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In this work there was evaluated the method of detection of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by using two molecular and three phenotypic tests in investigation procedure of 70 strains of S.aureus isolated from animals. Recent findings of the new mecA homologue, mecALGA251, minimise the significance of mecA gene presence detection as a confirmation method of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus identification. For this reason, along with multiplex PCR set of primers(165rDNK, nuc, mecA) for detection mecA gene, there was also used multiplex PCR set of primers (spa, mecA, pvl, mecALGA251) for differentiation mecALGA251 from mecA, with simultaneous detection of luk-PV and spa gene fragments. In all 70 investigated isolates there was detected the presence of specific 16 SrDNK fragment and nuc gene which encodes a thermostable S. aureus nuclease, while in 5 out of 70 S. aureus isolates, there was proven mecA gene presence using two multiplex PCR tests. In the investigated strains there was determined neither mecC (mecALGA251)gene presence, nor Panton Valentine Leukocidin encoding gene. By application cefoxitin disk-diffusion, latex-agglutination and two multiplex PCR tests, the identical results in identification 5 methicillin resistant out of 70 investigated S. aureus strains were obtained. In our investigation there was determined a complete correlation between the results of phenotypic and genotypic identification of methicillin resistant S. aureus. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR 31079]

Porcine pleuropneumonia caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (A.pleuropneumoniae) is one of the most important respiratory diseases of pigs and causes worldwide severe losses in pig farming. For A.pleuropneumoniae control and monitoring, the detection of ApxIV antibodies in the serum is the most frequently used serological method. The aim of this study was to investigate presence of antibodies against A. pleuropneumoniae in blood sera of gilts and sows using the ELISA test. Samples were taken from gilts and sows originating from four commercial swine farms in Serbia. For detection of ApxIV antibodies, commercial ELISA kit was used. A total of 453 blood sera samples of gilts (207) and sows (246) were examined. Antibodies against A. pleuropneumoniae were detected in 57 (12.58%) sera. Antibodies were present in 22 (10.62 %) sera of gilts and in 35(14.22%) sera of sows. Percentage of positive sera differed among the farms, ranging in gilts from 3.33-17.77 % and in sows from 8.95-22.64%. Serological methods is one of the most important procedures in the diagnosis of porcine pleuropneumonia particularly suitable for the control of animal health status in a large breeding.

Thelohanellosis is a disease that occurs in all carp categories. The cause is protozoa Thelohanellus nikolskii Achmerov, 1955. It manifests itself in two forms. The first form occurs on the fins in oneyear- old carp fry and the second one occurs on scales in two-yearold, three-year-old and older categories of common carp (Cyprinus carpio). The researches conducted between 2008 and 2012 covered 22 fish ponds, 18 of which are located in Serbia, and 4 in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republic of Srpska. It has been concluded that both forms of the disease were present in all observed fish ponds. Prevalence of telohanellosis located on the fins ranged between 3% and 30%, and the infection intensity was between 2 and 86 cysts per individual, while in the case of thelohanellosis on scales the values were higher. Changes on the scales were present during April and May, and on the fins during July and August. After determination of morphological characteristics of spores and histopathological characteristics of plasmodia located on the fins and scales, no significant differences were noticed between them. Also, artificial infestation of carp fingerlings for species differentiation was done. Since there are no adequate therapeutic measures, control of thelohanellosis is still based on compliance with basic sanitaryprophylactic measures such as drying of equipment, freezing, mechanical cleaning and disinfection with lime.

Classical swine fever (CSF) is a highly contagious disease of pigs leading to significant economic losses worldwide. Classical swine fever virus can be classified into three genogroups, each consisting of three or four subgroups. However, there is a lack of knowledge on the genotypes of CSFV isolates in Republic of Serbia. This study, based on the sequences analysis of partial E2 gene and 5' non coding region (NCR) of 15 CSFV isolated during 2006-2008 from domestic pigs, revealed that all were clustered into genetic group 2.3. Additionally, we showed that the two most often used real time RT-PCR assays were able to detect all local CSF viruses circulated in Serbia in the last years during intensive vaccination campaign against CSF. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR 31075 and TR 31088]

