bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Common errors in diagnosis and management of urinary tract infections: Microbiological aspects
Authors: Bojic-Milicevic Gordana , Mikov Momir , Dautovic Radomir
Published: July 2006

Introduction Urinary tract infections (UTI) are among the most common infectious diseases affecting all age groups, from infants to the elderly. The majority of these infections occur in otherwise healthy individuals who present with symptoms of acute uncomplicated bacterial cystitis or pyelonephritis. Certain patient populations with complicated conditions are at increased risk for acquiring infection or failing therapy. Forty to 50% of adult women have a history of at least one urinary tract infection. Diagnosis and classification of UTI Although there are general guidelines concerning diagnosis and classification of urinary tract infections, there are wide variations in clinical practice. There are both errors which are frequently committed and mysteries that are still unsolved. Active management is important because under some circumstances urinary tract infections may cause permanent renal scarring. Imaging procedures are a cornerstone for critical evaluation of urinary tract infections, but avoidance of investigative routines will allow a marked saving in terms of costs and in terms of unnecessary radiation and psychological stress to the patient.
Endothelial dysfunction and diabetes
Authors: Stokic Edita , Djeric Mirjana , Radak Djordje
Published: July 2006

Endothelial function and dysfunction During the past two decades, there has been an increasing recognition of the importance of normal endothelial function in the maintenance of vascular homeostasis and vascular health. Abnormalities in the function of endothelium have been recognized in a number of conditions. One of the most important abnormalities of endothelial dysfunction appears to be changes in the bioavailability of nitric oxide. It now appears clear that abnormalities in endothelial dysfunction are associated with abnormalities in the production of nitric oxide and/or abnormalities in the rate of its degradation. Either way, loss of the functional availability of nitric oxide appears to be an important characteristic of endothelial dysfunction. Endothetial dysfunction and diabetes lmpaired endothcliul-dependent vasodilatation has been described in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and the degree of impairment may correlate with glycemic control Hyperglycemia itself appears to affect multiple mechanisms that increase atherosclerosis. Hyperglycemia enhances oxidation, thrombosis, inflammation, matrix production, and the formation of advanced glycation end-products and other metabolites that can potentially damage the vasculature. Treatment of endothelial dysfunction A number of trials have demonstrated that therapy with lipid lowering agents (statins) as well as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors is associated with improvements in endothelial function in diabetes. These agents have also been shown to improve prognosis in patients with a number of underlying cardiac diseases and risk factors for cardiac disease. Therefore, it seems that interventions that lead to improvement in endothelial function can be associated with improvements in cardiovascular outcome. The role of antioxidant therapy is controversial. No data have been published regarding the effects of hormonal replacement therapy on endothelial dysfunction in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes.
Current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Djozic Jasenko , Bogdanovic Jovo
Published: July 2006

Introduction Bladder cancer is the second most common urological cancer (after prostate cancer, and before kidney and testicular tumors). After setting a diagnosis for bladder cancer, transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), 25% of pts have extravehicular spread of the disease, and almost 50% dies in the follow-up period and after radical surgical procedures. About 30-40% pts develop a recurrence, even after radical cystectomy is preformed, and with negative lymph nodes. T2 stage is underestimated in 40-50% of cases, whereas lymph nodes are positive in 10% of cases in T1 stage of the disease. The aim of this study was to present modern diagnostic-therapeutic procedures, which are being used in multimodal treatment of invasive bladder tumors (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy), indications for their use, and treatment outcome in regard to the stage of the disease. Pathological diagnosis Pathological diagnosis is a key factor for correct and on-time treatment. Pathological diagnosis is made by the biopsy of the tumor. Clinical diagnosis is made by using modern diagnostic procedures (ECHO, CT, MRI, PET scan), and tumor markers (DNA content, p-53, E-Calherine, pRb -retinoblastoma, BCL-2. PCNA. lelomerase. NMP-22, BTA-test. etc.). Treatment of bladder cancer Treatment of bladder tumors is multimodal, multidisciplinary and includes surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In regard to indications and established protocols, surgery is partial, simple or radical cystectomy, followed by different types oj urine derivation (wet storna-Bricker's Heal conduit, dry stoma-Kock pouch, ureterosigmoidostomy-Main- pouch 11, or orthotopic Heal bladder substitution). The use of new operative procedures can be done only during the early stage of the disease. Orthotopic substitution of bladder with ileum, significantly improves the quality of life in these patients. Also, the use of new chemotherapeutics (Methotrexate, Vinblastine, Cisplatine, Gemcitabine, Taxol, alone or in combination) or radiotherapy together with surgery increases the survival rate, even in patients with invasive form of disease. Conclusion Using new diagnostic equipment, up-to date therapeutic procedures, bladder cancer becomes a curable disease (depending on the stage of the disease) with high survival rate and better quality of life.
The role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of pulmonary emphysema
Authors: Vucevic Danijela , Radosavljevic Tatjana , Zunic Snezana , Djordjevic-Denic Gordana , Pesic Branislav , Radak Djordje
Published: July 2006

