Bratislava Medical Journal, 94:1993, 1.

TIME-DELAY IN ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
MURIN, J., KILLINGER, Z., KASPER, J., BULAS, J., UHLIAR, R.,
SABOLOVA, K.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
The authors present their experience concerning the time-delay in
357 patients with acute myocardial infarction admitted to the
coronary unit over the years 1988--1991. This time indicator was
evaluated by using two approaches, i.e. the global time-delay
(the time between the onset of the patient's complaints and
his/her admission to the coronary unit) and patient's time-delay
(the time between the onset of the patient's complaints and
his/her decision to notify the health care service). Arbitrary
criteria were set up: 10 hours for the former and 5 hours for the
latter parameter. The established criteria were met by 40 % of
the patients. Only 24 % of the patients presented at the coronary
unit within 6 hours, and these could receive thrombolytic
treatment. The decision time (patient's time-delay) amounted that
the education level of our population has to be enhanced so as to
increase the number of patients with acute myocardial infarction
presenting at the coronary unit at an early stage. (Tab. 1, Ref.
9.)
Key words: acute myocardial infarction; time-delay.
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Jan Murin, CSc., I. interna
klinika FN, Mickiewiczova 13, 813 69 Bratislava, Slovakia.


INCIDENCE OF MALIGNANT TUMORS IN SLOVAKIA
I. INCIDENCE VALUES AND TRENDS OVER THE YEARS 1968--1989
OBSITNIKOVA, A., KRAMAROVA, E., PLESKO, I., VLASAK, V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
In the period from 1968--1989 an increase in the overall
incidence of malignant tumors was recorded in men. Of the
individual localizations a particularly marked increase was
recorded in tumors of the lung, followed by tumors of the oral
cavity, pharynx, esophagus, pancreas, urinary bladder, kidney
(related to smoking), as well as of the testis and prostate
gland. In women the values of overall incidence were lower and
the trends were relatively stabilized. This is due to the
relatively slow increase in the incidence in cancer of the breast
and female reproductive organs and to the slight increase in
cancer of the lung. Cancer of the kidney, urinary bladder and
pancreas exhibited increased incidence. Low values, stabilized
and even decreasing trends were recorded in the incidence of
cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, and larynx, as
compared to values found in men. In both sexes the incidence of
cancer of the stomach showed a pronounced decrease, while the
incidence of cancer of the colon and rectum was increasing.
A smaller or greater rise was found also in the incidence of
tumors of the hematopoietic and lymphatic tissues (except
Hodgkins's disease). The trends observed in the incidence of
malignant tumors in Slovakia are suggestive of their uncontrolled
course, not affected by preventive measures. Yet the findings
provide important information for directing the measures so as to
aim at localizations of priority. (Tab. 2, Fig. 7, Ref. 20.)
Key words: malignant tumors; standardized incidence values; sex
differences; Slovakia.

Ustav experimentalnej onkologie SAV v Bratislave a Narodny
onkologicky ustav v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Adriana Obsitnikova, CSc.,
Ustav experimentalnej onkologie SAV, Spitalska 21, 812 32
Bratislava, Slovakia.


STUDY OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS IN THE BLOOD OF PATIENTS
DURING OPEN HEART SURGERY
II. MALONDIALDEHYDE, SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE AND CATALASE AS
INDICATORS OF GENERATION AND ELIMINATION OF FREE OXYGEN RADICALS
BARTA, E., CORNAK, V., PECHAN, I., LUKNAROVA, O., VERCHOVODKO,
P., RENDEKOVA, V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
Investigation of cardiosurgical patients have provided evidence
for the generation of free oxygen radicals during open heart
surgery. The finding of increased plasma malondialdehyde
concentrations, considered to be an indicator of lipid
peroxidation in cell membranes, is suggestive of this process.
Simultaneously, the antiradical capacity of tissue was found to
exhibit a decreasing trend, as established by the levels of
superoxide dismutase and catalase in erythrocytes of peripheral
blood which tended to diminish. The funding that no changes in
the studied parameters were observed in the blood from the
coronary sinus taken before and after interruption of coronary
blood flow demonstrates that the commonly applied protection of
the myocardium by hypothermic cardioplegic solution and topical
cooling of the heart is effective in suppressing radical
formation. (Fig. 5, Ref. 36.)
Key words: cardiosurgery; free oxygen radicals; lipid
peroxidation; antiradical capacity of tissue.

Ustav kardiovaskularnych chorob v Bratislave a Katedra chemie
a biochemie LFUK v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: Prof. MUDr. Ervin Barta, CSc., UKVCH,
Partizanska 2, 813 26 Bratislava, Slovakia.


EFFECT OF MIDDLE-MOLECULAR NINHYDRIN-POSITIVE SUBSTANCES ISOLATED
FROM THE RAT MYOCARDIUM ON ARYLAMIDASE ACTIVITY IN RAT BLOOD
SERUM
CHAVKOVA, Z., SURZIN, J., ADAM, J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
Protein-free extract from the myocardium of control rats and the
majority of its fractions were found to stimulate arylamidase
activity. Ethanol administration to rats for 1, 3 or 7 weeks
increased the amount of fractions which displayed an inhibitory
effect. The observed changes were probably due to enhanced
protein degradation and/or to decreased amino acid incorporation
into proteins following ethanol administration. (Tab. 4, Fig. 2,
Ref. 19.)
Key words: arylamidase; myocardium; alcohol; inhibition.

Katedra lekarskej chemie a biochemie LF UPJS v Kosiciach
Address for correspondence: Ing. Zenobia Chavkova, CSc., Katedra
lekarskej chemie a biochemie LF UPJS, Trieda SNP 1, 040 66
Kosice, Slovakia.


TREATMENT OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS
HUORKA, M., PAYER Jr., J., BEZAYOVA, T., CERNAKOVA, E.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
The authors' 10-year experience with the treatment of 134
patients suffering from ulcerative colitis is presented. The
standard with sulfasalazine proved successful in mild forms of
the disease, yet preparations containing only 5-aminosalicylic
acid had to be administered to patients with intermediate and
serious forms of the disease. The authors recommend to
individualize treatment with corticoids and antibiotics and to
reserve this approach for severe conditions. The use of
supplementary therapeutic procedures, particularly administration
of drugs affecting the immune system, is still a rather
controversial issue. (Tab. 3, Ref. 24.)
Key words: ulcerative colitis; treatment; sulfasalazine;
5-aminosalicylate; glucocorticoids.

I. interna klinika FN v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Martin Huorka, I. interna
klinika FN, Mickiewiczova 13, 813 69 Bratislava, Slovakia.


CELIPROLOL ENHACES THE MICROCIRCULATION OF SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE
AND CALF MUSCLE IN ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION
PECHAN, J., CESNAKOVA, Z., BALAZOVJECH, I.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
The microcirculation of the subcutaneous tissue and of the
muscles of the extremities is changed already in the early stage
of essential hypertension. Insight into the effect of celiprolol,
a beta blocker of the third generation, on tissue
microcirculation is of both pathogenetic and therapeutic value.
On using the method of Na131I tissue clearance, the effect of
celiprolol on the microcirculation of subcutaneous tissue and on
muscles of the extremities was studied in 21 patients with
essential hypertension. Celiprolol was administered orally in the
daily dose of 300 mg. After one-week administration celiprolol
significantly reduced mean arterial pressure and significantly
increased the microcirculation in the subcutaneous tissue of the
hand and crus as well as in the calf muscle. Celiprolol was thus
found to increase the microcirculation in those tissues of the
extremities in which its decrease was recorded before onset of
the treatment. The obtained results may be of therapeutic value
particularly in patients suffering from ischemia of the lower
extremities. (Fig. 2, Ref. 19.)
Key words: celiprolol; essential hypertension; microcirculation
of the extremities.