In our country, there is present extensive, semi-intensive and intensive growing of cyprinid fish species. The quality of food is an essential prerequisite for obtaining optimal production results in fish production. Fish food is being produced as a complete pellet meal, and raw materials used are of plant, animal, mineral and vitamin origin. Out of plant feed, the most commonly used ones are corn, wheat, barley, oats, soy and others. By applying additional carbohydrate food, energetic needs of an organism are being met. In this paper, we presented the results of hygienic safety of carbohydrate feed (corn, wheat, barley) investigated in the laboratory of Veterinary Research Institute of Serbia in Belgrade within regular control, or with the aim of establishing the causes of disturbance of health status and decreased production results in the pond. During 2004 we performed microbiology and mycotoxicology investigations of the total of 43 samples, namely: 31 corn samples, 8 barley samples and 4 wheat samples. The obtained results point at a high level of mould contamination (Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, and Rhizopus) and the presence of their secondary mycotoxin metabolites (aflatoxin, ochratoxin, trichothecenes and zearalenone) in feed.

A total of 74 Escherichia coli strains isolated from piglets were examined for sensitivity to 10 antimicrobials, using the disc diffusion method. The samples for the investigations were rectal swabs from piglets with clinical signs of diarrhea or parts small intestine with pathoanatomical changes from piglets that died. All the samples originated from suckling piglets aged 1-30 days. E. coli isolates showed highest of resistance to tetracycline (91%) and ampicillin (81%). Resistance to streptomycin, neomycin, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and gentamicin was established in 69%, 64%, 61% and 54% strains of E. coli. The lowest percentage of resistance to ceftiofur was established in 5% strains. The results of this study indicate a high resistance of isolated strains of E. coli to the antimicrobials that are often used in veterinary practice. These results have important implications with regards to the spread and persistence of resistance in bacterial populations and to the prudent use of antimicrobial agents [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cohabitation studies with common carp were conducted to determine whether the Cyprinid Herpes Virus 3 can infect and establish a productive infection in fish species that according to available data, are not susceptible to this virus. In order to examine if other fish species can contribute to further spreading of the virus, goldfish, silver carp, grass carp, prussian carp and tench were exposed to CyHV-3 through cohabitation with infected carp without clinical symptoms. After this period they cohabitated with naive carp for two weeks and were examined for CyHV-3 by PCR. Our results showed that CyHV-3 was present in the organs of these fish species and also in organs of naive carp after two weeks in cohabitation, suggesting that CyHV-3 may cause latent infection, and also that has a potential to infect a broader host range than it was believed before. Our study adds on better understanding of CyHV-3 transmission not just in its primary host, but also suggests the importance of common fish species in polyculture with carp in the epidemiology of CyHV-3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine herpesvirus type 4 (BHV-4) is a worldwide distributed gammaherpesvirus, with different antigenic and biologic properties from all the other bovine herpesviruses. In vivo distribution of BHV-4 was examined by testing various organs of experimentally infected calves. However, limited data regarding excretion and transmission of BHV-4 from naturally infected cattle are available. In this report, we describe the detection of BHV-4 in the semen of bulls used for artificial insemination. Blood and semen of bulls from two major centers for artificial insemination (A.I. center) were examined in this study. In order to detect the presence of BHV-4 infection in the studied herds, 35 serum samples from Center I and 15 from Center II were examined using indirect ELISA for detection of specific anti-BHV4 IgGl immunoglobulins. Serological examination showed that 18 out of 50 serum samples were positive for BHV-4 antibodies. Despite the fact that BHV-4 was not isolated from semen samples the, presence of BHV-4 was detected in one sample using the nested PCR. This fact can be used to presuppose that artificial insemination is a potential route for BHV-4 transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thelohanellosis is a disease that occurs in all carp categories. The cause is protozoa Thelohanellus nikolskii Achmerov, 1955. It manifests itself in two forms. The first form occurs on the fins in one-year-old carp fry and the second one occurs on scales in two-year-old, three-year-old and older categories of common carp (Cyprinus carpio). The researches conducted between 2008 and 2012 covered 22 fish ponds, 18 of which are located in Serbia, and 4 in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republic of Srpska. It has been concluded that both forms of the disease were present in all observed fish ponds. Prevalence of telohanellosis located on the fins ranged between 3% and 30%, and the infection intensity was between 2 and 86 cysts per individual, while in the case of thelohanellosis on scales the values were higher. Changes on the scales were present during April and May, and on the fins during July and August. After determination of morphological characteristics of spores and histopathological characteristics of plasmodia located on the fins and scales, no significant differences were noticed between them. Also, artificial infestation of carp fingerlings for species differentiation was done. Since there are no adequate therapeutic measures, control of thelohanellosis is still based on compliance with basic sanitary-prophylactic measures such as drying of equipment, freezing, mechanical cleaning and disinfection with lime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterised by increased systemic inflammation, and is often accompanied with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate gene expression of resistin, its receptor CAP1 and CD36 as the indicators of the inflammatory changes in PBMCs in relation to the severity of OSA, and the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in OSA., Methods: Severity of OSA was defined by the apnea/hypopnea index (AHI): AHI < 30: mild to moderate OSA (MM-OSA), AHI ≥ 30: severe OSA (S-OSA). Presence of T2DM was captured: OSA with T2DM (OSA + T2DM), OSA without T2DM (OSA-T2DM). PBMC resistin, CAP1, and CD36 mRNA were determined by real-time PCR., Results: Resistin mRNA was significantly upregulated in S-OSA (N = 54) compared to the MM-OSA (N = 52, P = 0.043); CAP1 and CD36 mRNA levels did not differ between the groups (P = 0.302; P = 0.166, respectively). Resistin mRNA was significantly upregulated in OSA + T2DM (N = 29) compared to the OSA-T2DM (N = 77, P = 0.029); CAP1 and CD36 mRNA levels did not differ between the groups (P = 0.662; P = 0.108, respectively). AHI and T2DM were independent predictors of resistin mRNA above the 75th percentile (OR = 3.717 [1.152-11.991]; OR = 3.261 [1.000-10.630], P = 0.042 respectively)., Conclusion: Resistin gene upregulation in S-OSA indicates its possible contribution to increased inflammation in S-OSA and makes it a possible marker of the disease severity. Resistin gene upregulation in OSA + T2DM suggests that a joint effect of these two comorbidities may have a major contribution to increased inflammation and complications that arise from this state., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Swine influenza presents a very important health and economic issue in pig productions worldwide. Viruses that cause the disease are genetically very diverse but usually belong to the H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2 subtype of influenza A viruses. In this study, we sequenced and analyzed the full genome of viruses detected in swine from seven commercial farms. Through the analysis of the complete sequences of internal gene cassette together with previously characterized HA and NA genes we found three different genotypes amongst five completely sequenced viruses. Two viruses possessed a completely H1avN1 genotype (40%) and belonged to the H1avN1 lineage, which is prevalent in European swine populations. The other three viruses have arisen through the reassortment of the genes of H1avN1 and H1N1pdm09 lineages. In one sample we detected coinfection with viruses of H3N2 subtype with genes of H1avN1, H1N1pdm09 and A/swine/Gent/1/1984-like H3N2 lineages that presents a potential environment for the generation of a triple reassortant virus. The presence of the H1N1pdm09 origin M gene in this sample implies the potential risk of the introduction of these viruses into the human population. Phylogenetic analysis of internal gene cassette revealed slower evolution within genes of H1N1pdm09 lineage than those of H1avN1 lineage.

