bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nourishing STEM Student Success via a TEAM-Based Advisement Model
Authors: Polnariev Bernard , Jaafar Reem , Hendrix Tonya , Porter Morgan Holly , Khethavath Praveen , Belkharraz Idrissi Abderrazak
Published: November 2017

LaGuardia Community College is an international leader recognized for developing and successfully implementing initiatives and educating underserved diverse students. LaGuardia’s STEM students are holistically advised by a team of dedicated faculty and staff members from different departments and divisions. As an innovative approach to advisement, students are first connected to an advising team member in their discipline-based first-year seminar and consequently guided by other cross-institutional advisement team members to ensure their continued success. In this article, we share our policies, processes, and promising practices in advising STEM student at an urban public institution. We present arguments that address and support five pillars for student success: 1) the student matters, 2) supportive culture matters, 3) effective communication matters, 4) data matters, and, 5) clear pathways and effective advisement matters. Finally, we present empirical evidence that show positive results in terms of students’ retention. Specifically, there was an improvement in the actual Fall 2015 to 2016 return rate of STEM students, from 62.9% to 64.6%. Our scaled practice demonstrates the value of collaborative team-based advisement efforts as supported through professional development can improve community college STEM student persistence when the above five pillars are fully espoused by the institution.
Dimensions of Quality in Teacher Education: Perception and Practices of Teacher Educators in the Universities of Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: Sahito Zafarullah , Vaisanen Pertti
Published: November 2017

This study was conducted to explore the dimensions of quality education in teacher education departments at universities of Sindh province of Pakistan. The qualitative research approach was employed for data collection and then analysed through thematic-narrative analysis technique. The total eight dimensions of quality were found, as two were concerned with pre-sage, four as process and two as product dimensions, known as 3Ps. The findings of this article would be found reliable resource and an addition in to the existing literature of quality education to understand the phenomenon in existing organisational setting of teacher education departments and institutions in Sindh, Pakistan. The radical reforms for educational and economic development can be brought through better understanding of the phenomenon of the quality education, which support the teacher educators, students and the heads to maintain peace and prosperity for humanity in their respective societies through quality teaching-learning process.
Conflicts of Interest in Financial Distress: The Role of Employees
Authors: Liu Wenchien
Published: November 2017

The interests of employees are not consistent with those of other stakeholders when firms are in financial distress. Hence, conflicts of interest among stakeholders are more severe, especially for those firms with strong union power, as news is reported in the media. However, little attention has been paid to the impacts of employees on bankruptcy resolutions. This study examines the impacts of employees (i.e., union power) on the conflicts of interest of distressed firms in the United States from 1983 to 2015. We find that union power has strong effects on conflicts of interest related to employees, such as asset sales, debtor-in-possession financing, successful emergence from bankruptcy, CEO replacement, and refiling for bankruptcy. On the contrary, for conflicts of interest unrelated to employees, including the costs of bankruptcy resolution, choice of bankruptcy resolution method, and conflicts of interest between creditors and debtors, we find no significant relationships. Finally, we also find a positive impact of union power on the probability of refiling for bankruptcy in the future after emerging successfully.
The Critical Success Factors Influencing the Quality of Accounting Information Systems and the Expected Performance
Authors: Mohammad Al-Ibbini Omran Ahmad
Published: November 2017

The ever-increasing complexities and controversial challenges in today’s accounting and financial environment require organizations to adopt and use high-quality accounting information systems. The study aimed to develop a conceptual framework for exploring the critical success factors that affect the quality of accounting information systems and the expected performance. After reviewing extensively the related literature, the study’s framework identified the quality of accounting information systems’ critical factors in terms of top management support, education and training, continuous improvement, user involvement, and risk management. The quality of accounting information systems has seven dimensions which were accuracy, audit ability, reliability, security, timeliness, flexibility, and user satisfaction. Furthermore, the study’s framework identified three major expected outcomes which are efficiency, effectiveness, and the integration of accounting and financial information from different sources.
An S-Shaped Crude Oil Price Return-Implied Volatility Relation: Parametric and Nonparametric Estimations
Authors: Silva Junior Julio Cesar Araujo da
Published: November 2017

Oil market movements have important implications for portfolio management and hedge strategies for investors who negotiate this commodity. Studies involving the relation of the CBO Crude Oil ETF Volatility Index (OVX) and the United States Oil Fund (USO) return are small in number and do not explore some aspects related to the asymmetry and nonlinearity of this relation. Therefore, this article proposes an analysis about the relation between return and volatility, using parametric and nonparametric methods. To do so, a daily data series from 2007 to 2016, ordinary least squares, quantile regressions and the nonparametric B-splines methods were used. The results indicated a negative, asymmetric and nonlinear contemporary relation between the variables. The effects of negative returns were more pronounced than the positive ones in volatility. In addition, it was found that the relation is not the same for different quantiles. Nonparametric estimates suggested that the positive returns have a convex profile and the negative returns have a concave profile. It indicated the downward-sloping reclined S-curve for the 0.05, 0.90 and 0.95 quantiles of volatility.
Probability to Compute Divisor of a Hidden Integer
Authors: Wang Xingbo , Li Jianhui , Duan Zhikui , Wan Wen
Published: November 2017

