Heavy chain deposition disease (HCDD) is a rare entity associated with monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance. It is characterized by deposition of monoclonal heavy chain, usually gamma type, along the glomerular and tubular basement membranes and vessel walls. If left untreated, the disease progresses to ESRD within 2 years with almost inevitable recurrence in renal allograft. Apart from kidney biopsy, the workup includes monoclonal immunoglobulin testing and clonal identification, which subsequently guide the treatment; however, these tests can be negative in 20

Objective: Inter-arm blood pressure (BP) difference is associated with higher cardiovascular (CV) risk and increased mortality. The aim of this study was to obtain data on prevalence of inter-arm difference and association with all-caused and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in a random sample of Croatian general population. Design and method: EHUH study is nation-wide survey on prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension in Croatia. In 2001–2003 a random sample of 1267 subjects (men 40.8% mean age 53.1) were enrolled. Mortality data were analyzed after average period of 17 years. Office blood pressure (BP) was measured in sitting position using mercury sphygmomanometer three times at two visits and once at home visit: total 9 measurements -average BP values were calculated. Optimal, normal, high normal BP, untreated and treated hypertension (HT) were diagnosed in 20.9%, 15.3%, 12.9%, 19.1% and 31.5%, respectively During the first visit BP was measured at both arms. Subjects were divided into 2 groups: individuals with inter-arm BP difference of 10 mmHg or more and those with lesser difference Mortality data were collected from National Public Health Institute records. Results: In the whole group inter-arm difference was found in 23.4% subjects (m22.7% vs w 15.8%; X2 = 2.954; p = 0.008). Inter-arm difference was significantly more frequently observed in hypertensives vs. normotensives (29.5% vs 22.5% X2 = 24.9; p = 0.00000). There were no differences in inter-arm difference among BMI categories. We failed to find difference in all-cause mortality between subjects with > or <10 mmHg inter-arm difference (X2 = 2.114; p = 0.145). However, significantly more CV death occurred in those with inter-arm difference > 10 mmHg (73.8% vs 53.4% X2 = 3.833;p = 0.05). There were more CV deaths in uncontrolled patients with inter-arm difference >10 mmHg vs. controlled hypertensives patients with inter-arm difference >10 mmHg (77% vs 52%; X2 = 4.773; p = 0.028) Conclusions: Inter-arm BP difference was found in large number of general population. It was associated with higher CV mortality particularly in uncontrolled hypertensives. Inter-arm BP difference should be considered as a prognostic CV risk factor.

Objective: Our aim was to analyze the association of obesity with all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in a random sample of Croatian population, an original cohort from the EH-UH study. Design and method: EH-UH study is a nation-wide survey on prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension in Croatia. In 2001–2003 a random sample of 1267 subjects were enrolled. Mortality data collected from the National Public Health Institute records were analyzed after an average period of 17 years. Subjects were divided in BMI1 (< 25 kg/m2), BMI2 (25–30 kg/m2) and BMI3 (>30 kg/m2). Results: There were significantly more all-cause deaths in BMI2 and BMI3 vs. BMI1(X 2 = 9.478; p = 0.002; X 2 = 9.959; p = 0.001; BMI 2 vs BMI3 p > 0.05). We failed to find differences in CV mortality among BMI groups. Subjects in BMI1 were younger than BMI2 and BMI3 (p < 0.01). There were more women than men in BMI1 and BMI3 (p = 0.007;p = 0.0015; respectively). BP values were significantly lower in BMI 1 vs. BMI2 and BMI3 (p < 0.01). BMI2 subjects had significantly lower BP values than BMI3. There were significantly more subjects with optimal BP in BMI1 group and high normal subjects in BMI3 group (p = 0.0000). Prevalence of hypertension was the highest in BMI3 and lowest in BMI1. There were no differences in achieved BP control. BMI1 was more educated (<8 vs >12years) than BMI 2 and BMI3 (p < 0.0001), and BMI2 than BMI3 (p < 0.005). Significantly more subjects with low income (< 400 Eu/months) were detected in BMI3 vs. BMI1 and BMI2 (X 2 = 10.426; p = 0.001; X 2 = 5.423; p = 0.019, respectively). Significant differences in smoking, alcohol intake, positive history of diabetes and dyslipidemia were observed among BMI groups. No difference in history for stroke or myocardial infarction were found. Conclusions: We failed to find increased CV mortality in obese and overweight subjects despite they were older, had more hypertension and were associated with various unfavourable risk factors and conditions. This could be explained with achieved same BP control and same past medical history. In addition, high cancer mortality observed in all BMI subgroups could attenuate association of BMI and CV deaths.

