bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metoprolol and atenolol in mild-to-moderate chronic heart failure: The comparison of survival benefit
Authors: Celic Vera , Pencic Biljana , Dekleva Milica , Dimkovic Sinisa , Kocijancic Maksimilijan
Published: July 2008

The clinical end-point of all causes of mortality and cardiovascular hospitalization (combined end-points) is a widely accepted indicator of heart failure survival. The primary aim of this study was to examine the effects of metoprolol and atenool on combined end-points in patients with mild-to-moderate heart failure. This study was designed to be comparative, prospective, and random. The criteria for study inclusion were: age of 70 years or less, New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Class II and III, and an ejection fraction of the left ventricle of 40% or less. The patients (a total of 150) on therapy with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and a diuretic were randomized into three numerically equal therapy groups: 1) an atenolol group; 2) a metoprolol group; and 3) a control group (without beta-blockers). The follow-up period was 12 months. The results were analyzed using: the hisquare test, variance analyses, Kaplan-Meier's model, Wilcox's statistics, and Cox's model. The cumulative survival rate for patients treated with metoprolol was 88%, 78% for patients treated with atenolol, and 48% for patients from the control group. It is clear that the cumulative survival rate for patients treated with metoprolol and atenolol is significantly higher compared to patients from the control group. In addition, the survival rate of patients treated with metoproiol was considerably higher compared to the survival rate of patients treated with atenolol. Metoprolol has significantly reduced the relative risk of combined end-points (71%) compared to atenolol (53%). The results of this comparative study clearly indicate that metoprolol and atenolol have a favorable effect on the survival rate of patients with chronic heart failure. In addition, metoprolol is considerably more effective than atenolol.
Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma of the lachrymal gland: A case report
Authors: Nedeljkov-Jancic Ruzica , Mihaljevic Biljana , Bakrac Milena , Petrovic Milan
Published: July 2008

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma has drawn attention in the last twenty years due to its pathological and clinical characteristics. It is a question of B-cell neoplasm with extranodal origin, and with invariable prolonged localization, indicating indolent malignancy. It is believed that this type of lymphoproliferative neoplasm is triggered by chronic antigenic stimulation. This is supported by the observation that this type of extranodal lymphoma is frequently found in regions affected by chronic inflammation, such as mucosa of the stomach, the respiratory tract, as well as of the salivary and the thyroid glands. It is not common in the breasts, liver, kidneys, and gallbladder. Primary orbital lymphomas account for 5-14% of all extranodal lymphomas. The most commonly involved orbital tissue structures are: conjunctiva, the eyelids, and retrobulbar tissue, while the development of the disease in the lachrymal gland is extremely rare. No wonder that the literature on the presentation, treatment modalities, and recommendations for the monitoring of MALT lymphoma of the lachrymal gland is so scarce. Given the aforementioned facts, the case report of a patient with primary localization of MALT lymphoma of the lachrymal gland was considered intriguing; initially, the patient was successfully treated by surgical intervention followed by radiation therapy (TD 30 Gy).
Pseudoallescheria boydii (Scedosporium apiospermum), cause of mycotic granulomatous osteomyelitis: Case diagnosis
Authors: Sopta Jelena , Atanackovic Mirjana , Raspopovic Vojislav , Markovic Ljiljana , Kranjcic-Zec Ivanka , Lesic Aleksandar
Published: July 2008

Fungal bone infections constitute about 0.1-0.2% of all osteomyelitis cases. The disease, mycetoma pedis, most often affects the feet and is also known as madura foot. Mycetoma, extremely rare in this geographic area, Is endemic in Tropical and subtropical regions. We present a case of mycetoma pedis (madura foot). The patient was a 50-year-old woman. The clinical signs included pain, indurations, and local redness. The anamnesis was very long, about 10 years. The operative material was routinely stained with haematoxylineosine [HE], Granulomatous inflammation of the bone was confirmed pathologically. All pathological characteristics pointed to a fungal infection in the form of mycetoma pedis. Special staining for fungi was performed: PAS, Grocott's h examine-silver, and Giemsa, confirming the diagnosis of mycetoma. A definitive microbiological analysis was carried out through tissue inoculation on the Sabouraud dextrose agar laboratory media for fungal cultivation. Pseudoallescheria boydii, the sexual stage of Monosporium apiospermum, was isolated. After microbiological verification of fungal infection, surgical therapy was carried out. Seven months after the first operation, the patient had the same clinical signs. The diagnostic procedure was repeated and mycetoma was confirmed once again. Surgery was again the therapy of choice, because Pseudoallescheria boydii is resistant to treatment with antimycotic drugs.
Use of saliva as a diagnostic fluid in dentistry
Authors: Todorovic Tatjana , Dozic Ivan , Pavlica Dusan , Markovic Dejan , Ivanovic Mirjana , Brajovic Gavrilo , Stefanovic Gordana , Mirkovic Silvija , Andjelski Biljana
Published: July 2008