Oxidative pulmonary damage The pathogenesis of pulmonary emphysema is incompletely understood. Nearly 90% of all patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases are smokers. Cigarette smoke is a rich source of oxidants. Oxidative stress increases oxidant generation, which cannot be neutralized with antioxidant defense mechanisms. Lipids, proteins and deoxyribonucleic acid are components of the cell that are most sensitive to oxidative damage. Oxygen radicals can modify amino acid side chains, form protein aggregates, cleave peptide bonds, and make proteins more susceptible to proteolytic degradation. It has been shown that neutrophils have a principal effectors role in pulmonary tissue damage. Neutrophil elastase can damage air spaces by degrading elastin, and a variety of extracellular membrane proteins, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins. Neutrophil elastase can also stimulate inflammation by increasing interleukin-8 synthesis. Additionally, neutrophil elastase can activate or in- activate inhibitors of neutrophil collagens, and secretorv leukoprotease proteinase inhibitor. Apart from neutrophils, oxidative stress causes activation of other phagocytes and severe inflammatory response ensues. Lipid peroxidation and pulmonary emphysema Except protein oxidation and lipid pet-oxidation, oxidanls may disturb signal transmission in the cells, as well as normal cell membrane function and function of organelles. Modified structure of deoxyribonucleic acid may cause mutations, which in absence oj reparation enzyme activity lead to cell injury. Iron and oxidative stress Iron metabolism is also important in the development of pulmonary emphysema due to its role in production of some oxidants.
Some specificities of rehabilitation of children with special needs
Authors: Kovac Milena
Published: July 2006

Introduction Children with special needs (with psychophysical developmental disabilities) need rehabilitation in order to live as independent life as possible. The aim of this study was to determine the amount of certain kinds of rehabilitation in children with special needs. Material and methods The study included three groups of children (total of 99 children) hospitalized at the department for extended treatment of the rehabilitation center for children. All children have mental, physical or combined disabilities, as a result of chronic disease. Treatment type and the amount (and also involvement in special schools) depended on the disability Analysis of sex distribution showed male predominance. Most children (59 of them) were aged 0 - 7 (59.6%) and there were 40 children 8-17 (40.4%) years old. Results Most of the subject were involved in: occupational therapy 93 (36.8%). kinesitherapy 47 subjects (18.6%), psychomotor therapy 46 (18.2%), speech therapy 35 (13.8%), and medical therapy 32 (12.6%). School children were mostly with mental disability.
A histological study of cerebral aqueduct
Authors: Stankovic Gordana , Nikolic Valentina , Puskas Laslo , Filipovic Branislav , Stojsic-Dzunja Ljubica , Krivokuca Dragan
Published: July 2006

Cerebral (sylvian) aqueduct is a narrow channel in the mesencephalon. It lies between the tectum and the tegmentum of the mesencephalon and is surrounded by the periaqueductal gray matter. The aim of this study was to determine the shape of the . aqueduct of sylvius and the structure of its walls in a series of transverse histological sections. Serial transverse sections of the mesencephalon were examined in twenty adult brains of both sexes. Six sections were stained by the hematoxyiin-eosin method. The rostral part of the the aqueduct has a triangular shape with dorsal concavity caused by retrocommissural fossae. In the middle, its shape is oval to irregular, the rostral part has a T shape due to isthmic recess on the floor. Walls of the aqueduct are coated with a layer of prismatic cells. Determination of the morphological and histological features of the mesencephalic aqueduct is important for differentiation between physiological and pathological processes in this region.
Dobutamine stress echocardiographyin distinguishing ischemic from nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Miloradovic Vladimir , Iric-Cupic Violeta , Popovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2006

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of dobutamine stress echocardiography for detection of coronary artery disease in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. Detection of regional wall motion abnormalities at rest does not reliably distinguish ischemic from nonischemic cardiomyopathy. Material and methods To distinguish between ischemic and nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), we studied 50 patients with left ventricular dysfunction (20 ischemic and 30 nonischemic, detected by coronary angiography) using dobutamine stress echocardiography. Echocardiographic images were obtained at baseline, low and paek dose of dobutamine. Rest and stress left ventricular wall motion scores were derived from analysis of regional wall motion. Results Dobutamine infusion was terminated after achievement of the target heart rate or maximal protocol dose in 16 (80%) patients with ischemic heart disease and in 23 (73.3%) patients with nonischemic heart disease. At rest, there were more normal segments (p<0.001) and a trend toward more akinetic segments (p, not significant) per ischemic than per nonischemic DCM patients. However, either at rest or with low-dose dobutamine, individual data largely overlapped. At peak dose, in ischemic DCM, regional contraction worsened in many normal or dyssinergic regions at rest (in some cases after inprovement with low-dose dobutamine); in contrast, in nonischemic DCM, further mild impovement was observed in a variable number of left ventricular areas. Thus, with peak-dose dobutamine, more akinetic and less normal segments were present per ishemic than per nonischemic DCM patient (both, p<0.001). A value of six or more akinetic segments was 90% sensitive and 98% specific for ischemic DCM. Conclusions Our data show that analysis of regional contraction by dobutamine stress echocardiography can distinguish between.
Possibilities of preventing traumatic dental injuries: A prospective study
Authors: Blagojevic Duska , Petrovic Bojan , Markovic Dejan
Published: July 2006