Introduction: Swine influenza A viruses (swIAVs) are characterised by high mutation rates and zoonotic and pandemic potential. In order to draw conclusions about virulence in swine and pathogenicity to humans, we examined the existence of molecular markers and accessory proteins, cross-reactivity with vaccine strains, and resistance to antiviral drugs in five strains of H1N1 swIAVs., Material and Methods: Amino acid (AA) sequences of five previously genetically characterised swIAVs were analysed in MEGA 7.0 software and the Influenza Research Database., Results: Amino acid analysis revealed three virus strains with 590S/591R polymorphism and T271A substitution within basic polymerase 2 (PB2) AA chains, which cause enhanced virus replication in mammalian cells. The other two strains possessed D701N and R251K substitutions within PB2 and synthesised PB1-F2 protein, which are the factors of increased polymerase activity and virulence in swine. All strains synthesised PB1-N40, PA-N155, PA-N182, and PA-X proteins responsible for enhanced replication in mammalian cells and downregulation of the immune response of the host. Mutations detected within haemagglutinin antigenic sites imply the antigenic drift of the five analysed viruses in relation to the vaccine strains. All viruses show susceptibility to neuraminidase inhibitors and baloxavir marboxil, which is important in situations of incidental human infections., Conclusion: The detection of virulence markers and accessory proteins in the analysed viruses suggests their higher propensity for replication in mammalian cells, increased virulence, and potential for transmission to humans, and implies compromised efficacy of influenza vaccines., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interests Statement: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interests regarding the publication of this article., (© 2023 J.M. Zorić et al., published by Sciendo.)