Saliva is a secretion of the salivary and mucous glands and is of major importance in the maintainance of oral health. Over the last few decades, saliva has been evaluated as a diagnostic fluid in medicine for determining systemic disease markers as well as for monitoring numerous drugs, narcotics, and hormones. The biochemical analysis of saliva is particularly important in dentistry. The estimation of the risk of appearance and diagnosis of disease, monitoring of disease progression, evaluation of therapy efficacy for caries, periodontitis, premalignant and malignant oral lesions, as well as infectious diseases of the oral cavity, can be assessed by analyzing different constituent: of saliva, individuals at risk of caries can be identified using test: that determine saliva flow rate, saliva buffer capacity, and colonization of the oral cavity by cariogenic bacteria. Today, these rapid and simple diagnostic tests are used routinely in caries risk determination. The study and use of saliva-based diagnostics have increased over the last few decades. Clinical testing of saliva shows much promise. However, there is a need for much additional research in this area, before the true clinical value of saliva as a diagnostic fluid in dentistry can be determined.
New strategies in multiple organ dysfunction syndrometherapy for sepsis
Authors: Surbatovic Maja , Radakovic Sonja , Jovanovic Krsta , Romic Predrag
Published: July 2008

Despite more than 20 years of extensive research, sepsis and/or trauma induced multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) remain the chief cause of death in intensive care units, with mortality rates between 30% and 80%. Early goal-directed therapy (EGDT), use of drotrecogin alfa (activated), tight control of hyperglycaemia, and adrenal replacement therapy (low doses of corticosteroids)all constitute new treatment strategies. In future, a combination of therapies should be individually adjusted for each patient.
Carotid endarterectomy in cervical block anesthesia in patients with occluded contralateral internal carotid artery
Authors: Ilijevski Nenad , Krivokapic Borislav , Smiljanic Blasko , Nenezic Dragoslav , Popov Petar , Sagic Dragan , Radak Djordje
Published: July 2008

Introduction: The goal of modern carotid surgery is relief of symptoms, stroke prevention, improvement in quality of life, prevention of vascular dementia, and prolongation of lifetime. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper was to compare the outcome of carotid endarterectomy in cervical block vs. general anesthesia in patients with occluded contralateral internal carotid artery (ICA). METHOD: One hundred patients (76 male, 24 female, mean age 60.81 years) with occluded contralateral ICA were operated from 1997-2000. Neurological symptomatology, deficiency and stroke incidence were preoperatively analyzed in two groups. Duplex-scanning, angiograms and CT-scan confirmed the diagnosis. Risk factors analysis included hypertension, diabetes, lipid metabolism disorders, smoking and history of CAD, CABG and PAOD. Morbidity and mortality were used to compare the outcome of surgery in two groups. RESULTS There was no difference of age, gender and symptomatology between the groups. Paresis, TIA and dysphasia were most frequent. 70%-90% of ICA stenosis was seen in the majority of patients. Hypertension and smoking were dominant risk factors in these two groups. Eversion carotid end arterectomy was the most frequent technique used. In three cases out of nine that were operated under cervical block, the neurological symptoms developed just after clamping, so the intra-luminal shunt was placed. Postoperative morbidity was 12% and mortality was 8%. Conclusion: There was no difference of preoperative parameters, surgical technique and outcome in these two groups. Without other intraoperative monitoring, cervical block anesthesia might be an option in patients with the occlusion of the contralateral ICA. However, prospective studies involving more patients are needed.
Our experience with orthopedic surgery in hemophiliacs
Authors: Poenaru Dan , Serban Margit , Branea Ioan , Patrascu Jenel
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Patients having severe hemophilia (levels of deficient factor below 1%) frequently suffer from disabling chronic arthropathy. An adequate substitution treatment using the coagulation factor VIII or IX concentrates renders an elective surgery feasible. Objective: The objective of the study was to check the results of different surgical procedures in the treatment of hemophilic arthropathies, and to propose the best protocol of their treatment. Methods: This is a retrospective study on 26 hemophilic patients operated in the Orthopedics and Trauma Clinic II, Timisoara, from 2002 to 2005. Elective surgical procedures were mainly performed in the knee (21 arthroscopic procedures, 1 open arthrodesis), elbow (2 open synovectomies, 2 radial head excisions), ankle (1 arthroscopic synovectomy and debridement) and thigh (1 giant pseudo tumor excision, other minor procedures). The results after operations on moderate and severe chronic knee, elbow and ankle arthropathy were evaluated, with approximately 24-month follow-up period. Results: Arthroscopic procedures (22) yielded good and satisfactory results with significant improvement according to the evaluation criteria recommended by the World Hemophilia Federation (Gilbert clinical score, Pettersson radiological score, NUSS MRI score). Conclusion: Mini-invasive elective surgery in moderate to severe chronic arthropathy produces good results when performed in a specialized center and with multi-disciplinary approach.
Oral surgery as risk factor of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis
Authors: Racic Alek , Dotlic Jelena , Janosevic Ljiljana
Published: July 2008