Objective: Our aim was to analyze association of sodium and potassium intake on clinical course i.e. changes of blood pressure (BP) category in general population during the 7.5 years of follow up. Design and method: Out of 1582 subjects (random rural sample) enrolled in ENAH study conducted in 2008–2010, 739 were invited for the second visit in 2015 and 377 subjects with reliable both urine samples (urine creatinine in normal ranges) were included in further analyses s (80m 297w; average age 52 ± 13.5). Blood pressure was measured three times (Omron M6) and mean values were calculated. Fasting blood and first morning (spot) urine samples were collected. Sodium and potassium were determined using Tanaka, Kawasaki and Intersalt equations. Potassium intake was further adjusted for intestinal intake (77%) and renal excretion (92%). Optimal, normal, high normal BP, untreated and treated hypertension (HT) were diagnosed in 20.9%, 15.3%, 12.9%, 19.1% and 31.5%, respectively. Results: Out of 377 subjects 185 (49%) worsened (WBP) and 47 (12.5%) improved BP (IBP) category. We failed to find differences between WBP and IBP in gender, BMI and eGFR. OBP and untreated HT worsened BP and treated HT improved BP more frequently than others. At basal there were no differences in sodium and potassium intake between WBP and IBP category. At the follow up visit sodium and potassium intake were higher in WBP than in IBP group (Tanaka 175.8 ± 39.3 vs 132.8 ± 33.6; p = 0.061, 38.6 ± 8.3 vs 35.6 ± 7.4; p = 0.027) with no differences in potassium intake and Na/K ratio. Salt intake >10 g/day was significantly more frequently found in WBP than in IBP (51% vs. 34.7%; X2 = 4.918; p = 0.047). Conclusions: Worsened BP category was associated with higher salt intake. Subjects with optimal BP and untreated hypertension most frequently worsened BP and changed BP category. Very low average potassium intake (<1.5 g/day in the whole group) is plausible explanation why beneficial effect of potassium intake on BP clinical course was not observed. To lower salt intake and to increase potassium intake should be recommended to general population and not only to hypertensives.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the association of chronic kidney disease (CKD) with all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in patients surviving their first ischemic stroke and enrolled in the Croatian part of the ESH Stroke Survey. Design and method: The cohort consisted of 292 consecutive patients (171 m, mean age 64 y) admitted to UHC Zagreb and diagnosed with ischemic stroke between 2011–2014. The mean follow-up period was 6.3 years. Data were collected from medical records. CKD was defined as eGFR < 60 ml/min/1,73m2 (CKD-Epi). Mortality data were obtained from the Croatian National Public Health database. Results: Hypertension, smoking, diabetes, dyslipidemia and atrial fibrillation were diagnosed in 75%, 27.3%, 24.5%, 17.4%, 11.7%, respectively. CKD was detected in 51.7% (men vs women 41% vs 67%; p = 0.000001). CKD stages 1, 2, 3a, 3b, 4 and 5 were diagnosed in 6.8%, 41%, 31.8%, 14.7%, 3.4% and 1.7%, respectively. During the follow-up period, 91 patients (31.1%) died. The major cause of death was stroke (60.4%), followed by other causes (15.3%), cancer (14.2%) and CV diseases (9.8%). All-cause mortality was significantly higher in the CKD than in the non-CKD group (37.1% vs 21.2%: p = 0.0000) as were stroke mortality (24.6% vs. 15.1%; p = 0.0049) and composite CV mortality (stroke, coronary heart disease, heart failure) (42.7% vs 16.2%; p = 0.0015). In a linear multivariate regression model, age was the most important determinant of death (B −0.011 SE 0.202; Beta −0.27; p < 0.000000) followed by CKD (B −0.101 SE 0.058 Beta −0.109; p = 0.085). In a model including age, gender, systolic BP at the time of stroke and CKD (R2 = 0.323), the impact of CKD on mortality risk was 9%. Conclusions: CKD is highly prevalent in patients with ischemic stroke. It is associated with higher all-cause and CV mortality. CKD should be considered a risk and a prognostic factor in patients with ischemic stroke.