The article makes an investigation on the probability of finding the greatest common divisor between a given integer and a hidden integer that lies in an integer interval. It shows that, adding the integers that are picked randomly in the interval results in a much bigger probability than subtracting the picked integers one with another. Propositions and theorems are proved and formulas to calculate the probabilities are presented in detail. The research is helpful in developing probabilistic algorithm of integer factorization.
Świadectwa polskiej kultury na Białorusi
Authors: Soboń Klaudia
Published: November 2017

Through the centuries, history united Poland and Belarus, therefore Belarus
was almost completely Polonized. The history events and border moving of both
nations caused that Poles are second biggest national minority after Russians on
the Belarusian ground. The general theme of this article is to present testaments
of culture that show evidence of Poles’ presence on these lands in the form of
memorial sites and their current activities in Belarus.
Reinserção social da população do cárcere e suas expectativas no projeto Olimpo em Belém do Pará
Authors: Guimaraes Soliane Fernandes , Barp Wilson José , Nummer Fernanda Valli
Published: November 2017

O Sistema Penitenciário Brasileiro atual vive uma realidade bastante complexa. Deste modo, desenvolver este trabalho possibilitou uma investigação científica sobre os desafios dos projetos de reinserção social da população do cárcere e as expectativas dos presos que participam do projeto OLIMPO, já que esse trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar qual a percepção dos presos que participam das atividades laborais implementadas pelo sistema carcerário, quando do cumprimento de suas Penas. A Pesquisa baseou-se na metodologia qualitativa, utilizando a técnica do grupo focal. Entre os seus resultados, detectaram-se aspectos referentes ao perfil dos presos envolvidos no projeto, bem como a grande satisfação destes em participarem de programas voltados para atividades laborais, esclarecendo, assim, que o trabalho para os presos no sistema penitenciário está relacionado principalmente ao direito à remição de pena e aos privilégios ofertados intramuros, como saídas diárias ao trabalho, possibilidade de visita aos familiares e amigos.
A institucionalização da agricultura familiar no Mercosul: da definição normativa aos sistemas nacionais de registro
Authors: Niederle Paulo Andre
Published: November 2017

Analisa o processo de institucionalização da agricultura familiar nos países do Mercosul. O foco volta-se para a ação da Reunião Especializada sobre Agricultura Familiar (REAF), um fórum multilateral que se tornou o principal espaço de diálogo entre governos e movimentos sociais para o desenho de políticas de desenvolvimento rural em âmbito regional. A partir de análise documental, observação dos diálogos e entrevistas com gestores públicos e lideranças sociais, o artigo demonstra como a REAF coordenou um processo de harmonização dos quadros normativos que definem, identificam e tipificam a agricultura familiar. Ao mesmo tempo, analisa as controvérsias que cercaram a redação de uma definição comum e os desafios relacionados à operacionalização dos Sistemas Nacionais de Registro. Os resultados apontam ainda para o protagonismo do Brasil neste processo, mas também para as readequações institucionais operadas pelos demais países, o que retroalimenta discussões sobre a pertinência de alterações normativas no próprio contexto brasileiro.
Breve ensaio sobre a lógica subjetiva dos povos e comunidades tradicionais amazônidas
Authors: De Sousa Girlian Silva , Pezzuti Juarez Carlos Brito
Published: November 2017

O trabalho de pesquisa sobre os povos e comunidades tradicionais exige o reconhecimento das particularidades socioculturais desses agentes e a adoção de abordagens teóricas que deem conta da complexidade das relações que se estabelecem entre as sociedades tradicionais, a natureza e o mercado, cujas influencias ideológicas se fazem cada vez mais presentes na medida em que se intensificam as relações entre esses povos e a sociedade capitalista urbana. Nesse sentido, as relações econômicas precisam ser analisadas sem perder de vista as relações sociais e simbólicas evitando-se a confusão entre a lógica econômica do contexto social do pesquisador com a lógica subjetiva dos agentes estudados. Este artigo discute a lógica subjetiva dos povos e comunidades tradicionais e a partir das perspectivas teóricometodológicas da Antropologia Econômica e da Etnografia.
6-MP based maintenance therapy of childhood ALL in Slovenia: a retrospective study from 1970 to 2004
Authors: Karas Kuželički Nataša , Šmid Alenka , Mlinarič Raščan Irena , Jazbec Janez
Published: November 2017