In order to determine the risk factors of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis, a total number of 40 patients with this pathological condition was examined in three-year period. Oroantral communication was detected in 40% of patients, oroantral fistula in 25%, sinus foreign bodies in 15% and other pathological conditions in 10% of cases. The extraction of the upper lateral teeth was the cause of odontogenic sinusitis in 65% patients. Given the specific tooth, the first upper molar was the most common cause of the condition, i.e. in 40% of cases. It may be concluded that odontogenic sinusitis is the complication of the oral cavity surgery in 85% of patients, what should be taken into consideration in prevention.
Work ability evaluation in neurosarcoidosis: A case report
Authors: Milovanovic Aleksandar , Milovanovic Jovica , Torbica Nikola
Published: July 2008

Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology which affects most frequently the hilar lymph nodes and lungs. Symptomatic involvement of the central nervous system may develop in patients diagnosed with sarcoidosis or it may be the initial manifestation of the disease. This is a case report of 48-year old female patient admitted to our clinic for evaluation of working ability. The patient had a total of 24 years of service and occupational exposure and she has been employed as supplies procurement officer. On admission, she complained of the following discomforts: eye-lid pain, intellectual fatigue, psychic uneasiness, forgetfulness, dyspnea and productive cough. Neurological findings indicated the presence of the right eye ophthalmoplegia, psychoorganic syndrome and neurosarcoidosis. Ophthalmological examination evidenced bilateral ptosis and presence of anisocoria. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed discrete focal lesions of the pons (paracentral left) and parietal corona radiata of the left hemisphere. Based on performed examinations and diagnostics procedures, final evaluation of patient?s working ability concluded that the patient was not capable of psychic strains and jobs associated with material accountability.
Location of accessory pathways and its radiofrequency ablation in Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome
Authors: Vukajlovic Dejan , Angelkov Lazar , Neskovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of accessory pathways (AP) is the first line therapy in symptomatic patients with preexcitation syndrome, resistant to medical therapy. Objective: To evaluate the influence of AP location on RFA effectiveness. Method: The study compared RFA results of AP located on the left side, right side, and in septal area of the heart in the first 101 consecutive patients treated at Dedinje Cardiovascular Institute in Belgrade. Results: There was no significant difference between the right-, left- and septal-AP in relation to primary success rates (66.7%, 84.3%, 73.7%, respectively, p=0.285), recurrence rates (12.5%, 6.97%,14.3%, p=0.591), and final success rates (66%, 84.3%, 78.9%, p=0.37). Maximally achieved interface temperature was lowest at right-sided AP (49.8?1.9?C) as compared to the left (53.0?3.5?C) or septal AP (52.9?3.0?C) (p<0.01). Fluoroscopy time did not differ significantly (p=0.062), while total procedure time and the number of applied RF pulses was higher in the left-sided AP as compared to other two (104.6?44.9 for the left, 98.9?47.5 for the right and 80.7?39.8 minutes for the septal AP, p<0.05; 11.0?8.8 pulses for the left, 6.5?3.8 for the right and 6.4?5.0 for septal AP, p<0.01). Two major complications developed: one third-degree AV block after ablation of midseptal AP, and one pericardial effusion without tamponade, with spontaneous regression. Conclusion: The success rate of RFA of the right-, left- and septal-AP was similar. Heating of the tissue was weakest during RFA of the right-sided AP.
Bilateral tumors of the upper urothelium
Authors: Djokic Milan , Dragicevic Dejan , Nikolic Jovan , Dragicevic Svetomir , Radivojevic Dragana
Published: July 2008

Introduction: The incidence of tumors of the upper urothelium is high in our country, apart from their relation to specific regions (BEN and PBEN) and their frequent bilateralism. Bilateral forms are present in significant percentage and are followed, in most cases, by renal failure, which speaks in favor of conservative surgery, if possible. Objective: The aim of the study was to present epidemiological, pathoanatomical and clinical characteristics of bilateral tumors of the upper urothelium and evaluate the Results of their treatment. Method: Our retrospective study analyzed 12 patients with bilateral tumors of the upper urothelium who were treated in the period from 1992 to 1996, according to their epidemiological, clinical, pathoanatomical and pathohistological characteristics, type of surgical treatment and relevant success. Results: In the observed period, bilateral tumors of the upper urothelium were found in 8.2% of our patients. In the group of 12 patients, 5 females and 7 males, 11 cases were from the region of Balkan Endemic Nephropathy (BEN). Renal failure was recorded in high percentage (66%). Radical surgical treatment - total nephroureterectomy was performed in 9 kidney units, and conservative operation in 15 units. Relapse significantly depended on tumor stage and grade, not on type of surgical treatment in the majority of cases. Five-year survival was 58.33%; major cause of death was associated with further evolution of tumor, recurrence and tumor dissemination, respectively, while renal failure complications were the cause of death in one case. Conclusion: The success of treatment mainly depends on tumor stage and grade and not on type of surgical Method in conservative treatment, but renal failure and its complications are an important risk factor in these patients.
First trimester ultrasound screening of chromosomal abnormalities
Authors: Trninic-Pjevic Aleksandra , Novakov-Mikic Aleksandra
Published: July 2008