Introduction The aim of this study was to investigate the most important etiological factors related to traumatic dental injuries, type of required treatment, period from injury to initial treatment and Frequency of recall appointments. Material and methods The sample consisted of 283 children with dental injuries managed at the Department of Dentistry of the Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad. during the last 7 years. Retrospective data relied on trauma protocols of this department, whereas collected data referred to etiological factors, type of initial treatment, period from injury to initial treatment, recall appointments and complications of traumatic dental injuries. These results were compared with other similar national and international studies, in order to promote implementation of preventive strategies that would reduce the increasing frequency of dental trauma. Results Fall accidents were the most common cause of dental trauma. Injuries were most frequent in autumn, in the street, and in the afternoon hours. Single tooth injury was predominant, while the injured mostly denied previous injuries. Almost half of the injured patients did not seek professional help in the first 24 hours after the injury. 40% of treated patients missed their recall appointment. Conclusion Knowledge of the etiology is important for planning preventive, measures, but because of the complexity of etiological factors, it is difficult to prevent traumatic dental injuries. It is also important to underline the importance of immediate initial treatment of traumatized patients, and significance of their regular professional supervision. Generally speaking, almost all treatment procedures in management of traumatic dental injuries include preventive component.
Gene similarity between hepatitis C virus and human proteins: A blood transfusion problem
Authors: Vasiljevic Nada , Markovic Ljiljana
Published: July 2006

Introduction Hepatitis C is a post-transfusion hepatitis which causes serious problems in blood transfusion. Blood testing requires highly sensitive and specific assays with high predictive value. Genomic characteristics of hepatitis C virus According to recommendations of International Association for the study of Liver Diseases etiological diagnosis of hepatitis is based on highly sensitive third generation assays: epitopes in the NS5 region comprising noncoding sequence UTR with 324-341 well conserved pair of homologous basis in 92% HCV genomes, therefore appropriate for virus RNA detection. Development of assays for hepatitis virus The first generation of immunoenzyme tests (IET) were based on detection of antibodies on antigen c 100-3, which is a part of the NS4 region of HCV genome. The second generation of tests with two recombinant proteins - c22-3 and c200, achieved higher sensitivity of assays. The third generation included epitopes from NS5 region, and removed the antigen c100-3. Development of autoimmunity Autoimmunity is a pathophysiological mechanism that's leads to chronic inflammatory diseases. Autoimunity is characterized by loss of tolerance towards self-antigens. Viral hepatitis C is associated with development of autoimmune phenomena. Molecular mimicry Molecular mimicry, as a mechanism of autoimmunity, was investigated to establish cross-Reactive immune reactions between HCV antigen and human nitrogen-oxide synthase, Tyrosine kinase Lck, and hepatic growth factor activator. Cross reactivity between HCV proteins and human proteins HCV capsid proteins initiate the autoimmune process in the liver because of cross reaction of antibodies with human Gor protein 19-27, which causes autoimmune chronic hepatitis. However, analysis of human protein from protein basis Swissprot shows homology between NS5 region and 3 human protein nitrogen oxide synthases, tyrosine kinase-Lck, proto-oncogene and hepatic growth factor activator. According to protein data analysis and competitive in vitro experiments, it was concluded that presence of auto-antibodies is probably the consequence of cross reactive immune response. Conclusion Homology of amino acid sequences in the NS5 region of the HCV genome with nitrogen-oxide synthase, tyrosine kinase-Lck, and hepatic growth factor activator, causes auto-immune phenomena in HC, and can be a model for researching autoimmunity and human virus-induced autoimmune diseases.
Agenesis of the corpus callosumina premature infant associated with Langdon-Down syndrome
Authors: Velisavljev-Filipovic Gordana
Published: July 2006

