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AIM: Bendable and angulated single-piece implants are used alternatively to screwable abutments in two-piece dental implant designs. Though used frequently, data on the stress distribution within such implants are not available and the question whether the bending contributes to fracture resistance has not been addressed. METHODS: We used the method of finite element to identify von Mises stresses and maximum stresses in bent and non-bent but angulated implants. Implants with one (e.g. applicable to screw designs) or two (applicable to basal implants) bending areas were the variables under investigation. RESULTS: For bends up to 13 degrees we discovered that if there is only one bend, the maximum stress is in the bent area. If two bends are made in two different bending areas, the maximum stresses are distributed between the two and, if either one of the bent areas is machined, there are no residual stresses within the implant body in this area. The maximum stresses are always located near the base-plates. The absolute value of the maximum stress is higher because no residual stresses are available to compensate stresses that stem from loading. CONCLUSION: Assuming that all other parameters are equal, bendable (basal) implants show a more even stress distribution along the vertical implant region than identically shaped implants with a machine-angulated area. Bendable basal implants therefore probably resist masticatory forces better than pre-angulated, machined implants, and unbent implants which provide a thin region in the vertical implant area.

Background: The extent of scar or viable hypocontractile myocardial tissue determines postinfarction left ventricle remodeling. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the revascularization effect in a group of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and LV systolic dysfunction indicated for surgical revascularization, based on evidence for multivessel disease on coronarography and viable myocardium (CMR, SPECT). Aims: To evaluate the revascularization effect in patients with ischemic LV systolic dysfunction and to find preoperative predictors of revascularization effect. Methods: 33 patients (64±11 years) with baseline LVEF 34.9±9.3 % were included in the study. After a follow-up of 10.7±1.2 months, ECHO and SPECT were performed again. The whole group of patients was divided according to revascularization effect (postoperative increase LVEF > 5 % and postoperative decrease LVESV > 5 % compared with baseline) into revascularization responders (R, n = 22) and nonresponders (NR, n = 11). Results: At baseline there was no difference between the subgroups in LVEF (R = 35.7±11.0 % vs. NR = 34.3±8.2 %), EDV (R = 183.6±43.2 vs. NR = 180.2±80.5 ml), ESV (R = 118.5±40.4 vs. NR = 119.7±55.2 ml). The responders showed in a revascularization effect subanalysis differences in the values of LVEF (+9.8±8.1 %, p < 0.009), reduction of EDV (-39.9±50.9 ml, p = 0.05) and ESV (-35.4±42.6 ml, p = 0,002) compared with baseline. The only preoperative parameters predicting LV reverse remodeling were the T_E-Em (R = -10.6±44.1 vs. NR = 29.7±43.7 ms, p = 0.037) and the size of fixed perfusion defect (FPD) (R = 11.9±13.5 vs. NR = 22.9±15.3 % of LV, p = 0.044). Conclusions: Patients with ischemic LV systolic dysfunction with a preoperatively determined myocardial viability develop LV reverse remodeling. The only preoperative parameters predicting LV reverse remodeling were echocardiographic T_E-Em and FPD on SPECT.

Aim: Surgical-site infections are very serious complications of cardiac operations. Use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is associated with profound physiological changes, which affects the pharmacokinetic behaviour of prophylactic antibiotics. The aim of this study was to monitor tissue concentrations of cefuroxime in peripheral tissue (skeletal muscle) during cardiac surgery using CPB by means of a microdialysis. Methods: Eleven adult patients operated on using CPB were included in the study. Cefuroxime was the prophylactic antibiotic and study drug given. Microdialysis was performed by probe CMA 60 inserted into the patient's left deltoid muscle. Samples of dialysates were collected at intervals: before CPB, each 30 minutes of CPB and at the end of CPB. Samples of blood were collected at intervals: incision, start of CPB, each 30 minutes of CPB, at the end of CPB and at the end of surgery. Results: The mean (± S.D.) concentrations of cefuroxime in peripheral tissue were 105.4±41.1, 81.7±32.8, 74.6±26.0, 70.4±34.7, 60.5±27.2, 138.0±42.6 (mg l^-1). Total plasma concentrations of cefuroxime were 154.4±41.6, 73.3±20.7, 67.1±20.4, 59.2±21.0, 49.0±16.4, 110.9±33.6 (mg l^-1) and concentrations of free plasma fraction were 110.7±37.1, 62.2±18.8, 58.9±18.6, 48.4±16.6, 41.7±15.6, 97.6±28.6 (mg l^-1). The plasma and tissue concentrations exceed throughout the operation time the minimum inhibitory concentration for most common suspected pathogens in cardiac surgery. Conclusions: Results show that CPB can modify the time course of cefuroxime tissue and plasma concentrations. Microdialysis is suitable for antibiotic tissue measurement in cardiac surgery.