Background: Maintenance therapy with 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) as its major component has been one of the main reasons for the drastic increase in overall survival of paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) patients. In our cohort, consisting of patients receiving maintenance therapy for ALL and encompassing time period of three decades, we evaluated dosage, safety and efficiency of 6-MP in the treatment of childhood ALL according to treatment protocol, age and gender. Methods: Slovenian paediatric ALL patients diagnosed and treated from 1970 to 2004 were identified through the national oncology patients` registry. Of 414 registered paediatric ALL patients, 320 received maintenance therapy for ALL and were included into the final study cohort. Information about age, gender, treatment protocol, 6-MP related toxic events and ALL relapse was extracted from patients` files. Differences in 6-MP dose reduction, 6-MP side effects and relapse according to gender, age and treatment protocol were statistically evaluated. Results: After adjustment for gender and age incidence of 6-MP dose reduction (p<0.001) and bone marrow suppression (p = 0.019) was higher in recent treatment protocols, while relapse was more common in older protocols (p < 0.001). Younger patients had greater risk for sepsis/infection (p = 0.002), while greater age was a risk factor for osteonecrosis (p = 0.001). No statistically significant associations were found according to gender. Conclusions: In the retrospective study, encompassing three decades of maintenance treatment of childhood ALL in Slovenia, recent protocols exhibited greater effectiveness and toxicity than older protocols.
Do the experiences of patients of state-employed family physicians and concessionaires in Slovenia differ?
Authors: Rotar Pavlic Danica , Sever Maja , Klemenc-Ketiš Zalika , Švab Igor , Kersnik Janko , Boerma Wienke
Published: November 2017

Background: Family practice in Slovenia is provided by state-employed family physicians as well as concessionaires. However, both work under a contract withthe National Health Insurance Institute. This study focuses on comparing patients’ experiences with Slovenian concessionaires and state- employed physicians. Methods: We performed analyses using survey data from a cross-sectional study on patient experiences, which took place from September 2011 to April 2012 as a part of the international QUALICOPC study. The Slovenian branch of this study included 1,962 patients visiting family practices. Patients were classified into two groups regarding the registered status of their family physician. They completed the questionnaires immediately after visiting their family physicians. Data used in the analyses included 76variables:18socio-economic and 58variableslinked to the patient's experience. Results:The analyses showed few differences between concessionaires and state-employed family physicians. In comparison to patients of state-employed family physicians, patients of concessionaires were less likely to make an appointment for a visit (19.8% vs. 29.2%), were generally more frequent visitors (43.7% vs. 50.7%), and more often felt that opening hours are too restricted (25.7 % vs. 31.9%). Patients of concessionaires believed more often that in general, doctors can be trusted (40.1% vs.47.1 %). A smaller percentage of patients of concessionaires felt that their physician had the capacity to deal with personal problems as well as provide medical care (61.9% vs. 54.7%). Conclusions: There are few differences in patients’ experiences of state-employed family physicians and concessionaires. Slovenian patients have a generally positive experience with family practice services regardless of the family physicians’ status. Plans for organizational change of the health sector should include patients’ perceptions of services.
PREDSTAVITEV PRIMERA: NODULARNI MELANOM
Authors: Zupančič Tina , Mervic Liljana
Published: November 2017

Nodular melanoma is a rare type of cutaneous melanoma with an increased risk of death. It often mimics benign cutaneous tumors and inflammatory lesions. It has pronounced vertical growth phase and greater thickness at the time of diagnosis which caries ominous prognostic value. Nodular melanoma quickly develops metastases which are often present before the disease is clinically recognised. Here, we report a case of nodular melanoma clinically mimicking seborrheic keratosis. Therapy and 36 months follow-up after primal excision are also presented.
MIDAORTNI SINDROM PRI 4-LETNEM DEČKU – PRIKAZ PRIMERA
Authors: Zajc Avramovič Mojca , Rus Rina
Published: November 2017

Middle aortic syndrome (MAS) is a rare clinical condition defined by segmental narrowing of lower thoracic aorta or abdominal aorta and her branches. The most common clinical manifestation is severe hypertension, it can also manifest as abdominal or lower-limb claudication. Untreated patients have greatly shortened life expectancy. Diagnosis is made by angiography. Treatment consists of surgical correction and antihypertensive medications. We present a case of a 4-year old boy with MAS, who is treated at Department of Pediatric Nephrology in University Children's Hospital in Ljubljana.
Infekcijski endokarditis na trikuspidalni zaklopki povzročen z bakterijo Eikinella corrodens
Authors: Tretjak Martin , Vujasinović Miroslav , Piltaver Vajdec Irena , Pikelj Pečnik Andreja , Kikec Zdenko
Published: November 2017

AbstractBackground. Infectious endocarditis of the tricuspid valve is rare in non-intravenous drug users and patients without central venous devices. The most frequent causative agents are staphylococci, rarely other bacteria.Methods. We describe a case of a 57-year-old patient without history of drug abuse that was admitted to our hospital because of fever with chills, dry cough, loss of appetite and wasting lasting for a few months. He had a venous ulcer on the right foot and interdigital inflammation on both feet. Eikenella corrodens was isolated from blood cultures. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a large vegetation on the anterior leaflet of tricuspid valve. CT scan oh the thorax showed probable septic emboli. The patient was treated conservatively with prolonged double antibiotic regimen. During the treatment there were no further complications.Conclusions. In our patients a rare form of tricuspid valve endocarditis was confirmed, caused by Eikenella corrodens. The possibility of infectious endocarditis should always be considered in patients with prolonged fever, especially when a possible causative agent is isolated from blood cultures.
VPLIV TRAMADOLA NA ZDRAVLJENJE POOPERATIVNE BOLEČINE PO ODSTRANITVI ŽRELNICE IN NEBNIC PRI OTROCIH
Authors: Benedik Janez
Published: November 2017