Introduction: A retrocervical subcutaneous collection of fluid at 11-14 weeks of gestation, can be visualized by ultrasound as nuchal translucency (NT). Objective. To examine the distribution of fetal nuchal translucency in low risk population, to determine the detection rate of chromosomal abnormalities in the population of interest based on maternal age and NT measurement. Method. Screening for chromosomal defects, advocated by The Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF), was performed in 1,341 pregnancies in the period January 2000 - April 2004. Initial risk for chromosomal defects (based on maternal and gestational age) and corrected risk, after the NT measurement, were calculated. Complete data were collected from 1,048 patients. Results. Out of 1,048 pregnancies followed, 8 cases of Down?s syndrome were observed, 7 were detected antenatally and 6 out of 7 were detected due to screening that combines maternal age and NT measurement. According to our results, sensitivity of the screening for aneuploidies based on maternal age alone was 12.5% and false positive rate 13.1%, showing that screening based on NT measurement is of great importance. Screening by a combination of maternal age and NT, and selecting a screening-positive group for invasive testing enabled detection of 75% of fetuses with trisomy 21. Conclusion. In screening for chromosomal abnormalities, an approach which combines maternal age and NT is effective and increases the detection rate compared to the use of any single test. .
Morbidity patterns of workers employed in pharmaceutical-chemical industry
Authors: Milovanovic Aleksandar , Jakovljevic Branko , Milovanovic Jovica , Paunovic Katarina , Ilic Dragan , Torbica Nikola , Corac Aleksandar , Samardzic Svetomir , Blagojevic Tatjana
Published: July 2008

Introduction. Work in pharmaceutical-chemical industry is characterized by exposure to numerous hazards, both physical (microclimate, illumination, noise) and chemical (organic solvents). Organic solvents can cause damage to many organic systems and have carcinogenic, teratogenic and mutagenic effects. Objective. The aim of this study was to analyze patterns of chronic morbidity of workers employed in pharmaceuticalchemical industry during 2002. Method. The study was conducted in the pharmaceutical- chemical industry "Zdravlje" Leskovac in 2002. A total of 143 workers in workplaces with special working conditions - exposed to chemical hazards as well as 40 workers from control group took part in the study. The physical examinations of the participants were performed at the Department of Occupational Health in Health Center, Leskovac. Results. Heart diseases were the most frequent both among exposed workers (17.8%) and in control group (33.3%). Respiratory diseases were at the second place (16.9% in the exposed group, and 7.4% in control group). Arterial hypertension was diagnosed in 14.7% workers occupationally exposed to hazards, and in 12.5% workers from control group (p>0.05). Chronic bronchitis was diagnosed in 17.5% of the exposed workers and in only 5.0% of controls (p>0.05). The highest prevalence of diseases in both groups was observed among workers aged 40-49 years, with 20-29 years of exposure working time. 73.4% of the exposed workers and 85% of control workers were capable of work (p>0.05). Conclusion. Workers occupationally exposed to hazards in pharmaceutical-chemical industry have higher prevalence of various diseases compared to non-exposed workers, which can be the result of work, working conditions and work activity. Preventive measures should be directed towards the decrease of occupational hazards and unfavorable working conditions and increase of work protection. Regular physical examinations of workers are of prime importance for the prevention of occupational morbidity, traumatism and invalidity. .
Lingual thyroid
Authors: Marina Djordje , Sajic Silvija
Published: July 2008