Objectives: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common condition closely related to obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to explore the possible relationship between OSA and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9)., Methods: Full-night polysomnography was performed on 150 participants who were divided into three groups: controls, OSA patients on statin therapy, and OSA patients not on statin therapy. Biochemical markers, plasma low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) subclasses, and PCSK9 were determined., Results: PCSK9 was highest in OSA patients on statins compared to the control group and to OSA patients not on statins (p = 0.036 and p = 0.039, respectively), after adjustment for body mass index (BMI). LDL diameter was greater in OSA patients not on statins compared to OSA patients on statins (p = 0.032). PCSK9 was highest in the group of patients with all three risk factors (diagnosed OSA, statins, BMI ≥25 kg/m2) compared to groups with no, one, and two risk factors (p = 0.031, p = 0.001, and p = 0.029, respectively). Presence of OSA, statin therapy, and BMI ≥25 kg/m2 when combined were independently associated with higher levels of PCSK9 when adjusted for antihypertensive therapy, small dense LDL, and HDL 3c subclass (odds ratio = 2.849; interquartile range [1.026-7.912], p = 0.044)., Conclusion: Statin therapy was closely related to PCSK9. OSA along with obesity and statin use induces elevation of PCSK9., (© 2022 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Considering the intensive trading nowadays, the honey from the local market was tested for the presence of the six most common bee viruses. To prove the suitability of honey as a sample for the bee viruses detection, the set of different sample types taken directly from the hives we comparatively tested. The study included 30 samples of domestic and 5 samples of imported honey. Additionally, we tested 40 sets of samples including live bees, dead bees, and the honey taken from four apiaries for the evaluation of honey suitability for the virus detection, Two out of the six most common bee viruses were detected in the samples of honey from the market. Black queen cell virus (BQCV) genome was found in 24 domestic honey samples and Kashmir bee virus (KBV) genome was detected in one sample of imported honey. The nucleotide sequences of 24 BQCV isolates showed the highest identity (86.4%) with strains from Europe at the polyprotein gene, whilst the Serbian isolates between each other showed 98.5% similarity. By comparative testing of the different type of samples, in three out of four apiaries BQCV genome was detected in both bees and honey. Evaluating the suitability of honey for the detection of the viral disease by simultaneous testing of live, dead bees, and honey from the same hive, it was shown that the honey can be successfully used for the detection of BQCV. Since, as of yet, there has been no evidence of KBV circulation in Serbia, after its detection in imported honey, there is a substantial risk of its introduction and consequently the need for its surveillance. Therefore, the programs of bee diseases screening should be included in the regular control procedures for the international trade. In addition to this benefit, honey gives an opportunity to beekeepers for continuous monitoring of bees' health status.

Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) is one of the most economically important diseases of cattle. With its very high prevalence, cattle kept on pastures become a source of the virus for the wildlife which, due to their susceptibility, then easily can serve as a source for re-infections of cattle. Therefore, we investigated the BVDV infection in Serbian wild boar and assessed the role of wild boar in BVDV epidemiology including possible spreading to domestic species. This study was based on examination of 50 spleen samples which were collected from wild boars located in Eastern Serbia during the hunting season 2016/2017. BVDV genome was detected in 4 of 50 samples (8%). Phylogenetic analysis based on 5'UTR revealed that BVDV strains from wild boars shared 100% identity. Belonging to the BVDV 1f subgenotype, the most common in cattle, we showed that BVDV infections of wild boar occurred as a result of either direct or indirect contact with domestic animals. Therefore, the occurrence of infectious disease in wildlife emphasizes the need to study the pathogens shared by wildlife and domestic animals by investigating the incidence of pathogens and disease patterns of those populations., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) changes cortisol dynamics and indicates dissociation between the adrenal cortex and the hypothalamo-pituitary unit. The aim of this study was to assess the cortisol response after stimulation with ACTH 1-24 in patients with SIRS at admission to the Respiratory Intensive Care Unit (RICU) and seven days later., Methods: Fifty-four subjects were included in the study, and SIRS was defined according to the Consensus Conference criteria from 1992. Severity of the disease was determined using the APACHE II score, and organ dysfunction using the SOFA score. Low-dose (1, μg) ACTH test (LDT) was performed in all patients, and cortisol was determined along with basal ACTH. Data were analyzed using parametric and nonparametric tests and regression analysis. The results are presented as mean± standard deviation, and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant., Results: There were no differences in cortisol values between the two LDTs. Cortisol increment lower than 250 nmol/L during the LDT was found in 14/54 (25.9%) subjects at the onset of SIRS. Five out of 54 (9.6%)patients died within 7 days from the onset of SIRS. Female sex and maximal cortisol response (▵ max) on LDT predicted the duration of hospitalization in RICU, while APACHE II and SOFA scores best predicted the duration of hospitalization, mortality outcome as well as overall survival outcome., Conclusions: A difference was found in A max at the diagnosis of SIRS and seven days later. ▵ max, and primarily the clinical scores APACHE II and SOFA predicted the outcomes of hospitalization and overall survival., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest statement The authors stated that there are no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this article.

Aim: The aim of the study was to further clarify the origin of Escherichia coli O104:H4 outbreak in Germany in 2011 (German Ec) as the likelihood of a deliberate act has not been excluded in previous analyses., Methods: We use an original and the most detailed scoring method so far, with 33 parameters pertaining to the source of infection/reservoir or possible perpetrator, pathogen or biological agent, transmission mechanism/factors or means/media of delivery, and population at risk or target., Results: Total scores for a deliberate or accidental epidemic indicate that the outbreak was more probably caused unintentionally, presumably due to technical accidents or hygienic shortcomings in the food chain., Conclusions: The validity of the present assessment is limited by the lack of data on the reservoir of the pathogen, the source of infection, and the mode of food contamination. Conclusive evidences on these parameters are essential for the final clarification of the outbreak origin., (Copyright© by the National Institute of Public Health, Prague 2015.)

Background: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in the aortoiliac segment is found in nearly a half of patients with PAD. The aim of this study was to estimate the influence of obesity and fat distribution on the occurrence of aortoiliac PAD in middle-aged men., Methods: This case-control study included 204 middle-aged men (mean 58±7 years; range 45-70 years): 102 patients with aortoiliac PAD and 102 healthy controls without PAD. Aortoiliac PAD was diagnosed by ankle-brachial index (ABI) and angiography. Body mass index (BMI) was categorized as: normal weight, overweight, and obese. Percents of body fat were grouped according to quartile distribution. The relationship between anthropometrics and aortoiliac PAD was estimated by multivariate logistic regression., Results: Patients with aortoiliac PAD had higher body mass index, waist circumference, waist-hip ratio and percent of body fat. A strong correlation between all anthropometric parameters and ABI index and mean angiographic score was shown among patients with PAD. Multivariate regression, adjusted for blood pressure and cholesterol level, identified being overweight, body fat over 26.5% and WHR over 1.02 as predictors for aortoiliac PAD. Body fat over 26.5% and WHR over 1.02 remained significant after further adjustment for blood pressure, cholesterol and body mass index., Conclusion: This study has identified the quantity of fat tissue (body fat over 26.5%) and its visceral distribution (waist-hip ratio over 1.02) as predictors of aortoiliac PAD in middle-aged men. Body mass index, a crude indicator of obesity, should be combined with these parameters when assessing the risk for aortoiliac PAD., (Copyright © 2010 European Federation of Internal Medicine. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background/aim: In December 2001, an outbreak of trichinellosis spreaded in a military unit. The aim of this paper was to show possibilities and consequences of trichinellosis infestations in military units during peace time, as well as to improve knowledge and awareness of medical corps personnel, commanders and soldiers about this disease., Methods: A descriptive and analytical epidemiological models were used to find out a source of outbreak and to identify the ways of its transmission., Results: This outbreak was caused by the contaminated raw smoked sausage which had not undergone health inspection and brought from civilians to a military unit. Thirty-eight persons were exposed, twenty-one affected and hospitalized. The most frequent symptoms reported were fever (76.2%), myalgia (76.2%), palpebral edema (42.8%), face edema (19.0%) and diarrhea (14.3%). Test for indirect immunofluorescence was positive in 14.3% and ELISA test was positive in 28.6% of the patients. Eosinophilia was present in 85.7% of the affected. IgE values were increased in 28.6% and CPK values were increased in 61.9% of the diseased. All of the 17 exposed undiseased had negative laboratory analyses for trichinellosis., Conclusion: We propose intensifying health education and continuing the implementation of duly supervised and evaluated self-check programs. A well-tuned, fast-reacting epidemiological monitoring system has to be obligatory.