I. interna klinika LFUK a FN v Bratislave a II. interna klinika
LFUK a FN v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: Prof. MUDr. Jozef Pechan, DrSc.,
Oddelenie nuklearnej mediciny I. internej kliniky LFUK a FN,
Mickiewiczova 13, 813 69 Bratislava, Slovakia.


ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC IMMUNOLOCALIZATION OF RIBOSOMAL
RIBONUCLEOPROTEINS BY AUTOANTIBODIES OF PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC
LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS
BARAN, V., BARANOVA, Z., BARANOVA, D.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
Serum of patients against rRNP was tested by Western blot method.
Four ribonucleoproteins (15, 16, 36 and 38 kDa) specifically
reacted with the antiserum used. The autoantibodies were used for
immunolocalization of antigenic structures by immunogold method
on ultrahin cryosections of hepatocytes, cumulus cells of antral
follicle and spermatocytes. Mice and hamsters were used. The
cytoplasm appeared to be labelled most intensively. Gold
particles were loosly arranged in the cytoplasm (cumulus cells)
or they were associated with endoplasmatic reticulum
(hepatocytes). Nucleoli were labelled by a lower incidence of the
marker. Gold particles were found over the dense fibrillar
component bordering on the granular component. In the cytoplasm
individual gold particles were observed. (Fig. 7, Ref. 31.)
Key words: autoantibodies; ribonucleoproteins; systemic lupus
erythematosus; immunocytochemistry.

Ustav fyziologie hospodarskych zvierat SAV v Kosiciach,
Dermatovenerologicka klinika LF UPJS v Kosiciach a Univerzita
veterinarneho lekarstva v Kosiciach
Address for correspondence: MVDr. Vladimir Baran, CSc., Ustav
fyziologie hospodarskych zvierat SAV, Dukelskych hrdinov 1/B,
040 01 Kosice, Slovakia.



CATECHOLAMINES AND BLOOD PRESSURE CHANGES DURING LOADING TESTS IN
TYPE 1 DIABETIC PATIENTS
PONTUCH, P., VOZAR, J., SEDLAK, T., KASPEROVA, V., KRATOCHVILOVA,
H.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
The influence of metabolic control on catecholamine secretion and
blood pressure during upriglet posture, mental stress and
physical exercise was studies in 34 normotensive normoalbuminuric
type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetic patients without autonomic
neuropathy. A poor metabolic control did not induce different
changes in blood pressure and plasma catecholamines as compared
to a good metabolic control, except for an exaggerated rise in
plasma adrenaline in patients with asymptomatic hypoglycemia. The
lack of correlation between plasma catecholamines and blood
pressure suggest that some other factors are also involved in the
hemodynamic reaction to mental stress and physical exercise in
diabetic patients. (Fig. 2, Tab. 3, Ref. 25.)
Key words: type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus; plasma
catecholamines; mental stress; physical exercise.

I. interna klinika FN v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: Doc. MUDr. Peter Pontuch, CSc., I.
interna klinika FN, Mickiewiczova 13, 813 69 Bratislava,
Slovakia.


IMMUNOTHERAPEUTIC PRINCIPLES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CANCER
ORLIK, O.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 1,
Numerous clinical and experimental immunological studies have
shown that the activity of the immune system plays a decisive
role in the course of tumor -- macroorganism interaction. The aim
of the present paper was to characterize the basic principles
which should be taken into consideration in the complex strategy
of cancer management. The best therapeutic effect can be achieved
when the immune system is changed from the state of
tumor-protective activity into tumor-destructive activity. This
can be achieved by the combined effect of three synergistic
procedures: (1) elimination of the suppressive influence of tumor
cells of the immune system; (2) elimination of the suppressive
activity of the immune system; (3) stimulation of anti-tumor
effector cell populations of the immune system. (Ref. 53.)
Key words: immunotherapy; chemotherapy; suppressive activity;
immunostimulation; cancer.

Ustav experimentalnej onkologie SAV v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Oto Orlik, Oddelenie
molekularnej virologie UEO SAV, Spitalska 21, 812 32 Bratislava,
Slovakia.

-=-
Bratislava Medical Journal, 94:1993, 2.

MOLECULAR MEDICINE AND NEW ETHICAL PROBLEMS
SAMEL, M.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
The introduction of new methods into medicine, such as
recombinant DNA, production of monoclonal antibodies, and
particularly polymerase chain reactions, yielded much knowledge
and information in fields like preventive medicine (prenatal
screening), reproduction strategies (preimplantation diagnosis of
genetic defects), molecular diagnosis (oncological and infectious
diseases), gene therapy, etc. In many areas the practical use of
these sophisticated approaches has become technically feasible
yet due to the high cost involved it is still limited. The
introduction of some screening programs will be associated with
ethical problems of serious impact. To date we can already
establish presymptomatic diagnosis of some progressive diseases
for which however no therapy is available. Potential abuse of
confidential genetic information as well as the possibilities of
using gene therapy for "corrective eugenics" are loaded with
serious ethical problems. Prospective doctors have to be prepared
for this situation in the course of undergraduate studies of
medicine. (Ref. 11.)
Key words: molecular diagnosis; genetic screening; gene therapy;
ethical problems; training in medicine.

Ustav lekarskej biologie LFUK v Martine
Address for correspondence: Prof. MUDr. Milan Samel, DrSc., Ustav
lekarskej biologie LFUK, Muzealna 6, O37 54 Martin, Slovakia.



ANTIOXIDATIVE PROPERTIES OF SOME CARDIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES
MISIK, V., ONDRIAS, K., GERGEL, D.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
Calcium entry blockers reduce the ischemia--reperfusion induced
damage to the myocardium. Free oxygen radicals play a role in the
pathogenesis of this injury. The mechanism of the protective
action of calcium entry blockers is unknown in these conditions
and appears to be independent of the blockade of slow calcium
channels. As demonstrated in this paper, the calcium entry
blockers nifedipine, verapamil and diltiazem are effective
scavengers of free oxygen radicals and this characteristic may be
importantly involved in their protective effect against
myocardial damage induced by ischemia and reperfusion. The
prooxidative capacity of the antineoplastic drug cisplatin is
assumed to play a role in the mechanism of its renal toxicity
action. The presented study showed that the new antioxidative
substance with antiarrhythmic and antihypoxic properties --
stobadine -- succeeded in inhibiting the prooxidative effect of
cisplatin. Our findings suggest that administration of cisplatin
along with antioxidants may result in a protective effect against
the renal toxicity of cisplatin. (Fig. 5, Ref. 38.)
Key words: antioxidants; free radicals; lipid peroxidation;
calcium blockers; stobadine; cisplatin.

Ustav experimentalnej farmakologie SAV v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: RNDr. Vladimir Misik, CSc., Ustav
experimentalnej farmakologie SAV, Dubravska cesta 9, 842 16
Bratislava, Slovakia.



DIAGNOSTICS OF ECHINOCOCCOSIS IN THE POPULATION OF SLOVAKIA
HAVASIOVA, K., STEFANCIKOVA, A., CERMAN, J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
Serologically diagnosed cases of echinococcosis in man occurring
over the years 1970--1990 are reported. In the given period 292
serum samples were examined obtained from patients clinically
suspect of echinococcosis, either with or without indication of
localization in different organs. Of the total of 22
serologically positive patients echinococcal cysts were found in
the liver in 17 patients (77.27 %), in the lungs in three (13.63
%) and in two patients the localization was not established. The
patients with positive serological finding were within the age
range of 33 to 68 years, with the exception of one 11-year-old
boy. The value of serological examination of echinococcosis in
the subjects involved in our study is highlighted by the findings
in those patients who underwent surgery. Both the positive and
the negative serological results were confirmed by the surgical
findings of the presence or absence of echinococcus. (Tab. 3,
Ref. 22.)
Key words: echinococcosis in man; serological diagnosis.