Background: Tonsillectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgical prcedures in childhood. Acute pain after tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy can be treated with non-opioid and opioid analgesics. Our hypothesis stated that tramadol iv after induction of anaesthesia has superior analgesic effect compared to acetaminophen.Methods:  In a prospective, randomised study we compared analgesic efficacy of tramadol (group T: 2 mg/kgBW iv) and acetaminophen (group A: elixir 15 mg/kgBW before op. procedure) in a group of 108 children (age 3-7 years). Exclusion critheria: allergy, liver or kidney failure, epilepsy, febrile convulsions. A standard anaesthetic technique was used: propofol, alfentanil, vecuronium, positive pressure ventilation with 60% nitrous oxide in oxygen. After the procedure each child received acetaminophen suppositories (10 mg/kgBW/4-6h) and combined suppositories. Monitoring: vital signs during and after op. procedure, pain intensity on the ward (facial pain score).    Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in age distribution (mean age 5,2 years), ASA physical status, body weight, operative procedure, pain scores (VAS 6h after operative procedure; group T: 4,21±1,45; group A: 4,06±1,33), oxygen saturation, pulse frequency and the consumption of acetaminophen suppositories. Significant difference was in the consumption of combined suppositories (group T: 1,85±0,79; group A: 1,43±0,69, p=0,003).   Conclusion: Our study has shown, that tramadol is not a superior analgesic for the relief of posttonsillectomy pain in children compared to acetaminophen.
PRIMERJAVA PREDNOSTI IN SLABOSTI TAKOJŠNJE TER ODLOŽENE PREKINITVE POPKOVNICE PRI NOVOROJENČKU
Authors: Serdinšek Tamara , Dovnik Andraž , Takač Iztok
Published: November 2017

Background: Umbilical cord clamping in the third stage of labour is still controversial. Early cord clamping is defined as clamping at 10, 15, 30 or 60 seconds after delivery and delayed as clamping after 60 seconds or at 2-5 minutes after delivery, when the cord stops pulsating or when the placenta is visible within the birth canal. Early clamping is one of the three components of active management of the third stage of labour, which has been used widely in modern obstetrics during the last century. However, in some northern European countries, various parts of the USA and Canada and in developing countries physiological management is preferred.Conclusions: After publication of several trials describing advantages of delayed clamping, this has recently been progressively replacing early clamping. The most important advantages of delayed cord clamping are higher haemoglobin and ferritin levels, higher iron stores, lower incidence of iron deficiency anaemia, better cardiopulmonary adaptation, lower rate of respiratory distress syndrome, and longer duration of early breastfeeding in term neonates, while there is no increase in the incidence of postpartum haemorrhage. Delayed clamping seems to bring some advantages for preterm neonates as well. However, caution is still advised because of the potential adverse effects, especially polycythaemia with hyperviscosity, hyperbilirubinaemia and respiratory distress.
NOVOSTI V OBRAVNAVI BOLEZNI PREBAVIL IN ZAPLETOV PRI CISTIČNI FIBROZI TER ORGANIZACIJA PREHODA IZ PEDIATRIČNEGA CENTRA V CENTER ZA CISTIČNO FIBROZO ZA ODRASLE
Authors: Praprotnik Marina , Bratanič Nevenka , Brecelj Jernej , Fležar Matjaž , Krivec Uroš
Published: November 2017

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common autosomal recessive lethal hereditary disorder among whites. Survival of patients with CF has progressively improved over the last four decades.As life expectancy has been greatly extended, complications like osteopenia and CF-related diabetes mellitus (CFRDM) occur. In our article, a new management of these two complications is described.Gastrointestinal tract, exocrine pancreas and liver are also affected in CF.Maintaining good nutrition while treating pancreatic insufficiency, treating gastroesophageal reflux disease and treating liver disease are very important issues in the treatment gastrointestinal tract disease in CF.As the CF patient population median survival increases,  a growing number of adolescents require care in the adult health care system which must be capable of responding appropriately to their needs.We present a model of transition from paediatric to adult medical care in our CF center.
Glukokortikoidi v nefrologiji II: indikacije in odmerjanje
Authors: Pajek Jernej
Published: November 2017

Present article describes glucocorticoid prescriptions in nephrology and renal transplantation, the dosages in induction and maintenance treatment phases and discontinuation. Key evidence and landmark trials are referenced, to establish the basis for modern glucocorticoid application in specific kidney disease indications. The glucocorticoid regimens in IgA glomerulonephritis, major primary glomerular diseases with nephrotic syndrome, vasculitides and tubulointerstitial nephritis are described. Various schemes for glucocorticoid dosage in lupus nephritis are given. The evolution of glucocorticoid usage in kidney transplantation is delineated and the modern role of these drugs in renal transplantation is defined. There are attempts to replace glucocorticoids with adrenocorticotrophic hormone in some glomerular diseases. Despite being relatively old drugs and having numerous side effects, glucocorticoids still function as major therapeutic agents for specific immunosuppressive treatment in nephrology.
USEFULNESS OF FREE THYROXINE TO FREE TRIIODOTHYRONINE RATIO FOR DIAGNOSTICS OF VARIOUS TYPES OF HYPERTHYROIDISM
Authors: Grmek Jernej , Gaberšček Simona , Biček Ajda , Zaletel Katja
Published: November 2017