Arsenic from drinking water is a well-known risk factor for bladder cancer. The purpose of this paper is to systematize some important yet often overlooked facts considering the relationship between arsenic exposure and the occurrence of bladder cancer. Since the exposure to inorganic arsenic from food, inhaled air, and skin absorption as well as arsenic methylation ability are not fully investigated, our assumption is that the exposure of arsenic only from drinking water is underestimated and its role as a risk factor is highly overestimated. This paper proposes some qualitative and quantitative parameters of arsenic as a risk factor for bladder cancer. The recommended qualitative parameters of arsenic intake are first, pathways of exposure, and second, toxicity and metabolism. The suggested quantitative parameters of arsenic intake include amounts of arsenic absorbed in the body, duration of arsenic exposure, and duration of arsenic presence in the urinary bladder. This approach can be implemented in a systematic classification and explanation of various risk factors and their mutual interactions for other types of cancer or diseases in general.

Aims and Background: To summarize risk factors for bladder cancer, emphasizing the role of recently established associations and to present some ongoing debates on the issue., Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE database on bladder cancer risk factors between January 1985 and June 2006 and by detailed examination of the references of original articles, reviews and monographs retrieved., Results: Cigarette smoking is recognized as the main cause of bladder cancer and accounts for about 50% of cases in developed countries. A strong link exists between the amount and duration of cigarette smoking. A high risk of bladder carcinoma has been observed in workers exposed to some aromatic amines. Based on these and other occupational risks, it has been estimated that 5-10% of bladder carcinomas in industrialized countries were due to exposures of occupational origin. Infectious agents have a major influence on bladder cancer risks in the areas of the world where Schistosoma haematobium infestation is endemic. Other potential risk factors for bladder cancer are other urinary tract infections and drinking tap water with chlorination by-products or arsenic. Exposure to certain drugs, like cyclophosphamide used in chemotherapy and heavy consumption of phenacetin-containing analgesics, has been shown to cause bladder cancer in humans. Total fluid intake and high consumption of fruits and vegetables are probably associated with a small decrease in risk., Conclusions: Avoidance of tobacco smoking and incriminated occupational exposures, habitual intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, and prevention and control of urinary tract infections should be recommended for bladder cancer prevention. Further studies are required to assess the role of genetic polymorphisms and their modifying effect of lifestyle risk factors for bladder cancer occurrence and to evaluate the benefit of bladder cancer screening, particularly in those at high risk.

The aim of this paper is to show influence of different foods on bladder cancer appearance, as well as possible consequent ways of prevention. Consuption of food rich in animal fat and cholesterol, fried foods, especially several times used cookin oil for frying, processed meat with additives (nitrates, nitrites, azo-colourrs) can influence bladder cancer occurrence. Regularly, continous consumption of fermented milk products, which contains come types of milky--acids bacterias, is considered as protective factor in developing bladder cancer. Reports that fruit and vegetable are protective food items are pretty consistent. Data about mineral intake and bladder cancer are obscure.