Objective: Our aim was to determine trends in salt and potassium intake in general rural population during the 7.5 years of follow-up and to analyze differences in results obtained using various equations. Design and method: Out of 1582 subjects (random rural sample) enrolled in ENAH study conducted in 2008–2010, 739 were invited for the second visit in 2015 and 377 subjects with reliable both urine samples (urine creatinine in normal ranges) were included in further analyses s (80m 297w; average age 52 ± 13.5). Blood pressure was measured three times (Omron M6) and mean values were calculated. Fasting blood and first morning (spot) urine samples were collected. Sodium and potassium were determined using Tanaka, Kawasaki and Intersalt equations. Potassium intake was further adjusted for intestinal intake (77%) and renal excretion (92%). Optimal, normal, high normal BP, untreated and treated hypertension (HT) were diagnosed in 20.9%, 15.3%, 12.9%, 19.1% and 31.5%, respectively. Results: There were no differences in basal and follow up values of salt and potassium intake (Tanaka: 10.4 ± 2.4 vs. 10.1 ± 2.3; 2.2 ± 0.6 vs.1.9 0.4, respectively, p>0.05) or Na/K ratio (4.3 ± 0.1 vs, 4.6 0.9). Salt intake > 10 g/day and potassium > 3.5 g/day were detected in 56.5% and 3.2%, respectively. Significant difference in salt intake was observed only between OBP and treated HT. The same trends were found using all equations. However, significant differences in salt and potassium intake were observed using different equations (particularly between genders). Conclusions: High salt and inadequately low potassium intake with poor Na/K ratio were found in rural population with no positive trends in 7.5 years of follow-up. Obtained differences in salt and potassium intake using different equations is important finding underlining that method (equation) used in particular study should be taken into account when comparing results among various studies.

Objective: Our aim was to analyze association of visit-to-visit blood pressure variability (BPV) with comorbidity and mortality in random sample of Croatian population, an original cohort from the EHUH study. Design and method: EHUH study is nation-wide survey on prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension in Croatia. In 2001–2003 a random sample of 1267 subjects (mean age 53 ± 16; men 41%) were enrolled. Mortality data were analyzed after average period of 17 years. Office blood pressure (BP) was measured in sitting position using mercury sphygmomanometer and appropriate cuffs three times at two visits and once at home visit. Visits were organized within two months period. Standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variability (CoV) (SD/individual mean SBP*100) were used as measures of visit-to-visit BPV. Results: Visit-to-visit BPV was higher in hypertensives (SD:5.5 ± 3.6 vs.4.1 ± 2.7; CoV:3.7 ± 2.4 vs.3.4 ± 2.1; for both p < 0.0001) diabetics (SD:6.1 ± 4.4 vs.4.5 ± 3.1;CoV:4.11 ± 3.8 vs.3.4 ± 2.2; for both p < 0.001) and obese subjects (SD:5.4 ± 3.7 vs.4.1 ± 2.7;CoV:3.7 ± 2.5 vs.3.3 ± 2.1; for both p < 0.0001) regardless we used SD or CoV. There were no gender differences but BPV increases with aging. It was higher in subjects with high normal vs. those with optimal BP (p = 0.003) as well as it was higher in stage 2 than stage 1 hypertension (p = 0.005). Higher BPV was observed in uncontrolled hypertensives than in non-treated and controlled ones (p < 0.001). All-cause mortality was associated with higher BPV (4.95 ± 3.5 vs.4.66 ± 3.2; p = 0.003), but we failed to find differences in BPV between subjects who died of CV disease or cancer. In multivariate linear regression model (age, gender SBP, SD, CoV) BPV was not found to be an independent predictor (R 2 = 0.221; B 0.22 SE 0.013; beta = 0.178;p = 0.08; CoV B 0.31 SE 0.018 beta = 0.173; p = 0.09). Conclusions: BPV was higher in hypertensive, diabetic, older and obese subjects. In normotensives it was significantly higher in prehypertensives than those with optimal and normal BP. In hypertensive subjects the highest BPV was found in uncontrolled group (compared to untreated and controlled), We failed to find positive predictive value of BPV for mortality probably the visit-to-visit period (2 months) was too short.