Background: Different types of hyperthyroidism are treated differently. The correct diagnosis enables the adequate treatment. Clinical experiences suggest that free thyroxine (fT4) to free triiodothyronine (fT3) ratio is different for different types of hyperthyroidism. Considering the paucity of literature data on the topic our aim was to evaluate the role of the serum fT4 to fT3 (fT4/fT3)ratio in diagnostics of various types of hyperthyroidism.Methods: In retrospective clinical study we included 440 consecutive subjects, examined between February and August 2010, 350 females and 90 males aged between 15 and 97 years, among them 225 healthy subjects (HS), 80 patients with Graves' disease (GD), 48 with toxic adenoma (TA), 61 patients with hyperthyroid Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HHT), 17 with subacute thyroiditis (ST), and 9 patients with iodine-induced hyperthyroidism (IIH). Thyrotropin (TSH), fT4, fT3 and thyroid autoantibodies were measured. The fT4/fT3 ratio was calculated.Results: The fT4/fT3 ratio was significantly different for various disorders causing hyperthyroidism (p<0.001). Compared with the fT4/fT3 ratio in HS (2.86±0.52), the ratio was significantly higher in HHT and ST (3.27±0.72 and 3.31±0.54, respectively, p<0.001 for both). In GD, the fT4/fT3 ratio was the lowest (2.55±0.58) and in IIH the highest (5.13±1.97). Both ratios significantly differed from the ratio in HS (p<0.001 for both) and in other hyperthyroid patients (p<0.001 for both). In patients with TA, the fT4/fT3 ratio was similar as in HS (2.85±0.71) (p=0.085).Conclusion: The fT4/fT3 ratio is different in various types of hyperthyroidism and therefore represents a useful tool in the diagnostic procedure.
REHABILITACIJA ODRASLIH OSEB PO ZMERNI IN TEŽKI MOŽGANSKI POŠKODBI - PRIPOROČILA SLOVENSKEGA ZDRUŽENJA ZA FIZIKALNO IN REHABILITACIJSKO MEDICINO
Authors: Grabljevec Klemen , Jesenšek Papež Breda , Kos Nataša , Plaskan Lidija
Published: November 2017

Traumatic brain injury is any non-degenerative and non-congenital injury of brain and surrounding tissue caused by external mechanical force. Its short and long term consequences on cognitive, behavioral and physical functioning are not limited to injury itself but is severly connected with the secondary cellular metabolic and vascular changes after the acute impact. Due to high mortality, extremelly demanding acute treatment, long term need for intensive rehabilitation and inevitably permanent deficits on subject`s multi-level functioning, we understand severe traumatic brain injury as the most severe medico-social problem of the developed world. There are many different national guidelines available in literature for rehabilitation of subjects after traumatic brain injury. Protocol for early recognition and prevention of highly expected complications after and during admission in rehabilitation progremme, serves as a protection against events that to often prevent the effective progress in rehabilitation, mean serious long-term consequenses for patient and cause additional costs of medical care. Slovenian guidelines for the rehabilitation moderate / severe traumatic brain injury in acute and post-acute phase are presented in the paper.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Slovenia – analysis of patient population at the Ljubljana Institute of Clinical Neurophysiology
Authors: Kirbiš Mojca , Koritnik Blaž , Leonardis Lea , Dolenc Grošelj Leja , Klinar Polona , Ristić Kovačič Stanka , Zidar Janez
Published: November 2017

Backgorund: Data on epidemiology and disease characteristics of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are geographically limited and no systematically collected data exist for slovenian patients. We performed a retrospective descriptive study on clinical attributes and disease course of patients with ALS treated at the Institute of clinical neurophysiology (ICN), University Medical Centre Ljubljana since the foundation of a specialised ALS group.Methods:  All 271 patients treated at ICN in the 10-year period between 2003 and 2012 were analysed. Data on basic demographic characteristics, phenotype of disease onset, diagnostic delay, survival, family history, use of percutaneous gastrostomy (PEG), of non-invasive ventilation and of riluzole were obtained.Results:  Mean age at symptoms onset was 62.7 ± 11.4 years, median diagnostic delay 11 (IQ range  7–19) months and mean survival from time of enrolment 16.4 ± 15.1 months.  179 (66.1%)patients had spinal onset disease and 71 (26.2%) bulbar onset disease. Factors associated with longer survival were lower age at enrolment, longer diagnostic delay and use of PEG. The proportion of patients using non-invasive ventilatory support was rising through the analysed years.Conclusions: Disease characteristics and survival in our series are similar to data from other tertiary care centres. The need for non-invasive ventilatory support in ALS patients is increasing.
Marcus Gerbezius (1658–1718) and his first description of a complete atrioventricular block
Authors: Zupanič Slavec Zvonka , Neudauer Urban
Published: November 2017

