bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of D-dimmer testing in ambulatory detection of atypical and 'silent' phlebothrombosis
Authors: Jovanovic Milan , Milic Dragan , Djindjic Boris , Jovanovic Jovica , Stanojevic Goran , Stojanovic Miroslav
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a lifethreatening condition, which could be manifested with discrete symptoms (silent DVT). High mortality and disability of patients with DVT indicate the importance of early diagnosis, especially of 'silent' DVT. The aim of this paper was to evaluate of reliability of early detection model for diagnosing DVT in ambulatory patients by using clinical probability of DVT presence, D-dimmer test (DD) and ultrasound evaluation (US). Methods. Ambulatory patients with suspected DVT were classified as 'unlikely' and 'likely' DVT by the Wells clinical model. The patients were randomly divided into the control and DD group. In the control group (629 patients) only US examination of lower limbs deep vein was done. All patients in the DD group (643 patients), with 'unlikely' TDV, had DD, and in the positive patients US examination was done. In the 'likely' patients US examination was done and negative US finding indicated DD test. Positive DD test was an indication for US examination after 7 days. The patients with initially excluded DVT were evaluated during 3 months. Results. A total number of 1 272 patients were examined; 117 (9.19%) patients were with DVT - 62 (9.64%) in the DD and 55 (8.74%) in the control group. During the follow-up periods in the DD group (with 582 initially excluded DVT) we registered DVT in only one patient (0.17%). It was significantly lower (p < 0.05) compared to the control group where we registered 7 (1.1%) DVT (a group with 581 initially excluded DVT). The applied DD diagnostic strategy for 70.7% (p < 0.001) reduced the need for US examination. Conclusion. The applied DD strategy in the diagnostic of DVT reduces the need for US examinations and reduces frequency of false negative results, with direct impact on cost and efficacy of procedures. DD diagnostic model should replace serial US examination in patients with suspect DVT.
Oxidative stress, hemoglobin content, superoxide dismutase and catalase activity influenced by sulphur baths and mud packs in patients with osteoarthritis
Authors: Jokic Aleksandar , Sremcevic Nikola , Karagülle Zeki , Pekmezovic Tatjana , Davidovic Vukosava
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. It is weel-known that sulphur baths and mud paks demonstrate beneficial effects on patients suffering from degenerative knee and hip osteoarthritis (OA) through the increased activity of protective antioxidant enzymes. The aim of this study was to assess lipid peroxidation level, i.e. malondialdehyde concetration, in individuals with knee and/or hip osteoarthritis (OA), as well as to determine the influence of sulphur baths and mud packs application on the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in order to minimize or eliminate excessive free radical species production (oxidative stress). Methods. Thirty one patiens with knee and/or hip OA of both sexes were included in the study. All OA patients received mud pack and sulphur bath for 20 minutes a day, for 6 consecutive days a week, over 3 weeks. Blood lipid peroxidation, ie malondialdehyde concentration, superoxide dismutase and catalase activity were measured spectrophotometrically, before, on day 5 during the treatment and at the end of spa cure. Healthy volunteers (n = 31) were the controls. Results. The sulphur baths and mud packs treatment of OA patients caused a significant decrease in plasma malondialdehyde concentration compared to the controls ( p < 0.001). The mean SOD activity before the terapy was 1 836.24 U/gHb, on day 5 it rose to 1 942.15 U/gHb and after the spa cure dropped to 1 745.98 U/gHb. Catalase activity before the therapy was 20.56 kU/gHb and at the end of the terapy decreased to 16.16 kU/gHb. The difference in catalase activity before and after the therapy was significant (p < 0.001), and also significant as compared to control (p < 0.001). At the end of the treatment significant increase of hemoglobin level and significant decrease of pain intensity were noticed. Conclusion. A combined 3-week treatment by sulphur bath and mud packs led to a significant decrease of lipid peroxidation in plasma, as well as pain intensity in the patients with OA. These changes were associated with changes in plasma activity of SOD and CAT and a significant increase of hemoglobin level suggesting their role in beneficial effect of spa therapy in the patients with OA.
The first outbreak of brucellosis in the region of Sabac
Authors: Markovic-Denic Ljiljana , Skodric-Trifunovic Vesna , Zugic Vladimir , Radojcic Dragana , Stevanovic Goran
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. In Serbia brucellosis is a primary disease of the animals in the southern parts of the country. The aim of this study was to describe the first outbreak of human and animal brucellosis in the region of Sabac, Serbia. Methods. An epidemiological investigation was conducted to identify a source of outbreak and the ways of transmission of brucellosis infection in human population. A descriptive and analytical epidemiological methods (cohort study) were used. Additional data included monthly reports of the infectious diseases from the Institutes of Public Health and data from the Veterinary Specialistic Institute in Sabac. The serological tests for human brucellosis cases were performed in the Laboratory of the Military Medical Academy; laboratory confirmation of animal brucellosis cases was obtained from the reference laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Belgrade. Results. Twelve cases of brucellosis were recorded from February 9 to September 1, 2004. Total attack rate was 8.1% (7.5% of males, 14.2% of females). Relative risk (RR) of milk consumption was 8.9 (95% confidence interval: 1.63-13.38), and RR for direct contact with animals was 14 (95% confidence interval: 3.5-55.6). The prevalence of seropositive animals in 33 villages of the Macva region accounted for 0.8%. Regarding animal species, sheep were predominant - 264 (95.7%). Out of a total number of seropositive animals, ELISA results were positive in 228 (88.7%) of them. Conclusion. As contact epidemics generally last longer, it is probable that the implemented measures of outbreak control did reduce the length of their duration.
