bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identificação de estratégias cognitivas e metacognitivas em pedagogos escolares: resultados de um programa de formação
Authors: Brojato Henrique Costa , Portilho Evelise Maria Labatut
Published: February 2023

Resumo Este artigo tem por objetivo identificar as estratégias cognitivas e metacognitivas utilizadas por pedagogos escolares, responsáveis pela coordenação e articulação do processo pedagógico no interior das escolas, em um programa de formação continuada. A metacognição não é normalmente relacionada ao desenvolvimento docente e/ou profissional; portanto, abordar a importância do desenvolvimento metacognitivo na formação continuada de pedagogos escolares perpassa tanto a necessidade de uma melhor compreensão do termo, como os caminhos para sua identificação. A pesquisa qualitativa de abordagem fenomenológica hermenêutica foi desenvolvida em um programa de formação continuada com dezesseis pedagogos de escolas públicas e privadas e diferentes segmentos de atuação. Para a pesquisa, foram utilizados uma entrevista semiestruturada e um instrumento para identificação do uso de cinco estratégias cognitivas (reflexividade, consciência da realidade, verbalização, atenção e pensamento/atitude) e três metacognitivas (tomada de consciência, autocontrole e autopoiese), utilizando-se a escala Likert. Os resultados obtidos indicaram um alto nível de concordância dos participantes com os itens descritos no instrumento; além disso, ao relacionar os relatos verbais dos participantes com os resultados obtidos a partir do instrumento aplicado, foi possível compreender que o programa de formação continuada proposto pode viabilizar reflexões sobre o “aprender a aprender” articuladas à realidade do contexto de atuação. São necessários maiores estudos sobre pedagogos escolares, assim como o desenvolvimento de propostas de formação (tanto a inicial quanto a continuada) que promovam o desenvolvimento de estratégias metacognitivas, contribuindo para a prática cotidiana junto aos docentes.
Helminths of South American fur seals (Arctocephalus australis) from the Subtropical Convergence Zone of the Southwestern Atlantic
Authors: Vivian Itatiele Farias , Perin Patricia Parreira , Amorim Derek Blaese de , Benatti Danise , Tebaldi José Hairton , Hoppe Estevam Guilherme Lux
Published: February 2023

Abstract Parasites are important components of ecosystems and may contribute to the ecological aspects of their hosts and indicate the integrity of their environment. To identify the gastrointestinal helminths of the South American fur seal, Arctocephalus australis, 52 animals found dead on the Rio Grande do Sul coast, Southern Brazil, were necropsied. All studied animals were parasitized, and 104,670 specimens of helminths from three phyla and 14 taxa were collected. Adult specimens represented five of the identified species: Contracaecum ogmorhini, Adenocephalus pacificus, Stephanoprora uruguayense, Ascocotyle (Phagicola) longa, and Corynosoma australe; and one of the identified genera: Strongyloides sp. Immature forms represented the other eight taxa: Anisakidae gen. sp., Anisakis sp., Pseudoterranova sp., Contracaecum sp., Tetrabothriidae gen. sp., Cestoda gen. sp., Corynosoma cetaceum, and Bolbosoma turbinella. The acanthocephalan C. australe was the most prevalent and abundant parasite, whereas Strongyloides sp. had the highest intensity. This is the first record of the nematode Anisakis sp., digenean S. uruguayense, and acanthocephalan B. turbinella in this host. Trophic generalist species such as A. australis can be good indicators of the composition of the helminth fauna of their ecosystems, indicating the presence of zoonotic parasites transmitted by the consumption of fish.
VALIDATION OF A STOCHASTIC BREAKUP MODEL FOR TURBULENT JETS IN HIGH-SPEED CROSSFLOW: ASSESSMENT OF TURBULENT INTERACTIONS AND SENSITIVITY TO BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
Authors: Zghal Malika , Sun Xiaoxiao , Gauthier Pierre Q. , Sethi Vishal
Published: February 2023

Improving the mixing of fuel and air by injecting a turbulent liquid fuel jet into a high-speed cross-flowing gas can reduce the emissions of gas turbine applications. To facilitate and hasten the development of such low-emissions technologies, accurate predictions of the spray characteristics are needed. The objective of the present study is to validate the predictive capabilities of a stochastic breakup model for turbulent transverse jets over a wide range of representative pressures and atomization characteristics. The effect of turbulence modeling is also assessed to provide accurate and computationally less expensive Eulerian-Lagrangian transient approaches. To do so, the predictions made with the large eddy simulation (LES) approach for different subgrid-scale (SGS) models and with the synthetic eddy method (SEM) are compared to the ones made using the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) approach with and without a turbulent dispersion model. The sensitivity of the numerical methodology to the upstream velocity profile, pressure, and momentum flux ratio were also assessed. Properly accounting for the upstream gas velocity profile was found to be critical to ensure accurate predictions of the spray characteristics. The unsteady RANS (URANS) turbulent approach coupled with the turbulent dispersion model showed good agreement with experimental data, but the LES approach tends to overpredict the spray penetration and underpredict the Sauter mean diameter (SMD). This could be due to the lower turbulent interactions it predicts, which may lead to lower momentum transfer between the phases.
A Computer-Aided Markov Random Field Segmentation Algorithm for Assessing Fetal Ventricular Chambers
Authors: Sriraam Natarajan , Sushma T. V. , Suresh S.
Published: February 2023