At present surgery in comparison with other medical fields does not fulfil our ambitions and we are not happy with this state. Surgery is not developing as fast as oncology, haematology, immunology and other branches, which are based on rapidly developing molecular biology. Surgeons are aware of this situation and they do not want to lose. We want to play a part in this new development without losing our position and distinctive surgical goals. To seek these new ways is a goal of the Petřivalský – Rapant Day and we are proud that in our country we are one of the first who want to make this historical change. Therefore in this conference we include topics that should increase our knowledge of malignancies and influence their therapy according to the newest molecular-biological findings.

Plastination is in some cases unsuccessful. The goal of this work was to monitor, to describe and to analyse the reasons of S10 plastination method failure. We prepared the silicone-impregnated specimens using the standard silicone method S 10. The causes of bad preparation are numerous. Usual defects produced during plastination process are the changes in the bulk, the changes in the colour and other visible defects (e.g. deformations, spots on the organs surface). The frequent reasons for these defects are: unsuitable temperature, using of old bad fixed formaldehyde specimens and too long gas - curing procedure. The knowledge of reasons of unsuccessful plastination is important condition for achievement the good results.

Background: Papillary pineocytoma is an extremely rare tumor usually with a poor outcome. Case report: We report a case of a 10-year-old-girl with pineal gland tumor and obstructuve hydrocephalus diangnosed using MRI. The child was successful treated by insertion of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt and consecutive tumor resection by supracerebellar-infratentorial approach. Histopathological examination showed a papillary structure of the pineocytoma. As such, tumors are considered to be aggressive the child was subjected to radio- and chemotherapy. Conclusion: At six year follow-up after surgery, the patient is symptom-free and the MRI shows no tumor recurrence.

Historically, establishment of a medical facility in Ostrava dates from 14th August 1912 when the municipalities of Vítkovice and Zábřeh nad Odrou opened a jointly built but not very large Epidemiological Hospital.The hospital then underwent developments which were infl uenced by two world wars and the social and political events of the past century. A new step in its mission was achieved with a decision of the Ministry of Health to grant it the status of a University Hospital on 8th April 1992.

Currently, invasive candidal infections represent an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality in seriously ill hospitalised patients. Because the accurate diagnosis of candidiasis remains difficult, a fast and reliable assay for characterization of fungal pathogens is critical for the early initiation of adequate antifungal therapy and/or for introduction of preventive measures. As novel molecular genetic techniques are continuously introduced, their role in the management of infectious diseases has also been growing. Today, molecular strategies complement conventional methods and provide more accurate and detailed insight. It can be expected that future technical development will improve their potential furthermore. In this article, we provide a critical review on the value and limitations of molecular tools in pathogenic Candida species identification and strain typing regarding their sensitivity, discriminatory power, reproducibility, cost and ease of performance.

Background: Numerous types of glucans have been isolated from almost every species of yeast, grain, and fungi. These products have been extensively studied for their immunological and pharmacological effects. Aim: In this paper we evaluated the possibility whether individual glucans will be similarly active against each of the tested biological properties or if each glucan will affect different reactions. Methods: Immunological effects of glucans were measured by evaluation of phagocytosis of HEMA particles by peripheral blood leukocytes and production of IL-2 by mouse splenocytes. Next we measured the effects of long-term treatment with glucan on levels of blood glucose and blood cholesterol. Four different glucans differing in origin (yeast, grain and mushroom) were used. Results: Our results showed that the same glucan, yeast-derived insoluble #300 glucan, stimulated phagocytosis of peripheral blood leukocytes, production of IL-2 by mouse splenocytes, lowered the cholesterol levels in mice with experimentally-induced cholesterolemia and lowered the level of blood sugar after induced hyperglycaemie. The remainder of tested glucans were only marginally active. Conclusion: Taken together, our study showed that with respect to natural glucans, there is a yes-or-no effect suggesting that highly purified and highly active glucans will have pleiotropic impact, whereas poorly isolated and/or less active glucans will have only mediocre biological properties.