Background: Marcus Gerbezius, a distinguished Slovenian physician and scientist from the turn of the 17th to the 18th Century, published in the year 1717 an article in the annual journal of the German Academy of Natural Scientists in Halle, in which he described a patient with a clinical presentation of extreme bradycardia due to a complete atrioventricular block. Methods: methodology of history of medicine, analysis of archival materials, documents, and various publications.Results: Presentation of the life and work of Marcus Gerbezius, emphasizing the significance of his pioneering discovery of what is known today as Adams-Stokes Syndrome.Conclusion: The article by Gerbezius was published almost 50 years before Morgagni’s, and about 150 years before Adams’ or Stokes’ articles on the same subject; therefore the name of Gerbezius should be included in the eponym name of the disorder “Syndrome Gerbezius-Morgagni-Adams-Stokes” – Syndrome GMAS.
HENOCH-SCHÖNLEIN PURPURA Z NEZNAČILNIM POTEKOM BOLEZNI – predstavitev treh primerov in pregled literature
Authors: Kumprej Daša , Krenčnik Tomaž , Aleksandrova Oberstar Aleksandra , Toplak Nataša
Published: November 2017

Background: Henoch-Schönlein purpura is the most common vasculitis of small blood vessels in children. The diagnosis of the disease is confirmed in a patient with a specific rash, joint inflamation, abdominal pain or renal disease. The specific rash is necesary for the confirmation of the diagnosis. Henoch-Schönlein purpura can rarely present with a complication withot a prior presentation of the rash. In these cases diagnosis is difficult until the presentation of the specific skin manifestation. In the majority of patients the disease course is not complicated and has a good prognosis.Conclusion: In this article we present three patients with an atypical presentation of the disease and a review of current literature on the topic.
Transrektalna ultrazvočna preiskava in igelna biopisja prostate
Authors: Smrkolj Tomaž
Published: November 2017

In the last 25 years widespread use of prostatic specific antigen caused a stage migration of prostate cancer towards localized disease at diagnosis, which resulted in transrectal ultrasound biopsy to become standard in clinical practice. Transrectal ultrasound examination of the prostate is used to diagnose benign prostatic diseases, e.g. benign prostatic enlargement, prostatitis, prostatic and seminal vesicle cysts. It is also important in detection of obstructive causes of male infertility. Transrectal ultrasound examination is performed most often in needle biopsy for prostate cancer diagnosis. Besides guiding systematic tissue core biopsy, characteristic ultrasound changes enables target biopsies of suspect areas. The article describes indications, contraindications, antibiotic prophylaxis, various biopsy templates and complications of the needle biopsy. Experience with transrectal ultrasound guided biopsy at Department of urology at University medical center in Ljubljana is presented.
SMERNICE ZA OBRAVNAVO BOLNIKOV Z ANEVRIZMO TREBUŠNE AORTE
Authors: Kozak Matija , Polanec Beno , Gasparini Mladen , Krevel Barbara , Ključevšek Tomaž , Flis Vojko , Lakič Nikola , Blinc Aleš
Published: November 2017

Povzetka po dogovoru ne prilagamo.
Izdaja Kell skladnih krvnih komponent z namenom preprečevanja anti-K senzibilizacij pri ženskah v rodni dobi.
Authors: Hrašovec-Lampret Andreja , Bricl Irena
Published: November 2017

With selecting K compatible blood for transfusion, we prevent K immunization and many unnecessary prenatal testing and gynecological examinations for at least 78% of pregnant women with K negative partners, whose fetus is not at risk of hemolytic disease of fetus and newborn. Abstract  Background Kell antibodies are beside RhD and c antibodies one of most clinically important antibodies that can cause severe hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) in pregnancy,which is still remaining one of the major causes of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Therefore, pregnant women with eryhrocyte alloantibodies anti-K need many prenatal testing and gynecological examinations. The major cause for anti-K immunisation is transfusion of incompatible blood in the past.    Methods We analysed retrospectively the data of 71 pregnant woman with alloantibodies anti-K, which were followed in Blood Transfusion Centre of Slovenia from 2004 -2014. We collected data of partner´s phenotype and woman´s transfusion history. Data were statistically analyzed with basic statistical methods.   Results 61 out of 71 partners were tested (86%) and 48 were K negative (78%).The transfusion history was available for only 23 women (32%). The transfusion history was available for 23 out of 48 women with K negative partner (48%). All of them were transfused. 78% received incompatible-K positive blood, for the rest 22% women donations they received were not K typed.    Conclusions From the obtained data, we found that in 78% of cases cause for K alloimunnization is transfusion of K incompatible blood in past. With selecting K compatible blood for transfusion, we can prevent K immunization and many unnecessary prenatal testing and gynecological examinations for 78% pregnant women with K negative partners .
Sodobni pristop za diagnosticiranje prirojenih motenj delovanja trombocitov
Authors: Benedik Dolničar Majda , Benedejčič Tina , Kitanovski Lidija , Jazbec Janez , Trampuš Bakija Alenka
Published: November 2017

Inherited platelet function disorders (IPFD) comprise a heterogeneous group of diseases. Their real frequency is probably underestimated as in many patients with excessive subcutaneous and mucosal bleedings the disorder has not been recognized. The presented diagnostic recommendations are based on a systematic review of the scientific literature and describe the role of platelets in the clotting process and the most common congenital disorders of platelet function. A diagnostic algorithm for clinical and laboratory stepwise management of patients with IPFD is presented.
SODOBNA PRAVNA UREDITEV IN ETIČNA NAČELA POSKUSOV NA ŽIVALIH
Authors: Perše Brigita , Perše Martina
Published: November 2017