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most widely occurring congenital defect and accounts to about 28% of the overall congenital defects. Analysis of the development of the fetal heart thus plays an important role for detection of abnormality in early stages and to take corrective measures. Cardiac chamber analysis is one of the important diagnosing methods. Segmentation of the cardiac chambers must be done appropriately to avoid false interpretations. Effective segmentation of fetal ventricular chambers is a challenging task as the speckle noise inherent in ultrasound images cause blurring of the boundaries of anatomical structures. Several segmentation techniques have been proposed for extracting the fetal cardiac chambers. This article discusses the performance evaluation of automated, probability based segmentation approach, and Markov random field (MRF) for segmenting the fetal ventricular chambers of ultrasonic cineloop sequences. 837 ultrasonic biometery sequences of various gestations were collected from local diagnostic center after due ethical clearance and used for the study. In order to assess the efficiency of the segmentation technique, four metrics such as dice coefficient, true positive ratio (TPR), false positive ratio (FPR), similarity ratio (SIR), and precision (PR) were used. In order to perform ground truth validation, 56% of the data used in this study were annotated by clinical experts. The automated segmentation yielded comparable results with manual annotation. The technique results in average value of 0.68 for Dice coefficient, 0.723 for TPR, 0.604 for SIR, and 0.632 for PR.
CONSOLIDACIÓN DEL DERECHO A LA RECREACIÓN EN COLOMBIA: POLÍTICAS, TENSIONES Y DESAFÍOS
Authors: NÚÑEZ JOSE FRANCISCO MORA
Published: February 2023

Los objetivos del presente artículo son, evidenciar la importancia que posee la recreación en la vida cotidiana de los individuos, y exponer los principales motivos en la ejecución de proyectos públicos que no contribuyen al sano esparcimiento de la población más vulnerable. Por consiguiente, se desarrolla un estudio de revisión sistemática en los que se encuentra una gran variedad de documentos explícitos como cartas, informes, tratados internacionales y normas jurídicas, que sustentan la viabilidad y necesidad de fomentar programas encaminados al buen uso del tiempo libre y ocio de la población colombiana, en aras de contrarrestar muchos de los flagelos sociales que han marcado la historia de nuestro país. Obteniendo como resultado un gran acerbo normativo por medio del cual el gobierno y la comunidad internacional brindan mecanismos a todos los ciudadanos para ser partícipes de una sana recreación; sin embargo, aún el Estado no hace lo suficiente y necesario para cumplir con estos mandatos. Palabras claves: Derecho; Recreación; Bienestar.
CONTEÚDOS DA EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA ESCOLAR NO DESENVOLVIMENTO SOCIOCULTURAL DOS ALUNOS DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL I
Authors: GÓES ALANA FERNANDES , JUREMA JEFFERSON
Published: February 2023

Considerando a importância da Educação Física Escolar em proporcionar aos alunos as vivências, conhecimentos e reflexões dos mais variados componentes da cultura corporal e social. O objetivo do presente artigo é apontar possibilidades de conteúdo a ser trabalhado no âmbito escolar para o desenvolvimento das Práticas Corporais com o intuito do acréscimo do Desenvolvimento Sociocultural dos alunos do Ensino Fundamental I. Além de discorrer sobre a importância da Educação Física no Ensino Fundamental I, levando em consideração a sua relevância e efetividade no âmbito educacional. Buscou-se ressaltar também a inserção dos temas transversais nas aulas de Educação Física para a construção de uma sociedade sem qualquer tipo de distinção ou discriminação. Esta pesquisa é de cunho bibliográfica qualitativa. Palavras-chave: Ensino Fundamental I; Desenvolvimento sociocultural; Práticas Corporais Alternativas.
New and rare weevils in Hungary II. (Coleoptera: Curculionoidea)
Authors: Szénási Valentin
Published: February 2023

Distribution data are presented for several species of weevils (Coleoptera: Brentidae, Curculionidae) from Hungary. Ceutorhynchus viridanus Gyllenhal, 1837, Miarus ursinus Abeille de Perrin, 1906, Otiorhynchus ovalipennis Boheman, 1842, Otiorhynchus ropotamus Angelov, 1974, and Pachyrhinus lethierryi (Desbrochers des Loges, 1875) are first recorded from the country. Additionally, recent, unpublished Hungarian records of Alcidodes karelinii (Boheman, 1844), Ceratapion armatum (Gerstaecker, 1854), Curculio gyongyiae Szénási, 2022, Gronops lunatus (Fabricius, 1775), Herpes porcellus (Lacordaire, 1863), Hypera libanotidis (Reitter, 1896), Loborhynchapion amethystinum (Miller, 1857), Otiorhynchus coarctatus Stierlin, 1861, Otiorhynchus juglandis Apfelbeck, 1895, Otiorhynchus lutosus Stierlin, 1858, Otiorhynchus roubali Penecke, 1931, Otiorhynchus winkleri F. Solari, 1937 and Polydrusus crinipes Germann, 2018 are presented.
Zygomatic implants in intra-sinus versus extra-maxillary approaches for prosthetic rehabilitation in severely atrophic maxillae. Finite element analysis
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Manizales, Colombia., Aristizábal-Hoyos Juan , Aristizábal-Mulett Juan ,   Universidad Autónoma de Manizales, Colombia., López-Soto Olga ,   Universidad Autónoma de Manizales, Colombia., Mulett-Vásquez Jackeline ,   Universidad Autónoma de Manizales, Colombia., Bazurto-Aguirre Jessica ,   Universidad Autónoma de Manizales, Colombia., Zambrano-Elizondo Yuleisi ,   Universidad Autónoma de Manizales, Colombia
Published: February 2023

