bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibodies to ganglioside GM1 and Campylobacter jejuni in patients with Guillain-Barre syndrome
Authors: Basta Ivana , Suturkova Ljubica , Vujic Ana , Aleksic Stojanka , Poceva Ana , Paskoska Aleksandra , Milenkova Katerina , Trikic Rajko , Apostolski Slobodan
Published: July 2008

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an acute immune mediated neuropathy, polyradiculoneuritis, characterized by rapid onset of symmetric extremity muscle paralysis, areflexia and albuminocytological dissociation in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Recently, the heterogeneity of GBS has been noticed with definition of several GBS variants. The axonal GBS associated with anti-GM1 antibodies is the most important variant with the specific role of Campylobacter jejuni (CJ) in the induction of the disease. The role of our study was to determine the frequency of antecedent infection with CJ in the population of our patients with GBS, the association with anti-GM1 antibodies and the distribution of these antibodies within clinical forms of the disease. The diagnosis of GBS has been established in 17 patients according to clinical, electrophysiological and laboratory (CSF) criteria. The serum antibodies to 63 kDa flagellar protein isolated from CJ serotype 0:19 were determined by ELISA and Western blot and serum anti-GM1 antibodies by ELISA. In relation to the disability score two patients were ambulatory, five were ambulatory with support, seven were bedridden and two patients needed respirator. Five (29%) patients had pure motor, while 12 (71%) had sensorimotor GBS. The crania! nerves were involved in 11 (65%) and 9 (53%) patients had autonomic dysfunction. Electromyoneurography showed primary axonal, predominantly motor neuropathy in 6 (35%) and demyelinating sensorimotor neuropathy in 11 (65%) patients. The CSF protein content ranged from 0.47 to 3.88 g/L. The antecedent infection with CJ was shown by serum antibodies to CJ flagellar protein in 12 (71%) patients. Fifteen (88%) patients had IgG anti-GMI antibodies. Twelve (71%) patients had both antibodies. In relation to the clinical form, anti-CJ antibodies were found in 8 (73%) out of 11 patients with demyelinating GBS and in 4 (66.6%) out of b patients with axonal GBS. The high titer of anti-GM1 antibodies was found in all patients (100%) with axonal and in 9 (82%) out of 11 patients with demyelinating GBS. The association of IgG anti-CJ and IgG anti-GM1 antibodies was found in 4 (66.6%) out of b patients with axonal and in 8 (73%) out of 11 patients with demyelinating GBS. The main features of our patients with GBS were high frequency of antecedent infection with CJ, unusually frequent association with anti-GM1 antibodies, and equally frequent association of anti CJ and anti-GM1 antibodies in both, axonal and demyelinating GBS.
Perforated appendicitis with purulent peritonitis in the third semester of pregnancy
Authors: Sparic Radmila , Stefanovic Aleksandar , Kadija Sasa , Zizic Vojislav
Published: July 2008

Acute appendicitis is the most common non-obstetric reason of abdominal pain in the pregnancy, causing significant increase of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. This is a case report of a patient in the third trimester of pregnancy in whom perforated appendicitis caused purulent peritonitis. She was operated as an emergency case and cesarean section was performed. After the surgery and antibiotic administration according to drug susceptibility test, her postoperative course was uneventful. Delayed diagnosis of the acute appendicitis leads to increased rate of appendicular perforation, with numerous maternal and fetal complications. In cases of suspected appendicitis during pregnancy, surgical exploration is indicated, either by laparoscopy or laparotomy. Laparotomy is the method of choice in cases after 20 weeks of pregnancy and whenever signs of diffuse peritonitis are present.
Birth weight discordance and perinatal mortality among triplets
Authors: Egic Amira , Mikovic Zeljko , Filimonovic Dejan , Cirovic Anka
Published: July 2008

INTRODUCTION. The incidence of multiple births has increased in the last decade. Perinatal mortality in triplets is significantly greater than in twin and singleton births. OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to describe the extent of birth weight discordance among triplets and to identify its association with an increased risk of perinatal mortality. METHOD A retrospective analysis of triplet births, for the period 1993-2003, was conducted at the Gynaecological-Obstetric Clinic "Narodni Front" in Belgrade. Birth weight discordance was defined as the difference in birth weight between the largest and the smallest triplet's weight of more than 20%. RESULTS. The rate of triplets has increased by almost 75% between the first (7.7%) and the last (29.6%) 5-year period of the last decade. Triplets are becoming more common because of the frequent use of assisted reproductive technology as a treatment for infertility. In the period 1993-2003, there were a total of 40 triplet live births (24 weeks and greater) with incidence of 0.06%. There was no clear association between maternal age, parity, method of conception, birth gestational age, and disorders complicating pregnancy with birth discordance more than 20%. Regarding birth weight groups, statistical significance occurred only in the <999 grams group for discordant and in the 2000-2499 grams group for concordant triplets. Overall, the perinatal mortality rate in the group was 10.8%, the foetal mortality rate was 1.7% (2/120), and the neonatal (0-28 days) mortality rate was 9.1% (11/120). An odds ratio of 95% confidence interval shows 3 times greater risk for adverse perinatal outcome in the discordant group. However, the difference was not significant. CONCLUSION. Increasing birth weight discordance may increase the risk of adverse perinatal outcome. Triplet pregnancies, being high risk, require intensive antenatal care in order to prevent preterm delivery and ultrasound in order to diagnose foetal growth abnormality and discordance, which increase foetal surveillance, through the use of biophysical profiles, non-stress tests, and Doppler velocimetry, thus assessing foetal well-being and the appropriate moment for obstetric intervention.
Acute lead intoxication: A rare cause of abdominal pain
Authors: Alempijevic Tamara , Djuranovic Srdjan , Bogdanovic Andrija , Kovacevic Nada
Published: July 2008