BackgroundThe experiments on animals remain to play an important and yet unreplaceble role in the progress of biomedicine. Therefore, under certain legal conditions, it is morally acceptable to use animals for scientific purposes. Directive 86/609/EEC adopted in 1986 has started to regulate the legislation on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes in Europe and in Slovenia. In 2010, after a public consultation involving scientific community and animal protectionist associations, the European parliament released revised Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes. The aim of the paper is to present contemporary legislation from the field of experimental animals and basic ethical principles that are foundation of responsible use of animals in research as well as valid science.   ConclusionThe society`s relationship to the animals varies throughtout history, also thanks to animal experimentation which definitively confirmed that animals are sentient beings that like humans experience pain, suffering, distres or enjoyment. In western developed society the number of people defending animal rights and contradicting the use of animals in experiments is increasing. Therefore, increasing effort and financial stimulation for the development and implementation of the methods to replace animal experimentation takes place in the EU. But as long as this does not occur the revised legislation requires careful and responsible use of animals in accordance with the legislative and contemporary ethical principles.
UPORABA FLUORIDA IN NJEGOV VPLIV NA ZDRAVJE
Authors: Kanduti Domen , Šterbenk Petra , Artnik Barbara
Published: November 2017

Appropriate oral health care is fundamental for any individual’s health. Dental caries is still one of the major public health problems. The most effective way of caries prevention is the use of fluoride. Fluoride occurs naturally in our environment and is always present in our lives. However, the concentration differs from area to area. Exposure can occur through diet, respiration and fluoride supplements. During pregnancy, the placenta acts as a barrier. The fluoride, therefore, crosses the placenta in low concentrations. Drinking water in Slovenia is not fluoridated; the amount of naturally present fluoride is very low. Fluoride can be toxic in extremely high concentrations. The most important effect of fluoride on caries incidence is through its role in the process of remineralisation and demineralisation of tooth enamel. The European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD) recommends a preventive topical use of fluoride supplements because of their cariostatic effect.
Sekcija za anestezijo Slovenskega zdravniškega društva
Authors: Jeretin Stojan Vladislav , Ulaga Miriam Petrun , Četina Jože , Delak Nasta Pirc
Published: November 2017

The foundation dates of the section of anesthetists of the Slovenian medical association were mostly based on unproven anecdotal reports. Documents recently discovered at the historical archive of Ljubljana indicate that the section was founded by D. Hočevar and nineteen Slovenian anesthetists February 6th 1957. The section during the next years ceased to function and was revived in 1962. Carefully maintained archives vanished by 1969. After a critical period the Slovenian Section reached its maximal activity in the years 1970 -1980 by creating a Slovenian training program for anesthetists, comparable to most other developed countries. International meetings of Styrian and Slovenian anesthetists as well as the international seminars in Anesthesia all with published proceedings, were recognizable events.
Sialendoscopy, a minimally invasive diagnostic and interventional tool in the management of salivary gland diseases
Authors: Aničin Aleksandar , Urbančič Jure
Published: November 2017

AbstractIntroduction. Sialendoscopy is a novel branch of minimally invasive surgery, which allows diagnostic and interventional procedures deep in the ductal systems of salivary glands. Clinical Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervicofacial Surgery Ljubljana is a joint otorhinolaryngological sialendoscopy center, representing in that field both Slovenian University Medical Centers.Patients and methods. Since 2011, from among more than 200 patients with unexplained swelling of the salivary glands, we have submitted 118 patients to sialendoscopy and sialendoscopy-assisted interventions and performed 131 operations (78.6% under local anesthesia), with an attempted examination of a total of 137 salivary glands. The patients had mainly submandibular problems (66%).Results. Our rate of failed sialendoscope introductions is 2.9% so far, which is comparable to the best results abroad. The most common interventional procedure was sialendoscopy-assisted combined approach salivary stone removal (36 cases). Adding 16 cases of wire basket stone retrievals, we reached a total of 52 successful stone extraction procedures. We found ductal strictures without sialolithiasis in 40 patients, mostly of parotid systems (24 patients), and in 19 of them, dilatation was performed, followed by a temporary stent insertion in 11 cases. In three patients with submandibular papillary stricture, we performed microsurgical ductostomy; our experience supports its recognition as a specific clinical entity. With no serious complications, the practice of sialendoscopy at our department reduced salivary gland resections because of obstructive disease by 90 %.Conclusions. We believe that sialendoscopy is a new minimally invasive approach paradigm that fundamentally changes the treatment of obstructive salivary gland diseases.
Three - dimensional ultrasound evaluation of tongue volume
Authors: Barbič Urška , Verdenik Ivan , Marolt Mušič Maja , Ihan Hren Nataša
Published: November 2017