Histopathological finding as a prognostic factor of the surgical treatment outcome in colorectal cancer
Authors: Secen Svetozar , Moljevic Nebojsa , Vukovic Milivoje , Somer Ljiljana
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Adenocarcinomas of the colon are the most common malignant colorectal tumors. Macroscopic and histopahtological features of colorectal cancer significantly affect its outcome. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of histopahological finding as a prognostic factor on the surgical treatment outcome and the course of the disease. Methods. In the first part of this study the distribution (numerical and proportional) of certain histopathological parameters in the examined groups of patients were reviewed; in the second part of the study the statistical significance of the impact of the certain elements of a histopahtological finding on the surgical treratment outcome was analyzed. The histopathological elements analyzed included: the hsitological tumor type grading according to Duke, ie Astler-Coller, and tumor, nodes, metastases (TNM) staging in the examined sample of 100 patients. Results. Statistically significant prognostic factors of the outcome of surgical treatment were selected after multivariant analysis. These factors comprise Astler-Coller-Dukes stage D (revealed in 77.78% patients died), stage IV according TNM classification (T1-4, N0-2, M1), histological structure (poorly diferentiated adenocarcinoma in 85.2% patents died) and type of tumor (mucynous adenocarcinoma was more often present in died, 77.78%). Since ? = 0.000 for four risk factors were formed using discriminant analysus, it was proved their significant influence on the outcome of surgical treatment. Discriminant coefficient showed that the greatest influence on surgical treatment were registred in patients with tumor of Astler-Coller-Dukes stage D (0.255), poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma (histological structure) (0.139), mucynous adenocarcinoma (type of tumor) (0.074) and stage IV according to the TNM elassification (T1-4, N0-2, M1) (0.39). Conclusion. The prognostic factors influencing the outcome of surgery for colorectal carcinoma were defined. Patients with pathohistological finding of Astler-Coller-Dukes stage D, stage IV according to the TNM classification (T1-4, N0-2, M1) and poorly differentiated adenocarcioma have statistically highly significant mortality during the perioperative course of the disease.
Evaluation of using Alvarado score and C-reactive protein in diagnosing acute appendicitis in children
Authors: Kostic Ana , Slavkovic Andjelka , Marjanovic Zoran , Madic Jelica , Krstic Marijana , Zivanovic Dragoljub , Djeric Danijela
Published: December 2010

Background/Aims. Acute appendicitis (AA) remains a diagnostic challenge in children, despite ongoing researches. With an aim to facilitate making diagnosis of AA many scoring systems have been created; among them Alvarado score is the most popular. C-reactive protein (CRP) has proven significance for diagnosing AA in adults, but not in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate significance of Alvarado score, as well as CRP values, in making diagnosis of AA in children. Methods. This prospective six-month study was performed on 257 patients under the age of 15, admitted for acute abdominal pain in the Clinic of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics in the Clinical Centre of Nis. Alvarado score and CRP values were determined on admission and compared with final diagnosis on discharge. The patients were divided into two groups: group I - non operated patients with abdominal pain (n = 184) and group II - operated on patients for appendectomy (n = 73). Results. Values of Alvardo score were statistically significantly different between groups (group I: 4.9 ? 1.21, group II: 8.55 ? 1.32). Also, our results showed significantly high values of CRP measured in operated children (group I: 8.17 ? 4.7 mg/L, group II: 38 ? 26 mg/L). Values of validity parameters for Alvarado score were: sensitivity 90%, specifity 80%, positive predictive values 87%; for CRP 95%, 70% and 80%, respectively. Conclusion. Alvarado score and CRP are very useful adjuvant diagnostic tool for AA to a less experienced surgeon. High values of Alvarado score and CRP cannot be ignored neither at the same time, used as the sole diagnostic method for discriminating children with AA.