Background: Different methods of temporomandibular joint imaging are presented and discussed. Research reports published from 1979 to 2002 have been evaluated. Method and Results: The aim of this paper is to summarize the main findings from research. Basic X-ray examination is the most readily available method of imaging which usually does not have any contraindication. The use of computer tomography offers all advantages of tomographic scanning in different layers and projections, imaging soft tissues close to the joint and the possibility of "3D" reconstruction of bone structures. In case of joint dysfunctions and internal joint derangement, it is more preferable to use nuclear magnetic resonance for the depiction of the joint structures. To make a diagnosis more efficient, miniinvasive diagnostic methods are becoming necessary. Arthroscopy allows direct visual control of the joint space with the possibility of therapeutic help in cases when conservative treatment has failed. Ultrasonography, as a completely non-invasive procedure, is applied even in diagnosing functional temporomandibular defects. In these cases the diagnostic value of ultrasonography is almost comparable with this of nuclear magnetic resonance. Conclusions: So it is possible that, together with the improvement of the equipment, development of the diagnostic methods used during the treatment of temporomandibular joint defects could continue in this direction.

Aims: The purpose of the study was to demonstrate autonomic nervous system (ANS) changes associated with treatment in hypertensive patients and utilization of these measurements in practice. Methods: Hypertensive patients were examined before the start of treatment and after blood pressure compensation. The telemetric system VarCor PF 5 was used for non-invasive heart rate registration and automatic evaluation of heart rate variability (HRV) parameters. The supine-standing-supine test with ortho-clinostatic loading in standard conditions was used for HRV evaluation. Results: The influence of antihypertensive therapy on ANS was demonstrated in two cases. The first was a case of a responder to therapy and the second case was example of a non-responder to monotherapy regarding more therapeutic steps for blood pressure control. Different modes of results presentation are demonstrated: 3D graph, numeric form of standard parameters of HRV, computer interpretation of results by means of complex parameters and indices in numeric, graphic and verbal form with functional age calculation, cross graph of vagal activity index versus sympatho-vagal balance index was used for repeated measurements and follow-up. The increased spectral performance with augmented vagal activity and slope down of sympatho-vagal ratio are evident after blood pressure control achievement. Improvement of functional age parameter associated with blood pressure compensation is visible using a complex age-dependent parameters interpretation. Conclusions: HRV evaluation in hypertensive patients provides new parameters for patient's examination. These parameters are influenced by both the illness itself and by pharmacotherapy. Such an approach offers more complex information about patient.

Background: Treatment of leg length inequality via lengthening of the shorter extremity is an infrequent orthopedic procedure due to the requirement of special distraction devices and possible serious complications. Essential qualitative changes in operative technique development are associated with the name of G. A. Ilizarov, who paved the way for the autoregenerate gradual distraction method in the 1950s. Material and Methods: In the years 1990 through 2006 a total of 57 patients underwent femur lengthening via gradual distraction using various types of external fixators at the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Orthopedics, and Traumatology, Faculty Hospital in Brno. The quality of bone healing was monitored and a number of parameters followed and statistically evaluated using regularly scheduled X-ray examinations. Results: In 11 cases we had to remove the external fixator following the distraction phase, perform an osteosynthesis via a splint and fill the distraction gap via spongioplasty. The bone healing was satisfactory in the remaining 46 patients and the lengthened bone required no other fixation method. The analysis showed statistically significant deceleration in bone healing following distraction in female patients over 12 years of age, and in boys over 14 years of age. Lack of periosteal callus five weeks after surgery always signified serious problems in further healing. Severe complications were recorded in 11 cases during the distraction phase, and in 9 cases after the removal of the distraction apparatus. Conclusions: The aim of this report was to present the results of our study of distraction gap bone healing using the gradual lengthening approach.