Lingual thyroid is a rare congenital malformation that occurs more frequently in the female population. It occurs because of the error in transcriptional factors, the key for the normal differentiation of thyrocyte, so the thyroid gland tissue does not descend normally down the thyroglossal duct to the final position in the neck. Due to that, it can entirely or partially remain at the base of the tongue. This is the most frequent localization of the ectopic tissue while it can remain in the sublingual, suprahyoid and infrahyoid area as well. This disease can be diagnosed in the asymptomatic phase, as well as in the phase of compensatory and manifest hypothyroidism. In the ectopic thyroid gland, all diseases of the thyroid gland can occur as in the usual localization in the neck. The authors show a 6-year old patient, who had a routine medical examination for the inflamed throat, during which a vascular tumefaction was discovered at the base of the tongue. A cyst at the base of the tongue was suspected, but additional examination showed that it was an ectopic thyroid tissue marked as a lingual thyroid gland. Diagnosis of this disease starts with the laboratory analysis of the thyroid status. The next step involves scintigraphy of the thyroid gland with technetium-pertechnetate (99mTc) or radioactive iodine (123I). The therapy of the compensatory hypothyroidism is suppressive therapy with levothyroxine and in the manifest hypothyroidism it is hormone substitution therapy with levothyroxine. Although there are recommended age-related daily doses, they should not be accepted as final, but rather prescribed according to the individual thyroid status. .
Influence of low-intensity laser therapy on spatial perception threshold and electroneurographic finding in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy
Authors: Peric Zoran
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) can be applied in cases when patients with diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) suffer from chronic severe neuropathic pain. Objective. We wanted to analyze influence of LILT on spatial perception threshold (SPT) and electroneurographic (ENG) parameters in patients with painful DPN. Method. We analyzed 45 patients (25 males), average age 54.3 years (54.3?10.9), with clinical and ENG signs of painful DPN. The patients were divided into two groups: A and B. Group A consisted of 30 patients with DPN who had 30 LILT treatments over the period of 12 weeks and group B consisted of 15 patients with DPN who received only vitamin therapy per os within the same period. Prior to and after 12 weeks of treatment, the following ENG parameters were determined using surface electrodes: motor (MCV) and sensory conduction velocities (SCV) values (in m/s) of nervus (n.) peroneus (NP), n. tibialis (NT) and n. medianus (NM) and their motor distal latency (MDL) values (in ms). SPT value (score as number from 1 to 8) was determined with Tactile Circumferential Discriminator on dorsal part of foot?s big toe skin. For statistical analysis, we used Student?s t-test and Pearson correlation (sig. 2 tailed) study. Results. We registered statistically significant difference between SPT (p<0.01) values prior to (5.25?1.11) and after (4.87?0.90) LILT, as well as NMMCV (p<0.05) values prior to (47.18?5.08) and after (49.12?3.72) LILT. Besides, we registered, only after LILT, statistically significant correlation between SPT and NMDML (p<0.01) values and also between SPT and NMSCV (p<0.05) values. The differences and correlations between other analyzed parameters before and after treatments were not significant (p>0.05). Conclusion. In this study we registered significant decrease of SPT and increase of NMMCV after LILT and that indicated a favorable effect of this treatment in analyzed patients with painful DPN. In our opinion these results need further investigation. .
Roentgencraniometric analysis of the angular craniofacial dimensions in subjects with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Dodic Slobodan , Vukadinovic Miroslav , Sinobad Vladimir
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Anomalies in growth and development of the craniofacial skeleton, particularly of vertical dysplasia, may be accompanied by distinct signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders. Vertical dysplasia followed by numerous occlusal disturbances alters muscular activity resulting in non-physiological strain on articular structures and their remodelling. Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a possible assocciation between certain morphologic features of the craniofacial skeleton and the presence of signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders in young adults with preserved natural dentition. Method. The investigation was carried out on 30 lateral cephalometric radiographs made of 30 subjects with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders. According to the values of the ANB angle (Steiner cephalometric analysis), all subjects were classified in the skeletal class 1.The control group consisted of 50 lateral cephalometric radiographs made of subjects with the skeletal class 1 without signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders. The roentgencraniometric analysis of lateral cephalometric radiographs included the evaluation of 20 angular dimensions. Results. The result of this study points at significant differences between the Bolton standards and the following angular dimensions in subjects with temoromandibular disorders:(S-Na)-Pg, (B-Na)-Pg, (Pns-Ans)-(Go-Gn), Occl-i, (S-Na)-i, (S-Na)-(Go-Me), (Go-Me)-i, SNB. The comparative analysis between the subjects of the experimental and the control group revealed significant differences in the values of the following angular dimensions: OccP-(Go-Po) i (S-N)-(Go-Me) at the level of p<0.001. Conclusion. The values of the analyzed angular dimensions in both subjects of the experimental and the control group show significant differences when related to the same angular dimensions in the Bolton standards. This can be explained by specific morphologic features of the craniofacial skeleton in subjects of our population. Small number of significant differences in the values of the examined angular variables between the subjects with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders and subjects without such signs/symptoms can be explained by the fact that the study included young persons with the skeletal class 1 jaw relationships and relatively harmonious relations within the orofacial complex. .
Surgical treatment of patients with lung cancer and limited lung function: Preoperative assessment, operative mortality and morbidity
Authors: Subotic Dragan , Mandaric Dragan , Andric Ljiljana , Gajic Milan , Eminovic Tatjana , Atanasijadis Nikola , Dzeletovic Predrag
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Lung resection in patients with limited lung function is one of the greatest challenges in general thoracic surgery. Objective. The aim of the study was to analyze the pattern of lung function changes after operation, operative morbidity and mortality and to compare them with control group of patients. Method. The study included 34 patients with limited lung function, operated for primary lung cancer in one-year period. All patients underwent preoperative desobstructive treatment. The type of ventilatory disorder was analyzed depending on preoperative radiographic and bronchoscopic aspect. Statistics: chisquare test, t-test. Results. In patients with lobectomy, the mean difference in forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) between preoperative and postoperative values was 16.81%, whilst in the pneumonectomy group this difference was 39.51%. The mean change in forced vital capacity (FVC) in the lobectomy and pneumonectomy group was 15.83% and 42.73% respectively. In the control group of 28 patients with lobectomy, the decrease in FVC and FEV1 was 19.9% and 24.18% respectively. In the control group of 28 patients with pneumonectomy, the decrease in FVC and FEV1 was 43.52% and 41.36% respectively. In patients with limited lung function and lobectomy, changes in FEV1 and VC after resection were significantly lower compared to the control group of patients with lobectomy and normal lung function. None of 34 operated patients with borderline lung function died inside 30 postoperative days. In the same period, of a total number of 344 patients without respiratory function impairment, operative mortality was 3.1%. In the analyzed group, operative morbidity was 32.35%. Cardiovascular and respiratory complications in the analyzed and control groups occurred in 14.7% and 6.1% of patients respectively (p>0.05). Conclusion. Surgery should not be excluded in patients with borderline lung function prior to preoperative treatment and additional lung function assessment. .
Relation between QT dispersion, left ventricle systolic function and frequency of ventricular arrhythmias in coronary patients
Authors: Stoickov Viktor , Ilic Stevan , Deljanin-Ilic Marina
Published: July 2008