Radical cystectomy: Analysis of postoperative course
Authors: Jeremic Dimitrije , Vojinov Sasa , Marusic Goran , Levakov Ivan , Zivojinov Srdjan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Radical cystectomy is a method of choice in the therapy of infiltrative bladder cancer. The aim of this research was to analyze postoperative course after radical cystectomy (length of hospitalization, most frequent complications and utilization of antibiotics and transfusions). Methods. We analyzed the records of 82 patients operated on in the Department of Urology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, in a three-year period. In order to aquire data World Health Organization (WHO) has developed Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical/Defined Daily Dose (ATC/DDD) methodology. Defined daily dose (DDD) is the assumed average maintenance dose per day for a drug use for its main indication. Results. Continent urinary derivation was preformed in 23.15% cases. Postoperative complications occurred in 18.29% of patients. Average blood utilization was 2.19 units. Blood utilization for continent derivations (n = 48) was 4.6 units, and incontinent ones 3.36 units. Totally 159.33 DDD/100 bed days were used. Conclusion. When preforming continent derivation there is a significant increase in blood utilization. Frequency of postoperative complications correlates to those reported in the literature.
Correlation of adverse childhood experiences with psychiatric disorders and aggressiveness in adulthood
Authors: Samardzic Ljiljana , Nikolic Gordana , Grbesa Grozdanko , Simonovic Maja , Milenkovic Tatjana
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Consequences of individual adverse childhood experiences for adult mental health have been precisely studied during past decades. The focus of past research was mainly on childhood maltreatment and neglect. The aim of this paper was to determine association between multiple adverse childhood experiences and psychiatric disorders, as well as their correlation to the degree and type of aggressiveness in adult psychiatric patients. Methods. One hundred and thirteen psychiatric outpatients were divided into three diagnostic groups: psychotics, non-psychotics and alcoholics and compared with fourty healthy individuals. Adverse childhood experiences data were gathered retrospectively, using the Adverse childhood experiences questionnaire and explanatory interview. Aggressiveness was assessed using Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire. The Student's t test, ANOVA and correlational analysis were used for evaluation of statistical significance of differences among the groups. A value p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. Our results showed that the mean number of adverse childhood experiences in each group of psychiatric patients, as well as in the whole group of patients, was statistically significantly higher than in the group of healthy individuals (p < 0.001); there was a statistically significant difference in score of physical aggressiveness between the patients exposed to adverse childhood experiences and those who were not exposed to them (p < 0.05); scores of physical aggressiveness were in positive correlation with the number of adverse childhood experiences (p < 0.05). The highest mean score of adverse childhood experiences was evidenced in the group of patients with psychotic disorders. Conclusion. Multiple adverse childhood experiences are significantly associated with psychotic disorders, nonpsychotic disorders and alcohol dependence in adulthood and their presence is important morbidity risk factor for psychiatric disorders. They are in positive correlation with physical aggressiveness of the patients from these diagnostic groups.
Intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome
Authors: Milev Bosko , Mirkovic Darko , Bezmarevic Mihailo , Misovic Sidor , Mitrovic Miroslav , Jovanovic Milan , Mirkovic Liljana , Milev Borka , Radenkovic Dejan
Published: December 2010

nema
Quantitative analysis of dendritic branching pattern of large neurons in human cerebellum
Authors: Milosevic Nebojsa , Ristanovic Dusan , Maric Dusica , Gudovic Radmila , Krstonosic Bojana
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Dentate nucleus (nucleus dentatus) is the most distant of the cerebellar nuclei and the major system for information transfer in the cerebellum. So far, dendritic branches of four different kinds of large neurons of dentate nucleus, have been considered mainly qualitatively with no quantification of their morphological features. The aim of the study was to test the qualitative hypothesis that the human dentate nucleus is composed of various types of the large neurons by quantitative analysis of their dendritic branching patterns. Methods. Series of horizontal sections of the dentate nuclei were taken from 15 adult human brains, free of diagnosed neurological disorders. The 189 Golgi-impregnated images of large neurons were recorded by a digital camera connected to a light microscope. Dendritic branching patterns of digitized neuronal images were analyzed by modified Sholl and fractal analyses. Results. The number of intersections (Nm), critical radius (rc) and fractal dimension (D) of dendritic branching pattern for four types of the large neurons were calculated, statistically evaluated and analyzed. The results show that there is a significant difference between four neuronal types in one morphometric parameter at least. Conclusion. The present study is the first attempt to analyze quantitatively the dendritic branching pattern of neurons from the dentate nucleus in the human. The hypothesis that the four types of the large neurons exist in this part of human cerebellum is successfully supported.
Rapid simultaneous determination of organophosphorus pesticides in human serum and urine by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Zlatkovic Milica , Jovanovic Miodrag , Djordjevic Dragana , Vucinic Slavica
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Analysis of organophosphosphorus compounds and their metabolites in a biological material includes the use of numerous methods, covering both preparation of samples for analysis and their identification that is considered to be very complex. Low concentrations monitoring requires implementation of highly sensitive analytical techniques. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an original and sensitive method for the detection and quantitation of organophosphorus pesticides (dimethoate, diazinon, malathion and malaoxon) in human biological matrices (serum, urine). Methods. This method was based on a solid-phase extraction procedure, a chromatographic separation using an ACQUITY UPLC ? HSST3 column and mass spectrometric detection in the positve ion mode. Mobile phase: was consited of Solvent A (5 mM ammonium formate pH 3.0) and Solvent B (0.1% acetic formate in methanol), in a linear gradient (constant flow-rate 0.3 mL/min). Results. The standard curve was linear in the range of 0.05-5.00 mg/L for malathion and malaoxon, 0.10-5.00 mg/L for dimethoate and 0.05-2.50 mg/L for diazinon. The correlation coefficient was r ? 0.99. Extraction recoveries were satisfactory and ranged between 90-99%. The limits of detection (LOD) was between 0.007- 0.07 mg/L and the limits of quantitation (LOQ) ranged between 0.022-0.085 mg/L. Intra- and interassay precision and accuracy were satisfactory for all of the pesticides analyzed. Conclusion. The method of liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry is simple, accurate, and useful for the determination of organophosphorus pesticides in both clinical and forensic toxicology.
