe which generate a larger number of patents. According to data during the period of 2007 - 2015 will be defined venture capital investments and number of registered patents in the sectors of the knowledge economy. Empirical analysis indicated that the venture investments in the sectors of the knowledge economy generated more patents in those sectors. In addition, the paper analyzes the venture capital investment and innovation activities of SMEs, which are reflected in patent activities, where the result is a correlation between these activities in the European economies.

Background and purpose: An adequate diagnosis of a parotid gland enlargement is crucial for an appropriate treatment. The aim of the study was to evaluate effectiveness and minimal invasiveness of diagnostic procedures of core-needle biopsy. Materials and Methods: This study involved 67 patients, aged 40 to 90 years, with a tumor mass in the submandibular and parotid region. Method used for taking samples of pathological masses was BD Disposable guillotine spring-loaded needle for biopsies on soft tissues. Final diagnoses were established on the basis of surgical-pathological results in 67 cases, and on the basis of histopathological analysis of core-biopsy samples. Results: Compared with results of surgical biopsy, core-needle biopsy had sensitivity of 100% in differentiating benign from malignant lesions and in setting up an adequate diagnosis. Its positive predictive values were 100% in diagnosing malignancy. There were found 28 non-malignant and 39 malignant lesions with fewer disadvantages for patients.

Introduction Saliva is a complex secretion, which plays an important role in maintenance of oral health. Analysis of saliva is fast, simple and non-invasive, and it is increasingly used as a biological sample for determination of various biochemical markers. The aim was to determine the influence of unstimulated saliva collection methods for measuring electrolytes concentration (sodium, potassium, calcium), pH and buffer capacity of saliva in healthy subjects. Material and methods 30 healthy subjects, males and females, aged 18 to 20 years, without oral and systemic diseases were included in the study. Unstimulated saliva samples were taken using a special tube (Salivette) and via direct spitting into the test tube. The concentrations of sodium and potassium were determined by flame emission photometry while spectrophotometry was used for calcium concentration. For the analysis of pH value of saliva pH-meter was used, while saliva buffer capacity was determined by titration with HCl (0.005 mol/L). Results The level of sodium in unstimulated saliva collected in test tubes was 8.43 ± 3.92 mmol/L and in special tubes 7.90 ± 4.33 mmol/L. Potassium level in unstimulated saliva collected in test tubes was 13.62 ± 0.99 mmol/L while in special tubes it was 13.54 ± 0.94 mmol/L. Mean values of sodium and potassium in unstimulated saliva didn't show statistically significant difference in their concentrations between the two methods of collecting saliva. In contrast to these electrolytes, calcium concentration was higher in the samples of saliva collected with special tubes (2.04 ± 1.05 mmol/L) compared to the samples taken by direct spitting into the test tube (1.38 ± 1.18 mmol/L) with statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). By analyzing the pH of unstimulated saliva it was found that the average pH value of saliva collected with special tubes was 7.05 ± 0.32, and after direct spitting into test tubes it was 7.35 ± 0.41. Buffer capacity of saliva in healthy subjects was lower after taking with special tubes (5.18 ± 0.74) compared to test tubes (5.36 ± 0.85), but without statistical difference. Conclusion Unstimulated saliva collecting methods using cotton pads (salivette) and direct spitting in the test tube did not affect the value of pH, buffer capacity, the concentrations of sodium and potassium, but affected the concentration of calcium in saliva from healthy subjects.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is widely used as an over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic drug. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible protective effects of vitamin C (100mg/kg/day i.p.) and β-glucan (40 mg/kg/day i.p.) on altered haematological, biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in the blood of rats treated with paracetamol (100 mg/kg/day i.p.) for 3 days. Exposure of rats to paracetamol caused changes of some haematological parameters (RBCs count, Hb concentration, Ht value and WBCs count), suggesting that the paracetamol induced haematotoxicity. Paracetamol reduced serum total protein (TP), albumin and globulin, while increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities compared to the control. The results indicate that paracetamol is led to significant decrease in the concentration of Na+ and K+ and increase of Ca2+ in the serum compared to the control. Coadministration of vitamin C and β-glucan with paracetamol reversed these changes of haematological and biochemical parameters and diminished the toxic effects of paracetamol. The obtained results indicated that the concentration of LPO in erythrocytes significantly increased in, while the concentration of GSH significantly decreased in the group treated with paracetamol compared to control group. Coadministration of vitamin C and β-glucan with paracetamol reversed paracetamol-induced alterations in these oxidative stress parameters. This study suggests that paracetamol has significant prooxidative effects and may disrupt oxidant/antioxidant balance in erythrocytes. Furthermore, coadministration with vitamin C and b-glucan have protective effects on paracetamol-induced oxidative damage and haematotoxicity.