Introduction Agenesis of the corpus callosum is an abnormality of the part of the brain connecting the two cerebral hemispheres. It can be partial, complete or atypical. The fibers from the cerebral cortex project towards the homotypical region of the contra-lateral cortex passing through the corpus callosum, and crossing the middle line. The absence of corpus callosum causes failure of information transfer from one hemisphere to the other. Children with this anomaly present with learning disabilities and trouble with memorizing facts. Agenesis of corpus callosum may be of syndromic or non-syndromic type. The more common form is the one not associated with any syndrome. The agenesis of corpus callosum is more frequent in male children. Case report This paper presents a child from a twin pregnancy with partial absence of corpus callosum. The pregnancy was not controlled. It ended in premature birth. The afflicted twin is a boy, second in birth order. Apart from agenesis of corpus callosum, he also suffers from Down syndrome. The first twin is healthy, with corpus callosum and with normal karyotype. There was no consanguinity. In the 6th month of pregnancy the mother suffered from infection of the upper respiratory tract that might be the etiological factor of this anomaly. The child was born with hypotrophy, and all anthropometric parameters were below the third percentile. In the neonatal period, the agenesis of corpus callosum was diagnosed by ultrasonic examination and confirmed by CT and MR examinations. The child is now three and a half month old. Active monitoring of the psychical and motor development will show whether there will be any retardation in the psycho-motor development and later deficiency of the higher cortical functions and intelligence. Discussion and Conclusion The clinical characteristics of this anomaly are numerous. They range from asymptomatic cases, with normal intellectual capacity, to severe mental retardation. Radiological and genetic markers cannot make a difference between the asymptomatic and symptomatic characteristics of the disease. Therefore, it is very difficult to give genetic advice if the diagnosis is made prenatally. This part of the central nervous system is very well visualized by ultrasonic examination, thus in the absence of corpus callosum a special attention must be paid to other parts of the central nervous system, for diagnosing associated anomalies. If the diagnosis of agenesis of corpus callosum is made prenatally by ultrasound, a MR examination is advised for diagnosing other anomalies, especially in the central nervous system like lissencephalia, schizocephalia or heterotopia of the gray matter, where MR examination is superior to others.
Ureteral triplication: A case report
Authors: Zivkovic Dragana , Varga Jan , Grebeldinger Slobodan , Borisev Vladimir
Published: July 2006

Introduction Of all children born with congenital anomalies, 30-40% have urogenital abnormalities. Most of them are asymptomatic, but if any symptoms occur, they are usually symptoms of urinary infections. Case report A four-year old girl was admitted because of recurrent urinary infections and in order to perform a thorough clinical examination. Clinical examination showed an asymmetrical glutens and presence of a fibroma in the same region. Detailed radiologic examinations (ultrasonography, plain X-ray, excretory urography, voiding urethrocystography) revealed a triplicate ureter on the right side with a vesicoureteral reflux of the fifth grade on the same side. Intraoperatively, type III ureteric triplication according to Smith's classification was established. Ureteral remodeling and reimplantation was done. The postoperative course was good, and follow-up voiding urethrocystography showed absence of reflux. Discussion Ureteral triplication is a consequence of either development of three buds on the mesonephric duct, or development of two buds, one of which further divided into two parts. Most common anomalies associated with ureteral triplication are: ureteral duplication on the other side (37%), ectopy of the ureteric orifice (28%) and kidney dysplasia (8%). Vesicoureteral reflux is very common on affected or on both sides. Symptomatology is the same as in ureteral duplication - dominated by signs of urinary infections. Conclusion Diagnosis of ureteral duplication requires detailed imaging. Treatment of symptomatic abnormalities should be individual, regardless of the applied treatment (conservative or operative).
Erythema infectiosumin children: A clinical study
Authors: Prcic Sonja , Jakovljevic Anica , Djuran Verica , Gajinov Zorica
Published: July 2006

Erythema infectiositm is a childhood illness characterized by mild constitutional symptoms and a blotchy or maculo-papular lacy rash on the cheeks (slapped - cheek) spreading primarily to the extremities and trunk. The disease- is-caused by human parvovirus B19. Erythema infectiosum epidemics occur in a cyclic fashion, mostly during winter and spring months. The diagnosis of erythema infectiosum is usually based on the appearance and pattern of the rash. The aim of our study was to establish the frequency and clinical characteristics of erythema infectiosum in children, in the period between 2000 and 2004 at the Institute of Child and Youth Health Care, Department of Dermatology, Novi Sad. There were 0.23% of children with a clinical picture of infectious erythema. There was an outbreak of erythema infectiosum from December 2001 to September 2002. The highest number of cases was detected in April and May of 2002. from 2003 to 2004, no cases with infekctious erythema were diagnosed. The average age of infected children was 7.38. Female children were affected slightly more often than male (56.41%:43.58%). Pruritus was detected in 10.26% of children. The most constant clinical sign was reticular exanthema on the limbs, present in 100% of cases, followed by 89.74% of cheek exanthema, while limb and trunk exanthema was present in 7.68% of children. Adenopathies and mild constitutional symptoms were present in 5.12% of children. No complications were recorded in any of the cases. .
Duplex doppler ultrasonography in the diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremities
Authors: Vucaj-Cirilovic Viktorija , Petrovic Kosta , Nikolic Olivera , Till Viktor , Niciforovic Dijana , Hadnadjev Dusan
Published: July 2006

Introduction. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of duplex Doppler ultrasonography in diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of the lower extremities. Material and methods. During a 2-year period, 860 patients were examined by duplex Doppler sonography. Among these, 619(72%) were women and 241 (28%) men, with the age-range of 16-91; (mean 56,2) years. Siemens Versa Pro color doppler was used, with 7MHz transducers. Findings were categorized into four categories: 1. deep venous thrombosis (DVT); 2. pathology predominantly related to superficial veins without DVT; 3. pathology of superficial and deep veins; 4. normal findings. Results. 185 (21%) patients had DVT, 366 (42.5%) patients had pre?dominant pathology of superficial veins: postthrombotic syndrome, superficial thrombophlebitis and varicose veins. 128 (14.9%) patients had pathology of superficial and deep veins. Normal findings were found in 181 (21.1%) patients. Conclusions. Various vascular and nonvascular diseases may mimic deep venous thrombosis, and that is why US should be used whenever possible to avoid unnecessary anticoagulant therapy. .
Epidemiological characteristics of pertussis in Vojvodina
Authors: Petrovic Vladimir , Djuric Predrag , Stefanovic Slavica
Published: July 2006