Professional stress in general practitioners and psychiatrists: The level of psycologic distress and burnout risk
Authors: Vicentic Sreten , Jovanovic Aleksandar , Dunjic Bojana , Pavlovic Zorana , Nenadovic Milutin , Nenadovic Nenad
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. So far, studies of stress have shown that physicians are at a high risk of sickness from psychic and somatic disorders related to professional stress, that can lead to important disturbance of personal, familiar and professional functionating. The aim of this study was to investigate the doctors exposition level to professional stress, to compare stress level in general practitioners (GP) group with that in the group of psychiatrists and risk level for the apperance of burnout syndrome. Methods. This cross-section study included subjects recruited by a random sample method. Thirty General Practice doctors and 30 psychiatrists (totally 60 doctors) filled the set of 3 questionnaires: Sociodemographics features, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ; Goldberg D, 1991), and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI; Maslach C, 1996). Appropriate statistical procedures (Pearson test, t-test, variance analysis) in interpretation of the results were used. Results. A total level of psychic distress measured with the GHQ test in both groups of physicians was very low implying their good mental health. A difference in Burnout risk based on MBI test between the groups was statistically significant (?2 = 4,286; p < 0.05) only at subscale Personal Accomplishment (MBI-PA); it was a consequence of a higher number of GPs with medium burnout risk (13.3 : 0.0%). However, even 35 physicians from the sample were affected with a high burnout risk measured with subscales Emotional Ehausation (MBI-EE) and MBI-DP, showing that both groups of physicians had risk for the appearance of burnout syndrome. Conclusion. The obtained results showed a high burnout risk level in both, GPs and psychiatrists, groups. In both groups there was no presence of psychic disorders (anxiety, depression, insomnia), while there was a high level of emotional ehausation and overtension by job, and also a lower total personal accomplishment. Level of exposition to professional stress is higher in GPs than in psychiatrists, but the difference was not statistically significant.
Significance of vascular endothelial growth factor expression in skin melanoma
Authors: Gajanin Vesna , Krivokuca Zdenka , Kostic Kristina , Gajanin Radoslav , Sladojevic Igor
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Melanoma is a heterogeneous disease of skin and mucous membranes which shows significant increase in incidence worldwide in the past decades. In the process of forming new blood vessels stimulators of angiogenesis participate. There is an increase production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-C and VEGF-D), which expression cause change of endothelial cells, and higher degree of tumor's aggressiveness. The aim of this research was to determine the level of VEGF expression in skin melanoma in different body regions and in different primary stages of the disease. Methods. The research was conducted on bioptic materials of skin in 39 patients. On excision-made materials a routine histological preparation was done and following parameters were determined: histological type, alteration thickness (according to Breslow), Clark level, TNM (Tumor Nodus Metastasis) stage (pT), alteration width, thickness of lymphocytic infiltration in the tumor, mitotic index, phase of the tumor growth, presence of ulcerations, cellular type of the tumor, localization and level of VEGF expression. Results. Analysis confirmed that 61.54% of skin melanoma showed a high VEGF expression. Nodular and acral lentiginous melanomas showed more frequently a high level of VEGF expression, while superficial spreading melanoma showed a lower level of VEGF expression (p = 0.032, p < 0.05). A higher level of expression was present in thicker melanomas (higher in the Breslow stage; p = 0.011, p < 0.05). The width of the lesion did not have an influence on the level of VEGF expression in melanoma (U =142.000, p = 0.273). Conclusion. Melanomas show a higher level of VEGF expression. Nodular and acral lentiginous types of melanoma show a high level of VEGF expression, while superficial spreading melanoma shows a lower level of VEGF expression. Melanomas in higher-stage disease (Breslow, Clark, pTNM) show a higher level of VEGF expression.