This article examines Serbia's capacities to participate in civilian peace operations, including the analysis of legislation regulating international cooperation and contribution to peace operations. Furthermore, based on interviews with representatives of various institutions, it also addresses the key practical challenges that these institutions are currently facing in civilian contribution. It examines the roles of relevant stakeholders, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the military and the police, with potential participants from other branches of government also included in this analysis. The research sample also included local persons working by contract for international organizations in Serbia, in order to examine the capacities they possess. Several challenges and opportunities for further development of existing frameworks were detected therein. Initial interest expressed by various 'civil' ministries to contribute to peace operations (Ministry of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Justice) could contribute to building of CIVCAP. Also, existing institutions, such as Office for cooperation with CSOs and Governmental Department of Human Resources Management could be easily turned into rosters of potential candidates for peace operations. The article argues that a huge potential exists in Serbia, however, its adequate use is prevented by the lack of clear foreign policy goals and coherent government policy. In this regard, the article recommends the government to increase the existing training capacities, coordinate the efforts of various stakeholders and establish two potential rosters of experts.

Over the past several years the United Nations has increasingly emphasized the role that civilian capacities can play in post-conflict peacebuilding and called for member states to provide expertise. This special issue of the Journal of Regional Security will explore the civilian capacities of the Western Balkans countries and whether there is political will to respond to the call to deploy civilian capacities to UN peace operations and other international organizations. Looking at how Western Balkan countries train, roster and deploy civilian capacities, it will also explore whether increased cooperation in this area could be considered as a security community practice, nurturing bilateral relations and building cooperation in the Western Balkan region. The article finds that there is still a great gap between the expressed policy intent of providing civilian capacities to peace support operations, and putting it into practice. There is also lack of a strategic consideration of how the training and deployment of civilian capacities to peace operations could build legitimacy in international organizations and enhance regional cooperation among the states in the Western Balkans. The article recommends the initiation of a regional dialogue on training and rostering of civilian capacities, realizing synergies and furthering regional cooperation.

Ionizing radiation is commonly used in the treatment of brain tumors but it can impair cognitive functions, such as learning and memory. Since cognitive dysfunctions are predominantly result of cell death by apoptosis in hippocampal cells, in this study we analyzed acute effects of cranial gamma-irradiation (10 Gy) on expression of proapoptotic molecules (p53, Bax) and antiapoptotic molecule Bcl-2, as well as caspase-3 activation and cytochrome c redistribution in the hippocampus of young rats. The selected regimen of irradiation resembles the established animal model for childhood prophylactic cranial radiotherapy. Our results demonstrated that p53 mRNA expression was unchanged after irradiation, while induction of p53 protein was rapid. In parallel, Bax mRNA and protein levels were also increased following irradiation, whereas Bcl-2 expression was not changed during the examined post-irradiation period. These changes were accompanied with early hallmarks of apoptosis, such as increased cytochrome c release and stimulated activation of caspase-3. Overall, this study demonstrates that cranial irradiation is associated with the augmented apoptotic pathway in the rat hippocampus, which could be related to the cognitive decline observed in patients after prophylactic cranial radiotherapy, but also opens perspective in finding radioprotectors that can mitigate radiation injury of normal brain tissue.