Introduction QT dispersion (QTd) is a measure of non-homogeneous repolarisation of the myocardium and is used as an indicator of arrhythmogenicity. Objective The aim of this study was to assess the relation between QT dispersion, left ventricle systolic function and frequency of ventricular arrhythmias in coronary patients. Method We studied 290 coronary patients, 72 with angina pectoris and 218 after myocardial infarction. Eighty-one coronary patients had frequent and complex ventricular arrhythmias (out of them 19 had ventricular tachycardia) and 209 were without arrhythmias or with infrequent ventricular premature contractions (VPC?10/h). In all patients, QT dispersion, exercise test, 24-hour Holter monitoring and echocardiographic examination were performed. Results Patients with frequent and complex ventricular arrhythmias had significantly higher values of QTd (71.8?25.5 vs 55.6?21.7 ms; p<0.001), corrected QT dispersion (QTdc: 81.3?31.5 vs. 60.3?26.1 ms; p<0.001), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDd: 56.2?6.9 vs. 53.4?6.2 mm; p<0.001) and left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESd: 39.5?6.2 vs. 36.0?6.3 mm; p<0.001), and significantly lower values of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF: 47.7?13.9 vs. 55.9?11.6%; p<0.001) in comparison to those without arrhythmias or with infrequent VPC. Patients with VT had significantly higher values of QTd and QTdc in comparison to other patients with frequent and complex ventricular arrhythmias (83.8?17.1 vs. 69.4?26.2 ms; p<0.02 for QTd; 101.1?23.9:77.6?31.4 ms; p<0.005 for QTdc). There is a significant negative correlation of QTd and QTdc with LVEF, and a significant positive correlation of QTd and QTdc with inside dimensions of the left ventricle, in patients with frequent and complex ventricular arrhythmias. Conclusion The study demonstrated that patients with frequent and complex ventricular arrhythmias had significantly higher values of QTd and QTdc, as well as a higher degree of left ventricle systolic dysfunction in comparison to those without arrhythmias or with infrequent VPC.
The effect of metformin on fasting and postprandial insulin secretion in obese patients with diabetes mellitus type 2
Authors: Vukovic Mira , Lapcevic Mirjana , Kalezic Nevena , Gvozdenovic Branislav
Published: July 2008

Introduction The main causes of reduced glucose levels during metformin therapy appear to be an increase in insulin action in peripheral tissues and reduced hepatic glucose output due to inhibition gluconeogenesis. Objective The purpose of the study was to establish the effect of metformin on fasting and postprandial insulin secretion. Method The study carried out was double blind, controlled, comparative, randomized, multicentric, including two groups of out-patient department (OPD) patients. 43 patients were administered metformin (Tefor ICN Canada), and 46 patients were given placebo. Patients enrolled in the study were newly diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2, glycaemia < 12 mmol/l, and had the Body Mass Index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2. Before treatment, blood biochemistry was done: fasting and postprandial glycaemia, glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) value, fasting and postprandial insulinaemia, blood lipids (total cholesterol, total triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol), and gamma glutaryl transferase (GGT) level. BMI was also established. After 42 days of treatment, fasting and postprandial insulinaemia were tested again. Analysis of the effects of therapy, and identification of co-variants for fasting and postprandial insulinaemia, were done by ANOVA two way and ANCOVA method. Results It was shown that metformin accompanied by diet, as compared to placebo accompanied by diet, lowered the fasting insulinaemia value during six weeks of therapy in obese patients with DM type 2 (24.392 mU/l vs. 25.667 mU/l), interacting both with BMI pre-therapy, and interacting with fasting insulinaemia pre-therapy (p<0.001). A significant effect of the interaction of covariants BMI and GGT was defined. As for the effect of therapy on postprandial insulinaemia, it was found that there was a high statistical significance of the effect of BMI interacting with initial values for postprandial insulinaemia before therapy, and interacting with therapy (p<0.01). Adjusted mean values for postprandial insulinaemia after therapy in the placebo group were lower as compared to the metformin group (44.807 mU/l vs. 47.114 mU/l). Conclusion It can be concluded that, as compared to placebo, metformin is more efficient in reducing insulin resistance in obese patients with DM type 2. In addition, as compared to placebo, metformin maintains more efficient productive insulin secretion, indicating that metformin protects the pancreas from beta cell depletion.
English medical phrases (mis)translated in Serbian
Authors: Fekete Egon
Published: July 2008

Translation of medical terms from English into Serbian implies observing lexical and grammatical rules of the Serbian language in order to have appropriate, precise and correct translation equivalents. The problem exists in translating complex phrases, because English has a compounding feature whereas the same idea in Serbian has to be descriptively expressed. Examples of inadequately translated terms taken from medical dictionaries, books and research papers of Serbian doctors are presented with suggestions how to remedy the situation.
Frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Alempijevic Tamara , Krstic Miodrag , Antonic Vesna , Krstic Slobodan
Published: July 2008