Objective: Our aim was to analyze differences between home and office blood pressure (BP) values obtained in epidemiological study and impact on prevalence and distribution of BP categories in a random sample of Croatian population, an original cohort from the EHUH study. Design and method: EHUH study is a nation-wide survey on prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension in Croatia. In 2001–2003 a random sample of 1267 subjects were enrolled. BP was measured by physicians and trained nurses in sitting position using mercury sphygmomanometer with appropriate cuffs three times at two office visits and once at home visit: total 9 measurements - average BP values were calculated. Mortality data collected from National Public Health Institute records were analyzed after average period of 17 years. Masked hypertension and masked uncontrolled hypertension (MUCH) were defined according to the ESH/ESC guidelines. Results: We failed to find differences in BP values obtained at home vs. office (137/84 ± 22/10 vs 135/83 ± 21/10; p > 0.05) with significant correlation for systolic and diastolic BP (t = 6.840;p = 0.0000, t = 2.615; p = 0.0000). There were neither differences in hypertension prevalence between home vs.office (36.8% vs. 34.5%; p > 0.05) nor in BP categories. Interestingly, MUCH was found in 22.2% of patients and at the end of follow-up period it was associated with higher mortality (X2 = 2.722; p = 0.0009). In 8.1% of normotensive subjects masked hypertension was diagnosed which explains the observed slightly higher prevalence of hypertension based on home vs. office measurements. Conclusions: Measurement of BP at home could add additional value in epidemiological studies. Furthermore, our results might be a lesson for clinical routine work pointing on important role of nurse and home-visit BP measurements at least in treated hypertensives.

Objective: Our aim was to analyze characteristics of subjects with new onset hypertension (NOHT) and impact of sodium and potassium intake on development of NOHT. Design and method: Out of 1582 subjects (random rural sample) enrolled in ENAH study conducted in 2008–2010, 739 were invited for the second visit in 2015 and 377 subjects with reliable both urine samples (urine creatinine in normal ranges) were included in further analyses (80 m 297w; average age 52 ± 13.5). Blood pressure was measured three times (Omron M6) and mean values were calculated. Fasting blood and first morning (spot) urine samples were collected. Sodium and potassium were determined using Tanaka, Kawasaki and Intersalt equations. Potassium intake was further adjusted for intestinal intake (77%) and renal excretion (92%). Optimal, normal, high normal BP, untreated and treated hypertension (HT) were diagnosed in 20.9%, 15.3%, 12.9%, 19.1% and 31.5%, respectively. Results: NOHT was diagnosed in 38.1% of initially normotensives (NT) (71/186) (m vs w X2 = 3.315; p = 0.06). At basal, compared to NT, subjects with NOHT were older and had higher BP, BMI, waist circumference, FBG, HOMA and albuminuria (p < 0.01). No differences in Na and K intake and Na/K were detected (p > 0.05). At the follow up visit subjects with NOHT had higher sodium excretion (176.2 ± 36.4 vs 160.0 ± 36.1; p = 0.006), salt intake (10.3 ± 2.1 vs 9.4 ± 2.1; p = 0.006) and Na/K ratio (5.17 ± 1.31 vs 4.6 ± 1.11; p = 0.003). Average Na excretion increased in NOHT (4.8 ± 4) and decreased in sustained NT (-13.3 ± 51) (p = 0.013). We failed to find difference in NOHT in those who had salt intake > 10 g/day compared to those with < 10 g/day (p = 0.681). However, significant difference in Na/K ratio changes from basal to follow-up visit were found between NOHT and sustained NT (6.25 ± 1.16 vs – 0.09 ± 1.41; p = 0.001). Less NOHT were found in subjects who improved Na/K ratio (X2 = 2.82; p = 0.09). Conclusions: During the 7.5 years high incidence of NOHT was detected. For the NOHT Na/K ratio is more important than salt intake. In primary prevention as well as during the treatment subjects should be instructed not only to decrease salt but also to increase potassium intake.