Purpose - The aim of the paper was to investigate the major forest fires in Deliblatska peščara, as well as to analyze the efficiency of fire protection measures. Design / methodology / approach - The analysis included interviews with participants in extinguishing the major fires. The questions referred to the course of fires, as well as to the main fire protection disadvantages. The documentation of the “Banat” Forest Management - Pančevo (Public Enterprise “Vojvodinašume”) was also used in the paper for the period 1948-2012. Findings - The major forest fires in Deliblatska peščara in the studied period were recorded in 1973, 1990, 1996 and 2007. Although they account for only about 1.5 % of the total number of fires, they collectively have invaded more than half of the total burnt area and more than two-thirds of the forest area. According to the surveys, the main characteristics of these fires were: frequent appearance of new fire hot spots, strong wind variable in direction which crucially affects the spread of fire and the impossibility of direct action on fire. The main disadvantages of fire protection were: inefficiency of fire breaks, blockage of forest roads for the passage of vehicles and the lack of the modern means of fire protection equipment. Research limitations / implications - Given the specificities of the studied area (the absence of surface water, sandy soils, microclimate conditions and vegetation composition), the research results cannot be fully generalized for Serbia. Practical implications - The research results indicate the need for making changes in the fire prevention system, as well as the possibility of fire danger forecast based on the heliocentric hypothesis. Originality / value - What has been the importance of the paper is that it provides the basis for a new approach to the planning of fire prevention measures. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. III47007]

Differentiation between the terms “Pannonian Basin” and “Pannonian Plain” is not clear enough in geographical literature. The paper discusses the usage of the term “plain” in geomorphology, as well as the usage of a quantitative method for plain delineation, through calculation of relief roughness coefficient (using a digital elevation model). Qualitative analysis, which includes the definition of dominant geomorphological processes and the distribution of Quaternary sediments, is an addition to the quantitative analysis. In the Republic of Serbia, the area of the Pannonian plain defined in this way is 24,448 km2, which is 27.5% of the total territory of the country. The paper gives the overview of the geotectonic structure and evolution of the Pannonian Basin System, with special stress on the territory of Serbia, as well as the chronology of the Pannonian sedimentation area in Serbia from the Lower Miocene till present. In order to explain the status of the Pannonian plain as one of the morphostructural units of Serbia, the theoretical basics of morphostructures are discussed, as well as the principles of their spatial definition and the relation to the notion of a geological structure. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 47007]

This is the second part of the article “Spontaneously abandoned settlements in Serbia”, the first part of which was published in No. 60-2 of this Journal. Geomorphological indicators pointing at unsustainability of the studied settlements are singled out. The indicators are classified as morphometric (quantitative) and morphologic (qualitative). Geomorphometry has been used for determination of quantitative indicators. The coefficient of settlement isolation (Ki) is defined, which is a product of road coefficient (Kr) and real relative height (RRH). Morphological indicators refer to the position of a settlement on a certain geomorphological unit (ridge, valley, valley side), as well as to the geomorphological homogeneity of space, determined by geomorphological mapping. The defined indicators of unsustainability are presented in detail as a case study of the abandoned village Smilov Laz, in the municipality of Novi Pazar.

The paper presents the results of the field studies of spontaneously abandoned settlements in the Republic of Serbia. Out of 20 analysed settlements, 8 were listed as completely abandoned at the latest Census (2002), while others have been detected in the field, subsequent to the Census. The paper consists of two parts. In the first part, the spatial distribution of spontaneously abandoned settlements is analysed, as well as the components of their geographical position. Three main spatial units of the studied settlements are differentiated: (a) the area along the administrative border between central Serbia and the Autonomous province Kosovo and Metohija; (b) mountains Stara Planina and Burel; and (c) the regions of Vlasina and Krajište. Three components of geographical position are analysed: mathematical-geographical, physio-geographical and administrative-political. Apart from these spatial components, geographical position is analysed in relation to historical circumstances that affected the genesis and evolution of the studied settlements. .

Hazardous waste management system as a separate segment includes the transportation of hazardous waste, which specifically includes transportation from the place of its origin to the place of storage, treatment or final disposal. This function includes all forms of transport, but experience has shown that the most used one is a road traffic, which also carries an extremely high risk of possible occurrence of accident and endangering the local community, material resources and environment. Therefore, it is necessary to establish control over transport option, and the risk too, which is achieved by conducting risk assessments and then selecting the optimal transport routes. In each of these phases GIS has found its major application, enabling operation with different types of data, a simplified procedure of multi-criteria analysis and a clear visual representation of the received results. .

The influence of anthropogenic factor on the landslide genesis is analyzed in this paper. Buildings, traffic, water supply and electro infrastructure are introduced in natural landscape as the result of human, living and economic activities in space. The conditions and processes which these objects can cause on the relation object-relief, and therefore initiate the occurrence of landslides, are the change of morphometric characteristics and the modifications of the water balance of slope. The zone with both qualitative and quantitative transformations of relief represents interactive zone in which the influence of man as a genetic factor or modifier of this colluvial process can be observed. .