Objetive: To compare the stresses and deformations generated on the surrounding bone of the zygomatic implants when using an intra sinusal and extra-maxillary approach, through the finite element method. Material and Methods: Computer aided designs (CADs) were constructed using SolidWorks Software of a skull with bone resorption to be rehabilitated through a fixed hybrid prosthesis using two zygomatic and two conventional straight implants. For the boundary conditions (load conditions), symmetry in the sagittal plane was assumed and that all the materials were isotropic, homogeneous and linearly elastic. Two zygomatic implantation techniques were simulated: intra sinusal (Is) and extra maxillary (Em). Vertical and lateral loads of 150 N and 50 N were applied to the finite element models to obtain Von Mises equivalent stress and strain (displacement). Results: The average measurement of the Von Mises stress (MPa) recorded were as follows: Approach of the implant body (Is: 0.24- Em: 0.28,) effort of implant body with vertical load: Is: 0.69 - Em: 0.96; effort of peri-implant surface under horizontal load: Is: 2.11 - Em: 0.94. Average displacement under vertical load of peri-implant surface Is: 0.35 - Em: 0.40, and of implant body Is: 1.34 - Em: 2.04. Average total deformation in approach Is: 2.23 mm - Em: 0.80mm, and average total deformation in the implant body under horizontal load was Is: 0.14 - Em: 0.21. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that despite the differences that occurred in both stress and strain (displacement) between the intra-sinus and extra-maxillary approaches, the static strength of the bone, which is approximately 150 MPa in tension and 250 MPa in compression was not exceeded. Considering the limitations of finite element analysis, there seems to be no biomechanical reason to choose one approach over the other.
Investigation of the influence of the stoichiometric composition of the coating and heat treatment modes on the phase composition of coatings of the Y-Al-O system
Authors:   Ufa State Aviation Technical University, Nazarov A.Yu. , Khusainova A.M. ,   Ufa State Aviation Technical University, Maslov A.A. ,   Ufa State Aviation Technical University, Ramazanov K.N. ,   Ufa State Aviation Technical University, Syrtanov M.S. ,   National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Nikolaev A.A. ,   Ufa State Aviation Technical University, Tulina A.A. ,   Ufa State Aviation Technical University, Vardanyan E.L ,   Ufa State Aviation Technical University
Published: February 2023

The paper presents the results of studies of coatings of the Y-Al-O system deposited by the vacuum-arc method with simultaneous deposition from two electric arc evaporators with single-component Y and Al cathodes. Three different deposition modes were selected. After coating deposition, the samples were annealed in a vacuum furnace at 800 and at 1200 °C to determine the effect of annealing temperature on phase formation. In all modes of heat treatment, the YAlO3 phase is formed. With an increase in temperature, more complex compounds Y3Al5O12(YAG) and Y4Al2O9(YAM) are formed. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the heat treatment temperature and deposition mode affect the phase composition of the coating, it was also found that after deposition the coating has an amorphous structure. The structure was studied using a scanning electron microscope. The diffusion of the coating sublayer into the base is observed on samples that were annealed at a temperature of 1200 °C.
Energy impact on the substrate during dual magnetron deposition of tialn coatings
Authors:   Institute of High Current Electronics of SB RAS, Grenadyorov A.S. ,   Applied Electronics Ltd, Zakharov A.N. ,   Institute of High Current Electronics of SB RAS, Oskirko V.O. ,   Institute of High Current Electronics of SB RAS; Applied Electronics Ltd, Sidelev D.V. ,   National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Oskomov K.V. ,   Institute of High Current Electronics of SB RAS, Solovyev A.A. ,   Institute of High Current Electronics of SB RAS
Published: February 2023

The dependences of the energy flux density on the substrate and the specific energy transferred to the coating on duty cycle in the process of dual magnetron deposition of TiAlN coatings were obtained. It is shown that by decreasing the duty cycle from 40 to 6% the energy flux to the substrate is increased by 20-30% with unchanged average discharge power. Together with a decrease in the deposition rate of coatings in the high pulse power mode, there is a sixfold increase in the specific energy that the coating receives during growth. Thus, adjustment of the duty cycle can be considered as a way to control the energy impact on the sputtered coating, on which its structure and properties depend. It has been shown that TiAlN coatings obtained at low values of the duty cycle and a high level of energy impact on the substrate have high hardness and wear resistance.
Rock cutting by electric pulse method
Authors:   National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Zhurkov M.Yu. , Datskevich S.Yu. ,   National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Zhuravlev M.V. ,   National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Yudin A.S ,   National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University
Published: February 2023