Abdominal pain is a common symptom of various diseases and conditions of different aetiology. The aim of the interpretation of abdominal pain is to reach an early and accurate diagnosis, thereby enabling appropriate treatment. Acute abdominal pain may be the result of a number of abdominal, as well as extra-abdominal causes, lead poisoning being one such extraabdominal cause. Here, we report the case of a 73-year-old male patient, admitted for clinical investigation of a suspected tumour of the colon, due to the presence of acute convulsive abdominal pain, without propagation, constipation, and anaemia. A history provided by the patient?s family indicated his exposure to lead. The absence of any abdominal pathology, increased levels of lead in the blood (5.249 ?mol/l), the presence of basophilically punctuated red blood cells, as well as a ring of sideroblasts, all indicated that the patient?s symptoms (abdominal pain, constipation, and anaemia) were the result of acute lead intoxication. The patient?s case history, including lead exposure, the absence of pathological findings via endoscopic and x-ray examination, laboratory findings (normocytic anaemia, an increased serum lead concentration, basophilically punctuated red blood cells, and the presence of an abundant ring of sideroblasts), all indicated that his symptoms were the result of lead intoxication. After six months of chelation therapy (EDTA), his symptoms completely disappeared, and his laboratory findings returned to normal. This presentation aims to underscore the importance of meticulous history taking, as well as of the selection of suitable laboratory and other auxiliary diagnostic methods in the correct diagnosis of this rare condition.
Inherited colour vision deficiencies: From Dalton to molecular genetics
Authors: Cvetkovic Dragana , Cvetkovic Dobrosav
Published: July 2008

In recent years, great advances have been made in our understanding of the molecular basis of colour vision defects, as well as of the patterns of genetic variation in individuals with normal colour vision. Molecular genetic analyses have explained the diversity of types and degrees of severity in colour vision anomalies, their frequencies, pronounced individual variations in test results, etc. New techniques have even enabled the determination of John Dalton?s real colour vision defect, 150 years after his death. Inherited colour vision deficiencies most often result from the mutations of genes that encode cone opsins. Cone opsin genes are linked to chromosomes 7 (the S or ?blue? gene) and X (the L or ?red? gene and the M or ?green? gene). The L and M genes are located on the q arm of the X chromosome in a head-to-tail array, composed of 2 to 6 (typically 3) genes - a single L is followed by one or more M genes. Only the first two genes of the array are expressed and contribute to the colour vision phenotype. The high degree of homology (96%) between the L and M genes predisposes them to unequal recombination, leading to gene deletion or the formation of hybrid genes (comprising portions of both the L and M genes), explaining the majority of the common red-green colour vision deficiencies. The severity of any deficiency is influenced by the difference in spectral sensitivity between the opsins encoded by the first two genes of the array. A rare defect, S monochromacy, is caused either by the deletion of the regulatory region of the array or by mutations that inactivate the L and M genes. Most recent research concerns the molecular basis of complete achromatopsia, a rare disorder that involves the complete loss of all cone function. This is not caused by mutations in opsin genes, but in other genes that encode cone-specific proteins, e.g. channel proteins and transducin.
Hyperkalemia in hypertensive patients undergoing regular hemodialysis during enalapril and fosinopril therapy
Authors: Dimkovic Nada , Djordjevic Tanja , Popovic Jovan , Dimkovic Sinisa , Tirmenstajn-Jankovic Biserka , Zivanovic Milenko , Zikic Svetlana , Bobanovic-Haskovic Jasminka
Published: July 2008