Evaluation of low level laser and interferential current in the therapy of complex regional pain syndrome by infrared thermographic camera
Authors: Kocic Mirjana , Lazovic Milica , Dimitrijevic Irena , Mancic Dragan , Stankovic Anita
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS I) is characterized by continuous regional pain, disproportional according to duration and intensity and to the sort of trauma or other lesion it was caused by. The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare, by using thermovison, the effects of low level laser therapy and therapy with interferential current in treatment of CRPS I. Methods. The prospective randomized controlled clinical study included 45 patients with unilateral CRPS I, after a fracture of the distal end of the radius, of the tibia and/or the fibula, treated in the Clinical Centre in Nis from 2004 to 2007. The group A consisted of 20 patients treated by low level laser therapy and kinesy-therapy, while the patients in the group B (n = 25) were treated by interferential current and kinesy-therapy. The regions of interest were filmed by a thermovision camera on both sides, before and after the 20 therapeutic procedures had been applied. Afterwards, the quantitative analysis and the comparing of thermograms taken before and after the applied therapy were performed. Results. There was statistically significant decrease of the mean maximum temperature difference between the injured and the contralateral extremity after the therapy in comparison to the status before the therapy, with the patients of the group A (p < 0.001) as well as those of the group B (p < 0.001). The decrease was statistically significantly higher in the group A than in the group B (p < 0.05). Conclusions. By the use of the infrared thermovision we showed that in the treatment of CRPS I both physical medicine methods were effective, but the effectiveness of laser therapy was statistically significantly higher compared to that of the interferential current therapy.
Comparison between auditory steady-state responses and pure-tone audiometry
Authors: Komazec Zoran , Lemajic-Komazec Slobodanka , Jovic Rajko , Nadj Congor , Jovancevic Ljiljana , Savovic Slobodan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. A more recent method, the auditory steadystate response (ASSR), has become more and more important test method due to difference that was found in previous investigations between hearing thresholds determined by the ASSR and the pure-tone audiometry (PTA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of the ASSR in determining the frequency specific hearing thresholds by establishing a correlation between the thresholds determined by PTA, as well as to evaluate the reliability of ASSR in determining the hearing threshold with respect to the level of hearing loss and the configuration of the PTA findings. Methods. The prospective study included 46 subjects (92 ears) which were assigned to groups based on their level of hearing loss and audiometric configuration. All the subjects underwent determination of hearing thresholds by PTA and ASSR without insight into their previously obtained PTA results. Results. The overall sample differences between the ASSR and PTA thresholds were 4.1, 2.5, 4.4, and 4.2 dB at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz, respectively. A high level of correlation was achieved in groups with different configurations of PTA findings. The correlation coefficients between the hearing thresholds determined by ASSR and PTA were significant in subjects with all levels of hearing loss. The differences between hearing thresholds determined by ASSR and PTA were less than 10 dB in 85% of subjects (ranging from 4 dB for moderately severe hearing loss to 7.2 dB for normal hearing). Conclusion. The ASSR is an excellent complementary method for the determination of hearing thresholds at the 4 carrier frequencies, as well as determination of the level of hearing loss and the audiometric configuration.
Human rights and medicine
Authors: Ciplic Svetozar , Djuricic Milutin , Bulatovic Ivan , Spasojevic Dusan
Published: December 2010

nema
Forensic interpretation of the maxillary tuberosity fracture caused by tooth extraction
Authors: Puzovic Dragana , Colic Snjezana
Published: December 2010

Background. Maxillary tuberosity during teeth extraction can occur in dental practice. The aim of this paper was to present a case of the maxillary tuberosity fracture occurred during tooth extraction, which was the subject of the forensic expertise. Case report. The maxillary tuberosity fracture created during the extraction of the upper molar was neither timely nor adequately managed by the doctor who started extraction. After the treatment at the specialist institution, the patient sued the doctor for the criminal offense of negligent treatment. The task of the expert was to give a professional answer to the question whether the doctor, who caused a maxillary tuberosity fracture during the tooth extraction, acted negligently and applied inadequate treatment. Conclusion. The maxillary tuberosity fracture during molar extraction may be its complication. If it is diagnosed promptly, immediately and adequately managed, there is no possibility for negligence action.
Cytological findings in scintigraphically nonfunctioning thyroid nodules
Authors: Radovic Branislava , Tatic Svetislav , Krajnovic-Jaksic Emilija , Han Ruben
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. The major one among the procedures for evaluating changes in the thyroid nodules is fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Thyroid scintigraphy is commonly used in diagnostic algoritham of nodules. Less than 5% of examined nodules show to be malignant. Scintigraphically, nodules could be classified as functional and nonfunctional. It is estimated that the risk of malignacy in nonfunctional nodules ranges from 8% to 25% and more. Aspiration punction provides 100% specific and positive predictive value. The aim of the study was to establish the distribution of cytological findings in nonfunctioning thyroid nodules. Methods. The prospective study enrolled 112 patients, 104 women and 8 men, submitted to thyroid scintigraphy for known thyroid nodule disorder. Scintigraphy was performed about half an hour after iv administration of 74 MBq of sodium-pertehnetate. A pin hole collimator was used. Scintigrams were visually evaluated, and absence of radiopharmaceutic in a nodule was estimated as nonfunctional one. Such nodules were afterwards subjected to FNAB and material obtained was cytologically analyzed. Results. In our patients nonfunctioning nodules comprised tissue of colloid struma, thyroid cyst, regular thyroid tissue, follicular lesion, oxiphillic lesion, papillary carcinoma tissue and tissue of lymphocytic thyroiditis. The most frequent cytological finding were colloid cysts (52%). A total of 70% were female nodules. Five citological findings were histopathologically analyzed. Conclusion. Cytological finding of nonfunctional nodules determines of the decision on radical therapy, and our preliminary results imply the need of FNAB routine use in nuclear medicine practice.