The work is devoted to the development of an electric pulse method for processing rocks and other solid dielectric and semiconducting materials. For the first time, experimental studies of the electric pulse method of cutting rocks in water were carried out using a high-voltage pulse generator with a pulse repetition rate of up to 25 impulses per second and a voltage of up to 160 kV. The results showed the possibility of using high-voltage generators with a low pulse energy and a high repetition rate in the electric pulse technology when using water as a flushing liquid. At the same time, the used mechanical system for moving the electrodes and washing needs to be improved to increase the productivity of electric pulse processing.
Influence of the percentage of argon in the Ar -N2 gas mixture on the relative number of Ar+, N2+, N and N+ particles in the plasma of a non-self-sustaining low-pressure glow discharge with a hollow cathode
Authors:   Institute of High Current Electronics SB RAS, Kovalsky S.S. , Denisov V.V. ,   Institute of High Current Electronics SB RAS, Ostroverkhov E.V. ,   Institute of High Current Electronics SB RAS, Prokop’ev V.E. ,   Institute of High Current Electronics SB RAS
Published: February 2023

The paper presents the results of studies of argon-nitrogen plasma of a non-self-sustaining low-pressure glow discharge with a hollow cathode by optical emission spectrometry. The plasma was generated in a mixture of Ar-N2 gases with an argon percentage from 0 to 100% at a total pressure of 1 Pa. The discharge current and voltage were maintained constant and amounted to 18 A and 165 V, respectively. A significant increase in the amount of Ar+ (up to 30%) at a nitrogen content of 10-25% was shown, which is associated with a shift in the reaction of nitrogen recharging with argon towards the generation of argon ions. It was found that at a low partial pressure of nitrogen (≈ 10%), a sharp increase in the content of atomic nitrogen is observed, which is probably due to the dissociation of nitrogen molecules upon collisions with an excited argon atom.
Descriptive analysis of dyscalculia articles published in Turkiye and a music-supported model proposal for dyscalculia education
Authors: CEYLAN Arif Deniz , ÖZAL GÖNCÜ İlknur
Published: February 2023

Learning disabilities could create some important problems that affect the daily activites of individuals who experience this condition. These problems affect individuals as well as their families. Qualified training applied by scientific methods can minimize these negative effects. "Dyscalculia", which is the numerical dimension of specific learning difficulty, can prevent individuals from revealing their true potential. It is extremely important to know what dyscalculia is, to diagnose it correctly and to know the correct teaching methods by educators. In this study, it was aimed to examine the studies on dyscalculia and to reveal the orientation related to these studies and to make the literature more known. In addition, a model suggestion was made regarding the use of music in the education of dyscalculic individuals. The sample of this research consists of articles published in TR Dizin between 2011-2022. The keywords "dyscalculia, math difficulty, math learning difficulty" were searched in both Turkish and English in the TR Dizin. Sixteen articles reached by scanning were determined to be analyzed as samples. An article review form was created by the researchers with the themes determined by expert opinion. The data were prepared and analyzed with the help of the document review method and this form. In the study, it was concluded that dyscalculia is a subject that has not been studied sufficiently in Türkiye. It is thought that multidisciplinary studies may contribute to the field in future studies.
NOBILITY AND WAR: THE FORMATION OF THE SUBJECT OF HEROIC ACTION
Authors:   Kryvyi Rih National University, Ukraine, ТSYMBAL Tetiana
Published: February 2023

The article presents the results of the study of problem of relationship between the phenomena of heroism and nobility in conditions of war, as well as the understanding of the process of formation of the subject of heroic action. A just defensive war is considered as an ethical and existential challenge for a person, which provides a tragic opportunity to reveal moral qualities, leads to an extraordinary elevation of the spirit, helps to realize one's devotion to the highest values – truth, kindness and beauty, in conditions when the aggressor brutally destroying them. It is emphasized that war is a breaking point for society, which also leads to a test of morality and nobility of spirit. It is noted that the concept of «nobility» is used in two meanings: as a high origin and as the internal qualities of a person. Nobility in the ethical sense includes such characteristics of a person as philanthropy and sincerity, honor and generosity, dignity and respect for one's people. An example of nobility is a hero who realizes his high calling is to make the world suitable for a dignified human existence. The article presents several leading approaches to understanding the subject of heroic action: classical, socio-philosophical, intersubjective, existentially-anthropological and constructivist.It is emphasized that the hero exceeds limits of an ordinary person, he is unexpected even for himself, because as a rule, a heroic act cannot be programmed. A feat is defined as an accomplished, manifested possibility of an impossible, the affirmation of values higher than one's own life, which occurs under conditions created by a metaphysical problem, an existential threat. A heroic act is seen as nondeterministic and teleological. In addition to the ethical prerequisites of readiness for a feat, certain psychological qualities of the subject are also highlighted, which contribute to his appearance as a hero. It is claimed that, despite positive propaganda and patriotic education, the experience of Russian-Ukrainian war and the example of modern Ukrainian heroes, nobility will never be widespread, but we can have more noble people, and the attitude towards heroes will become more respectful. It is especially emphasized that heroism expands the horizons of the vital world, it is asserted as a necessary and justified strategy of social behavior in the modus of maximum existential tension and existential threats, therefore today it is extremely important to study the outlined problems, which will allow a comprehensive understanding and a deeper grasp of their essence.
NEW RESEARCH FROM THE PAST UKRAINIAN PHILOSOPHY AND SOCIOLOGY (Review of the collective monograph: I. Grabovska, S. Grabovsky, V. Krysachenko, K. Nastoyascha, L. Chupriy ―Latent West-European Discourses in Ukrainian Philosophy and Sociology in the age of the URSR‖ / Ed. K. Nastoyasha. Ternopil: "Krok", 2022. 229 p.).
Authors:   Rivne State Humanitarian University Ukraine, SHAMSUTDYNOVA-LEBEDYUK Tetyana
Published: February 2023