Helmintologicky ustav SAV v Kosiciach
Address for correspondence: Ing. Katarina Havasiova, CSc.,
Helmintologicky ustav SAV, Dukelskych hrdinov 3, 040 01 Kosice,
Slovakia.


INHIBITION OF HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS REPLICATION IN CELL
CULTURE BY AZIDOTHYMIDINE (AZITIDIN, LACHEMA)
SCHMIDTMAYEROVA, H., MAYER, V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
The inhibitory effect of the Czecho-Slovakia azidothymidine (AZT)
preparation Azitidin (Lachema) on HIV 1 infection was studied in
vitro. Its efficacy was compared with that of the approved AZT
preparation Retrovir (Burroughs-Wellcome Co.). HIV 1 infected
MT4 cells were cultivated in media containing different
concentrations of Azitidin or Retrovir. Complete inhibition of
virus production (reverse transcriptase activity) and of the
cytopathic effect of HIV 1 was seen at the concentration of 0.1
Ýmol of either preparation. Complete inhibition of viral antigen
induction was recorded at the concentration of 1 Ýmol. In the
light of the obtained results we can conclude that Azitidin
inhibits HIV 1 replication in vitro and its efficacy is fully
comparable to that of Retrovir. (Tab. 4, Fig. 2, Ref. 17.)
Key words: human immunodeficiency virus; acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); azidothymidine.

Virologicky ustav SAV v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: RNDr. Helena Schmidtmayerova, CSc.,
Virologicky ustav SAV, Mlynska dolina 1, 817 03 Bratislava,
Slovakia.


EFFECT OF ETHANOL ON THE OCCURRENCE OF PEPTIDES WITH
ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY IN THE RAT MYOCARDIUM
ADAM, J., SURZIN, J., CHAVKOVA, Z., GREGA, B.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
The effect of 7 % ethanol on the peptide content in the
myocardium was studied during prolonged exposition. The
protein-free extract from the myocardium of controls as well as
experimental groups following 1--8 weeks ethanol administration
contained peptides with antibacterial activity. Long-term ethanol
administration resulted in changes in physico-chemical properties
of peptides both compared with controls and also among the
experimental groups mutually. The changes were manifested by
differences in the elution profiles following gel chromatography
and RF values after electrophoresis or by different amino acid
composition. The results are compared with the influence of
peptides on the growth of bacterial cultures S. aureus. Ethanol
administration induced diminution of the diameter of the
inhibitory zones. This effect was most marked in the group fed
with ethanol for 3 and 8 weeks. (Fig. 5, Ref. 17.)
Key words: alcohol; peptides; amino acid; S. aureus; myocardium.

Katedra lekarskej chemie a biochemie LF UPJS v Kosiciach
Address for correspondence: Doc. MUDr. Jozef Adam, CSc., Katedra
lekarskej chemie a biochemie LF UPJS, Trieda SNP 1, 040 66
Kosice, Slovakia.


NEUROENDOCRINE ACTIVATION AND VENTRICULAR REMODELING AFTER ACUTE
MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION -- INFLUENCE OF
ANGIOTENSIN-CONVERTING-ENZYME INHIBITORS
DUBRAVA, J., CAGAN, S.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
Neuroendocrine activation, which begins early after myocardial
injury, participates significantly in the pathogenesis of acute
myocardial infarction and its complications. Plasma
concentrations of catecholamines, arginine vasopressin and atrial
natriuretic factor were highest on admission. Activation of the
renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system reached its peak after 72
hours. In patients with acute myocardial infarction and heart
failure the neuroendocrine activation was more intensively
expressed.
This study presents clinical consequences of neuroendocrine
activation. Its relation to ventricular remodeling, as
a potentially maladaptive mechanism is especially discussed.
Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors influence favorably both
neuroendocrine activation and ventricular remodeling after
myocardial infarction. At present 7 ongoing extensive multicenter
trials are to determine if such a therapy would lead to a better
survival and attenuate the progressive deterioration of heart
function after myocardial infarction. (Fig. 2, Ref. 24.)
Key words: acute myocardial infarction; neuroendocrine
activation; ventricular remodeling;
angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors.

IV. interna klinika LFUK NsP Stare mesto Bezrucova v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Juraj Dubrava, IV. interna
klinika NsP, Bezrucova 5, 815 26 Bratislava, Slovakia.



DOES SHORT-TERM HIGH-FREQUENCY JET VENTILATION DAMAGE THE
TRACHEOBRONCHIAL MUCOSA?
JAVORKA, K., PLANK, L., ADAMICOVA, K., KULISEK, V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
In anesthetized rabbits, the occurrence of histopathological
changes was studied above below the level of the endotracheal
tube opening after one-hour high-frequency jet ventilation
(f=150.min-1, Pin=70--90 kPa, Ti=0.5) with nonhumidified air and
oxygen mixture (FiO2=0.6). The findings were compared with those
obtained in intact rabbits and in rabbits which were inhaling
nonhumidified air from the environment spontaneously via the
endotracheal tube. Mechanical obstruction of the airways by mucus
or necrosis of the mucous membrane was not observed. The major
histopathological changes characteristic of inflammation and
mechanical damage of the mucosa were recorded above the opening
of the endotracheal tube. Towards the main bronchi the degree of
the injury was decreasing. (Tab. 2, Fig. 2, Ref. 11.)
Key words: high-frequency jet ventilation; tracheobronchial
mucosa; histopathological changes.

Ustav fyziologie LFUK v Martine a Ustav patologickej anatomie
LFUK v Martine
Address for correspondence: Prof. MUDr. Kamil Javorka, DrSc.,
Ustav fyziologie LFUK, Muzealna 4, 037 54 Martin, Slovakia.


SERODIAGNOSIS OF LARVAL TOXOCARIASIS IN SLOVAKIA
STEFANCIKOVA, A., HAVASIOVA, K., DUBINSKY, P.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
The results of serological examinations performed over the years
1986 to 1990 in patients suspect of larval toxocariasis, coming
from different Institutes of National Health in Slovakia, are
reported. Seropositivity was within the range from 9.38 to 23.56
%. The five-year average was 17.72 %, with a predominance of
seropositivity in the country. Age-related analysis of the series
of patients did not show any significant difference of
seropositivity in children and adults (18.00 and 17.21 %
respectively). Higher seropositivity rates were found in boys
(20.73 %) compared to girls (14.62 %). This was found to be
reversed in adults, where women had higher seropositivity rates
than men (20.61 and 12.08 % respectively). The ocular of larval
toxocariasis showed a higher prevalence in adults. (Tab. 4, Fig.
1, Ref. 18.)
Key words: larval toxocariasis; seropositivity; ELISA; antigens;
antibodies.

Helmintologicky ustav SAV v Kosiciach
Address for correspondence: MVDr. Asteria Stefancikova, CSc.,
Helmintologicky ustav SAV, Dukelskych hrdinov 3, 040 11 Kosice,
Slovakia


TRANSESOPHAGEAL ATRIAL STIMULATON IN BRADYARRHYTHMIC DERANGEMENTS
OF THE HEART RHYTHM
PELLA, J., STANCAK, B., BODNAR, J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 2,
The aim of the paper was to assess the contribution of
transesophageal atrial stimulation in bradyarrhythmic
derangements of the heart rhythm. The main purpose was to make
the diagnostic simpler and safer. Since the series of patients
involved is small, our results are to be considered as
a preliminary report.
(1) When only dysfunction of the sinoatrial node is involved, the
method yields results comparable to those obtained by invasive
electrophysiological examination. Compared to the latter,
invasive approach, the great advantage of the presented method is
its repeatability and simplicity. (2) Greater caution is required
on evaluating the conductivity, as it can not be reliably
determined in the His--Purkynje system. (Tab. 2, Fig. 5, Ref.
12.)
Key words: transesophageal and transvenous atrial stimulation;
bradyarrhythmias.