Background: Alcohol consumption has both adverse and beneficial effects on health and survival. The aim of this prospective study was to examine the association between alcohol consumption and arterial hypertension as well as general mortality rate., Methods: The study included 286 participants, middle-aged men and women examined in 1974, and again in 1994 during twenty years of follow-up (mean age at the beginning of the study 43.61 +/- 7.09 years). Alcohol consumption was assessed by the specific questionnaire. Consumption levels were grouped into three categories: rare drinkers (consuming less than 6 drinks a week), moderate drinkers, who consume 1-2 alcohol drinks a day and heavy drinkers (consumers of 3 or more drinks a day)., Results: In both phases of the follow-up the lowest values of systolic and diastolic pressure were recorded in the group with moderate alcohol consumption, and the highest values in the group with excessive consumption. The observed differences were statistically significant. The general mortality rates were the highest among participants reporting excessive alcohol consumption (relative risk 3.2; 95% confidence interval 1.84-5.62), and among the abstainers (relative risk 1.8; 95% confidence interval 0.99-3.36), compared to the moderate consumption group., Conclusion: Analysis of the obtained results suggested the protective effect of moderate alcohol consumption on cardiovascular system.

Aims: The aim of this study was to determine non-occupational risk factors for bladder cancer in Serbia., Methods and Design: A hospital-based, case-control study included 130 newly diagnosed bladder cancer patients and the same number of individually matched controls with respect to sex, age (+/- 2 years) and type of residence (rural or urban), from the Clinical Center of Serbia in Belgrade and from the Clinical Center in Kragujevac in central Serbia. The study took place from June 1997 to March 1999., Results: According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, there was an association between: frequency of daily urination (OR = 0.18; 95% CI = 0.08-0.39); consumption of liver (OR = 13.81; 95% CI = 2.49-76.69), canned meat (OR = 8.38; 95% CI = 1.74-40.36), fruit juices (OR = 0.08; 95% CI = 0.01-0.56); the highest tertile of pork (OR = 4.55; 95% CI = 1.30-15.93), cabbage (OR = 0.25; 95% CI = 0.06-1.01) and vinegar (OR = 4.41; 95% CI = 1.18-16.50) intake and risk for bladder cancer., Conclusions: Consumption of liver, canned meat, pork (h vs l tertile) and vinegar (m vs l tertile) was indicated as a risk factor for bladder cancer, whereas frequent daily urination, consumption of fruit juices and cabbage (h vs l tertile) were indicated as protective factors.

To examine the relation of the total intake of fluids and the types of beverages to the risk of bladder cancer, we conducted a hospital based case-control study with 130 newly diagnosed bladder cancer patients and the same number of matched controls. Information of total fluid intake was derived from the reported frequency of consumption of the different types of beverages on the food frequency questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed in statistical analysis. There was no statistically significant difference between the cases and the controls in total daily fluid intake. Multivariate logistic regression model showed consumption of: soda (OR=8.32; 95%CI=3.18-21.76), coffee (OR=1.46; 95%CI=1.05-2.01) and spirits (OR=1.15; 95%CI=1.04-1.28) as statistically significant risk factors, while mineral water (OR=0.52; 95%CI=0.34-0.79), skim milk (OR=0.38; 95%CI=0.16-0.91), yogurt (OR=0.34; 95%CI=0.12-0.97) and frequency of daily urination (OR=0.27; 95%CI=0.18-0.41) were statistically significant protective variables. In our study no statistically significant association was observed for total fluid intake. The findings suggest consumption of soda, coffee and spirits were indicated as a risk factors for bladder cancer, while mineral water, skim milk, yogurt and frequency of urination as protective factors for bladder cancer.

A case-control study of 100 newly diagnosed patients with Graves' disease and the same numbers of controls matched with respect to sex, age (+/- 2 years) and type of residence (rural-urban) was carried out. According to the matched analysis (McNemar's test and 6 test) seventeen variables recognized as risk factors were included into the model of multivariate conditional logistic regression. The following factors were significantly associated with the occurrence of Graves' disease: change in time spent on work-much overtime work, second job, much less work than usual (RR = 6.62; CI = 2.08-21.01), lack of readiness of relatives and friends to help the subjected (RR = 1.48; 95% CI = 1.14-1.93), increased arguments with spouse (RR = 14.12; 95% CI = 1.63-121.87), unemployment for at least one month (RR = 9.80; 95% CI = 1.13-85.02), and family history of Graves disease in the first degree of relation (RR = 7.20; 95% CI = 0.85-60.70).