The essence and positive components of the research of the team of authors (I. Grabovska, S. Hrabovsky, V. Krysachenko, K. Nastoyascha, L. Chupriy), presented in the form of a monograph "Latent Western European Discourses in Ukrainian Philosophy and Sociology of the Ukrainian SSR", are analyzed. This work is the latest research in the field of national philosophy and sociology of the Ukrainian SSR era, which was published in 2022. The work deserves the attention of scientists, teachers, students, especially humanities and a wide range of readers interested in Ukrainian studies.
STRATEGIES OF BUSINESS UNITS OF DIVERSIFIED INDUSTRIAL COMPANIES AT DIFFERENT STAGES OF THE LIFE CYCLE
Authors: Kolobov A. V.
Published: February 2023

The paper considers the models of organisational development of multidisciplinary companies and their business units. It is shown that the existing models need to be supplemented with two enlarged managerial competencies – management of incremental (modification) innovations and management of radical innovations. The proposed model of a business unit assumes that their development is structured as a progressive passage of the organisation through the stages of housing and communal services by developing the necessary managerial competencies for the next stage. The developed general models are used to form models of organisational development of the “Severgroup”  multidisciplinary corporation and its business units. The strategic portfolio of business units, its parameters and position within the framework of the matrix of housing and communal services of the industry are determined. The result of the study was the formulation of two strategies – “growth to the core” and “growth to the peak”. Models of organisational development of the corporation (changes in the composition and characteristics of the portfolio of business units) and models of transfer of managerial competencies have been developed for each strategy.
THE IMAGE OF THE BORDER GUARD IN SOCIETY
Authors: Zariņa Dace , Arbidāne Iluta , Znotiņa Daina
Published: February 2023

The profession of border guard is one of the oldest professions and plays an important role in the functioning of the state. Its image is shaped by public perceptions of the professional activities, behaviors and attitudes of its members. In principle, it is a set of opinions about the reputation, prestige and popularity of the profession. In order to find out and study the public opinion on the image and prestige of the border guard profession in today's changing conditions, the authors of the article both discusses theoretical findings on the image of the profession and, by analyzing the results of a survey, studies the public opinions on the image of the border guard profession. The public values professionalism, the highest human values (honesty, justice, patriotism, loyalty, etc.), kind and responsive communication, visual image, as well as positive publicity about the sector, achievements of border guards and other positive events.
The biological properties of 3D-printed degradable magnesium alloy WE43 porous scaffolds via the oxidative heat strategy
Authors: Min Shuyuan , Wang Chaoxin , Liu Bingchuan , Liu Jinge , Liu Yu , Jing Zehao , Cheng Yan , Wen Peng , Zheng Yufeng , Tian Yun
Published: February 2023

As a biodegradable material, magnesium alloy has a modulus similar to that of bone, and given the biological activity of its degradation products, it has the potential to be a bone grafting material. Oxidation heat treatment is a very effective passivation method that may reduce the rate of magnesium alloy degradation. Oxidation heat treatment increases the rare earth oxide content of the scaffold as well as the corrosion resistance of the scaffold. The overall cytotoxicity of the as-printed scaffolds (APSs) and oxidation heat-treated scaffolds (OHSs) showed that OHSs accelerated cell proliferation. In the apoptosis experiment, the OHS group had a cell survival rate between that of the control group and of the as-printed group. In the osteogenic induction experiment, the alkaline phosphatase activity and the quantity of mineralized nodules were greater in the APS and OHS groups than in the control group. Marker proteins for bone growth were expressed at higher levels in the APS and OHS groups than in the control group. Therefore, oxidation heat-treated 3D printing scaffolds with good biocompatibility and osteogenic properties have great potential to be made into advanced biomaterials that can be used to fix bone defects.
Autism Spectrum Disorder – Diagnostic Dilemmas in a Boy with a Doubly Disadvantaged Background
Authors: Gregorič Kumperščak Hojka
Published: February 2023

Purpose: we present a case report on a boy with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to illustrate the differential diagnostic questions that can emerge when working with such subjects.

Case report: ASD is defined with qualitative deficits in social interactions, communications, and interests and activities. In the subject of this report these symptoms are influenced by a doubly disadvantage background. First, the boy belongs to an ethnicity known for its reservedness in communication – not only with strangers but also within their own families. Second, he was further disadvantaged by his specific microfamily environment.