II. katedra internej mediciny LF UPJS v Kosiciach a Geriatricka
klinika FN v Kosiciach
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Jozef Pella, CSc., II. katedra
internej mediciny LF UPJS, Trieda SNP 1, 040 66 Kosice, Slovakia.

CHANGES OF HEMOSTASIS IN ISCHEMIC HEART DISEASE
HROMEC, A., OKRUCKA, A., MURIN, J., KASPER Jr., J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
The relationship between changes in blood coagulation, the
occurrence and severity of risk factors of ischemic heart disease
and the clinical condition of the patient was investigated. The
at risk group of patients (42.2 %) had more than 3 pathological
parameters. Intravascular blood coagulation was not activated in
any of the patients. In patients with acute myocardial infarction
(MI), 62.2 % had more than 3 pathological parameters on the first
day of MI development. Demonstrable activation of intravascular
blood coagulation was found in 28.2 % of these patients. On day
5 of MI, activation of intravascular blood coagulation was
recorded in 57.7 % of the patients treated by classical approach
and in 15.4--30.8 % of the patients on thrombolytic treatment. In
the at risk group, primary hemostasis and the fibrinolytic system
were more affected, in patients with MI the whole hemostatic
mechanism was involved. On day 5 of MI, in patients with
classical therapy pathological laboratory findings still
persisted or were even more deteriorated, particularly increases
in fibrinogen level. At that time, in patients on thrombolytic
therapy no substantial changes of initial values were recorded.
No correlation was found to exist between changes in hemostasis
and the risk profile or between changes in hemostasis and the
clinical severity of MI. The obtained results justify the
administration of antithrombotic substances, especially in
patients with unstable angina pectoris. On observing time
constraints, administration of thrombolytics is justified in MI.
(Fig. 9, Ref. 25.)
Key words: ischemic heart disease; myocardial infarction; risk
factors; parameters of hemostasis; thrombolytic treatment;
antithrombocytic substances.

I. interna klinika FN a LFUK v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: Prof. MUDr. Arnost Hromec, DrSc., I.
interna klinika, Mickiewiczova 13, 813 69 Bratislava, Slovakia.


LATE RESULTS OF REVASCULARIZATION OPERATIONS FOR ATHEROSCLEROTIC
OCCLUSIVE ARTERIAL DISEASE OF THE LOWER EXTREMITIES
MAZUCH, J., MACHAN, L., HERCZEGH, S., PELC, J., MISANIK, J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
The authors evaluated their 15-year experience with
revascularization operations for atherosclerosis obliterans (ASO)
of the lower extremities. Over the period from 1975 to 1990,
1112 patients with ASO were admitted to their department and in
674 (60.6 %) of them revascularization operation was performed.
Direct revascularization surgery (bypass, desobliteration,
angioplasty) was performed in 318 (47.2 %) patients and indirect
revascularization, sympathectomy in 326 (52.8 %) patients. On
evaluating the long-term results of aortobifemoral (AF2),
femoropopliteal (FP) and femorocrural (FC) bypasses the following
long-term patency was established:
AF2 bypass -- patency up to 2 years 92 %, up to 5 years 90 %, up
to 10 years 76 %, up to 15 years 75 %;
FP bypass -- patency up to 2 years 90 %, up to 5 years 84 %, up
to 10 years 62 %, up to 15 years 46 %;
FC bypass -- patency up to 2 years 63 %, up to 5 years 50 %, up
to 10 years 25 %.
Complications developed in 10 %, the mortality rate was 2.5 % and
8 % in FP and AF2, respectively. The obtained results are
comparable with the data published in the literature. The authors
achieved the best results in the suprainguinal region with AF2
bypasses on using mostly dacron prostheses and in the
infrainguinal region FP bypasses on using the autologous great
saphenous vein. (Tab. 3, Fig. 4, Ref. 17.)
Key words: surgical treatment of ASO; long-term results.

Chirurgicke oddelenie OUNZ v Lucenci
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Julius Mazuch, DrSc.,
Chirurgicke oddelenie OUNZ, Namestie 1. maja 13, 984 01 Lucenec,
Slovakia.



QUANTITATIVE ULTRASTRUCTURE OF THE HEART MUSCLE OF JAPANESE
QUAILS DURING HYPODYNAMISM, HYPERGRAVITATION AND COSMIC FLIGHT
BOZNER, A., BODA, K., DOSTAL, J., MATEJKOVA, Z., DEVECKA, V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
The experimental work aimed at the quantitative ultrastructure of
the myocardial cells of the Japanese quail Coturnix coturnix
japonica during hypergravitation, hypodynamism and space flight
in a Soviet satellite. For the determination of quantitative
changes of the myocardial ultrastructure a morphometrical method
was used with parameters like the number of mitochondria, average
mitochondrial size, relative mitochondrial volume, deficiency of
cristae and relative volume of myofibrils.
The quails were observed in 3 groups. The absolute control
consisted of quails living in normal Earth conditions, in the
laboratory group the quails were exposed to conditions of
hypergravitation and hypodynamism in a specially constructed
centrifuge, and in the flying group the quails were exposed to
space flight in a Soviet orbital station MIR.
In the group of absolute controls no pathological changes of the
myocardial ultrastructure were found. In the flying group there
were no significant changes, with the exception of decreased
relative volume of myofibrils, which however agrees with the
findings on symptoms corresponding to human and animal heart
weakness during space flights.
In the laboratory group, pathological changes were observed in
each of the fractions. The most significant pathological findings
were found in the group controls in the center and in
hypergravitation combined with hypodynamism. It can be concluded
that the laboratories can simulate conditions induced by the
start and flight of space ships. (Fig. 2, Ref, 8.)
Key words: heart muscle; Japanese quail; hypergravitation;
hypodynamism; cosmic flight.

Oddelenie biologie a farmakologickej propedeutiky Katedry
farmakodynamiky a toxikologie FaF UK v Bratislave a Ustav
biochemie a genetiky zivocichov SAV v Ivanke pri Dunaji
Address for correspondence: Prof. MUDr. Anton Bozner, DrSc.,
Oddelenie biologie a farmakodynamiky a toxikologie FaF UK,
Odbojarov 10, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia.


MORPHOLOGICAL FINDINGS IN SOME MODELS OF ACUTE EXPERIMENTAL
PANCREATITIS
HUTAN, M., ONDRIAS, F., NITRAYOVA, O., POPOVIC, J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
Morphological changes found in two models of acute experimental
pancreatitis are presented. Acute pancreatitis was induced in
rats by the method of ligation of the lateral pancreatic ducts
and by the method of the blind duodenal loop. After four hours
the animals were sacrificed and processed for light and electron
microscopic examination. Changes indicative of edematous and
necrotizing pancreatitis were recorded. In the electron
microscopic picture the predominant findings were disintegration
of organelles of acinar cells and the appearance of numerous
vacuoles and autophagosomes. The presented models of pancreatitis
are considered to be suitable for further research into the
pathogenesis and therapeutic intervention of acute pancreatitis
in rats. (Fig. 15, Ref. 8.)
Key words: experimental pancreatitis; morphological changes; rat.