Introduction. Hypertension is evident in 80%-85% of patients with chronic renal failure and antihypertensive therapy is needed in 25%-30% of patients. Apart from antihypertensive effect, ACEi?s decrease the left ventricular hypertrophy and mortality in dialysis patients. Even so, their use is limited due to hyperkalemia. Objective. The objective of the study was to compare the effect of fosinopril and enalapril on serum potassium level in hypertensive hemodialysis patients. Method. Prospective pilot study included 16 patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis, with mean age of 58.9?9.6 years and mean duration of hypertension 11.3?7.1 years. The effect of antihypertensive drugs of equivalent dose was followed during three periods (three months each): period 1 (therapy with enalapril), period 2 (therapy with fosinopril) and period 3 (therapy with enalapril). Dialysis conditions were constant and patients were without signs of catabolic state. Laboratory results were followed on monthly basis and mean values were compared by ANOVA-one way test. Difference between variables between periods was tested using Bonferoni method. Results. There was significant difference between mean serum potassium levels throughout three therapeutic periods (5.88?0.38 vs. 4.99?0.44 vs. 5.46?0.46mmol/l; p<0.001). Difference was evident even in the first month of fosinopril therapy. The effect can not be explained by dialysis adequacy since Kt/ V was similar throughout three treatment periods (1.18?0.24 vs. 1.25?0.21 vs. 1.25?0.14; p=ns). Systolic blood pressure was regulated even better with fosinopril than with enalapril (187.5?21.4 mmHg vs.160.0?20.0 mmHg; p=0.01) and this effect was prolonged during period 3 (160.0?26.1mmHg). Hemoglobin values mainly depended on specific anemia therapy and not on particular ACEi drug. Conclusion. Fosinopril carries less risk of hyperkalemia in hypertensive hemodialysis patients than enalapril. Although definite conclusion may be drawn after well-designed studies, the results presented in this pilot study suggest that fosinopril may be recommended for hypertensive hemodialysis patients who are at risk to develop inter-dialytic hyperkalemia.
Lymphoepithelial cyst of the pancreas
Authors: Colovic Radoje , Grubor Nikica , Radak Vladimir , Micev Marijan , Colovic Natasa
Published: July 2008

Lymphoepithelial cysts of the pancreas are very rare with less than 35 cases described in the literature. A 49-year old male with a cystic tumor in the tail of the pancreas of 8 cm in diameter discovered during the investigation for mild pain in the upper abdomen was presented. The tumor was easily removed during the open surgery. It contained yellowish dense pus-like fluid whose culture remained sterile. Histology showed the lymphoepithelial cyst of the pancreas. Postoperative recovery was uneventful and preoperative pain disappeared. Eight and a half years later, he died due to complications after orthopedic surgery of the spine.
Anastomotic pseudoaneurysms
Authors: Markovic Dragan , Davidovic Lazar , Kostic Dusan , Maksimovic Zivan , Cinara Ilijas , Cvetkovic Slobodan , Markovic Miroslav , Dragas Marko
Published: July 2008

Anastomotic pseudoaneurysm is a form of false aneurysm, whose wall, does not consist of all normal layers of arterial wall. Given the rising number of reconstructive vascular procedures, the increase of anastomotic pseudoaneurysm cases is expected. Therefore, identification of causes, clinical manifestations as well as factors which affect the outcome of operative treatment of anastomotic pseudoaneurysms is of great practical value. This retrospectively-prospective study included 87 surgically treated cases of anastomotic pseudoaneurysms in the period from 1991 to 2002. The most often localization of anastomotic pseudoaneurysms. was the inguinal region (68-86.2%), In the majority of cases, they were caused by arterial degeneration in the anastomotic region - 56 cases (65.9%) and infection - 21 cases (24.7%). The most frequent manifestations of anastomotic pseudoaneurysms were bleeding due to rupture in 26 cases (29.9%) and chronic limb ischemia in 22 cases (25.3%). An acute limb ischemia was present in 17 cases (19.5%)., the symptoms caused by local compression to the surrounding structures - in 9 cases (10.3%), and in 12 cases (13.8%), the only manifestation of anastomotic pseudoaneurysm was asymptomatic pulsatile mass, In 32: cases (36.8%), surgical treatment involved the resection of anastomotic pseudoaneurysm and, graft interposition, whereas in 39 cases (44.8%), bypass procedure had to be performed after the resection. Comorbidity significantly increased mortality in the first 30 days. The use of Dacron graft in primary operation significantly improved early results of operative treatment. Absence of infection as the cause of anastomotic pseudoaneurysm is a statistically important prognostic factor of operative treatment, considering the graft patency, limb salvage, infection, need for reintervencion and mortality.
Implantation epithelial iris cyst following the perforating corneal injury
Authors: Jovanovic Milos , Latkovic Zoran
Published: July 2008

The objective of this case report was to present the development of implantation cyst following the perforating corneal injury, the problems related to the treatment, including total surgical excision of the cyst, the secondary cataract extraction, iridoplasty and the artificial intraocular lens reposition. A patient first presented with perforating corneal injury inflicted by a piece of wood, with the iris prolapse. Primary wound management, reposition of prolapsed iris and corneal sutures were performed four days after the injury. Eight months later, the patient was rehospitalized due to an implantation iris cyst and traumatic cataract. The cyst was excised, the extracapsular cataract extraction was done and the anterior chamber lens was implanted. Postoperative visual acuity was normal. Three years later, the patient presented for a follow-up examination, with the cyst filled up again, occupying two thirds of the anterior chamber. This time, the cyst was completely excised, all fibrous remnants of the secondary cataract were removed, and the iridoplasty was necessary due to large iris coloboma. Reposition of the anterior chamber lens was carried out. Histological examination revealed an implantation iris cyst covered by multilayered squamous epithelium. Normal visual acuity was achieved. The patient has been followed-up for six months uneventfully. Management of perforating corneal wound with iris prolapse may lead to development of an implantation iris cyst. Puncture of the cyst as well as incomplete excision will not solve the problem. Complete surgical removal of the iris cyst is the treatment of choice.
Isolated hydatid cyst of the adrenal gland
Authors: Grubor Nikica , Colovic Radoje , Radak Vladimir , Colovic Natasa
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Hydatid cyst of the adrenal gland is extremely rare even in generalized hydatid disease, with less than 20 cases reported in world literature including those found in autopsy. Case outline: The authors present the second case of the adrenal gland hydatid cyst described in Serbian literature, in 52-year old woman. During the investigation for the epigastric pain by ultrasonography and computed tomography, calcified cyst of the sixth segment of the liver, 44?39 mm in diameter, was diagnosed. However, during an open surgery, it turned out to be the cyst of the right adrenal gland. The cyst as well as the entire adrenal gland was removed. The hydatid nature of the cyst was confirmed by histological examination. The postoperative recovery was uneventful. The patient has remained symptom-free over two years after the surgery. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the second case reported in Serbian and 18th case published in world literature.
The effect of propylthiouracil on function of phagocytic peripheral blood cells in persons with thyroid hyperfunction
Authors: Djukic Aleksandar , Zivancevic-Simonovic Snezana , Djurdjevic Predrag , Arsenijevic Nebojsa
Published: July 2008