Objective: Our aim was to analyze sodium and potassium intake in obese normotensive and hypertensive subjects from rural area. Design and method: Out of 1582 subjects (random rural sample) enrolled in ENAH study conducted in 2008–2010, 739 were invited for the second visit in 2015 and 377 subjects with reliable both urine samples (urine creatinine in normal ranges) were included in further analyses s (80m 297w; average age 52 ± 13.5). Blood pressure was measured three times (Omron M6) and mean values were calculated. Fasting blood and first morning (spot) urine samples were collected. Sodium and potassium were determined using Tanaka, Kawasaki and Intersalt equations. Potassium intake was further adjusted for intestinal intake (77%) and renal excretion (92%). Optimal, normal, high normal BP, untreated and treated hypertension (HT) were diagnosed in 20.9%, 15.3%, 12.9%, 19.1% and 31.5%, respectively. There were 21.2%, 35.3% and 42.8% subjects in the BMI 1 (<25), BMI 2 (25–30) and in BMI 3 group (>30) group, respectively. Results: Significant differences in HT prevalence were observed among the BMI groups (46.9%, 63.6%, 80 %, respectively; p = 0.001). Sodium excretion were significantly lower in BMI1 vs BMI3 groups (BMI < 0.0001). More than 10 g/day of salt intake was most seldom present in BMI1 and more frequently in BMI3 group (41.9%, 54.5%, 63.1%, respectively; p < 0.05). Compared to normotensive in hypertensive subjects salt intake >10 g/day was significantly more frequently presented in overweight (X2 = 12.68;p = 0.0003) but not in obese subjects. Potassium intake was significantly higher in BMI3 than in BMI1 group (p < 0.001). No differences in Na/K ratio were observed among BMI groups. Conclusions: Higher salt intake contributes to high prevalence of hypertension and according to our results is more closely associated with hypertension in overweight than in obese subjects. No difference in Na/K ratio among BMI groups reflects high sodium and poor potassium intake in all subjects.

Objective: Our aim was to analyze blood pressure (BP) values and life style in subjects with positive family history for hypertension, stroke and coronary heart disease and life style changes in random sample of Croatian population, an original cohort from the EHUH study. Design and method: EHUH study is nation-wide survey on prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension in Croatia. In 2001–2003 a random sample of 1267 subjects were enrolled. Mortality data were analyzed after average period of 17 years. Office blood pressure (BP) was measured in sitting position using mercury sphygmomanometer three times at two visits and once at home visit: total 9 measurements - average BP values were calculated. Results: Significant differences in BP values were observed with subjects with negative family history and positive history for hypertension (137/84 ± 22/10 vs 129/81 ± 8/9 p = 0.0000/0.004) but not coronary heart disease and stroke (138/85 ± 134/83 ± 21/20 ± 10/9; 137/84 ± 21/9 vs 134/83 ± 20/9;p = 0.04, respectively). There were significant differences in salt intake, physical activity and body weight control between those with positive and negative family history for hypertension (p < 0.05 for all). Interestingly, analyzing subjects with positive and negative family history for stroke we failed to find differences in life style (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Positive family history for hypertension, but not for stroke or coronary heart disease is associated with significantly higher BP values. Difference in life style were also observed in those with positive family history for hypertension but not for stroke. Based on our results it could be concluded that positive family history for hypertension is more important than history for stroke or coronary heart disease and better reflects not only inheritance but also familiar aggregation.