Chirurgicke oddelenie NsP Ruzinov v Bratislave,
Patologickoanatomicke oddelenie NsP Ruzinov v Bratislave
a Patologickoanatomicke oddelenie NsP akad. L. Derera
v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Martin Hutan, Chirurgicke
oddelenie NsP Ruzinov, Ruzinovska 6, 821 06 Bratislava, Slovakia.


OUR EXPERIENCE WITH ENDOSCOPIC THERAPY OF CHRONIC PANCREATITIS
DITE, P., ZBORIL, V., PETRIKOVA, A., CIKANKOVA, J., TESAKOVA, H.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
Endoscopic drainage is a modern and effective therapy in patients
with chronic obstructive pancreatitis. The authors demonstrate
their experience with this therapy in 20 patients. It resulted in
pain disappearance in 60 % of the patients and in body weight
increase within 1 year after therapy in 55 % of the patients.
Steatorrhea was not significantly influenced by the therapy. The
main complication of endoscopic therapy were frequent restenoses
(30 %). (Tab. 4, Fig. 2, Ref. 12.)
Key words: chronic obstructive pancreatitis; endoscopic
papillosphincterotomy of pancreatic duct; restenosis as
a complication of papillosphincterotomy.

III. interni klinika gastroenterologicka FN MU
v Brne--Bohunicich a II. radiodiagnosticka klinika FN MU
Brne--Bohunicich
Address for correspondence: Prof. MUDr. Petr Dite, DrSc., III.
interni klinika gastroenterologicka NsP FN MU, Jihlavska 100,
639 OO Brno--Bohunice, Ceska republika.


STUDY OF SELECTED BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS IN THE BLOOD AND LIVER
OF RATS AFTER ADMINISTRATION OF Ñ-ESCIN
ULICNA, O., VOLMUT, J., KUPCOVA, V., BRIXOVA, E.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
The effect of Ñ-escin on selected parameters of carbohydrate and
lipid metabolism was studied in blood and liver tissue. The aim
was to established whether its administration would result in
steatosis of the liver. Rats were given sodium salt of Ñ-escin in
water solution orally by gavage in the dose of 10 mg/kg or 70
mg/kg. Analysis of blood samples and liver tissue showed that
administration of Ñ-escin to healthy rats did not induce any
substantial changes in the metabolic parameters studied. The rats
did not develop steatosis. The biological half-life of antipyrine
was only sightly prolonged. (Tab. 3, Fig. 1, Ref. 10.)
Key words: Ñ-escin; Yellon; liver steatosis; biological
half/life of antipyrine.

Farmakobiochemicke laboratorium LFUK a III. interna klinika LFUK
v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: RNDr. Olga Ulicna, CSc.,
Farmakobiochemicke laboratorium LFUK, Hlboka 7, 811 05
Bratislava, Slovakia.


HOW HIGH IS THE COST OF SEPTIC COMPLICATIONS IN SURGERY?
PROCHOTSKY, A., PASKAN, J., MINKA, M., SLEZAK, V., PRIECEL, L.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
Infectious complications have remained the most frequent cause of
morbidity in surgical patients, and that despite the constantly
broadening range of up-to-date antimicrobial drugs administered
prophylactically and therapeutically, the improved methods of
cultivating microorganisms and of establishing sensitivity to
antibiotics. Infections in surgical patients lead to prolonged
hospitalization, prolonged working disability, and to increased
cost of treatment. Considerable economic consequences of
infections in surgical patients are demonstrated on the basis of
the authors' clinical material and possibilities of preventing
infections and of their treatment are also discussed. (Fig. 1,
Tab. 2, Ref. 21.)
Key words: infections; cost of treatment; hospitalization period;
unoccupied beds.

II. chirurgicka klinika LFUK a NsP Stare mesto v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Augustin Prochotsky, II.
chirurgicka klinika NsP Stare mesto, Bezrucova 5, 811 09
Bratislava, Slovakia.


ON THE PROBLEM OF ANTIBIOTIC TREATMENT AT AN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT
KOHN, R., KRCMERY Jr., V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
The results of antibiotic treatment administered to 78 patients
within one year are reported. Due to the nosocomial nature of the
infections, the serious overall condition of the patients and the
associated diseases, the prognosis remained unfavorable despite
adequate antibiotic treatment. In the group of patients on
dialysis ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin proved effective. Patients
with exacerbation of chronic bronchitis responded well to
doxycycline. In the treatment of infections of the urinary tract,
the known favorable effect of cotrimoxazol was confirmed. Of the
group of 78 patients with transitory or permanent
cardiostimulation, 18 received antibiotic treatment. In 6 of them
with transitory cardiostimulation antibiotics were given as
a prophylactic measure, 4 patients developed febrile conditions
after implantation of the cardiostimulator and 8 patients
received antibiotics due to infections of the respiratory and
urinary tract. After implantation of the cardiostimulator 60
patients (77 %) did not require antibacterial treatment. (Ref.
5.)
Key words: antibiotic treatment; nosocomial infections; intensive
care unit.

I. interna klinika NsP akad. L. Derera, vyucbova zakladna IVZ,
v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Rudolf Kohn, I. interna klinika
NsP akad. L. Derera, Limbova 5, 833 05 Bratislava, Slovakia.



CARE OF THE ELDERLY
SEVCIK, L.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 3,
Topical problems in the care of geriatric patients are presented.
Qualified estimations suggest that subjects above 60 years of age
represent more than one half of the daily clientele of a district
physician. The basic characteristics of elderly people are their
fragility, readily attained decompensation and diminished
adaptability. Their hospitalization is thus demanding and
involves risks. Geriatric patients require comprehensive care.
Treatment without removing their social fears and psychic anxiety
does not yield adequate effect. Active involvement of relatives
into the program of care may prove a beneficial contribution. The
main aim is to provide comprehensive health and social care
primarily at the patient's home. (Ref. 10.)
Key words: comprehensive care of the elderly; geriatrics;
geriatric legislature.

Address for correspondence: Ludovit Sevcik, student, 3. LF KU,
VSK Jednota c. 330, Opletalova 38, 110 00 Praha 1, Ceska
republika.

RELATIONSHIP OF SPEECH TO THE RIGHT AND LEFT CEREBRAL HEMISPHERE
CERNACEK, J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 4,
Verbal speech functions are localized in right-handed subjects
practically exclusively and in left-handed ones mostly in the
left hemisphere. Much information on these functions has been
obtained by studying patients affected with spontaneous
derangements, as well as after hemispherectomy, after severing
the corpus callosum, and during electric stimulation of the brain
in neurosurgical procedures. In the presylvian region of the
hemisphere dominant for speech, a region for the production and
indentification of speech was found, surrounded by an area for
short-term memory. The predominance of the right ear in
recognizing verbal stimuli, established by the dichotic test,
applies to the population rather than to the individual. The
substance of verbal dominance of the left hemisphere lies in its
pre-eminent capacity to distinguish rapid acoustic sequences and
to produce them. Observations made on deaf-and-dumb patients with
sign language have demonstrated that humans possess a genetically
determined ability to develop speech, regardless the modality.
Speech functions of the right hemisphere concern mostly nonverbal
prosodic components of speech. (Ref. 54.)
Key words: speech; dominance of hemispheres; left hemisphere;
right hemisphere.

Address for correspondence: Akademik Jozef Cernacek, Kozia 28,
811 03 Bratislava, Slovakia.