Introduction. In the preimmunization era, pertussis was one of the most common respiratory diseases in children in Vojvodina. Material and methods. This paper deals with effects of immunization against pertussis in Vojvodina and its epidemiological characteristics during the last 10 years. Results and discussion. The average incidence rate for the preimmunization era (1948-1960) was 122/100.000. During the period of immunization, the incidence rate has been continuously declining. During the period from 1995 till 2004, average incidence rate was 0,2/100.000 There were 125 registered deaths caused by pertussis in the preimmunization era, and 13 deaths in the immunization period. The last case of death caused by pertussis occurred in 1970. Pertussis vaccination coverage in Vojvodina has been above 95% for a long period of time. Pertussis is still reported, mostly in individual cases. Since 2003, it was registered in children younger than 24 months. During the last decade, 82% of cases were unimmunized children. The majority of affected were infants (59%) and children from 12 to 24 months of age (15%). Pertussis is registered in small children due to delayed immunization and in school children due to loss of immunity. Conclusion. Favorable epidemiological situation of pertussis in Vojvodina is the result of high immunization coverage. The disease is most frequently registered in individual cases, in unimmunized infants and small children. Mild cases of pertussis remain unrecognized in older age groups, in previously immunized children. It is necessary to improve surveillance and laboratory diagnostics of pertussis in order to monitor the epidemiological situation and to provide timely investigation and control of pertussis. .
Chronic diseases in adolescence
Authors: Roncevic Nevenka , Stojadinovic Aleksandra , Odri Irena
Published: July 2006

Introduction. The prevalence of chronic diseases in adolescence is constantly increasing, especially in the last two decades. Adolescence is a period of important changes: body growth and development, sexual development, development of cognitive abilities, change in family relations and between peers, formation of personal identity and personal system of values, making decisions on future occupation etc. Chronic diseases in adolescence. Chronic disorders affect all development issues and represent an additional burden for adolescents. The interaction between chronic disorders and various development issues is complex and two-way: the disease may affect development, and development may affect the disease. Developmental, psychosocial and family factors are of great importance in the treatment of adolescents with chronic disorders. Chronic disorders affect all aspects of adolescent life, including relations with peers, school, nutrition, learning, traveling, entertainment, choice of occupation, plans for the future. Physicians should keep in mind that chronic diseases and their treatment represent only one aspect of person's life. Adolescents with chronic diseases have other needs as well, personal priorities, social roles and they expect these needs to be recognized and respected. Adolescent health care should be adjusted to the life style of adolescents.
Atherosclerosis plaque regression
Authors: Boskovic Srdjan , Neskovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2006

Introduction. The natural history of atherosclerosis can be assessed using different methods including quantitative coronary angiography, intravascular ultrasound, B-mode ultrasound, electron-beam computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Regression of atherosclerosis. Although the first investigations regarding effects of low cholesterol diet on atherosclerosis progression in animals were performed almost 100 years ago, researches on potential induction of atherosclerosis regression in humans began only recently, in the past 20 years. To date, many studies assessing different drugs and study protocols on natural evolution of atherosclerosis have been performed. They include use of diet and physical activity, different hypolipemic drugs, especially statins, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, hormone replacement therapy, antioxidants, and recently, use of recombinant apolipoproteins. Statins and atherosclerosis. It has been established that statins given to patients with, or even without verified coronary artery disease, slow progression of atherosclerosis. These effects of statins are likely due to a combination of their metabolic and pleiotropic properties and might in part explain the positive effects of these drugs on overall cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Furthermore, applied in high doses, these drugs may induce real atherosclerosis regression, especially in asymptomatic patients in the early stages of the disease. .
The importance of hemodynamic monitoring in mitrocuspid surgery
Authors: Dobric Biljana , Petrovic Jasna , Radovanovic Ninoslav
Published: July 2006