Introduction. It is known that hyperthyroidism as well as thyrosuppressive therapy can influence the cells of immunological system. Objective. To examine the function of phagocyte cells in persons with hyperthyroidism and to examine if propylthiouracil (PTU) influences this function. Method. The study included 15 patients with hyperthyroidism and 10 healthy persons. The parameters of phagocytic activity of mononuclear and polymorphonuclear leucocytes were tested by method of ingestion of particles of inactivated yeast labeled with neutral-red. Results. It was demonstrated that patients with hyperthyroidism, before the onset of therapy as well as 14 days after introduction of PTU, had decreased number of leucocytes (before PTU: 6.7?3.2?109/l, after PTU: 6.1?2.0?109/l and control: 8.0?1.6?109/l; p=0.039), PMN leucocytes (before PTU: 3.9?2,4 ?109/l, after PTU: 3.5?1.6?109/l and control: 4.8?0.9?109/l; p=0.037) and number of phagocyte PMN cells (before PTU: 0.9?0.9?109/l, after PTU: 0.9?0.7?109/l and control: 1.3?0.6 ?109/l; p<0,05), but they had increased index of phagocytosis (before PTU: 2.0?0.2, after PTU: 1.9?0.2 and control: 1.7?0.2; p=0.029), while capacity of phagocytosis remained unchanged (before PTU: 1.9?1.7?109/l, after PTU: 1.6?1.9?109/l and control: 2.4?1.4?109/l; p>0.05). The number of mononuclear leucocytes and parameters of phagocytic activity of mononuclear phagocytes in persons with hyperthyroidism did not change significantly in comparison with the control group. Conclusion. Patients with hyperthyroidism had decreased number of leucocytes, PMN leucocytes and number of phagocyte PMN cells, and increased index of phagocytosis, while capacity of phagocytosis remained unchanged. The number and parameters of phagocytic activity of mononuclear leucocytes did not change. PTU therapy had no effect on the examined parameters.
Influence of hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia on lipid and glucose metabolism
Authors: Vuksanovic Miljanka , Beljic Teodora , Popovic Srdjan
Published: July 2008

Introduction. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is less frequently prescribed to postmenopausal women with diabetes type 2 who have poor lipid status despite well known favorable effect of HRT on lipid levels. Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of oral HRT in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Method. Continuously combined HRT, estradiol 2mg + norethisterone acetate 1mg was given to 30 women with diabetes type 2 and hyperlipidemia and two control groups of postmenopausal women (30 with hyperlipidemia only and 30 healthy women) over a 6-month period. Total cholesterol (t- HOL), triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were evaluated in 3-month intervals. Fasting and postprandial glucose levels were evaluated monthly. Results. HRT significantly decreased levels of t-HOL (?2 Friedman=11.712; p<0.01) and LDL-c (?2 Friedman=10.403; p<0.01) in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes. However, the effect was more pronounced in two control groups. Triglycerides (?2 Friedman=5.400; p?0.05) and HDL-c (?2 Friedman=1.113; p>0.05) did not change in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes. Six month of oral HRT significantly decreased HbA1c (F=44.693; p<0.01). Fasting and postprandial glycemia was decreased but not significantly (?2 Friedman=6.527; p>0.05). Conclusion. Six-month application of HRT is effective in lowering the lipid levels and HbA1c in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes. However, target lipid levels were not achieved.
Echocardiographic evaluation of cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Petrovic Milan , Milasinovic Goran , Vujisic-Tesic Bosiljka , Jelic Vera , Calovic Zarko , Zivkovic Mirjana , Ostojic Miodrag
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is relatively new tool in treatment of chronic heart failure (HF), especially in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with the left bundle branch block (LBBB). Objective: The Objective of our study was to assess the success of CRT in treatment of severe HF and the role of echocardiography in the evaluation of Results of such therapy. Method: The group consisted of 19 patients, 13 males and 6 females, mean age 58.0?8.22 years (47-65 years) with CRT applied for DCM, severe HF (NYHA III-IV), LBBB and ejection fraction (EF) <35%. The mean follow up was 17 months (6.5-30). Standard color Doppler echocardiography examination was performed in all patients before and after CRT. The parameters of systolic and diastolic left ventricular function, mitral insufficiency and the right ventricular pressure were evaluated. Results: Following the CRT, statistically significant improvement of the end-systolic LV dimension, cardiac output, cardiac index, myocardial performance index (p<0.01) and stroke index (p<0.05) was recorded. The mean value of EFLV was increased by 10% and LV fractional shortening improved by 6% in 10/16 (62%) patients. CRT resulted in decreased MR (p<0.01), prolonged LV diastolic filling time (p<0.02) and reduced RV pressure (p<0.05). Interventricular mechanical delay was shortened by 28% (18 msec) Conclusion: CRT has an important role in improvement of LV function and correction of ventricular asynchrony. The echocardiography is a useful tool for evaluation of HF treatment with CRT.
Prognostic value of Poincare plot as nonlinear parameter of chaos theory in patients with myocardial infarction
Authors: Milovanovic Branislav , Krotin Mirjana , Bisenic Vesna , Vukovic Dejana , Nikolic Slavica , Mirjanic Tijana
Published: July 2008