Conclusion: a doubly disadvantaged background appears to have interfered with the subject's development; consideration of this background was crucial for understanding his condition
The predictive and prognostic value of CA 125 in endometrial cancer
Authors: Arko Darja , Tašner Tanja , Takač Iztok
Published: February 2023

Endometrial cancer is the most common malignant tumour of the female genital tract. It affects mainly older women, with postmenopausal bleeding as the primary symptom. The diagnosis of endometrial cancer is confirmed by histological evaluation of tissue specimens and described as either type I or type II. Treatment includes surgery (hysterectomy, adnexectomy and dissection of pelvic and paraaortic lymph nodes), radiotherapy, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy. Preoperative serum CA 125 (Cancer Antigen 125 or Carbohydrate Antigen 125) concentrations are correlated with depth of myometrial invasion, lymph node metastases, positive peritoneal cytology and invasion of the lymphovascular space, and can assist in making decisions about the extent of surgery. Preoperative CA 125 levels have prognostic value; postoperative levels serve as a predictor of early recurrence. Elevated serum CA 125 is linked not only with endometrial cancer, but also with several benign and malignant conditions, including ovarian cancer. Other tumour markers (e.g., CA 15–3, CA 19–9) and a promising new marker human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) can also be used for managing patients with endometrial cancer.
Complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease: 10-year experience
Authors: Hojski Aljaž , Crnjac Barbara , Vuletić Filip , Crnjac Anton
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition of modern times resulting from chronic reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. The cause underlying GERD involves an imbalance between noxious and protective factors of the esophageal mucosa and a functional disorder of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The transitional release of the LES appearing more frequently and longer than physiologically normal is the main cause for the development of GERD. The negative effects of reflux can increase by disturbed esophageal motility, which is unable to regularly clear the esophagus in esophageal motility disorders and disturbed gastric emptying in large hiatal hernias and peptic ulcers. Typical GERD symptoms include a burning sensation or pain behind the sternum, return of bitter or acidic gastric content into the esophagus, rare odynophagia and extraesophageal signs, such as non-cardiac chest pain, chronic cough, and hoarseness

Methods: A literature revue and a review of clinical cases over a 10-year span in the Department for Thoracic Surgery University Medical Centre Maribor.

Results: The study was also drawn from 10 years of experience with surgical treatment of GERD and its complications. The treatment of reflux esophagitis and asthma as a GERD complication is not the domain of a surgeon. Surgical treatment is indicated in passage-blocking conditions and in cases in which GERD cannot be managed with medical therapy. In the period from 2006–2015 we performed 928 surgeries to remove and prevent GERD complications.

Conclusion: Several possible complications of GERD are known, among which the development of Barret’s esophagus as a pre-malignant condition of the esophageal mucosa and the development of glandular carcinoma of distal esophagus are especially dangerous. Therefore, a precise diagnostic treatment is necessary when treating the underlying disease of patients as the clinical picture of GERD often resembles problems related to other thoracic pathologies.
Correlations between infant mortality and recommended immunization schedules against vaccine–preventable diseases in Slovenia
Authors: Zemljič Mateja , Pejković Božena , Kranjc Ivan , Kraigher Alenka
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The infant mortality rate (IMR) is among the most important indicators of a nation's health and well–being. In Slovenia, over the last 55 years, infant mortality (IM) has decreased rapidly and vaccinations are undoubtedly the major contributing factor. In Slovenia, infant immunization is initiated at the age of 3 months. The vaccination schedule includes several doses of combined vaccines that should be administered according to the yearly program on immunization.

Methods: In this retrospective study, 279 infants were divided into subgroups in accordance with the vaccination program. The structure of the study design used the data of the National Institute of Public Health of Slovenia regarding the causes of IM for the years 2007–2011

Results: Direct and indirect leading causes of death were infant respiratory distress syndrome (n = 22), extreme immaturity (n = 19), necrotizing enterocolitis (n = 18), extremely low birth weight (n = 14), and hypoplastic left heart syndrome (n = 14). The maximum IMR (85.30%) occurred before the recommended vaccination period. During the prescribed program of vaccination, the IMR was 14.70%.

Conclusion: Genetic alterations, congenital abnormalities, and preterm birth complications are the major and leading causes of IM. Most instances of IM occur within the first two months of life, before the recommended vaccinations. During the recommended vaccination period, IM is low and causes of death are largely congenital and genetic diseases. The results of the comparative study during the recommended vaccination schedule by the end of the first year of life from 2007 to 2011 substantiates that the vaccines are not a major cause of IM.
Ten years after the release of the first issue of Acta medico-biotechnica / 10 let po izidu prve številke revije Acta medico-biotechnica
Authors: Pahor Dušica
Published: February 2023