Background: Recent data showing that glucan elicited defense responses in grapevine and induced protection via induction of resveratrol production led us to evaluate the possible synergetic effects of glucan and resveratrol complex on immune reactions. Methods: We measured phagocytosis using HEMA particles, expression of cell surface markers via fl ow cytometry, expression of cytokines using ELISA, recovery after fl uouracil-induced leucopenia and effects on gene expression via RT-PCR. Results: Our results showed that both glucan and resveratrol complex stimulated phagocytosis of blood leukocytes, caused increase in surface expression of CD⁺ splenocytes and showed higher restoration of spleen recovery after experimentally induced leucopenia. In all these cases, strong synergetic effects were observed. When we measured the effects of these substances on expression level of NF-κB2, Cdc42 and Bcl-2 in breast cancer cells, upregulation of Cdc42 expression was evident only using both immunomodulators in combination. Conlusions: In conclusion, our data suggest significant synergy in stimulation of immune reactions and support further studies of these natural immunomodulators.

Background: Monoclonal antibodies have dramatically changed the treatment possibilities for follicular lymphoma. ⁹⁰Y-ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin®) is the first radioimmunotherapy agent approved for the treatment of relapsed and resistant follicular lymphoma patients. Long-term benefit was observed especially for patients achieving CR after radioimmunotherapy. Methods and Results: A 65-year-old female patient with the second relapse of CD20 positive follicular lymphoma and multiple concomitant diseases was treated with four weekly doses of rituximab (375 mg/m²). ¹⁸F-fl uoro-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (PET-CT) demonstrated only partial response to therapy with persistent PET scan positivity in enlarged abdominal lymph nodes. Therefore, it was decided to treat her with a 1200-MBq (32-mCi) dose of ⁹⁰Y-ibritumomab tiuxetan radioimmunotherapy. No acute complications were noted afterwards. Hematological nadirs were reached 4 weeks later, with a platelet count of 24x10⁹/l that normalized within the next 2 weeks. The patient had neither infection nor bleeding complications. Eight weeks after radioimmunotherapy, the PET-CT scans documented only 3 lymph nodes around the abdominal aorta, maximum size 2x1 cm. The PET scan analysis proved no accumulation of ¹⁸F-fluoro-deoxy-glucose in any lymph nodes or other organs and tissues. Conclusions: Sequential treatment with rituximab and ⁹⁰Y-ibritumomab tiuxetan may be an interesting alternative in cases of relapsed follicular or other indolent lymphomas in pretreated or older patients with other concomitant diseases.

Aim: The aim of this contribution is to present the formant chart of the Czech vowels a, e, i, o, u and show that this can be achieved by means of digital methods of sound processing. Method: A group of 35 Czech students of the Pedagogical Faculty of Palacky University was tested and a record of whispered vowels was taken from each of them. The record was digitalized and processed by the Discrete Fourier Trasform. The result is the power spectrum of the individual vocals - the graphic output consists of a plot of the relative power of individual frequencies in the original sound. The values of the first two maxima which represent the first and the second formants were determined from the graph. The values were plotted on a formant chart. Results: Altogether, 175 spectral analyses of individual vowels were performed. In the resulting power spectrum, the first and the second formant frequencies were identified. The first formant was plotted against the second one and pure vocal formant regions were identified. Conclusion: Frequency bands for the Czech vowel "a" were circumscribed between 850 and 1150 Hz for first formant (F1) and between 1200 and 2000 Hz for second formant (F2). Similarly, borders of frequency band for vowel "e" they were 700 and 950 Hz for F1 and 1700 and 3000 Hz for F2. For vowel "i" 300 and 450 Hz for F1 and 2000 and 3600 Hz for F2, for vowel "o" 600 and 800 Hz for F1 and 600 and 1400 Hz for F2, for vowel "u" 100 and 400 Hz for F1 and 400 and 1200 Hz for F2. Discussion: At low frequencies it is feasible to invoke the source-filter model of voice production and associate vowel identity with frequencies of the first two formants in the voice spectrum. On the other hand, subject to intonation, singing or other forms of exposed voice (such as emotional speech, focused speech), the formant regions tend to spread. In spectral analysis other frequencies dominate, so specific formant frequency bands are not easily recognizable. Although the resulting formant map is not much different from the formant map of Peterson, it carries basic information about specific Czech vowels. The results may be used in further research and in education.