GENETIC DISEASES IN CHILDREN OF THE ORAVA POPULATION
MISOVICOVA, N., VOLNA, J., KAPRALIK, I.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 4,
The study is focused on genetic characterization of the child
population of the Orava region, where genetic isolates persisted
as long as the middle of this century. Active screening for
genetic pathology over a period of 5 years involved examination
of 1058 children aged 0--14 years. Genetically determined
pathological conditions were diagnosed in 757 children, which
represents 1.67 % of the child population of this region.
Chromosomal aberrations were established in 55 children (0.12
%), monogenic diseases in 193 children (0.43 %), of these
autosomal recessive defects in 88 children (0.19 %), and
multifactorially determined conditions in 478 children (1.06 %).
Focal occurrence of an inherited disease was not recorded.
Genetic affliction of the population studied was found to be
comparable to that in panmictic populations. Thew occurrence of
diseases inherited as autosomal recessive traits suggests that
the influence of genetic isolates does no longer persist in
Orava. (Tab. 1, Ref. 10.)
Key words: genetic epidemiology; genetic isolates; genetically
determined pathological conditions; genetic affliction of the
population.

Oddelenie lekarskej genetiky Martinskej FN v Martine
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Nadezda Misovicova, Oddelenie
lekarskej genetiky FN, Vajanskeho 6, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia.


ENZYMES IN TUMORS OF THE MAMMARY GLAND -- HISTOCHEMICAL STUDY OF
THE STROMA OF MAMMARY GLAND CARCINOMAS
LONGAUER, F., BILCIK, P.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 4,
The results obtained in histochemical examination of the stroma
of mammary gland carcinomas allow to draws the following
conclusions. The reaction to alkaline phosphatase proved suitable
for detecting proliferation zones in the stroma of mammary gland
carcinoma. Proliferation of fibroblasts, myofibroblasts,
endothelial cells, and possibly also of other cells is involved.
At present, myofibroblasts can not be cytoenzymatically
differentiated from fibroblasts. The reactions to acid
phosphatase and nonspecific esterase provide a quick and reliable
picture on the amount of macrophages. The combined reaction to
alkaline phosphatase and dipeptidylpeptidase IV in the same
section indicates that individual segments of the newly formed
capillary bed in the stroma of the tumor, i.e. the arterial,
intermediary and venous segment, are differentially equipped by
these enzymes. The activity of several enzymes in carcinomal
stroma with typical stripe- and wave-like architecture can most
probably be assigned to fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Between
the enzymatic activity in the stroma and the type or
differentiation of the carcinoma no relationship was established.
(Tab. 2, Fig. 7, Ref. 35.)
Key words: mammary gland; breast cancer; tumor stroma;
histochemistry of enzymes.

Katedra patologickej anatomie a sudneho lekarstva LF UPJS
v Kosiciach
Address for correspondence: Doc. MUDr. Frantisek Longauer, CSc.,
Ustav sudneho lekarstva LF UPJS, Srobarova 57, 041 80 Kosice,
Slovakia.


USE OF TUMOR MARKER CA 19--9 IN DIAGNOSIS OF CARCINOMAS OF THE
PANCREAS
KAUSITZ, J., LESNY, P., BELAN, V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 4,
The contribution of the tumor marker CA 19--9 to differential
diagnosis between malignant and nonmalignant diseases of the
pancreas was assessed in a group of 120 patients. On using border
values of CA 19--9 80 U/ml, its sensitivity was found to be 84.4
% and its specificity 84.8 % for carcinomas of the pancreas.
Correlation of CA 19--9 values with results of computer
tomography and endogenous retrograde cholangiopancreatography in
the patients studied yielded an over 80 % accordance. In the
light of the obtained results, the authors consider determination
of CA 19--9 levels to be a suitable method supplementing the
imaging examination methods in suspect carcinoma of the pancreas.
(Tab. 4, Ref. 5.)
Key words: carcinoma of the pancreas; chronic pancreatitis;
carcinoembryonal antigen; CA 19--9.

Subkatedra nuklearnej mediciny ILF v Bratislave, Radiologicka
klinika v Bratislave a Spolocne pracovisko pocitacovej tomografie
VULB a UNZ mesta Bratislavy v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Juraj Kausitz, CSc., Subkatedra
nuklearnej mediciny ILF, Heydukova 10, 812 50 Bratislava,
Slovakia.


USE OF HIGH FREQUENCY MODULATED CONTINUOUS POSITIVE AIRWAY
PRESSURE IN EXPERIMENTAL RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME AND
PULMONARY EDEMA
JAVORKA, K., KULISEK, V., DEMIDOV, V., GECELOVSKA, V., SUTARIK,
L.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 4,
The effect of high frequency (f=300.min-1) modulated continuous
positive airway pressure (CPAP) (0.49 kPa) was compared with that
of CPAP without modulation (0.49 kPa) in 24 anesthetized rabbits
in experimental respiratory stress syndrome (RDS) and pulmonary
edema. RDS was induced by single excessive lavage of the lung on
using the inpulse and expulse effect of high frequency jet
ventilation. Pulmonary edema was elicited by i.v. administration
of a mixture of fatty acids. Decreased dynamic compliance of the
lung and increased respiration work and rate were recorded both
in experimental RDS and pulmonary edema. In RDS paO2 was reduced
and paCO2 increased. In pulmonary edema, despite diminished
respiration volume, ventilation was enhanced by the higher
respiration rate and both paO2 and paCO2 were reduced.
Application of CPAP resulted in normalization of blood gases.
Modulated CPAP, compared to CPAP without modulation, further
decreased paCO2 and increased paO2. The results obtained in
experimental models of RDS and pulmonary edema in rabbits show
the beneficial effect of high frequency modulated CPAP by
pressure oscillation on values of blood gas tension. (Fig. 6,
Ref. 16.)
Key words: high frequency; CPAP; high frequency modulated CPAP;
experimental model of RDS; pulmonary edema.

Katedra fyziologie LFUK v Martine
a Anesteziologicko-resuscitacne oddelenie FNsP v Martine
Address for correspondence: Doc. MUDr. Kamil Javorka, CSc.,
Katedra fyziologie LFUK, Muzealna 4, O37 54 Martin, Slovakia.



GLYCEMIA -- INSULIN RELATIONSHIP IN HEMODIALYSIS
OPATRNY, K., SPUSTOVA, V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 4,
In 25 patients with chronic renal failure, the levels of glycemia
and immunoreactive insulin (IRI) were determined in one-hour
intervals over the period of eight-hour hemodialysis. The study
was performed in hemodialysis with and without 200 mg% glucose in
the dialysis solution. The mutual behavior of the two substances
was evaluated. In patients on a chronic hemodialysis program the
level of IRI was found to depend on elimination, secretion, and
endogenous control of IRI. The internal processes may be involved
to a more important extent in achieving the definitive levels of
IRI (middle-molecular substance) than its elimination by
hemodialysis. The actual regulator -- glucose (low-molecular
substance) need not change its level significantly in this
process. (Fig. 8, Ref. 5.)
Key words: plasma immunoreactive insulin; hemodialysis;
middle-molecular substances.
I. interni klinika lekarske fakulty Univerzity Karlovy v Plzni
a Vyskumny ustav lekarskej bioniky v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: Doc. MUDr. Karel Opatrny, DrSc., I.
interni klinika LF UK, Sverdlovska 80, 323 18 Plzen, Ceska
republika.