Accuracy of optical scanning methods of the Cerec®3D system in the process of making ceramic inlays
Authors: Trifkovic Branka , Todorovic Aleksandar , Lazic Vojkan , Draganjac Miroslav , Mirkovic Nemanja , Jokic Bojan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. One of the results of many years of Cerec? 3D CAD/CAM system technological development is implementation of one intraoral and two extraoral optical scanning methods which, depending on the current indications, are applied in making fixed restorations. The aim of this study was to determine the degree of precision of optical scanning methods by the use of the Cerec?3D CAD/CAM system in the process of making ceramic inlays. Methods. The study was conducted in three experimental groups of inlays prepared using the procedure of three methods of scanning Cerec ?3D system. Ceramic inlays made by conventional methodology were the control group. The accuracy of optical scanning methods of the Cerec?3D system computer aided designcomputer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) was indirectly examined by measuring a marginal gap size between inlays and demarcation preparation by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results. The results of the study showed a difference in the accuracy of the existing methods of scanning dental CAD/CAM systems. The highest level of accuracy was achieved by the extraoral optical superficial scanning technique. The value of marginal gap size inlays made with the technique of extraoral optical superficial scanning was 32.97 ? 13.17 ?. Techniques of intraoral optical superficial and extraoral point laser scanning showed a lower level of accuracy (40.29 ? 21.46 ? for inlays of intraoral optical superficial scanning and 99.67 ? 37.25 ? for inlays of extraoral point laser scanning). Conclusion. Optical scanning methods in dental CAM/CAM technologies are precise methods of digitizing the spatial models; application of extraoral optical scanning methods provides the hightest precision.
Risk factors for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis
Authors: Jankovic Slobodan , Bojovic Dragica , Vukadinovic Dubravka , Daglar Elmedina , Jankovic Marija , Laudanovic Dragomir , Lukic Vladan , Miskovic Vesna , Potpara Zorica , Projovic Ivana , Cokanovic Vesna , Petrovic Nadezda , Folic Marko , Savic Viktorija
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is relatively frequent condition, and may have serious health consequences, like chronic vulvovaginal pain syndrome. The aim of our study was to determine possible risk factors for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis in non-pregnant females within the reproductive age. Methods. The design of our study was of a case-control type. Case and control patients were selected from the gynecological patients at six primary care facilities in Serbia and in Montenegro. The data on the patients' health condition, concomitant therapy and diseases were taken from their records, and the data on habits were obtained by unstructured interview. For potential risk factors crude odds ratios were calculated, and then adjusted by logistic regression. Results. A total of fifty-one patients had four or more episodes of vulvovaginal candidiasis during the last year (cases), and 132 patients with one to three episodes of vulvovaginal candidiasis were sampled as controls, matched by age. The only two significant associations were found between recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and continual wearing of panty liners during the last year (Odds ratio - ORadjusted: 3.97; confidence interval - CI: 1.57-10.02; p = 0.004), and between recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and predominant use of vaginal tampons during menstruation in the last year (ORadjusted: 4.25; CI: 1.11-16.27; p = 0.035). The synergistic effect was observed for the concurrent continual wearing of panty liners during the last year and selfmedication with antimycotics. Conclusions. Local factors, like wearing of panty liners or use of tampons during menstruation, may promote recurrence of vulvovaginal candidiasis, especially in patients who practice selfmedication with antimycotics.
Monosomy 12 and deletion of 13q34 in a case of chronic lymphocytic leukemia with concomitant lung cancer
Authors: Antic Darko , Dencic-Fekete Marija , Tomin Dragica , Djunic Irena
Published: December 2010

Background. We described a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and lung cancer and unusual chromosomal aberrations. Case report. At the same time with the diagnosis of B-cell CLL, squamocellular lung carcinoma diagnosis was established. Using interphase fluoresecence in situ hybridization technique (FISH) we detected monosomy 12 and deletion of 13q34 occured in the same clone. One month after the beginning of examination the patient died unexpectedly during sleep immediately before we applied a specific treatment for CLL or lung carcinoma. Conclusion. Simultaneous occurrence of monosomy 12 and deletion of 13q34 in a patient with B-cell CLL has been described only once before, but as a part of a complex karyotype. The prognostic significance of these abnormalities remains uncertain.