Background: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. Mammography is considered the "gold standard" in the evaluation of the breast from an imaging perspective. Apart from mammography, ultrasound examination and magnetic resonance imaging are being offered as adjuncts to the preoperative workup. Recently, other new modalities like positron emission tomography, 99mTc-sestamibi scintimammography, and electrical impedance tomography (EIT) are also being offered. However, there is still controversy over the most appropriate use of these new modalities. Based on the literature, this review evaluates the role of various modalities used in the screening and diagnosis of breast cancer. Methods and Results: Based on relevant literatures this article gives an overview of the old and new modalities used in the field of breast imaging. A narrative literature review of all the relevant papers known to the authors was conducted. The search of literatures was done using pubmed and ovid search engines. Additional references were found through bibliography reviews of relevant articles. It was clear that though various new technics and methods have emerged, none have substituted mammography and it is still the only proven screening method for the breast as of date. Conclusion: From the literature it is clear that apropos modern radiology's impact on diagnosis, staging and patient follow-up, only one imaging technique has had a significant impact on screening asymptomatic individuals for cancer i.e.; low-dose mammography. Mammography is the only screening test proven in breast imaging. Positron emission tomography (PET) also plays an important role in staging breast cancer and monitoring treatment response. As imaging techniques improve, the role of imaging will continue to evolve with the goal remaining a decrease in breast cancer morbidity and mortality. Progress in the development and commercialisation of EIT breast imaging system will definitely help to promote other systems and applications based on the EIT and similar visualization methods. Breast ultrasound and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are frequently used adjuncts to mammography in today's clinical practice and these techniques enhance the radiologist's ability to detect cancer and assess disease extent, which is crucial in treatment planning and staging.

Abstract: A philosopher and teacher, F. M. (Ladimir) Klacel (1808-1882), educated in what is now the Czech Republic, developed his own explanation for the origin and interaction of living organisms. Klácel, a member of the Augustinian Monastery in Brno, infl uenced his younger colleague, Friar Gregor Mendel, who went on to formulate concepts in heredity that are still recognized for their profound insight. A mutual interest in the natural sciences of these two friends provided a basis for their discussions of the relationship between religion, evolution, and society. Klacel's outspoken defense of his proposals caused him to lose favor with both the Church and the authorities, and he immigrated to America in 1869. His failing health and inability to communicate with the English-speaking populace, unfortunately, limited his infl uence in his new environs. In this paper we trace the roots of Klacel's philosophy and elucidate his incorporation of ideas from Hegel, Darwin, and others. An investigation of Klacel's recipe for a successful society reveals his belief in the universality of life and his optimistic hope for human achievement.

Intracellular levels of phosphorylation are regulated by the coordinated action of protein kinases and phosphatases. Disregulation of this balance can lead to cellular transformation. Here we review knowledge of the mechanisms of one protein phosphatase, the tumour suppressor PTEN/MMAC/TEP 1 apropos its role in tumorigenesis and signal transduction. PTEN plays an important role in the phosphatidyl-inositol-3-kinase (PI3-K) pathway by catalyzing degradation of phosphatidylinositol-(3,4,5)-triphosphate generated by PI3-K. This inhibits downstream targets mainly protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), cell survival and proliferation. PTEN contributes to cell cycle regulation by blockade of cells entering the S phase of the cell cycle, and by upregulation of p27^Kip1 which is recruited into the cyclin E/cdk2 complex. PTEN also modulates cell migration and motility by regulation of the extracellular signal-related kinase - mitogen activated protein kinase (ERK-MAPK) pathway and by dephosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK). We also emphasize the increasingly important role that PTEN has from an evolutionary point of view. A number of PTEN functions have been elucidated but more information is needed for utilization in clinical application and potential cancer therapy.