Objective: Our aim was to analyze association of sodium and potassium intake with new onset chronic kidney disease (CKD) in general population during the 7.5 years of follow up. Design and method: Out of 1582 subjects (random rural sample) enrolled in ENAH study conducted in 2008–2010, 739 were invited for the second visit in 2015 and 377 subjects with reliable both urine samples (urine creatinine in normal ranges) were included in further analyses s (80m 297w; average age 52 ± 13.5). Blood pressure was measured three times (Omron M6) and mean values were calculated. Fasting blood and first morning (spot) urine samples were collected. Sodium and potassium were determined using Tanaka, Kawasaki and Intersalt equations. Potassium intake was further adjusted for intestinal intake (77%) and renal excretion (92%). Optimal, normal, high normal BP, untreated and treated hypertension (HT) were diagnosed in 20.9%, 15.3%, 12.9%, 19.1% and 31.5%, respectively. eGFR was determined using CKD Epi equation, CKD was defined as eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73m2. Results: New onset CKD was found in 6.4% (m 3.9% w7.6%; p > 0.05). At basal visit subjects who developed new onset CKD were older and had higher values of BP, FBG, HOMA, albuminuria and alpha1 microglobulinuria. There were no differences in sodium or potassium intake. At the follow up visit subjects with new onset CKD had higher sodium excretion (198.6 ± 47.4 vs.176.4 ± 40.5; p = 0.015) and salt intake (11.6 ± 2.8 vs 10.3 ± 2.3; p = 0.05) with no differences in potassium intake or Na/ ratio. Conclusions: Higher sodium intake is more important than lower potassium intake for new onset CKD what is contrary to our findings in subjects with new onset hypertension where Na/K ratio was found to be more important than salt intake alone.

Ultrasonography, as a non-invasive diagnostic tool, can provide valuable information about the type, nature and duration of certain musculoskeletal inflammatory processes in animals. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between mean echogenicity (ME) of effusion content and its laboratory finding values. Fifty dairy cows with superficial effusions on their legs were examined in this study. Ultrasound images were analysed by software processing and ME was determined for every case of effusion. Samples of effusion contents were collected and sent to the laboratory. Investigated parameters were: Concentration of total proteins, concentration of glucose, concentration of uric acid, number of leukocytes, percentage of neutrophils, number of erythrocytes, specific weight, viscosity, colour, clarity and Gram stain. High correlation values between ME and concentration of total proteins (R2=0.7313; P<0.001), concentration of uric acid (R2=0.7427; P<0.001), percentage of neutrophils (R2=0.6923; P<0.001) and specific weight (R2=0.6963; P<0.001) showed that these laboratory parameters could have some impact on echogenicity of effusion content.

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze differences in blood pressure (BP) control and albuminuria between subjects treated with fixed dose combination (FCD) and those treated with free components in real-life during the 7 years follow up period. Design and method: Out of 1134 subjects (door-to-door enrollment, participation rate 80%) data on 236 (54 men; 182 women; mena age 63.2 years) treated hypertensives (HT) were analyzed at the end of 7 years of follow-up. At enter 136 of them were already treated HT (group A) and 100 were new-diagnosed HT (group B) who had started with antihypertensive therapy from that moment. Local GP were allowed to tailor antihypertensive therapy during the follow up period. At basal and at the end of follow up BP was measured by physicians who were project collaborators (ESH/ESC guidelines; OmronM6); salt intake (spot urine - Kawasaki equation), eGFR (CKD-Epi) and albumin-to-creatinin ration (ACR mg/g;first morning urine sample) were analyzed in central lab. Pregnant women, terminal ill, bed-ridden patients, those with severe disability, mentally ill or suffering from dementia or at least one limb amputated/immobilized were exclided. Results: At the end of follow up BP controll was achieved in 31.6% and 38% of HT (group A and B, respectively). In both groups, there there were no significnat differences in salt intake, BMI, smoking and the number of used drugs between controlled and uncontrolled subjects (p < 0.05). However, in group A significant increase in FDC prescription was observed ih the controlled vs.uncontrolled subjects (22% vs. 5.5%). BP control was associated with lower ACR in group A (14.9 vs.76.3; p < 0.01) and group B (9.1 vs.24.9; p < 0.05). Conclusions: In this real-life cohort after 7 years of follow-up BP controll was ahived with more drugs but only if used as FDC what was associated with better organoprotection i.e.lower ACR. Overall poor BP control and organoprotection could be improved using more FDC.