STUDY OF THE EFFECT OF ROTATING MAGNETIC FIELD ON THE GROWTH OF
DEALS' GUINEA PIG SARCOMA SUBCUTANEOUSLY TRANSPLANTED INTO GUINEA
PIGS
SCHWARTZ, E., SVEJNOCHOVA, M., SIPOSOVA, E., HONZATKOVA, Z.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 4,
The effect of rotating magnetic field (RMF) was studied on the
growth of Deals' guinea pig sarcoma (DGPS) transplanted
subcutaneously into the inguen of guinea pigs. The 0.2 ml of
transplanted suspension contained 1.5--2.0x106 of vital DGPS
cells. Over a period of 24 days the animals were daily two times
exposed to RMF for 3 hours. The animals were sacrificed in
chloroform anesthesia, the inguinal tumors, lungs and hearts were
removed and weighed. The following findings were recorded: 1. RMF
inhibited the growth of DGPS cells in experimental guinea pigs
compared to control animals (p<<0.001); 2. In the experimental
animals DGPS cells did not metastasize into the lung parenchyma;
3. The pathological characteristics of the tumors in the
experimental and control group of guinea pigs tended to be
different. (Tab. 3, Ref. 14.)
Key words: rotating magnetic field; Deals' guinea pig sarcoma.
Ustav tuberkulozy a respiracnych chorob
v Bratislave--Podunajskych Biskupiciach
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Emil Schwartz, UTaRCH, 825 56
Bratislava--Podunajske Biskupice, Slovakia.


CLINICAL PICTURE OF IMPORTED MALARIA AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO P.
FALCIPARUM PARASITEMIA
LOUDOVA, J., GIBODA, M., GUTVIRTH, J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 4,
The paper summarizes the results of clinical examinations of
imported malaria in 48 patients, semiimmune foreigners infected
with P. falciparum and P. vivax/P. ovale. Of the objective
manifestations, hepatosplenomegaly was predominant in P.
falciparum infections (34 %), whereas in P. vivax infections its
occurrence rate was 19 %. Body temperature over 38 ÊC with
shivering had a higher frequency in P. vivax (81 %) compared to
P. falciparum (41 %) infections. Pathologically altered
hematologic values, particularly mild to medium increase in
sedimentation rate, were found in all patients with P. vivax/P.
ovale, while in patients infected with P. falciparum only in
those whose parasitemia exceeded 10 000 trophozoites in 1 Ýl
blood. Reduced values of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and mean
erythrocyte volume are indicative of microcytic anemia of mild
degree. Biochemical examinations yielded slightly increased
values of the thymol turbidity test and mild reduction of serum
proteins at simultaneous increase of albumins (8 % of the
patients examined). Of the parameters of humoral immunity, there
was a rise in immunoglobulin values concerning particularly IgG
and IgM, and that in all types of malarial infection studied.
Increased values of circulating immunocomplexes had a high
frequency rate with all plasmodial species, in P. falciparum
infections independently of the degree of parasitemia. (Tab. 7,
Ref. 13.)
Key words: malaria; parasitemia; P. falciparum; hematological
changes; nephropathy.

Parazitologicky ustav CSAV v Ceskych Budejovicich a NsP III. typu
v Ceskych Budejovicich
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Jarmila Loudova,
Parazitologicky ustav CSAV, Branisovska 31, 370 05 Ceske
Budejovice, Ceska republika.

CONTRIBUTION OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY TO DIAGNOSIS AND PREVENTION OF
CONGENITAL HEART DISEASES WITH PRIMARILY GENETIC ETIOLOGY
KANALIKOVA, K., HALASOVA, E., VANZUROVA, E., STANOVA, L.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
Over the period from January 1982 to June 1989 the authors
examined 1723 children and adolescents with congenital heart
diseases (CHD), hospitalized in the Institute of Cardiovascular
Diseases in Bratislava. Of these patients, 96 (5.6 %) had CHD of
primarily genetic etiology: monogenic diseases 51 (3 %),
chromosomal anomalies 45 (2.6 %) patients. In indicated cases
(polystigmatization, positive family history) the relatives were
examined. Echocariographic examination of 203 relatives of
patients with genetically determined CHD yielded positive
echocardiographic findings in 32 subjects (15.5 %). In relatives
of patients with CHD of primarily genetic etiology, even
structural changes which hemodynamically are not severe may be of
value for individuals who are carriers of pathologic genetic
information. Echocardiography is a contribution not only to
diagnosis but also to prevention of CHD in association with
adequate genetic counselling. (Tab. 4, Ref. 7.)
Key words: Echocardiography; congenital heart diseases (CHD;
genetic diseases; prevention.

Klinika kardiovaskularnej chirurgie Ustavu kardiovaskularnych
chorob v Bratislave a Oddelenie klinickej genetiky FN UK
v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Katarina Kanalikova, UKVCH,
Partizanska 2, 813 26 Bratislava, Slovakia.


EFFECT OF CYCLOSPORIN A ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF TOXOPLASMA GONDII
IN MUSCELS AND BRAIN OF MICE
HULINSKA, D., SYKORA, J., ZASTERA, M.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
Presented are histological and electron microscopic findings of
alterations in the muscles and brains of mice infected with T.
gondii and suppressed with CyA during infection.
Cya in the acute phase of infection promoted parasitemia. In the
chronic stage it modified the formation of clustered cysts.
Following repeated infection active tachyzoites appeared in the
repleted macrophage populations of the interstitium.
Polymyositis with manifested muscle fiber atrophy and allergic
toxoplasmic encephalitis in the acute phase of infection is
caused by: 1. active penetration of tachyzoites into
non-phagocytizing muscle and nerve cells, 2. toxins (necrotizing
enzymes) released by the destroyed reticuloendothelial cells due
to rapid multiplication of tachyzoites and pseudocysts, 3.
immunologic processes affecting factors regulating the
multiplication rate and subsequent transformation of tachyzoites
into cystozoites, and vice versa.
The altered tissue tropism during toxoplasmic infection, i.e.
suppression of the granulating tissue and fibrosis, results in
a necrotizing process induced by tachyzoites or in the rupture of
cysts. (Fig. 8, Ref. 18.)
Key words: toxoplasmosis; cyclosporin A; ultrastructure.

Institut hygieny a epidemiologie v Praze
Address for correspondence: RNDr. D Hulinska, CSc., Institut
hygieny a epidemiologie, Laborator elektronove mikroskopie,
Srobarova 48, 100 42 Praha 10, Ceska republika.


MOLECULAR GENETIC ANALYSIS OF DELETIONS IN PATIENTS AFFECTED WITH
PROGRESSIVE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY OF THE DUCHENNE AND BECKER TYPE
KADASI, L., GECZ, J., SAKSOVA, L., THURZOVA, M.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
Methods of molecular genetics (Southern's hybridization and DNA
amplification by the PCR method) were used to search the DNA of
patients suffering from the Duchenne (DMD) and the Becker (BMD)
type of progressive muscular dystrophy for deletions in the
dystrophin gene. The series consisted of 29 patients with DMD and
2 patients with BMD. As hybridization probes cloned cDNA sections
were used designated as CF56a, CF56b, 1-2a, 2b-3, 4-5a, 5b-7 and
8. With the PCR methods means for exons 8, 19, 45 and 48 were
used. No deletion was found in either of the BMD patients. In 13
(44.8 %) of the 29 DMD patients deletion with at least one cDNA
probe was found. Most deletions were detected with the probes 8
(46.2 %) and 1-2a (30.8 %). The high proportion of deletions in
the etiology of DMD/BMD has both a high differential diagnostic
value and allows to make direct prenatal diagnosis as well as to
determine transmission in these families with subsequent
elimination of the risk of diagnostic error resulting from
recombination in DNA diagnosis by means of binding. (Tab. 1, Fig.
2, Ref. 20.)
Key words: progressive muscular dystrophy; NA analysis; detection
of deletions.

Ustav molekularnej fyziologie a genetiky SAV v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: RNDr. Ludovit Kadasi, CSc., Oddelenie
genetiky UMGF SAV, Vlarska 5, 833 34 Bratislava, Slovakia.