The vocal apparatus serves phonation. It represents a biocybernetic self-regulating system, disposing of a feedback network of the central nervous system. The larynx is a self-induced vibrating system. The larynx, functioning as the phonation apparatus of the vocal apparatus, is a source of human voice. In every individual its frequency range corresponds to about eight semitones in speech and about two octaves of the so-called chest register in singing, denoted also as a thoracic or modal voice. This is followed by one more octave of the so-called cranial register or falsetto voice. We were interested in changes of the larynx positions at intonation in the fundamental singing registers, both modal and falsetto, in professional male singers. At our disposal were 11 professional male singers. We investigated changes in the position of the laryngeal structures simultaneously with the aid of an X-ray apparatus, the acoustic and mechanical signals registered by means of the B & K 4369 acceleration recorder. It has been found that at phonation with the modal voice a change in the position of the laryngeal structures takes place in two different ways, whereas the larynx movements at falsetto remain the same. It has been suggested that a complex fixation apparatus participates in the phonation larynx movements. Of the same complex character are also the problems connected with the examination of the entire vocal apparatus. For the purpose of compiling the present pieces of knowledge in the field of human voice studies, we have made the most advantageous use of the presently most complex system Authorware for the production of some interactive multimedial programmes on personal computers.

The aim of our study was to measure the flow in coronary artery bypass grafts and to compare the flow between two groups of patients. In group A the arterial revascularization was performed with both internal thoracic arteries using as a Y graft and in group B conventional revascularization using left internal thoracic artery (ITA) attached to the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and venous grafts to the other branches of the left coronary artery was performed. The flow in all grafts was measured at six time points during the operation. The cumulative flow at the end of the operation in the group A (arterial Y graft) was 51.8 ± 24.5 ml/min and in group B (conventional technique) it was 96.8 ± 41.1ml/min (p < 0.05). The flow in left ITA to LAD was similar in both groups (27.3 ± 15.9 ml/min and 26.3 ± 16.1 ml/min in group A and B). The flow in right ITA (25.2 ± 18.4ml/min) was significantly lower than in venous grafts (72.5 ± 45.5 ml/min). The calculated flow reserve was 2.2 in group A and 2.1 in group B. We found that the cumulative flow in arterial Y graft was lower in comparison with conventional revascularization. This is due to the lower flow in the right ITA branch of the Y graft compared to venous grafts. However based on clinical results, we can postulate that the flow in the Y graft is sufficient to meet the demand of the myocardium originally supplied by the left coronary artery.

Background: The aim of this review was to summarise the experience on implementation of information technology to support the teaching and learning process in medicine. Particular attention was paid to web-based tutorials, their impact on increasing the effectiveness of medical instruction and motivation of students towards self-directed learning. Most of the studies selected for the purpose of the review comprised evaluation of the web-tutorials in view of practical implementation, strengths, weaknesses, and main preferences in comparison with traditional lecture-based education. Method and results: We searched MEDLINE via PubMed using MeSH term "computer-assisted learning" between 1996 and 2005 and selected for inclusion in this review were studies on the implementation and evaluation of web based tutorials in medical education. Additional related papers were obtained through cross-referencing. We found that overall, students prefer Web tutorials to traditional lecture-based classes for accessibility, ease of use, freedom of navigation, high medical image quality and advantage of repeated practice, that web-based learning has been continually developing and that it is a very important tool in Evidence Based Medicine. Conclusions: Web based education is an important tool in medical training. It will require transformation in the way medicine is taught from instructor based to self directed learning. It is above all seen as a device for information retrieval and storage.

In 2000-2005, a survey on the consumption of legal and illegal drugs of abuse was conducted in 1571 students of Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University in Prague. The availability of cannabis and the prevalence rates of its use in university students were investigated. A standardized anonymous questionnaire was employed for the survey. The average age of respondents was 20 years. The number of females was higher (82.8 %) than that of males. Marijuana was the most available and the most commonly used illegal drug of abuse in the group of pharmacy students. Its offer and the life-time prevalence increased over the 5 year period of the survey from 55.8 % to 72.9 % and from 30.3 % to 48.4 %, respectively. There was a predominance of the male users over the female ones, mainly in a category of high frequency of marijuana consumption ("used more than five times"). Almost three quarters of marijuana consumers admitted more than one experience with marijuana. Our data provide worrying statistics and support the need of continuous education also in university students to advise them on the risks of drug misuse.