Introduction: There are different proofs about association of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, especially nonlinear parameters, with higher mortality after myocardial infarction. Objective The objective of the study was to determine predictive value of Poincare plot as nonlinear parameter and other significant standard risk predictors: ejection fraction of the left ventricle, late potentials, ventricular arrhythmias, and QT interval. Method The study included 1081 patients with mean follow up of 28 months (ranging fom 0-80 months). End-point of the study was cardiovascular mortality. The following diagnostic methods were used during the second week: ECG with commercial software Schiller AT-10: short time spectral analysis of RR variability with analysis of Poincare plot as nonlinear parameter and late potentials; 24-hour ambulatory ECG monitoring: QT interval, RR interval, QT/RR slope, ventricular arrhythmias (Lown >II); echocardiography examinations: systolic disorder (defined as EF<40 %). Results There were 103 (9.52%) cardiovascular deaths during the follow-up. In univariate analysis, the following parameters were significantly correlated with mortality: mean RR interval < 800 ms, QT and RR interval space relationship as mean RR interval < 800 ms and QT interval > 350 ms, positive late potentials, systolic dysfunction, Poincare plot as a point, ventricular arrhythmias (Lown > II). In multivariate analysis, the significant risk predictors were: Poincare plot as a point and mean RR interval lower than 800 ms. Conclusion Mean RR interval lower than 800 ms and nonlinear and space presentation of RR interval as a point Poincare plot were multivariate risk predictors.
The expression of p53 protein in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Markovic Olivera , Marisavljevic Dragomir , Cemerikic Vesna , Perunicic Maja , Colovic Milica
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Although mutations of p53 are one of the most often acquired genetic changes in malignant tumors, these mutations are rare events in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM). Moreover, there are a few literature data about clinical significance of p53 overexpression in multiple myeloma. Objective The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical significance of p53 immunoexpression in multiple myeloma. Method A total of 58 patients with newly diagnosed MM (26 females and 32 males, mean age 62 years) were enrolled in the study. The diagnosis of MM was made according to criteria of Chronic Leukemia-Myeloma Task Force. Clinical staging was done according to Durie and Salmon classification (4 patients had disease stage I, 15 patients stage II and 39 patients stage III). The histological grade and histological stage were determined according to predominant plasma cell morphology and volume of myeloma infiltration, respectively. Standard immunohistochemical analysis with p53 antibody in B5-fixed and paraffin- embedded bone marrow specimens was used to evaluate the expression of p53 in myeloma cells. The specimens were considered positive when ?5% of plasma cells exhibited clear nuclear positivity. Results Out of 58 patients, p53 expression was detected in 9 (15.52%). No significant correlation was found between p53 expression and clinical stage (I+II vs. III), ?2-microglobulin level (?6 mg/L vs. >6mg/L), histological grade (I vs. II+III), histological stage (<20% vs. 21-50% vs. >50%) and the extent of osteolytic lesions (?3 vs. >3 lesions). Median survival of patients with p53 immunoreactivity in =>5% of plasma cells was 10 months, whilst median survival of patients with p53 immunoreactivity in <5% of plasma cells was 36 months. However, such difference was not significant (p=0.2). Conclusion The frequency of p53 immunoexpression in our group of newly diagnosed MM was relatively low. Although p53 immunoexpression was not associated with clinical and histological features of more aggressive disease, or with shorter survival, further investigations of larger group of patients will lead to final conclusions.
Medical treatment of ectopic pregnancy and clinical score
Authors: Glisic Andreja
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Ectopic pregnancy is an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Furthermore, with earlier diagnosis, medical therapy with methotrexate can be offered and surgery avoided in some women, though the best regimen remains unclear. Although there have been advances in the management of ectopic pregnancy, there are still questions to be answered. Objective. The use of clinical score was evaluated after the clinical treatment for selection of patients for medical treatment of ectopic pregnancy. Method. One hundred and twenty five patients were treated by methotrexate. The administration route was local, ultrasonographically controlled or intramuscular. The first dose of methotrexate was 50 mg and maximal total dosage was 200 mg. Results. Methotrexate treatment of ectopic pregnancy was effective in 85% of cases. In the group of patients with clinical score under 10, the medical treatment was successful in 95% of cases. In the group of patients with clinical score over 14, the medical outcome was successful in 33% of cases. The administration route did not influence the treatment outcome. Conclusion. Methotrexate treatment of ectopic pregnancy is a very effective manner of treatment. Clinical (numeric) score is very useful for selection of patients with ectopic pregnancy and may have prognostic value for medical treatment outcome. .
Multiorgan dysfunction in a gravid woman with placental abruption and disseminated intravascular coagulation
Authors: Kezic Aleksandra , Sparic Radmila , Stojimirovic Biljana , Milenkovic Vera
Published: July 2008