GENERATION AND PROCES[ASING OF DIGITAL IMAGES IN DIAGNOSTIC
RADIOLOGY
BAJLA, J., BELAN, V.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
The paper describes universal principles of diagnostic imaging.
The attention is focused particularly on digital image generation
in medicine. The methodology od display visualization of measured
data is discussed. The problems of spatial relation
representation and visual perception of image brightness are
mentioned. The methodological issues of digital image processing
(DIP) are discussed, particularly the relation of DIP to the
other related disciplines, fundamental tasks in DIP and
classification of DIP operations from the computational
viewpoint. The following examples of applying DIP operations in
diagnostic radiology are overviewed: local contrast enhancement
in digital image, spatial filtering, quantitative texture
analysis, synthesis of the 3D pseudospatial image based on the
2D tomogram set, multimodal processing of medical images. New
trends of application of DIP methods in diagnostic radiology are
outlined: evaluation of the diagnostic efficiency of DIP
operations by means of ROC analysis, construction of
knowledge-based systems of DIP in medicine. (Fig. 12, Ref. 26.)
Key words: radiology; diagnostic imaging; digital image
processing; medical image analysis.

Ustav merania SAV v Bratislave a Vyskumny ustav lekarskej bioniky
v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: RNDr. Ing. Ivan Bajla, CSc., Ustav
merania SAV, Dubravska cesta 9, 842 19 Bratislava, Slovakia.



BACTERIAL FLORA OF APPENDICES FROM RABBITS WITH ARTIFICIALLY
INDUCED APPENDICITIS
HUDAC, A., PALICOVA, F., GERYK, B.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
The authors present the results of bacteriological analysis of
scrapings from the appendical mucosa of 24 rabbits with
appendicitis induced by obstruction of the appendix lumen and of
5 rabbits with healthy appendices (controls). In dependence on
the duration of inflammation, the recovery of aerobic bacteria
was decreasing and that of anaerobic nonsporulating bacteria was
increasing. In the group of anaerobic bacteria, gram-negative
rods were predominant (number of isolated colonies: 2973=79.9 %,
variation range of occurrence: 105--108 per 1 gram of material)
with a remarkable prevalence of the genus Bacteroides and
particularly of the species Bacteroides fragilis. Compared to the
occurrence in appendices with inflammation, the recovery of
bacteria in controls was minimal. The work served as model in
studying pathogenesis of acute appendicitis in human medicine.
(Tab. 3, Ref. 12.)
Key words: acute appendicitis in rabbits; anaerobic bacteria.

Vyskumny ustav preventivneho lekarstva v Bratislave a Katedra
urologie, detskej chirurgie a neurochirurgie LFUK v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: RNDr. Alexander Hudac, CSc., Vyskumny
ustav preventivneho lekarstva, Limbova 14, 833 01 Bratislava,
Slovakia.


OVERVIEW IF THE OCCURRENCE OF TETANIC SYNDROME
KUKUMBERG, P.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
The clinical material of the EMG laboratory was analyzed to
establish the annual incidence rate (approx. 1 per 1000) of
tetanic syndrome as well as the age and sex of the patients
affected. In inpatients of the Hospital's Department of Neurology
the occurrence rate of neurogenic tetanic syndrome over a period
of 5 years was evaluated and compared with that of multiple
sclerosis. The high and ubiquitous occurrence of the syndrome was
confirmed. The paper addresses some terminological and
pathogenetic questions and substantiates the requirement of
giving complex attention to the problem. (Tab. 2, Ref. 9.)
Key words: tetanic (neurogenic) syndrome; electromyographic
evidence; annual incidence rate; multiple sclerosis.

Neurologicka klinika NsP LFUK v Bratislave
Address for correspondence: Doc. MUDr. Peter Kukumberg, CSc.,
Neurologicka klinika NsP LFUK, Limbova 5, 833 05 Bratislava,
Slovakia.


EFFECT OF AGE AND THYROXINE ON LIPOGENESIS DURING ONTOGENESIS.
ACTIVITY OF MALIC ENZYME
SAMEL, M., PULLMANN, R.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
In young rats of different ages of postnatal development the
effect of short-term administration of thyroxine (T4) on the
activity of malic enzyme (ME) was studied in brown adipose tissue
(BAT),liver,heart and kidney. Thyroxine was injected in a dose
sufficient to saturate all receptor sites, i.e. 1 microgram per
1 gram of B.W. during 3 consecutive days. The highest activities
of ME were found in BAT. An increase in enzyme activities with
age was observed in all tissues studied in control animals.
Injections of T4 increased the activity od ME in the liver; in
BAT a significant increase was found only the younger age group
(6 days). In older animals (40 days) with high values in BAT of
controls no further increase induced by T4 was observed. In the
kidney as well as in the heart no significant changes were found
after T4 administration. It is concluded that in developing
animals BAT may play a more important role in lipid synthesis
than considered so far.
(Fig. 1, Ref. 7.)
Key words: malic enzyme; ontogenesis; brown adipose tissue;
thyroid hormone; rat.

Ustav lekarskej biologie JLFUK v Martine a Oddelenie klinickej
biochemie Fakultnej nemocnice JLFUK v Martine
Address for correspondence: Prof. MUDr. Milan Samel, DrSc., LFUK,
Muzealna 6, 037 54 Martin, Slovakia.


DIURETIC SCINTIGRAPHY WITH 131I-HIPPURATE AND 99mTc-MAG3 IN
CHILDREN WITH DILATATION OF THE UPPER URINARY TRACT
SVITAC, J., KLIMENT, J., LEPEJ, J., FETISOV, I.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
The method of diuretic scintigraphy was used to examine 27
children, aged 2--15 years, with excretion urography findings of
dilatation of the upper urinary tract. Vesicorenal reflux was
excluded in all the children of the series by classical
radiologic cystography. The radionuclide 131I-hippurate was used
in 15 children and 99mTc-MAG3 in 12 children. In both groups the
parameter T 1/2 was determined as the time of 50 % decrease of
activity above the kidney after administration of the diuretic.
With both radionuclides the same borderline time of T 1/2 was
established. In cases with T 1/2<<10 minutes and preserved kidney
function, dilatation of obstructive origin can be excluded with
both substances. 99mTc-MAG3, however, has a markedly better
imaging capacity and a significantly lower radiation load than
131I-hippurate. (Tab. 4, Fig. 3, Ref. 12.)
Key words: upper urinary tract; dilatation; diuretic
scintigraphy; T 1/2 interval.

Urologicka klinika LFUK a FNsP v Martine a Klinika nuklearnej
mediciny LFUK a FNsP v Martine
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Juraj Svitac, Urologicka
klinika LFUK a FNsP, Kollarova 2, 036 59 Martin, Slovakia.


PAPILLOMATOSIS OF THE VULVA -- MORPHOLOGICAL STUDY OF SUBCLINICAL
FINDINGS
HARING, M., HARING, J., KURATKO, J.
Bratisl. lek. Listy, 94, 1993, 5,
Subclinical papillomatous findings on the vulva, demonstrable
only by broadened colposcopy, are described. Of the 24 patients
studied, these findings were accompanied with iodine negative
dysplasia of the portio in 12 patients (70.8 %), immature
squamous cell metaplasia in the endocervix in 17 patients (70.8
%), Ca in situ in 3 (12.5 %) and papillomas of the skin in 19
patients (79.1 %). Patients with the described findings on the
vulva and with papillomas of the skin represent an at risk group
of women with a considerably high rate of dysplasias of the
portio. (Fig. 5, Ref. 9.)
Key words: vulva; papillomatosis; colposcopy.

Poliklinicke oddelenie klinickej onkologie OUNZ vo Zvolene,
Gynekologicko-porodnicke oddelenie OUNZ vo Zvolene a Patologicke
oddelenie OUNZ vo Zvolene
Address for correspondence: MUDr. Miroslav Haring, Poliklinicke
oddelenie klinickej onkologie OUNZ, 960 89 Zvolen, Slovakia.