Introduction. Untreated mitral valve disease is associated with marked hemodynamic disorders, low ejection fraction (EF) and poor perfusion. The study aimed to explore the importance of hemodynamic monitoring in intraoperative evaluation and treatment of these patients. Material and methods. This prospective study included 85 patients: group I: 41 patients, EF<40%; group II: 44 patients, EF>40%. Hemodynamic parameters were recorded after initation of anesthesia (1), after sternotomy (2), after extracorporeal circulation (ECC) (3) and before leaving the operation theatre (4). The following parameters were assessed: mean arterial pressure, mean pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance index, central venous pressure, cardiac index. Statistical analysis was performed using Student t-test and correlation analyses in time series. Results and Discussion. Hemodynamic parameters were changed at the beginning of surgery, but gradually improved after sternotomy and were normal at the end of the operation. Both examined groups presented with reduction of the pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance index (reduction more than 30%) and cardiac index (up to 100%). Strong correlation between 1/2 and 3/4 assessments pointed to the importance of intraoperative evaluation. Swan-Ganz catheter ia a valuable tool used for hemodynamic monitoring. Conclusion. Intraoperative medication (based on obtained hemodynamic parameters) and operative treatment led to normalization of all parameters in both groups, regardless of the preoperative values of EF. .
Use of presternal catesters for peritoneal dialysis in obese patients
Authors: Draskovic Miroljub , Jevtic Miodrag , Misovic Sidor , Zoranovic Uros , Sarac Momir
Published: July 2006

Introduction. Patients with terminal kidney failure represent an important socio-medical problem not only in our country, but also in most countries of the world. There are three options of treatment: transplantation, hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Each of them has advantages and disadvantages. Case report. This is a case report of an extremely obese woman on pentoneal dialysis. Due to obesity, we decided to use a presternal catheter. We wished to report our dilemmas, opinions and experiences associated with this problem, as well as opinion from available medical literature. .
Doppler sonography in diagnosis of the acute scrotum
Authors: Nikolic Olivera , Lukac Ilona
Published: July 2006

Doppler sonography has been reported to be a reliable technique for diagnosing acute scrotum significantly decreasing the number of unnecessary surgeries. The aim of this paper was to demonstrate the superiority and validity of Doppler sonography over conventional sonography for differential diagnosis of the acute scrotum. In the period from 2002-2004, 300 patients underwent ultrasound examination of the testicles at the Institute of Radiology in Novi Sad. This prospective randomized study included 100 patients, whereas the target group consisted of 50 patients with the diagnosis of the acute scrotum. The control group consisted of 50 patients with the diagnosis of varicocele. The examinations were done using Siemens Versa Pro equipment and 7,5 MHz probes. On the basis of ultrasound examination, the target group was divided into three groups: 1. Inflammation, 2. Torsion, 3. Miscellaneous. Depending on the disease, the accuracy of diagnosis was confirmed by surgery, clinical findings and control sonographic examination. A functional correlation exists between Doppler diagnosis and final diagnosis in the inflammation and torsion. Resistive indexes (RI) were lower in inflammation, because of hyperemia. In cases with intratesticular hyperemia, the average RI was 0,454 and in those with supratesticular hyperemia 0,575. In cases with torsion, only one patient with appendiceal torsion had normal intratesticular blood flow. In diagnostics of the acute scrotum, Doppler sonography is superior over conventional sonography and more precise in differential diagnostics. RI are good quantitative parameters of hyperemia. .
Types of psychological reactions in patients with lower-extremity amputations
Authors: Platisa Nedeljko , Devecerski Gordana
Published: July 2006

The aim of this study was to establish types of psychological reactions and conditions in patients with lower-extremity amputations. Apart from using psychological interviews, detection was performed using psychometric tests: Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory. Psychometric parameters were analyzed in a group of 20 examinees treated at the Medical Rehabilitation Clinic in Novi Sad. Out of the whole sample. 45% of patients presented with adaptive reactions to amputation and consequent disability, whereas 55% presented with maladaptive responses. The registered psychopathological symptoms included nosologic categories: reaction to stressful events and adjustment disorder (predominantly affecting other emotions: mixed disorder of conduct and emotions: prolonged depressive reaction) and dysthymia. When working with lower-extremity amputees, apart from adaptive, nonpathological forms of behavior, one also encounters maladaptive responses with predomination of mood disorders due to severe somatic stress. .
Causative agents of neonatal nosocomial infections and their resistance to antibiotics
Authors: Markovic-Denic Ljiljana , Djurisic Jasna , Nikolic Tatjana , Ramadani Ruzdi , Ilic Slobodanka , Stevanovic Slobodanka
Published: July 2006

Introduction. The aim of the present study was to determine the most frequent microorganisms in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Material and methods. A 6-month prospective study was conducted in a NICU. All neonatal hospital infections were registered, and microorganisms were isolated by standard methods. Their susceptibility to antibiotics was tested using the disk diffusion method. Results. One hundred and fifty-four neonatal nosocomial infections were detected. 87% of all infections were supported by a microbiological diagnosis, and 144 pathogens were isolated. Gram-negative bacteria were dominant (80%). The most commonly isolated microorganisms were Acinetobacter spp. (47.9%), Pseudomonas spp, (23.6%), Klebsiella/Enterobacter spp. (8.3%). Coagulase-negative staphylococci (8.3%) and Staphylococcus aureus (6.3%) were the most frequent reported gram-positive bacteria. All microorganisms showed resistance to most of commonly used antibiotics. Conclusion. Environmental control around neonatal patients and strict antibiotic policy are important in prevention of nosocomial transmission of resistant bacteria in the NICUs. .
Oxidized LDL and C-reactive protein as markers for detection of accelerated atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Caparevic Zorica , Kostic Nada , Ilic Sanja , Stojanovic Dragos , Ivanovic Ana
Published: July 2006