The paper deals with the current data on aetiological factors of allergic bronchial asthma. The cause of allergic bronchial asthma is unknown. In general, endogenous and environmental factors are though to play a certain role in its development. Early contact with allergic agents, air pollution, tobacco smoking and infective agents (viruses), are considered to be environmental factors. Endogenous factors are heredity of allergic diseases and special susceptibility for bronchial asthma.

A case-control study was conducted in order to assess possible relationships between life events and Graves' disease. The study included 100 newly diagnosed patients with Graves' disease and 100 controls matched with respect to sex, age ( +/- 2 years) and type of residence (rural, urban). Paykel's Interview for Recent Life Events (a semistructured research interview covering 61 life events) was administered to each subject. In comparison with controls, the patients claimed to have had significantly more life events in the 12 months preceding the diagnosis (p = 0.0001). The following eight life events were significantly more prevalent among patients than controls: change in time spent on work (much overtime work, second job, much less work than usual) (McNemar = 12.04; RR = 7.00; 95%CI = 2.35-20.80; p = 0.0001), unemployment for at least 1 month (McNemar = 4.00; RR = 8.00; 95%CI = 1.04-61.39; p = 0.039), arguments with one's superior at work or a co-worker (McNemar = 4.50; RR = 3.50; 95%CI = 1.10-11.08; p = 0.031). change in the work conditions (new company division, new chief, large reorganization) (McNemar = 4.26; RR = 4.00; 95%CI = 1.07-14.92; p = 0.035), increased arguments with spouse (McNemar = 6.75; RR = 11.00; 95%CI = 1.82-66.44; p = 0.006), increased arguments with fiancé/fiancée or a steady date (McNemar = 4.00; RR = 8.00; 95%CI = 1.04-61.39; p = 0.039), hospitalization of a family member for serious illness (McNemar = 3.76; RR = 3.25; 95%CI = 1.01-10.68; p = 0.049) and moderate financial difficulties (McNemar = 8.50; RR = 3.25; 95%CI = 1.47-7.16; p = 0.003). Our findings indicate that life events may be a risk factor for Graves' disease.

An anamnestic study encompassed 100 new patients with Graves-Basedow's disease and 100 controls matched according to sex, and age (+/-2 years) and place of living (rural/urban). The patients were treated in an out-patient clinic of the Clinical Center of the Medical Faculty, Clinical hospital center "Zvezdara" in Belgrade and in Special institution "Zlatibor" on Zlatibor in the period from May 1st, 1993 to November 1st, 1993. The aim of this study was to estimate the influence of family relationship and social support on the development of Graves-Basedow's disease. The diseased more often lived in an environment of family disharmony (McNemar's test = 3.76; relative risk (RR) = 3.25; 95% confidence limits CL = 1.01-10.68; probability (p) = 0.049) while the controls more often described themselves as nostalgic persons (McNemar's test = 4.96; RR = 0.38; CL (95%) = 0.16-0.89; p = 0.026). The possibility to discuss their personal problems with their relatives and friends (t = 2.29; DF = 99; p = 0.024), the relatives' and friends' interest for their problems and their readiness to help (t = 2.29; DF = 99; p = 0.004) and possibility of the patients to ask for help in case of financial problems (t = 2.78; DF = 99; p = 0.007) were more often present in persons from the control group.

The frequency and distribution of mortality of men in Serbia caused by the most frequent malignant tumors in the period from 1982. to 1991., were shown. Data were taken from the Republic Statistic Center. For the evaluation of the situation the descriptive epidemiological method was used. In that period men mostly died from lung, stomach, prostate, liver, rectum, pancreas, larynx, colon, brain and urinary bladder cancer. In the same period the mortality increase was observed in lung cancer, rectum, pancreas, colon, urinary bladder, brain, larynx and liver. For the cancer of prostate and stomach the decrease of mortality was noticed.

The incidence and mortality rate due to the most common malignant tumors in women in Serbia 1982-1991 were presented. Records from the Republic Institute of Statistics were used as the source of data. Descriptive method was used in epidemiological analysis. Within the period 1982-1991, women in Serbia had died most frequently due to malignant tumors of breast, lung, cervix, rectum, liver, colon, ovary, pancreas and uterine body. Tendency towards increased mortality rate due to the cancer of the breast, cervix, ovary, pancreas, rectum and colon has been registered in this period. Reduced mortality rate was observed in the cancers of uterine body, liver and stomach.