Introduction Ulcer disease occurrence is increased among patients with liver cirrhosis. It is widely accepted that Helicobacter pylori infection is important in etiology of ulcer disease. The role of Helicobacter pylori infection in pathogenesis of ulcer disease in patients with liver cirrhosis has not been satisfactorily explored yet. Objective The aim of this study was to determine frequencies of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with liver cirrhosis in relation to the etiology of cirrhosis, clinical stage and concomitant ulcer disease. Method We studied 50 patients with liver cirrhosis analyzing the etiology of liver cirrhosis, clinical stage, presence of ulcer disease, and existence of Helicobacter pylori infection. Results were thoroughly analyzed and compared. Results Among 50 studied subjects, 37 were male (average age 56.62?10.47 years), while 13 were female (average age 60.69?6.51 years). In 32 (64%) patients, liver cirrhosis was related to alcohol abuse, whereas in remaining 16 (36%) subjects, cirrhosis was due to chronic viral infection. Ulcer disease, determined by endoscopy, was present in 8 (16%) patients, although 18 (36%) subjects were Helicobacter pylori positive. There were no significant differences in occurrences of Helicobacter pylori infection amongst the patients with and without ulcer disease (?2=0.923; p>0.05). No significant difference was found for the clinical stage and type of ulcer disease (?2=0.869; p>0.05). The difference in presence of Helicobacter pylori infection and etiology of liver cirrhosis appeared to be of no significance, either (F=0.540; p>0.05). The presence of Helicobacter pylori infection in different clinical stages seemed to be of statistical significance (?2=7.0; p<0.05). Conclusion The obtained results indicate that the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with liver cirrhosis is lower compared to general population, and that is of no significance for ulcer disease in these subjects. Moreover, it is likely that the frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with liver cirrhosis is not related to the etiology of cirrhosis, while this infection seems to be more frequently present in severe clinical forms of hepatic cirrhosis.
First experience with intravenous thrombolysis in ischemic stroke in Serbia
Authors: Jovanovic Dejana , Beslac-Bumbasirevic Ljiljana , Kostic Vladimir
Published: July 2008

Introduction Systemic thrombolytic therapy in the first three hours of acute ischemic stroke (IS) significantly improves its outcome. This therapy was approved for treatment in USA in 1997, and in most European countries in 2002. First intravenous thrombolysis of IS in Serbia was carried out in February 2006. Objective We present our preliminary experience with intravenous thrombolysis in treating patients with acute IS and compare it with the results of other clinical studies. Method All patients with IS treated with intravenous thrombolysis in our department were included in the study. The time of stroke onset, first neurological exam, time of CT exam and beginning of therapy were recorded. The early CT signs of ischemia were graded by the ASPECTS score. Neurological deficit was assessed with NIHSS score and functional outcome with modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Results During the eight-month period intravenous thrombolysis was given to 12 patients with acute IS, aged 18 to 66 years, of whom 75% were younger than 55 years. Median time from symptom onset to hospital door was 57.5 minutes, median time door-to-CT was 32.5 minutes, and the time from symptom onset to treatment was 155 minutes. Early CT signs of ischemia were present in 10 patients with median ASPECTS score 9. Median initial NIHSS score was 16.5 with its decline during the first 24 hours for at least 5 points in 58% of patients. Symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage was present in one patient. After 30 days of follow-up 42% of patients had favourable outcome (mRS?1). In only 2 patients the outcome was poor (mRS 4-5). One patient died with signs of cardiac failure. Conclusion Despite a small number of patients with short time of follow up, these results with thrombolysis in acute IS were found to be consistent with other authors? reports. Uniqueness of our series of patients who received thrombolysis as compared to other studies was their very young age.
The relationship between clinical findings and therapeutic approach in the treatment of fractured frontal sinus walls
Authors: Pesic Zoran , Petrovic Dragan , Petrovic Sladjana , Buric Nikola
Published: July 2008

Introduction The incidence of fractured frontal sinus walls vary from 6% to 12% of all craniofacial injuries. Objective Estimated relation between clinical findings and performed therapeutic procedures in treating fractured frontal sinus walls. To estimate success in performed therapeutic procedures, according to the incidence of postoperative complications and the integrity of injured regions from the functional and esthetical aspect. Method We analyzed, by retrospective clinical investigation, 19 patients with fractured frontal sinus walls and dislocated fragments, treated at the Department for Maxillofacial Surgery, Clinic of Dentistry in Nis, in the period March 1995 - March 2006. The success of therapy was estimated based on the incidence and type of complications and esthetical results in relation to preoperative findings. Results Predominant etiological factor in fractures of frontal sinus walls is trauma sustained in traffic accidents, which occurred in 52.6% of patients in our investigation. In clinical findings, the impression was the predominant sign, present in 16 patients. In 6 cases soft tissue access through already present lacerations or their extensions was employed, in 4 cases it was done by supraciliary access and in 9 by bicoronal access. As a therapeutic measure, drainage was performed in 5 cases, cranialisation in one, ostheoneogenetic access in 11 cases and a simple reposition of fragments in 2 patients with fractured frontal sinus walls. Infection as a complication was absent. All patients were satisfied with postoperative esthetical appearance of the injured region. Conclusion The infection, the lacerations and the direction of fractured lines are dominant factors in the determination of therapeutic procedures used to treat fractured frontal sinus walls. This will result in the low incidence of infection as a postoperative complication and in patient?s satisfaction with postoperative esthetical result of the injured region.
The party supporters structure transformation
Authors: Mihailovic Srecko
Published: July 2008