Dear readers, We almost overlooked this date – the 10th anniversary of the publication of the first issue. We are so used to its half-yearly publication that we simply forgot to count. But the fact is that on December 03, 2008 the first issue of Acta medico-biotechnica was published. Slowly we have taken it as our own, it has become a part of us. The majority of you are naming it just Acta. We have stopped thinking about whether the next issue number will be released or not. In between there were years that we survived with more difficulty, there were even doubts about it continuing, but we have endured and succeeded so that we can now light 10 candles on the cake. Of course, we will, upon this jubilee, also blow them out and at that express wishes to the journal for many further successful years.
Laparoscopic cornual resection for interstitial pregnancy - a case report
Authors: Bizjak Tina , Rakić Saša
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Ectopic pregnancy is defined as the implantation of a fertilized egg outside of the uterine endometrium. Previous research has reported an increase in the incidence of ectopic pregnancy and estimated that this condition occurs in 1.5 to 2.5% of pregnancies (1). In cases of ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg most often implants in the fallopian tubes. In some cases, it can also implant at the site where the fallopian tube and the uterus join; this is a condition referred to as interstitial pregnancy (2). Rupture of interstitial pregnancy can have catastrophic consequences with a mortality rate of up to 2% (2, 3).

Case report: Here, we report the case of a 33-years-old patient with an interstitial pregnancy in the right uterine horn. We successfully performed laparoscopic surgery with a harmonic scalpel and preliminary coagulation of the uterine artery without any complications. Following surgery, the pregnancy was normal and was carried to term.

Conclusions: Previously, the treatment of interstitial pregnancy was mostly performed surgically by open surgery including resection of the affected horn of the uterus (4). However, several successful clinical cases of laparoscopic surgery have now been reported (5-8). In our opinion, laparoscopic resection, with a harmonic scalpel and preliminary coagulation of the uterine artery, represents a safe and efficient techniqueand should be used more regularly in the treatment of interstitial pregnancy.
Speech by the UM Rector Professor Zdravko Kačič, PhD 15th Anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Maribor / Nagovor rektorja UM prof. dr. Zdravka Kačiča 15. obletnica Medicinske fakultete UM
Authors: Kačič Zdravko
Published: February 2023

We know how important health is and that it is associated with a healthy lifestyle. That is why we understand the meaning of the Latin proverb: “If you lack a physician, let your physicians be a light-hearted soul, rest and moderate life”. However, nowadays in the urban environment of a developed society, when almost everything is available to us, it is hard to imagine the difficulties of millions of people across the world, who lack fundamental health care services. Similarly, it is hard to imagine, for example, the situation of one of the most important medieval reformers of medicine, Paracelsus, who after completing his medical studies, travelled and was “a travelling healer” and claimed that “a physician has to be a traveller who must look for old women, Romanies, magicians, vagrants, old bandits and similar outcasts, from whom one can learn much”.
Diabetic cardiomyopathy—an under-recognized cause of heart failure in diabetic patients
Authors: Šarun David , Kanič Vojko , Sinkovič Andreja
Published: February 2023

Cardiovascular disorders are the major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with diabetes mellitus. The prevalence of heart failure is 3–5 times higher in diabetic patients compared with the general population. Diabetic cardiomyopathy is defined as a diabetes-specific disorder characterized by the presence of functional or morphologic changes in the diabetic myocardium, unrelated to coronary artery disease, valvular dysfunction, and arterial hypertension. Hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and hyperinsulinemia are the major abnormalities affecting cardiac metabolism, mitochondrial function, and cellular growth. Cardiac changes are more pronounced in type 2 diabetes mellitus compared with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The restrictive phenotype is a common presentation with left ventricular remodeling and diastolic dysfunction, while the left ventricular ejection fraction is preserved. The dilated phenotype with eccentric remodeling and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction is uncommon and might be a hallmark of advanced disease. Although no specific treatment has been recommended, new-generation anti-diabetic drugs (sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors) have yielded promising results and extensive research is underway.
Diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis in patients with osteoporotic hip fracture
Authors: Krajnc Mateja , Ivetić Vojislav
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of undiagnosed and untreated osteoporosis cases prior to hip fracture, to determine if there are more patients with diagnosed and treated osteoporosis from model family medicine practices compared to standard family medicine practice patients, and to determine the proportion of patients initiating osteoporosis therapy after discharge from hospital. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, qualitative study at the Department of Surgery, General Hospital of Dr. Jože Potrč Ptuj, Slovenia, using patient records from the period of January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2016, including data analysis of patient discharge letters.Results: The analysis used data from 145 patients, 26 men (17.9%) and 119 women (82.1%). The mean age was 82.7 (±6.8) years. At discharge, 70.4% (81 out of 115) of patients were mobile and 28.3% (41 out of 145) of these were discharged and allowed to return home. The study showed that osteoporosis prior to hip fracture was undiagnosed and untreated in 94.5% (137 out of 145) of cases. Osteoporosis therapy was initiated at discharge in only 7.1% (10 out of 140) of patients, and recommendations to initiate osteoporosis therapy at discharge were provided in 15.0% (21 out of 140). There was no significant difference between model family medicine practice patients (5 out of 91; 5.5%) and patients from standard family medicine practices (8.1%; 3 out of 37) in the proportion of patients treated for osteoporosis prior to hospitalization due to hip fracture (p>0.05).Conclusion: The study concluded that the prevalence proportion of undiagnosed osteoporosis is quite high and that, despite all recommendations and guidelines, management of osteoporotic hip fractures still remains a major challenge at all levels of healthcare.
The Code of Ethical Conduct of the University of Maribor / Kodeks etičnega ravnanja Univerze v Mariboru
Authors: Pahor Dušica
Published: February 2023