Abstract: Background: The purpose of this study was to find a three - dimensional (3D) ultrasound technique for tongue volume estimation, to compare male and female groups and to find the correlation between tongue volume and body characteristics.Methods: 3D ultrasound was performed within a group of 14 men and a group of 18 women with norm-occlusion. The collected data were analysed by annexed software and the tongue volume was estimated. The repeatability as well as intra- and inter-rater agreement was determined by calculating intra-class correlation coefficient. The Student t-test was used to determine if there were significant differences in tongue volume and body characteristics between the male and the female groups. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to assess the relationship between tongue volume and body characteristics.Results: The 3D ultrasound estimation of tongue volume was highly repeatable in terms of good intraclass correlation coefficients of repeatability (ICC: 0,997) as well as intra- and inter-rater reliabilities (ICC: 0,998 and 0,993 respectively). The male group were significantly taller, heavier and with higher BMI than the female group, and had significantly larger tongue volumes (mean of 89.2 cm3 in males vs. 67.2 cm3 in females). Only the body weights and BMIs in the male group correlated with the tongue volume.Conclusion: This study did demonstrate a valid and reproducible 3D ultrasound technique for tongue volume assessment.
Imunogenost poživitvenega cepljenja proti klopnemu meningoencefalitisu
Authors: Beškovnik Lucija , Frelih Tatjana , Avšič Županc Tatjana , Korva Miša , Trop Skaza Alenka
Published: November 2017

AbstractBackground: Tick-borne encephalitis is endemic in Slovenia, but still less than 10 % of people are regularly vaccinated. The proportion of vaccinated individuals was significantly influenced by obligatory vaccination for all Slovenian military conscripts between 1993 and 2003.Methods: Our study includes 73 men from the Celje region, who were vaccinated with three doses of vaccine against tick-borne meningoencephalitis FSME-Immun® (Baxter), but afterwards they stopped the vaccination for a period of 8 to 16 years. Participating men were serologically tested before and after the first booster dose. We used the enzyme immunoassay Enzygnost®.Results: The result of the analysis was, that with most of the participants the value of titer of antibodies before receiving revaccination was protective (n=67; 91,8 %), while after receiving a booster dose, the protective value was exceeded for all participants who have submitted a second blood sample (n=69; 94,5 %). Geometric mean concentration before the booster dose was 56 U/ml and 314 U/ml after the booster dose.Conclusions: Our study confirmed the long-term protection after primary vaccination with three doses against tick-borne encephalitis with men younger than 50 years, by using enzyme immunoassay. The results support the careful consideration of currently recommended revaccination interval.
Pljučnica pri dojenčku, povzročena z bakterijo Chlamydiae trachomatis
Authors: Šivic Urška , Keše Darja , Mrvič Tatjana , Praprotnik Marina
Published: November 2017

Chlamydia trachomatis  is the most common bacterial pathogen causing sexually transmitted infections. As prenatal screening for C. trachomatis and treatment of pregnant women is not practice in Slovenia, perinatal transmission of C. trachomatis may therefore occur. We present a case of infant chlamydial pneumonia to illustrate that a high index of suspicion is necessary to make the diagnosis in an afebrile infant with cough and “bronchiolitis”. Unnecessary investigations can be avoided and treatment can be promptly instituted if a diagnosis is made  on time.
INFORMIRANO SOGLASJE – PRAVICA ALI BREME
Authors: Stražišar Borut , Stražišar Branka
Published: November 2017

Informed consent is legal institute that was introduced in the research area to prevent possible abuses in human research. Almost a century later it was introduced also in general medicine outside the research area. It’s a basic human right to decide about own body and thus also about possible interventions in such body. Fore decisions the quality information is necessary. Co-deciding on the type of medical treatment would result also in better result of such treatment (the patient would be more interested to cooperate in the treatment process). The present practice is that informed consent is mere a part of bureaucratic doctor-patient relation as a mode to prevent possible lawsuits.  Taking into account other negative impacts on the patient (sc. nocebo effect) there is a serious question whether informed consent is adequate and fruitful. The submission posts some proposals that improve doctor-patient relationship and give patient real possibility to decide alone how and to what extent he/she would execute his/hers rights as a patient regarding medical treatments.
Zdravljenje glavkoma in suho oko
Authors: Cvenkel Barbara
Published: November 2017

Patients with glaucoma have increased prevalence of dry eye (DE) compared to age-matched population without glaucoma. Clinical presentation of DE varies among individuals and may significantly reduce quality of life. The onset and deterioration of DE is caused by the toxic-inflammatory effects of preservatives in eye drops, active substance itself, and added, pharmacologically inactive substances or excipients. Ocular surface changes most frequently include superficial punctate keratitis, tear film instability, and allergic reactions. Despite the lack of symptoms, clinical signs may indicate ocular surface damage. Discordance between signs and symptoms is partly caused by decreased corneal sensitivity induced by neurotoxicity of the preservative benzalkonium chloride (BAK). Therefore, it is important to evaluate ocular surface before initiating glaucoma therapy and during follow-up also in asymptomatic patients. Preservative-free and/or BAK-free therapy is indicated in patients with severe DE and allergy to preservatives, and recommended in patients with DE of moderate severity, blepharitis, in symptomatic patients, before filtering surgery to reduce preoperative inflammation, in those with moderate fluorescein staining of grade 2 on Oxford scheme, and reduced tear film break-up time.