Peritoneopericardial hernia is a malformation which allows the protrusion of abdominal organs into the pericardial sac. Several methods of herniorrhaphy had been described in human and veterinary medicine, such as the usage of prosthetic patches, allografts and autologous grafts. The purpose of this study was to describe a new technique of herniorrhaphy, which combines two different materials for defect closure (nonautologous-polypropylene mesh and autologous-pericardial flap) in a case of recurrent peritoneopericardial hernia in a dog. A two-year-old, intact female Rhodesian Ridgeback was presented with an eight week history of respiratory problems, occasional coughing, vomiting, lethargy, body mass loss and icteric mucous membrane. The reason for using this technique was tension at hernial ring, which could have caused recurrence of the peritoneopericardial hernia. Polypropylene mesh was used in order to reinforce the herniorrhaphy and an autologous flap served as a barrier against mesh exposure to the epicardial surface. In our opinion, this method is safe with no complications observed, so therefore, it could be a suitable method for peritoneopericardial reherniation repair.

Objective: Uromodulin and minor G allele UMOD gene rs13333226 have been associated with blood pressure (BP), hypertension (HT) and better renal function. Our aim was to analyze the association of uromodulin and the frequency of G allele with BP and kidney function in untreated subjects with a normal glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Design and method: From 894 participants of the ENAH follow up, a cohort group of 559 untreated subjects (men 55.8 %, cohort group mean age 38.6) with an eGFR > 60 ml/min/1.73m2 (CKD Epi equation) were enrolled into the study. Subjects were divided in three subgroups: optimal BP (OBP; N = 107), prehypertension (PHT; N = 145) and HT (N = 307). UMOD genotyping rs12917707polymorphism was performed by RT-PCR with the fluorescence-based TaqMan system, while urinary uromodulin levels were measured by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Results: We failed to find difference in uromodulin levels among BP categories. However, a negative association of uromodulin with systolic BP (NS) and diastolic BP (r = 0.20; p = 0,069) was observed in the entire group. No association between uromodulin and eGFR was noted. Uromodulin was found to be lower in women than men. The frequency of A and G alleles was 83.2% and 16.8%, respectively. No difference in the frequency of G allele was found among the BP categories. A trend of higher uromodulin was observed in homozygous for the G allele. No significant trend was observed between uromodulin and eGFR in the entire group. Conclusions: There is trend of negative association of uromodulin with BP in middle-aged untreated subjects with normal kidney function. We did not find an association of uromodulin with eGFR. A trend of a higher uromodulin urine concentration was observed in subjects with the G allele of UMOD rs13333226.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in general population attitude and awareness on harmful effects of high salt consumption ten years after Croatian national action on salt and health (CRASH) was launched. Design and method: Data on salt awareness were collected in individuals (aged 18 years or older) participating in the 2008 and 2017 World Hypertension Day in Croatia. In 2017 blood pressure (BP) was measured at 26 sites in 5 cities in Croatia from 10 AM to 2 PM in hospital open points, central squares and pharmacies. BP was measured by physicians, trained nurses, pharmacist or medical students. Along with BP measurements, a short questionnaire on hypertension awareness, salt intake and smartphone use was completed at the time of the interview. This action was organized and supported by the Croatian Society of Hypertension. Results: A total of 2175 subjects, 873 (40.1%) men, 1211 (59.9%) women were examined. Awareness that increased salt intake is harmful and associated with high BP significantly increased from 2008 to 2017 (65.3% vs.95.8%);in 2017 women are more aware (91.8% vs.87.3%;p = 0.013). Comparing to 2008, in 2017, population is much more informed about harmful effects of exaggerated salt intake from physicians (48.9% vs.89.1%). In 2017 more subjects are aware that they are eating too salty than they were in 2008 (27% vs.36.1%), and more men than women thinks they are eating too salty (36.1% vs.29.8%,p = 0.02). Comparing data from 2008 and 2017 the same proportion of women believes that they would be able to reduce salt intake if suggested (86.5% vs.85.8%), but significantly more men in 2017 compared to 2008 declared that they could follow recommendations for reducing salt intake (62% vs.83.9%). Although significantly more subjects in 2017 than in 2008 are aware that bread and bakery products are the main sources of salt intake (9.5% vs.20.9%), the majority (52%) still believes that smoked meat, salami etc. is the main pathway of salt ingestion. Conclusions: Significant improvements in awareness of harmful effects of high salt consumption were noticed in Croatia.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of training and the Alka competition upon the activity/ concentrations of antioxidative and muscle enzymes and metabolic parameters, as well as their correlations, in the serum of Thoroughbred (TH) and Croatian Warmblood (CWH) horses. The experiment was carried out on nine THs and seven CWHs. Blood samples were collected 30, 21 and 14 days before the Alka competition, immediately after the competition, and 7 days after. Serum concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), total superoxide dismutase (SOD), paraoxonase 1 (PON 1), creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were determined, as well as glucose, triglyceride, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentrations. Serum MDA concentrations in both breeds were significantly higher 30 days before the Alka than immediately after the race. Serum activity of SOD in TH was significantly higher 21 days before the Alka compared to the values after 7 days of rest. Serum NEFA concentration in TH was *Corresponding author: Assoc. Prof. Jasna Aladrović, PhD, Department of Physiology and Radiobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Heinzelova 55, Zagreb, Croatia, Phone: +385 1 2390 173; Fax: +385 1 2441 390; E-mail: jasna.aladrovic@vef.hr DOI: 10.24099/vet.arhiv.170215