The most frequent obstetrical cause of coagulation disorders as disseminated intravascular coagulation is placental abruption, which can be found in women without any apparent clinical disturbances or in the state of established preeclampsia. Hypertension occurs in 5-8% of all pregnancies and may be complicated by preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a complex clinical syndrome with insufficiently clear pathophysiology based on the damage of the vascular endothelium. As a result of this, generalized endothelial disruption in preeclampsia, a multiorgan dysfunction, can develop, most frequently reflected in the clinical presentation with hematological and renal disturbances and with a disordered function of the liver and central nervous system. We are presenting a case of a gravid woman with poorly regulated hypertension that resulted from development of preeclampsia, later complicated by placental abruption and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) with multi-organ dysfunction. The importance of rapid recognition of coagulation disorder and the attempt at surgical treatment aiming at removal of the triggering mechanisms of DIC was shown, suggesting all the symptomatic therapeutic measures would be ineffective. Although our patient was surgically treated in the phase of generalized disorder characterized by development of coma, acute respiratory distress syndrome and renal insufficiency when mortality was 70%, the recovery of functions of all involved organs was achieved, except for the renal function that required chronic haemodialysis treatment.
Uterine torsion in term pregnancy
Authors: Sparic Radmila , Pervulov Miroslava , Stefanovic Aleksandar , Tadic Jasmina , Gojnic Miroslava , Milicevic Srboljub , Berisavac Milica
Published: July 2008

Introduction Uterine torsion has been defined as a rotation of more than 45 degrees of the uterus around its long axis that occurs at the junction between the cervix and the corpus. The extent of the rotation is usually 180 degrees, although cases with torsion from 60 to 720 degrees have been reported. Aetiopathogenesis of this condition is still unclear. Establishing clinical diagnosis of this condition is difficult, but very important for reducing maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Clinical symptoms are either absent or nonspecific, and the diagnosis is usually made at laparotomy. Case outlineA 31-year old patient was admitted to the Institute of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, as an emergency, seven days upon the established intrauterine fetal demise in the 40th gestation week. On uterine examination, the cervical length of 1.5 cm and dilatation of 3 cm were determined, as well as a palpable soft tissue formation, not resembling placenta praevia. Ultrasound examination confirmed fetal demise and exclusion of the presence of placenta praevia. The labor was completed by caesarean section. During surgery, uterine torsion of 180 degrees to the right was diagnosed. There was a stillborn male baby, and the cause of death was intrauterine asphyxia. A fibrosing and calcified accessory lobe 9x6x2.5 cm in size was observed on placental examination, which is a possible sign of initial gemellary pregnancy. Conclusion The clinical presentation of uterine torsion is variable and clinical examination and ultrasonographic scanning may be insufficient for diagnosis. The method of choice for establishing the diagnosis is magnetic resonance imaging. Once the diagnosis of uterine torsion in pregnancy is established, emergency laparotomy is indicated. Following caesarean delivery, it is necessary to surgically remove all the anatomical causes of torsion, and rotate the uterus back to its normal position. There are some authors who suggest bilateral plication of the round ligaments as a preventive procedure for repeated torsion in puerperium and following pregnancies. The effectiveness of this method requires further investigation. It is necessary to have in mind the possibility of uterine torsion in all cases of abdominal pain during pregnancy and dystocia.
Sub-tenon anesthesia in the operation of cataract using phacoemulsification technique
Authors: Avramovic Sinisa , Vukosavljevic Miroslav
Published: July 2008

INTRODUCTION Already in 1884, Knapp reported a successful cataract operation using 5% of cocaine in eyedrops. Today, different methods of local anesthesia in the operation of cataract are used, such as retrobulbary, peribulbary, subconjunctival, sub-tenon, topical and intracameral anesthesia. Phacoemulsification is a modern approach to the operation of cataract that is increasingly applied in our country. Aiming to eliminate the risk of severe complications caused by retrobulbary anesthesia, in our patients undergoing surgery to treat cataract we applied sub-tenon anesthesia. OBJECTIVE The aim of this work was to establish the efficacy and the safety of subtenal anesthesia in the operation of cataract using phacoemulsification technique. METHOD We examined 85 patients who were operated for cataract under sub-tenon anesthesia. The operation was performed using phacoemulsification technique. The surgeon injected about 2 ml of the mixture of lidocaine (2%) and bupivacaine (0.5%) in equal proportions into the bottom of the fornix at 11 o?clock or 1 o?clock position into one of the two upper eye quadrants. After phacoemulsification and the placement of intraocular lenses, the patients were asked to reply to the questions according to a standardized protocol. Priory, the patients were informed about the test and the pain scale ranging from 1 to 10, with 1 indicating the absence of pain and 10 unbearable pain. RESULTS Eighty-five patients underwent surgery for cataract using phacoemulsification technique and in whom posterior chamber intraocular lenses were placed under sub-tenon anesthesia. During the application of anesthesia, subjective pain experience was at the level of mild discomfort or non-existent in 3/4 of the patients. In relation to pain experience during surgery, it ranged from mild inconvenience to pain absence in 4/5 of the patients. The most frequent complication during surgery was eye rolling occurring in every 10th patient. In 4/5 patients the overall surgical course was assessed by the surgeon as excellent or outstanding. CONCLUSION Sub-tenon anesthesia applied at one point of the upper quadrant using during modern approach in the surgery of cataract, namely the phacoemulsification technique, offers good comfort to the patient during anesthesia introduction, as well as during surgery, with a relatively low complication rate occurring during the operation, and also offering good comfort to the surgeon.
Determinants of body mass index in children and adolescents
Authors: Bukara-Radujkovic Gordana , Zdravkovic Dragan
Published: July 2008