Introduction. High levels of inflammatory markers are associated with an increased risk for development of coronary heart disease (CHD). The aim of this study was to estimate relations between oxidized LDL (oxLDL), C-reactive protein (CRP) and conventional lipid risk factors for CHD in type 2 diabetics without coronary heart disease. Material and methods. Three groups of subjects were included in the study. 44 well-controlled type 2 diabetics (25 female/19 male; 54.50?6.54 years); FBG: 5.67+0.69; HbAlc: 6.5?1.6%) without clinical signs of CHD; the second group included 24 hypercholes-terolemic healthy subjects (14 female/28 male; 51.30?5.76 years). The control group included 24 normocholesterolemic healthy subjects (17 female/12 male; 48.1?8.37 years). Lipid profiles were measured by enzymatic methods. OxLDL was measured by a commercially available sandwich ELISA (Mercodia AB, Uppsala, Sweden). Hs-CRP was measured by chemiluminiscence (Immulite-DPC) using Behring Latex hs-CRP assay. Results. Serum oxLDL levels were significantly higher in diabetic patients (p<0.05) and subjects with hypercholesterolemia (p<0.01) compared with control subjects. Levels of CRP were significantly increased in hypercholesterolemic subjects, compared with controls (p<0.01). Levels of CRP in diabetic patients also were significantly increased compared to those of controls (p<0.05). In type 2 diabetes oxLDL significantly correlated with CRP (r=0.657; p=0.0001), TG:HDL-C ratio (r=0.690; p=0.0001). In hypercholesterolemic subjects oxLDL significantly correlated with oxLDL: LDL ratio (r=0.788; p=0.0001) but not with CRP. In controls, oxLDL significantly correlated with oxLDL: LDL ratio (r=0.679; p=0 0001 and CRP (r=0.802; p=0.0001). Conclusion. It is of great importance to identify type 2 diabetics and hyper-cholesterolemic healthy subjects with high levels of oxLDL and CRP, because they are at increased risk for development of accelerated atherosclerosis. .
Assessment of tissue viability for improvement of the left ventricular function after revascularization
Authors: Matunovic Radomir , Stojanovic Aleksandar , Mijailovic Zdravko , Gligic Branko , Ristic-Angelkov Andjelka
Published: July 2006

Introduction. Treatment of patients with heart failure following myocardial infarction is still a clinical challenge. Drug therapy in these patients is limited, and invasive revascularization is not always successful and does not guarantee desired results. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of invasive revascularization procedures (coronary artery bypass grafting - CABG or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty - PICA) with conventional drug therapy in patients with heart failure after acute myocardial infarction in whom significant portion of viable myocardial tissue was detected during low dose dobutamine stress echocardiography. Material and methods. Using a prospective analysis, we investigated 66 patients with heart failure following myocardial infarction and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF<35%). 34 patients underwen revascularization procedures including CABG or PTCA. The other 32 patients received only conventional drug therapy. The patients were followed during 12 months examing LVEF, left ventricular wall motion score index (WMSI), NYHA functional class, and cardiac death. Results. After 12 months, patients undergoing revascularization procedures presented with significantly better functional improvement of LVEF (37.84% vs. 33.14%, p<0.05), better clinical status and significantly less cardiac deaths (8.82% vs. 21.87%, p<0.01) in comparison to patients who stayed on drug therapy. After 12 months WMSI was significantly better in patients who underwent interventional therapy (l.69?Q7 vs. 1.82 ?04, p<0.01). Conclusion. After a 12-month follow up period, patients with presence of viable myocardial tissue after myocardial infarction and under?going revascularization procedures presented with better functional recovery and less cardiac events, including cardiac death, in comparison with patients who received only drug therapy.
Epstein-Barr virus hepatitis associated withicterus: A case report
Authors: Canovic Predrag , Gajovic Olgica , Todorovic Zoran , Mijailovic Zeljko
Published: July 2006

Introduction. Primary Epstein-Barr virus infection (EBVI) in children is usually asymptomatic with seroconversion. If primary infection occurs in adolescents or in adulthood, the most common manifestation is acute infectious mononucleosis. The diagnosis of acute infectious mononucleosis is made by virus and serologic tests. The most important evidence of primary EBV infection includes IgM class antibodies detected by using EBV virus-capsidantigen (EBV VCA) which appears at the beginning of illness and usually lasts 1 to 2 months. Paul Bunnell Davidson test, although non-specific, is still in use today in diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis and for detection of heterophile antibodies. Case report. Acute hepatitis with icterus is a rare clinical manifestation in primary EBV infection. However, sometimes it is the only manifestation of the disease. This is a case report of a patient with EBV hepatitis and icterus associated with long-lasting fever without pharyngitis and lymphadenopathy, which are characteristics of infectious mononucleosis. The etiologic diagnosis was confirmed by positive Paul Bunnell Davidson test and by detection of specific antibodies (class IgM) to EBV VCA in patient's serum. Discussion. The pathogenetic mechanism which causes destruction of hepatic cells and provokes cholestasis during EBV infection, has not been cleared yet. It is supposed that EBV has no direct cytocide effects on hepatic cells, yet destruction of these cells is caused by toxic action of free radicals through lipid peroxidation. Patients with infectious mononucleosis have autoantibodies directed against enzyme superoxide-dismutase which neutralizes enzyme's antioxidant action. As a result of this action, free radicals accumulate in hepatic cells and cause their damage. Conclusion. Icteric forms of EBV infection are rare. In differential diagnosis of icterus caused by infectious agents, one should not forget EBV. .
Asteroid impact monitoring
Authors: Milani A.
Published: July 2006