The importance of Quaternary sediments as a lithological setting for landslide development is analyzed in the paper. Landslides on the terraces of the Ibar River, close to Kraljevo and Mataruška Banja, as well as in the alluvial plain of the rivers Južna Morava and Belica, show that alluvial sediments can have a characteristic of a quasistatic topographical surface. The aim of this paper is to detect the lithological-structural and morphosculptural determinants of landslide development in Quaternary sediments. The case study of landslides in the alluvial sediments of the Belica River and its tributary Slatinski Potok is presented.

The role of membrane-bound estradiol in modulation of mitochondrial Ca2+ flux in nerve endings isolated from rat brain stem was examined. Physiological concentrations of 17β-estradiol bind specifically to isolated mitochondria (Bmax 33.8 ± 2.5 fmoles estradiol/mg of protein, Km 0.185 ± 0.006 nmoles/l free estradiol). At concentrations ranging from 1 x 10-10 to 2 x 10-9 moles/l, estradiol significantly (by 23-28%) decreases mitochondrial Na-dependent calcium efflux. Decreased calcium efflux was associated with increased affinity of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger for Na+ and decreased capacity of the exchanger to extrude Ca2+. Calcium ion efflux modulation and mitochondrial ion retention may be the way that 17β-estradiol exerts its role in nerve cell homeostasis.

In order to investigate daily changes of hematological parameters in bleeding-induced anemia, we treated Wistar albino male rats by daily bleeding (1.5-2 mL of blood from the tail vein for eight days). Blood samples were taken before (on day zero) and on the first to eighth days of bleeding. The values of hematocrit, hemoglobin, and erythrocyte count decreased significantly after the second, sixth, and second days of bleeding, respectively. The number of leuko­cytes and platelets, as well as Heinz body levels, increased significantly after the third and second days of treatment. The percentage of reticulocytes increased significantly from the second day and attained the maximum level (32.55 ± 0.96%) on the eighth day.

During map in Belica River Basin, it was found two areas with continuously developed landslides that could mark as sliding belt. Genetic analysis established that the development of the sliding belts can not be fully explained on the basis of geological or geomorphologic features. Therefore, it was accessed, in this paper, to seismic analysis as potential genetic factor of this colluvial process. This analysis is required to analyze of recent seismism as well as paleoseismism. Genetic characteristic of the earthquake has been analyzed on the basis of data collected during instrumental period as well as the structural and morphological characteristics of the river basin and its surroundings.

The paper determines genetic factors of earth hummocks that are found below the lower limit of the periglacial processes. This issue was analyzed in the area of Vlasina and Krajište, where seven localities with earth hummocks and one locality with palsa mounds. Genetic factors have been classified into two groups: inherited factors (geological composition, temperature fluctuations, vegetation, hydrogeological regime) and additional factors, such as human activities which led to changes of ecological balance and microclimatic characteristics.

During March 2006, the territory of whole Central Serbia was characterized by frequent occurrences of landslides, that caused enormous damages. The territory of Ljig municipality, with significant share of areas built of unconsolidated sediments, was in great part affected by landslide processes. This paper points to the spatial distribution of these areas, depending on geological composition and surface inclination. Examples of landslides at several most characteristic locations have been presented (in the villages of Ivanovci, Babajić, Veliševac and Liplje). Factors that influenced the genesis and the course of the process are analyzed as well.

The paper presents the main characteristics of the limestone ridge Dževrinska Greda in north-eastern Serbia, which is a typical example of stripe karst (sub-type of contact karst). Dimensions and elongated shape of the limestone outcrop, as well as its position in relation to the surface drainage network, have led to formation of a number of short through gorges. The conditions of their formation and certain morphological features pointing to phases of their development are discussed in the paper. One of the indicators was the analysis of cave passages positions, which in most cases points to cave development in phreatic conditions. This means that the incision of through gorges is more recent than speleogenesis.