INTRODUCTION Body Mass Index (BMI) in boys and girls is predicted by parental BMI, age and occupation. OBJECTIVE Correlation of BMI among children and adolescents in Banjaluka region (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and parental age, BMI, parents? educational level and occupation, as well as the number of family members were investigated as the possible determinants of overweight and obesity in childhood. METHOD The study included 1204 children and adolescents (578 males, 626 females), 6-17 years old from primary and secondary schools in the Banjaluka region. BMI was calculated from height and weight using the standard formula. Each subject along with his parents answered the questionnaire that contained information about parents? height and weight, educational level and occupation, as well as the number of family members. RESULTS In all studied children, the prevalence of overweight was 12.2% and of obesity 6.1%. Strong positive correlation was found between parental BMI and age (older than 40 years) in males and females (p<0.001), while parental higher BMI and higher educational level had positive correlation only in males (p<0.001). The number of family members showed negative correlation with overweight/obesity only in females. CONCLUSION The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children?s population in the Banjaluka region is 12.2% and 6.1%, respectively. There is a positive correlation of overweight and obesity in children with parental overweight and obesity, as well as older age, and parental higher educational level.
Validity of clinical and ultrasound examination related to arthroscopy in acute injury of the medial meniscus of the knee
Authors: Timotijevic Sladjan , Vukasinovic Zoran , Bascarevic Zoran
Published: July 2008

INTRODUCTION Injuries of the medial meniscus of the knee are constantly present in sports, but also in common life activities. Diagnostic procedures which are available today in the diagnosis and estimation of the severity of intraarticular knee structures are numerous, but they are not available, plausible and valid at the same manner. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic validity of clinical and ultrasound examination related to arthroscopy in acute injury of the medial meniscus of the knee. METHOD This prospective study analyzed 198 hospitalized patients, treated from 2004 to 2006 at the Belgrade Institute for Orthopaedic Surgery ?Banjica" and Belgrade Special Orthopedic Surgery Hospital ?Decedra", who underwent arthroscopy. Before the arthroscopy, clinical and ultrasound examinations were performed. RESULTS The values of sensitivity (91.1%), specificity (80.0%), positive predictive value (83.6%) and negative predictive value (88.9%) of ultrasound examination of acute injury of the medial meniscus are proportionately lower as compared to the values of sensitivity (97.2%), specificity (90.2%), positive predictive value (86.0%) and negative predictive value (98.2%) of ultrasound examination in chronic injuries of the medial meniscus of the knee. CONCLUSION Ultrasound examination is a more useful method in the detection of lesions of the medial meniscus of the knee as related to clinical tests used in their detection in this study.
Gender and religiosity
Authors: Flere Sergej
Published: July 2008

In the paper, the author deals with the relationship between gender and frequency of (ir)religiosity. Bearing in mind that the finding of more frequent religiosity of women is almost universal within Christianity, various psychological and sociological explanations are presented and dealt with. In the latter part of the paper, the author presents empirical survey data from Slovenia. The longitudinal analysis of correlation of gender and religiosity does not indicate any trend, though fluctuations are detected. A two step cross tabulation of education, gender and religiosity points to a minimal possibility of explanation by lower education among females. Regression analysis indicates that social variables remain robust, when gender is introduced into the model. It is concluded that factors of a sociological nature cannot explain the full difference in religiosity among males and females and that psychological factors immanent to gender should be taken into account.
Globalization of democratic participation self-governance versus globalization of oligopolistic markets totalitarianism
Authors: Vratusa-Zunjic Vera
Published: July 2008

The paper re-examines the fashionable theme 'globalization of markets' in the light of the several centuries long process of world-wide violent expansion of capitalist social relations. It focuses its present culmination in the neo-liberal policy variant of the capitalist strategy of privatization by less than 500 controlling package owners of the biggest supra- and transnational industrial corporations and financial institutions. Presented are the devastating consequences of the implementation of this strategy. Paper further critically re-examines the XXth century 'real-socialist' negative experiences of the 'dictatorship over the needs'. It points out some lessons that can be learned from the Yugoslav self management experience for the present and future attempts at the re-conceptualization of the alternative post capitalist strategy of social development at the local, national, regional and world level.
The influence of national culture on organizational subcultures and leadership styles in Serbian enterprises: An empirical analysis
Authors: Mojic Dusan
Published: July 2008