Kinetics of C-reactive protein, interleukin-6 and -10, and phospholipase A2-II in severely traumatized septic patients
Authors: Lausevic Zeljko , Vukovic Goran , Stojimirovic Biljana , Trbojevic-Stankovic Jasna , Resanovic Vladimir , Lausevic Mirjana
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Injury-induced anergy is one of the key factors contributing to trauma victims' high susceptibility to sepsis. This group of patients is mostly of young age and it is therefore essential to be able to predict as accurately as possible the development of septic complications, so appropriate treatment could be provided. The aim of this study was to assess kinetics of interleukin (IL) -6 and -10, phospholipase A2- II and C-reactive protein (CRP) in severely traumatized patients and explore the possibilities for early detection of potentially septic patients. Methods. This prospective study included 65 traumatized patients with injury severity score (ISS) > 18, requiring treatment at surgical intensive care units, divided into two groups: 24 patients without sepsis and 41 patients with sepsis. C-reactive protein, IL-6 and -10 and phospholipase A2 group II, were determined within the first 24 hours, and on the second, third and seventh day of hospitalization. Results. Mean values of IL-6 and phospholipase A2-II in the patients with and without sepsis did not show a statistically significant difference on any assessed time points. In the septic patients with ISS 29-35 and > 35 on the days two and seven a statistically significantly lower level of IL-10 was found, compared with those without sepsis and with the same ISS. C-reactive protein levels were significantly higher in septic patients with ISS 18-28 on the first day. On the second, third and seventh day CRP levels were significantly lower in the groups of septic patients with ISS 29-35 and > 35, than in those with the same ISS but without sepsis. Conclusion. Mean levels of CRP on the first day after the injury may be useful predictor of sepsis development in traumatized patients with ISS score 18-28. Mean levels of CRP on the days two, three and seven after the injury may be a useful predictor of sepsis development in traumatized patients with ISS score more than 28. Mean levels of IL-10 on the second and seventh day after the injury may be a useful predictor of sepsis development in traumatized patients with ISS score > 28.
Association between clinical parameters and the presence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis in patients with progressive periodontal lesions
Authors: Rakic Mia , Zelic Ksenija , Pavlica Dusan , Hadzimihajlovic Milos , Milasin Jelena , Milicic Biljana , Nikolic Nebojsa , Stamatovic Novak , Matic Smiljana , Aleksic Zoran , Jankovic Sasa
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of periodontal tissues with consequential is bone loss as a result of host immunological reactions caused by periopathogens. The aim of the study was to investigate if there is a correlation between clinical parameters and the presence of two most aggressive periopathogens (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans - Aa and Porphyromonas gingivalis - Pg) in patients with progressive periodontal lesions. Methods. A total of 34 systemic healthy people, 23 to 70 years old, were included in the study. The patients were clinically and radiologically examined, and after that, the representative pocket with greatest pocket depth was chosen and the sample was collected from that place. The measured clinic parameters were: gingival index, index of gingival bleeding, pocket depth and plaque indices. The multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method was used for detection of periopathogens. After obtaining results, appropriate statistical tests were used to correlate the clinical and microbiological results. Results. Aa and Pg were detected in the same percentage of samples. Aa and Pg were detected in 35.29% samples alone, and in 29.41% both were detected. The values of measured clinical parameters did not show a statistical significance between the groups. In analysis of correlations among clinical parameters inside the groups, a statistical significance was found only between gingival and plaque index in the group with Aa. Conclusion. Clinical course of periodontitis in the developed stage does not differ in relation to the presence of different periopathogens as the major inductors of immunologically guided destructive processes.
Epidemiological characteristics and clinical manifestations of acute non-A-E hepatitis
Authors: Delic Dragan , Mitrovic Nikola , Radovanovic-Spurnic Aleksandra , Stojkovic-Svirtlih Neda , Simonovic-Babic Jasmina
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Acute non-A, non-B, non-C, non-D, non-E hepatitis (non-A-E AH) is an acute disease of the liver of unknown etiology for which one or more new, so far undetected, hepatotropic viruses may be responsible. The frequency of non-A-E AH ranges from 3.8% to 33.9%, and therefore it has a significant place within current infectology and hepatology. The aim of our study was to establish the frequency, clinical and biochemical characteristics, natural course and outcome of non-A-E AH and compare them with control groups affected by acute viral hepatitis A, B and C. Methods. This descriptive-analytic prospective study included 31 patients with non-A-E AH treated at the Institute of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, from 2003 to 2008. They were followed up during the period not less than 6 months. The controls involved randomly selected patients, treated at the same time with a definite diagnosis of acute viral hepatitis A, B and C. Statistical data analysis used Mann-Whitney Utest, Student's t-test and variance analysis. The value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. The frequency of non-A-E AH was 7.6%. Almost no difference was found between sexes (male/female ratio was 1 : 1.07); it was developed in all age groups, with the highest incidence in the middle age (mean age was 38.32 ? 15.3 years). It appeared equally throughout the whole year. Out of risk factors, inoculation risk was predominant (before all, dental interventions), mostly involving urban population living in comfortable conditions. The duration of incubation varied much ranging from 20 to 180 days (median 60 days). By clinical course, moderate and icteric forms were most common, mostly corresponding to acute hepatitis A and C. On the other hand, by duration of the disease (mean duration was 67.1 ? 27.1) and chronic transformation, non-A-E AH resembled to acute hepatitis B. Progression to chronicity was recorded in 9.68% of the patients. There was no fulminant neither cholestatic form of the disease. Conclusion. Based on the results obtained in this study, it is probable that there are some so far undetected primary hepatotropic viruses in our environment.