Some asteroids and comets with Earth-crossing orbit may impact our planet, thus we need to be able to identify the cases which could have a dangerous close approach within a century. This must be done as soon as such an asteroid is discovered, allowing for follow up observations which might contradict the impact possibility, and in the worst case to organize mitigation, possibly including deflection. The mathematical problem of predicting possible impacts, even with very low probabilities, has been solved by our group in the last few years. This paper presents the basic theory of these impact prediction, and discusses how they are practically used in the impact monitoring systems now operational, in particular the CLOMON2 robot of the Universities of Pisa and Valladolid.
Orbits of four double stars
Authors: Novakovic B. , Todorovic N.
Published: July 2006

We present orbits of four double stars. Orbits of stars WDS 23516+4205 = ADS 17050 and WDS 18239+5848 = ADS 11336 were calculated for the first time. Orbits of double stars WDS 02022+3643 = ADS 1613 and WDS 18443+3940 = ADS 11635 were revised. We have also determined their masses, dynamical parallaxes and ephemerides.
Improvement of Hipparcos proper motions in declination
Authors: Damljanovic Goran , Pejovic N. , Jovanovic B.
Published: July 2006

More than a decade elapsed after the HIPPARCOS ESA mission (ESA 1997) observations have been collected. This first astronomical satellite mission was less than 4 years long so that 1991.25 is the epoch of the HIPPARCOS Catalogue. Many other projects have checked or improved HIPPARCOS data. Also, a long series of ground - based optical observations of some stars included in HIPPARCOS Catalogue, made with Photographic Zenith Tubes (PZT) are useful for the task of improving the proper motions of these stars. The ARIHIP Catalogue (after ACT, TYCHO - 2, FK6, GC+HIP, TYC2+HIP) is a combination of the HIPPARCOS and some ground - based data, and the ARIHIP proper motions are more accurate than the HIPPARCOS ones. Here we present a new step of our procedure of calculation; between PZT data we added the HIPPARCOS position with suitable weight - the point with the coordinates (1991:25, 0 . 00 0) in our case. The method was applied to 202 stars observed at Richmond PZTs in the course of a few decades. The result is better proper motions in declination for these HIPPARCOS stars, and a good agreement with ARIHIP proper motions (we found 128 common Richmond and ARIHIP stars to check our result). Also, we present the result for other 74 Richmond stars which are not found in ARIHIP.
CCD measurements of double and multiple stars at NAO Rozhen: II
Authors: Cvetkovic Z. , Novakovic B. , Strigachev A. , Popovic G.M.
Published: July 2006

Using the 2-m telescope of the Bulgarian National Astronomical Observatory at Rozhen observations of twenty multiple stars were carried out during one whole night - October 30/31, and, also, during the first half of the next one - October 31. 2005. This is the second series of CCD measurements of double and multiple stars done at Rozhen. In the paper we present the results for the position angle and separation for eleven multiple stars (35 pairs) which could have been measured.
Experimental scanning electron microscopic investigation of pathological dentinogenesis in posteruptive tooth phase
Authors: Vojinovic Jovan , Stevanovic Radoje , Hrvacanin Slobodanka
Published: July 2006

In the article are presented results of SEM study of pathological dentinogenesis on the human and dogs tooth in the different formative stages. The pathological dentinogenesis take place in the genetically predetermined way no matter of type of an irritation. The structure of pathological dentin depends upon the level of irritation and its duration. Lower level irritation produce the secretion of tubular dentine with irregular tubular direction, higher irritation stronger irregularities. Strong irritations damage odonoblastes, and they are replaced by undifferentiated cells. Lower level of differentiation produce more irregular dentine. New cells momentarily starts secretion, at the beginning the atubular dentine, and latter tubules arrear. The odontoblasts are very resistant cells, so even under of very strong irritants some of them could survive and continue formatting individual tubules detected within amorphous dentinal tissue. The resistance of odontoblasts is limited, specially when irritations are long enough exhausting formative potential of cells. Excreted dentinal tissue becomes more and more irregular. These biological facts should be consider in the therapy of puplodentinal complex. Therapy have to preserve conditions for undisturbed recovery of damaged odontoblasts, or new undifferentiated cells. In the other words biological principles insist on the preservation of conditions for the normal expression of formative cells genetically tasks.