Objective: According to the EHUH study control of hypertension based only on office blood pressure (BP) measurements is achieved in less than 25% of treated hypertensives in general Croatian population. Our aim in this paper was to analyze control of BP using both office and ABPM devices in treated hypertensive patients enrolled in the Croatian registry of ABPM. Design and method: Data of subjects from registry with more than 70% successful ABPM readings were analyzed. Office BP was measured by Omron M6 device following ESH/ESC guidelines, and ABPM data were obtained using SpaceLabs or Microlife machines. Office controlled hypertension was defined as BP less than 140/90 mmHg, and ABPM control as average daytime BP less than 135/85 mmHg. White coat hypertension (WCH) was defined as office BP >140/90 mmHg and daytime ABPM < 135/85 mmHg while masked uncontrolled hypertension (MUCH) as office BP < 140/90 mmHg and daytime ABPM > 135/85 mmHg, true BP control was defined as office BP < 140/90 mmHg and daytime ABPM < 135/85 mmHg. Results: Significant differences between office BP and daytime and 24-hour ABPM values were obtained (13.2/8 mmHg and 16.1/10.6 mmHg, respectively <0.001). True BP control was found in 19.8%, while WCH and MUCH were observed in 26.6% and 9.9%, respectively. There were significantly more men and subjects which consume alcohol and less diabetics in MUCH group, while in WCH group there were more women, diabetics, non-smokers and alcohol abstainers. Prevalence of nondippers, dippers, extreme dippers and reverse dippers was 26.7%, 44.5%, 13.6%, 15.1%, respectively. Reverse dipping and non dipping pattern were associated with older age, while extreme dipping pattern with younger age. Conclusions: Data from Croatian registry revealed that 36.5% hypertensive patients were inappropriately treated when BP control was judged and estimated only using office BP measurements.