This article deals with a description of the party supporters structure transformation in Serbia during political changes that occurred in 1990 and 2000 (the moments when Slobodan Milosevic came into power and was overthrown) as well as with explanation of reasons for establishing such a structure. The dominant interpretation of reasons for appearing and structuring of political parties as well as voters determination has been the polarization model based on the study of S. M. Lipset and S. Rokan (1967). In connection to the polarization model, three groups of problems can be distinguished: (1) the actual effectiveness of the model in West European countries; (2) the actual effectiveness of the model in post-communist countries, that is in countries who experienced a break in their multiparty system, and (3) the actual effectiveness of the model in Serbia.
Clifford Geertz: Writing and interpretation
Authors: Boskovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2008

The paper examines the scope and influence of Clifford Geertz, one of the most influential social scientists in the 20th century. Geertz is associated with the 'interpretative', 'postmodern' or 'literary' turn in anthropology, although he would not necessarily put himself in any of these categories. The concepts of the 'culture as text' and the 'semiotic concept of culture' have influenced generations of scholars. They have also been criticized, but I point to inadequacies of some of these criticisms. The paper traces this 'interpretative' thread of Geertz's work, along with its methodological implications for the relativistic, plural perspectives, up to his writings in the 1990s, when he seems to adopt a position that there actually can be one interpretation, a specific 'master narrative' according to which 'the world' we live in can be understood. The conclusion is that this latest phase of Geertz's work might be impossible to reconcile with a kind of methodological pluralism implied in his earlier works.
Terrorism and identity problem
Authors: Sijakovic Ivan
Published: July 2008

Terrorism is phenomenon of modern society, which became expressive especially in second half of twentieth century. There is a real danger that it could increase in growing number of terrorist groups, their aims, arms and ways of work, and that it could effect also in twentieth first century. Terrorism endangers the most important product of modern times: democracy, freedom, and human rights. There are different causes and reasons for existing of terrorist organizations and their cruel terrorist actions. This text analyzes a question of identity as a possible reason for existing of different terrorist groups and organizations and for their actions. Search for identity and question how to defend it create different problems and difficulties for individuals and groups. That identity is one-sided, disported, based on a false faith and so called salvation, but, to defend it somebody is prepared to sacrifice everything, his own life if that is necessary (but frequently somebody else's). That way, terrorism can be understood as a way of defending that identity.
Mutual stereotypes of Croats, Bosnjaks and Serbs in the light of two factors theory of prejudice
Authors: Petrovic Nebojsa
Published: July 2008

Since a number of empirical research have not shown expected correlation between negative stereotypes and prejudices, modern researchers have proposed that stereotypes should not be treated as unidimensional construct. The two factors theory of stereotypes has been proposed. First dimension is competence (superior-inferior), and second is beneficence or morality (good-bad). Only second one has high correlation with prejudices. Our research, conducted on 617 subjects from Serbia, Croatia and Bosnia and Hercegovina, shows that mutual negative stereotypes among these three nations are still dominant, and that negativity has mainly been found on the second dimension, just as mentioned theory proposed.
Shaping and reproduction patterns of power elites in former Yugoslavia I: Vertical mobility
Authors: Miladinovic Slobodan
Published: July 2008

This work consists of two parts. In the first one are presented some general characteristics and are analyzed vertical social mobility of power elite's in Serbia and Croatia. Special attention was paid to intergenerational and intergenerational mobility fluxes. The researches said there was changes in mobility patterns i.e. in structure of power elites at last three decades ago. Participation of manual professions was going down for the benefits of nonmanual ones. There was used log-linear analyze its hierarchical method because finding statistics importance of connection between presented factors of social mobility. Thanks to this method we can see details of complex relations of interdependence of this factors.
Civic movement, social capital and institutional transformation in post-socialist Serbia
Authors: Cvejic Slobodan
Published: July 2008

The problem of institutional change is one of the focal points of post-socialist transformation and the major axes of it's sustainability. In Serbia this problem was expressed through the question of how to use the social energy that was concentrated in civic movement throughout the 90's for (re)building of stable social institutions. In this paper, my intention is to test whether the social capital that was apparently accumulated in Serbia in the civic protests can persist in the form of positive value orientation towards building of democratic and market oriented society. Out of many ways to understand social capital I am referring to the most wide one, the one that assumes collective trait of the social capital (Stulhofer 2000). Data from couple of surveys conducted in Serbia, during civic protests and after political change of 2000, are used to test the relation from the title empirically.