Background: hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes are both known to play a role in DNA mismatch repair. Nonetheless, the clinical significance of hMLH1 and hMSH2 protein expression in lung cancers remains unclear. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the immunohistochemical expression of hMLH1 and hMSH2 proteins in tumor specimens from 179 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients using a tissue microarray technique and to correlate these results with other clinicopathological variables, including the disease specific and overall survivals. Method: hMLH1 and hMSH2 protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry using monoclonal antibodies G168-728 for hMLH1 and FE11 for hMSH2 protein expression analysis. The Pearson χ² test was used to compare the hMLH1 and hMSH2 alterations among the cases and between various clinical and laboratory variables. P < or = 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Alteration of hMLH1 and hMSH2 protein expression was observed in 10 % of patients. No significant correlation was found between the protein expression and patient age, smoking status, tumor histology or disease stage and disease free and overall survival. Conclusions: Alterations in the expression of hMLH1 and hMSH2 proteins did not have any prognostic value in stage III. NSCLC patients.

Background: Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic relapsing disease. Especially acute period may be associated with metabolic disturbances. Alteration of lipid metabolism has been described in critically ill patients and hypocholesterolemia is associated with poor prognosis. The human organism acquires cholesterol by two principal processes - synthesis de novo, and absorption from the diet. It is possible to assess, using cholesterol synthesis markers (lathosterol) and cholesterol absorption markers (sitosterol, campesterol) the leading form of cholesterol acquisition. Aim: The aim of this study is assess the association between the lipid profile in plasma and the plasma concentration of sterols in active CD patients and in control subjects. Method: Routine laboratory tests, CDAI, lipid and non-cholesterol sterols plasma levels were performed on days 3, 14 and 28. The metabolic parameters have been compared with a control cohort of 100 healthy blood donors. Results: Presently, complete data for 8 patients are available The serum total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol, and triglyceride concentrations were lower in patients with acute Crohn's disease than in the control group. Moreover lathosterol, campesterol and sitosterol concentrations were lower, whereas squalene concentration was higher than in controls. As mentioned above, complete data are not currently available. Therefore statistical analysis has not been finished. Conclusion: Our pre-results show substantial abnormalities in the concentrations of plasma lipids and non-cholesterol sterols, which are presented as markers of cholesterol requirement, in patients with acute CD.

Background: About 20 percent of the population in developing countries is composed of women of reproductive age. These women face one of the catastrophic risks of pregnancy "uterine rupture". Studies conducted in the developing world give strong evidence that uterine rupture is a major health problem in these countries with the rate being high in rural areas. Aim: The purpose of the study was to estimate the incidence and determine the risk factors and outcome of uterine rupture among women using the referral hospital Al-thawra in Sana'a City, Yemen republic and to extrapolate the data to the whole of Yemen. Methods: The data was collected retrospectively; by interviewing, examining and following up all the cases of uterine rupture coming to the hospital during a period of 9 months between September 1996 and May 1997. A descriptive analysis and distribution frequency of the commonest causes of uterine rupture in 37 cases are presented taking into account medical, reproductive, health services provided and sociodemographic factors. Results: Incidence of uterine rupture in Yemen was found to be (0.63), obstructed labor 83 %, contracted pelvis 19 %, previous surgery in 48 %, Oxytocine infusion in 42 %. Grand-multiparty was in 65 % and maternal age over 35 years in 50 %. Antenatal care was only in 34 %. Conclusion: The high percentage of malpresentation, cephalopelvic disproportion, previous uterine surgery accompanied by the high percentage of use of Oxytocin in this study highlights very clearly the role of this medication in increasing the risk of uterine rupture in Yemen.