Geomorphologic forms and processes have primary and eliminatory significance in the process of determining the proper locations for trash disposal. Those forms are results of long-term morphogenetic processes and they implicate the dependence between the landfill and a landscape where it is situated. Determining proper location for landfill is crucial because it becomes a factor of permanent alternation of the landscape. The basic task that a possible location should satisfy is as least as possible impact zone. Concerning this request, the best locations are those on fossil geomorphologic forms that are out of active geomorphologic processes (erosive fluvial terraces and blind karst valleys). The selection of location for landfills has its economic consequences that are determined in the light of theory of development thresholds and cost-benefit analysis. The work contains comparative threshold graph with short- and long-term economic effects (costs) of locating a landfill on flood plain and an erosive terrace. There’s also given a matrix of suitability that explains economical, social, ecological, technical and esthetical factors relevant for selecting the adequate location for landfills.

Background: Duty of a nurse-manager is to realize importance of integration of newly employed nurse for forming coherent, unique and efficacious team. Integration of newly employed nurses, especially those without working experience, includes acceptance of standards that have been already accepted by other employees. The aim of this investigation was to show the importance of integration, in the first place the education for further professional improvement of young nurses. Methodology: Each year, in September/October the Educative Program (EP) for young nurses is organized at the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia. The program consists of 24 hours of theoretical lectures, and of 28 hours of practical teaching. At the beginning and at end of EP, the written test for knowledge checking is obligatory for all participants. Results: From September 2001 till June 2002, a group of twenty-two young nurses with no working experience were employed on a full-time basis at the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia. The median age was 22 years (range: 20-24yers). Sixteen of them (73%) started attending the EP during 2002/2003. At the end of course all of them passes the written exam (half of attendees showed excellent results). Conclusion: Integration of young nurses mainly depends on the organization of continual education - the activity that has to become an obligation in all health institutions.

Background: Sedation is commonly used during intradermal testing (IDT). Morphine and its derivatives have long been avoided because of their histamine-releasing effects., Hypothesis/objectives: Butorphanol, an opioid agonist/antagonist, will not adversely affect IDT in dogs., Animals: Ten client-owned dogs diagnosed with atopic dermatitis., Methods: Dogs were randomized to be sedated with butorphanol (0.4 mg/kg) or dexmedetomidine (5 μg/kg). Routine IDT along with intradermal injections of various dilutions of histamine were performed on the lateral thorax, followed 7 days later by the alternative sedative and IDT on the opposite side. The injection sites were subjectively scored and objectively measured by one investigator, blinded to the sedatives, and compared between groups., Results: When the mean wheal diameters from the objective measurements of all antigens, including saline and histamine dilutions, were compared, butorphanol was associated with significantly smaller reactions than dexmedetomidine (P = 0.0001). There was a high level of agreement between sedatives when positive reactions subjectively scored as ≥3+ were compared (κ = 0.91). When mean wheal diameters of histamine at concentrations of 1:100,000, 1:400,000, 1:1,600,000 and 1:6,400,000 were compared, there were no significant differences between sedative types. Moreover, the percentage agreement when comparing subjective interpretation of all histamine dilutions between sedations was high (κ = 0.90). However, there was only 69% agreement beyond chance when objective and subjective interpretations of all antigens were compared between sedative groups., Conclusions: Although butorphanol resulted in significantly smaller wheal size in comparison to dexmedetomidine, it did not affect the overall subjective interpretation of the results of IDT., (© 2013 ESVD and ACVD.)

Background: The identification of Demodex mites from dogs is usually based on morphology and location. Mites with uncharacteristic features or from unusual locations, hosts or disease manifestations could represent new species not previously described; however, this is difficult to determine based on morphology alone., Hypothesis/objectives: The goal of this study was to identify and confirm Demodex injai in association with otitis externa in a dog using PCR amplification and DNA sequencing., Methods: Otic samples were obtained from a beagle in which a long-bodied Demodex mite was identified. For comparison, Demodex mite samples were collected from a swab and scraping of the dorsal skin of a wire-haired fox terrier and an otic sample from a dog with generalized and otic demodicosis. To identify the Demodex mite, DNA was extracted, and 16S rRNA was amplified by PCR, sequenced and compared with Demodex sequences available in public databases and from separate samples morphologically diagnosed as D. injai and Demodex canis., Results: PCR amplification of the long-bodied mite rRNA DNA obtained from otic samples was approximately 330 bp and was identical to that from the mite morphologically identified as D. injai obtained from the dorsal skin of a dog. Furthermore, the examined mite did not have any significant homology to any of the reported genes from Demodex spp., Conclusions: These results confirmed that the demodex mites in this case were D. injai., (© 2013 The Authors. Veterinary Dermatology © 2013 ESVD and ACVD.)