On July 06, 2021 the Senate of the University of Maribor adopted the Code of Ethical Conduct of the University of Maribor. Having adopted the new document, the Code of Professional Ethics of the University of Maribor from the year 2015 and theCode of Ethics and Integrity for Researchers at the function. The Code of Ethical Conduct is a general act of the University of Maribor, and it is binding for all the university's workers and students ...
Awareness and expectations of visitors to family medicine practices about palliative care in Slovenia
Authors: Zelko Erika , Gašpar Dorotea , Gjuras Estera , Krčevski Škvarč Nevenka
Published: February 2023

Purpose: In Slovenia, palliative medicine and care are developing more intensively in the last years. Appraisal of the existing evidence on, expectations in, and awareness about palliative care (PC) in Slovenia is essential to inform the emerging practice and future research.

Methods: A cross–sectional survey of 2000 individuals aged over 18 years old was performed. Information was collected using a structured questionnaireconsisting of 18 items. Analysis of the questions is presented using descriptive statistics. The significance level was set at p ≤0.05 in all analyses.

Results: 58.6% of participants report having little awareness of PC, with most information received via media (radio, TV, internet) and experience obtaineddirectly or through family and friends. In this sample, increasing age, being female and higher levels of education were related to higher reported levels of awareness of PC. 69.6% of our participants said they wish to die at home. According to our participants, patients at home need, their physical symptoms be well controlled (93.8%), followed by medical and health care (65.9%), and support from voluntary carers (41.4%) and they also highlighted the wish of relatives and patients to be consulted via telephone by a health care providers in case of problems (55.4%). 28.4% confirmed they know the advance healthcare directive form.

Conclusion: The survey data presented here provides an empirical basis from which we can begin stimulating discussions about death, dying and support empowered decision–making, as confronting end of life issues is inevitable for us all. All patients have the right to dignity and peace through their last stages of life.
Interleukin response in patients treated with abbreviated laparotomy for severe intraabdominal sepsis
Authors: Jagrič Tomaž , Gorenjak Maksimiljan , Homšak Evgenija , Krebs Bojan
Published: February 2023

Background: Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines play an important role in abdominal sepsis. Studies suggest that the anti-inflammatory response is more detrimental to the patient with abdominal sepsis than the initial pro-inflammatory response. We therefore studied the serum levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory interleukins in patients with abdominal sepsis treated by abbreviated laparotomy.

Methods: We performed a prospective study of 42 patients treated by abbreviated laparotomy. The patients were divided into a high-risk (more than two procedures before abdominal closure) group (24 patients) and a low-risk (two or fewer procedures) group (18 patients). The differences and correlations between the serum levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines on days one and ten after the initial procedure were assessed.

Results: The mortality was significantly higher in the high-risk group (41.7% vs. 5.6% in the low-risk group; p = 0.012). IL-10 serum levels were significantly higher in the high-risk group (22.5 pg/mL (IQR 5.25)) compared to the low-risk group (12.15 pg/mL (IQR 6.725)) (p = 0.012). Age was significantly correlated with mortality (p = 0.007). The logarithmic value of IL-10 serum levels on day one (HR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.109–5.638; p = 0.027) and the IL-10 cut-off value (HR: 3.816; 95% CI: 1.047–13.910; p = 0.042) were significantly correlated with worse disease course in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions: Patients who exhibit a greater anti-inflammatory response on day one are at increased risk of a protracted course and higher mortality. IL-10 serum levels on day one after surgery predict a worse disease course in these patients and could be a useful marker of abdominal sepsis.
Comparison of the expanded disability status scale and the functional independence measure in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Čelan Nastasja , Čelan Dušan , Jesenšek Papež Breda
Published: February 2023

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate scales that are used to follow up on the condition and course of rehabilitation for an objective assessment of patients with multiple sclerosis. The most commonly used scale is the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) for obtaining information on neurological impairments. The main disadvantage of this scale is that it focuses a lot on the ability to walk and is not adequately sensitive for detecting the changes in the patient in time. The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) is the most commonly used scale in rehabilitation. It evaluates the ability of patients to perform daily activities, for example, feeding and dressing. In the study, we focused on the comparison of EDSS and FIM to ascertain the applicability of FIM in patients with multiple sclerosis. 

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study of 38 patients with multiple sclerosis by talking to the patients and reviewing the medical documentation where the EDSS evaluation was conducted. Then, we evaluated the patient using the FIM scale. The data were processed using the IBM SPSS Statistics 25 software and displayed graphically using the Microsoft Excel program. 

Results: The statistical analysis showed a strong negative correlation between EDSS and FIM (r = -0.731). The motor part of the FIM scale had a strong negative correlation with EDSS (r = -0.732). The cognitive part had a weak negative correlation (r = -0.262). The sex and the duration of the disease did not impact the FIM evaluation significantly. The age had a moderately strong negative correlation (r = -0.396). 

Conclusion: We proposed that FIM was a useful scale for the routine evaluation of patients in the clinical environment.