Use of linear radiofrequency device in liver resection
Authors: Stojanovic Miroslav , Radojkovic Milan , Stanojevic Goran
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Linear radiofrequency device (LRFD) is disposable tool designed for liver parenchyma transection using controlled radiofrequency to 'seal' blood vessels and bile ducts, making liver resection easier and safer compared to classical resectional techniques. The aim of this study was to determine real value of the LRFD compared to the standard 'keliclasia' technique. Methods. This prospective study analyzed the significant intraoperative parameters and postoperative results of the 200 patients who underwent surgery at the Surgery Clinic of Clinical Centre in Nis, between January 1, 2001, and January 1, 2009. The patients were divided into two groups: the control Keli group (144 patients) with the 'keliclasia' resection technique and the control RF group (with resection performed using LRFD - Tissue Link / Dissection Sealer (DS - 3.0) (56 patients). The following parameters were analyzed: duration of liver ischemia, liver parenchyma transection time, intraoperative blood loss, significant intraoperative and postoperative complication rate, duration of hospitalization and mortality. Results. LRFD was used in 56 liver resections. The average duration of liver ischemia in the RF group was shorter than in the Keli group (7 versus 22 minutes). Parenchymal liver transection was significantly slower in the RF group than in the Keli group (2.05 versus 4.34 cm2/minutes, respectively). There was less intraoperative bleeding using LRFD 'Keliclasia' tehniquethan in the control group (390 mL compared to 420 mL, respectively). After the use of LRFD two cases of biliary leak and 4 pleural effusions were registered. Conclusion. LRFD is simple device for safe liver transection with decreased need for liver ischemia and singificant reducing of the intraoperative blood loss. High price for disposable device and slow parenchyma transection are disadvantages of this device.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging of cortical changes in a low-grade glioma patient
Authors: Sveljo Olivera , Koprivsek Katarina , Lucic Milos , Minic Ljubodrag
Published: December 2010

Introduction. New methods for studying brain functions have provided the new insights into human brain. It is really possible to study a cortical adaptation in adults who have sustained injury. We reported cortical changes in a left frontal low-grade glioma patient during disease progression and after reoperation by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Case report. The use of fMRI exams for localisation of eloquent motor and language areas were performed three times in a period of 15 months: seven years after initial tumor resection, eleven months later and three months after the reoperation. The first fMRI demonstrated cortical activation for motor tasks in the expected location of primary motor area while later examinations showed activations of both primary motor areas for right hand movement. The first exam language evaluation showed the left hemisphere dominance for both language tasks, while the second fMRI demonstrated the right hemisphere dominance for complex word generation task, but the left hemisphere remained dominant in simple language task. After the reoperation, language mapping revealed the left hemisphere dominance for both language tasks. Conclusion. fMRI evaluation of cortical changes in low-grade glioma patients may additionally optimize and individualize neurosurgical treatment.
The Effect of Trading Volume on Analysts’ Forecast Bias
Authors: Beyer Anne , Guttman Ilan
Published: December 2010

ABSTRACT: This study models the interaction between a sell-side analyst and risk-averse investors. It derives an analyst’s optimal earnings forecast and investors’ optimal trading decisions in a setting where the analyst’s payoff depends on the trading volume the forecast generates as well as on the forecast error. In the fully separating equilibrium, we find that the analyst biases the forecast upward (downward) if his private signal reveals relatively good (bad) news.

The model predicts that: (1) the analyst biases the forecast upward more often than downward and the forecast is on average optimistic; (2) the magnitude of the analyst’s bias is increasing in the per-share benefit from trading volume he receives; and (3) the analyst’s expected squared forecast error may increase in the precision of his private information. Finally, we characterize the circumstances under which the (rational) analyst acts as if he overweights or underweights his private information.
Internal Controls and Conditional Conservatism
Authors: Goh Beng Wee , Li Dan
Published: December 2010

ABSTRACT: This study examines the relation between internal controls and conditional conservatism (“conservatism”), also referred to as timely loss recognition. Using a sample of firms that disclose material weaknesses (MWs) in internal controls under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), we find a positive relation between internal control quality and conservatism. Specifically, firms with MWs exhibit lower conservatism than firms without such weaknesses. Further, firms that disclose MWs and subsequently remediate these weaknesses exhibit greater conservatism than firms that continue to have MWs. Overall, these results are consistent with strong internal controls acting as a mechanism that facilitates conservatism. Our study contributes to the literature on the reporting effects of strong versus weak internal controls.