The main intention of this study was to analyze cultural influences on leadership styles and organizational subcultures in Serbian enterprises. Hofstede's well-known research about national cultures has been used as the theoretical framework for examining the above-mentioned organizational phenomena. The results of the study confirmed earlier findings about national culture in Serbia, which is characterized by high Power Distance, high Uncertainty Avoidance, strong Collectivism and, mostly, "feminine" values. As for leadership, the study reveals that authoritative style is absolutely prevailing pattern of managerial behavior in Serbian enterprises.
The dynamics of social capital in Croatia, 1995 - 2003
Authors: Stulhofer Aleksandar , Landripert Ivan
Published: July 2008

The concept of social capital has gained wide acceptance and use in social sciences, particularly in sociology, political science and institutional economics. Its popularity should be primarily attributed to various societal benefits, theoretically and empirically well explored, linked to the production and persistence of social capital. This paper reconsiders the dynamics of social capital in Croatia presented in a previous article (Stulhofer, 2003a). Using data from two cross-sectional nationally representative social surveys (World Values Survey - Croatia 1995, and South East European Social Survey, 2003), the authors focus on the dynamics of social capital during the 1995-2003 period. In spite of economic growth increasing political stability and advancing democratization in the observed period, the findings point to the erosion of social capital. The main factors behind the negative dynamics of social capital in Croatia seem to be growing perception of corruption and declining religiousness.
Relevance of social capital and its implications for children: Study in three Belgrade urban settings
Authors: Tomanovic Smiljka
Published: July 2008

The paper aims at questioning some theoretical and methodological issues of relevance of social capital concept for children and its policy implications. The evidence for the analysis comes from the small-scale survey and eight focus group interviews with 13 - 14 year old schoolchildren in three Belgrade urban settings. By using the operationalisation developed by V. Morrow (2003), the author explores the validity in the case of children of social networks, sense of belonging and local identity community, and civic engagement as features and components of social capital. The evidence shows that each of these features has its particularity when children and young people are concerned, which has to be kept in mind when using social capital as theoretical concept and methodological tool. The validity of the concept of social capital in its broader terms for children is questioned in the paper. Considering different kinds of social constraints, one could ask whether it would be more helpful to think about the defined components as "social resources" than as "capital" when we consider children as a social group. This argument has also specific policy implications.
Antinomije "paralelnog" kosovskog drustva
Authors: Sutovic Milojica
Published: July 2008

(nemacki) Die Arbeit befasst sich mit der Analyse der Antinomien einer "Parallelgesellschaft" als paradigmatisches Beispiel f?r die unsichere ethnische Zone und f?r den Krisenherd, zerrissen durch Konflikte und Abtrennung in einem "lange andauernden Prozess", nach dem Modell eines Pendels, von Dominierung und Repression in den Beziehungen zwischen Serben und Albanern, in dessen Mittelpunkt der ethnifizierte Konflikt um die Kontrolle des Gebietes zwecks Erhaltung, Komplettierung oder Schaffung eines abgegrenzten Nationalstaates steht, unter Beruf auf historische, ethnische territoriale und demokratische Gr?nde. Deshalb ist es zwischen den beiden Gemeinschaften auch weder zu einer Assimilierung noch zu einer Koexistenz gekommen, sondern nur zu einer Festigung der Parallelen auf dem Niveau von Religion, Gewohnheitsrecht, in der Grauzone der Wirtschaft, im Schulwesen, in der ?ffentlichen Meinung und sogar zu einem Parallelstaat, der von ?ngstlichkeit, von allgemeinem und manchmal von einem neurotischem Angstzustand, Bangen und Agressivit?t gekennzeichnet ist. Deshalb werden mit gleicher Wahrscheinlichkeit widerspr?chliche Schl?sse ?ber den Kosovo insgesamt gefolgert, durch Gleichsetzung von "Parallelgesellschaft" und Multikulturalit?t, in der Serben und Albaner in der Vergangenheit und in der Zukunft leben, aber nicht in der Gegenwart, wo die serbische "Parallele" als Randgruppe, Ghetto oder "Fensterschmuck" dsr albanischen monoethnischen Staatsmonopols lebt.
Seed protein variability in safflower
Authors: Obreht Dragana , Vapa Ljiljana , Kis Sándor , Takács Mária-Hajos , Stefánovics Éva-Bányai , Vörösvári Gábor , Kastori Rudolf
Published: July 2008

Total seed proteins in two safflower species (Carthamus tinctorius L. and C. lanatus L) have been separated by the SDS-PAGE method. Their molecular masses ranged from 120 to 20 kDa. All C. tinctorius genotypes under study exhibited identical electrophoretic patterns which differed from the pattern exhibited by the wild species C. lanatus in the number and position of protein bands. Differences in protein profiles occurred in regions around 60 kDa, from 43 to 36 kDa and around 30 kDa. Statistically significant differences in seed protein content were found among safflower genotypes from different countries as well as among genotypes from the same country but from different sites. The highest seed protein content was found in a genotype originating from the USA.