Background: Chemokines and chemokine receptors are major mediators of leukocyte trafficking into the sites of the immune response. They participate in defence against microbial infection, in Th1/Th2 polarization of the immune response, allograft rejection and angiogenesis/angiostasis as well as in tumorigenesis and metastasis. To date, several functional polymorphisms of chemokine and chemokine receptor genes have been discovered that are able to deregulate chemokine system and, therefore, they may interfere with the pathogenesis of a large number of inflammatory and other diseases. In this review we focus on the known polymorphisms of two chemokines: CCL2, CCL5 and their corresponding receptors (CCR2, CCR5) and we also discuss their associations with susceptibility and progression to selected immune-mediated diseases. Methods And Results: Based on relevant literature this article gives a short overview of case-control and family studies regarding effect of the genetic factors on diseases such as coronary artery disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, diabetes mellitus, lung diseases and others. Conclusion: Recent advance in the identification of chemokine genetic background of the diseases could provide opportunity for pharmacological treatment. However, we need more information about posttranscriptional events to understand functional relevance of polymorphisms and to discovery new avenues to blocking disease de velopment.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of milk and fluoridated milk on bacterially induced caries-like lesions. Sample and methods: Extracted impacted human molars were cut in half and covered with a varnish leaving a 4*4 mm window. The samples were coated with biofilm of S. sobrinus and were further divided into three experimental groups of S. sobrinus, S. sobrinus and milk and S. sobrinus and fluoridated milk. As negative controls served teeth incubated in saline. Of twenty tooth halves serial ground sections were cut through the lesions and investigated with polarization light microscopy (PLM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and EDX element analysis. The PLM photographs were used for 3D reconstruction, volumetric assessment and determination of the extension of the lesion zones. Of eight tooth halves the biofilm on the enamel surface was studied with SEM and EDX element analysis. Results: Volumetric assessment showed a statistically significant difference in the volume of the body of the lesion and the translucent zone between the milk group and fluoridated milk group. Quantitative element analysis demonstrated significant differences between sound enamel and the superficial layer in the fluoridated milk group. The biofilm on the enamel surface showed an increased Ca content in the milk group and fluoridated milk group. Conclusions: Milk as a common nutrient seems to play a complex role in in-vitro biofilm - enamel interactions stimulating bacterial demineralization on one hand, and, as effective fluoride carrier, inhibits caries-like demineralization.

Background and objective: To determine the prevalence of markers of inherited thrombophilia in patients with severe form of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) Design and methods: Blood samples were analysed for markers of thrombophilia (mutation of factor V - Leiden, mutation of methylentetrahydrofolat reductase (MTHFR) C677T and mutation of prothrombin G20210A). The study group consisted of women who had undergone controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF complicated by severe OHSS (group A, n = 50). Results were compared with two controls groups - women who underwent ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF without developing OHSS (group B, n = 93) and healthy pregnant women with no history of infertility (group C, n = 196). Results: We have found 7 out of 50 patients from group A positive for Leiden mutation (heterozygous) 11 out of 93 from group B (heterozygous), p = 0.71 OR 1.21 (0.39 3.70) and 10 out of 196 from group C (heterozygous), p = 0.03 OR 3.03 (0.97 9.28). Polymorphism of MTHFR 677T gene was detected in 17 out of 50 patients (heterozygous) from group A, in 36 out of 93 patients from group B (35 heterozygous, 1 homozygous) and in 93 out of 196 patients from the group C (86 heterozygous, 7 homozygous) with no statistical significance. Conclusions: We found an increased prevalence of factor V Leiden mutation in Czech infertile women. However carriers of Leiden mutation had no enhanced risk of development severe form of OHSS during stimulation.

Background: The exact origin of focal dystonias has not been elucidated so far. Aberrant plasticity of the brain cortex is suspected to be a crucial factor in the development of this group of movement disorders. The aim of this article is to summarize recent findings on the etiopathogenesis of focal hand dystonias with a focus on the role of abnormal cortical plasticity. Methods And Results: A search of the literature mainly from 1995 to 2005 was done using the PubMed and Ovid search engines. English-language articles were identified using the following keywords: focal hand dystonia or writer's cramp and cortical plasticity, sensorimotor, imaging. Additional references were found through bibliography reviews of relevant articles. The data from neurophysiological and imaging studies, as well as clinical observation, in focal hand dystonia suggest multiple failures at different levels of the somatosensory and motor systems, particularly in the brain cortex. This disorders lead to attenuation of inhibitory and fortification of excitatory processes. Conclusions: The emerging theory presumes that a maladaptive plasticity of brain cortex with abnormal sensorimotor intergration can evolve in predisposed individuals. Consequent methods of management of focal hand dystonias are outlined.

Guanylins and uroguanylins are natriuretic peptides with different effects in many of tissues. In context with guanylins, the intestine-renal axis is presented. The overproduction of guanylin or uroguanylin leads to secondary diarrhea with stimulation of Cl^- secretion. A diet high in salt lead especially to increased guanylin and uroguanylin secretion. Interesting applications with guanylins measurement could to be in hypertension diagnosis, monitoring of heart dysfunction treatment, intensive care etc.