bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ИЗУЧЕНИЕ ФАКТОРОВ МОТИВАЦИИ ВЫБОРА СПЕЦИАЛЬНОСТИ ФАРМАЦИЯ СТУДЕНТАМИ ПЕРВОГО И ВТОРОГО КУРСА ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧЕСКОГО ВУЗА
Authors:   Колледж фармации и наук о здоровье Университета Западной Новой Англии, ЩЕРБАКОВА Н.Г. , МЕЗЕНЦЕВА Е.С. ,   Пермская государственная фармацевтическая академия
Published: April 2024

Авторами проведена оценка и ранжирование факторов, повлиявших на выбор специальности «Фармация» студентами начальных курсов обучения (1 и 2 курсов) фармацевтического вуза. Установлено, что наиболее значимыми факторами при выборе специальности стали: возможность поступить на бюджетное место и хорошие перспективы выпускника (т.е. финансовая стабильность профессии, востребованность специалистов на рынке труда и разнообразие карьерных перспектив).
IN VITRO МОДЕЛИРОВАНИЕ КАК СПОСОБ СОВЕРШЕНСТВОВАНИЯ РАЗРАБОТКИ СТИМУЛОЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНЫХ IN SITU СИСТЕМ ДОСТАВКИ ЛЕКАРСТВ
Authors:   Первый Московский государственный медицинский университет им. И.М. Сеченова, БАХРУШИНА Е.О.
Published: April 2024

Создание биорелевантных in vitro моделей особенно перспективно для разработки in situ систем - совершающих фазовый переход, зависящий от физиологических условий места применения. В Институте фармации имени А.П. Нелюбина Сеченовского Университета разработаны и апробированы in vitro модели носовой полости, альвеолярной лунки, стекловидного тела и влагалища, которые могут быть использованы для эффективного скрининга при создании как традиционных лекарственных форм, так и стимулочувствительных систем доставки лекарств.
ИЗУЧЕНИЕ АНТАЦИДНЫХ СВОЙСТВ ГИДРОГЕЛЕЙ ХИТОЗАНА ПОЛУЧЕННОГО ИЗ РАЧКА GAMMARUS LACUSTRICUS
Authors:   Алтайский государственный медицинский университет, ГАРТМАН О.Р.
Published: April 2024

В экспериментах in vitro изучена антацидная активность гидрогелей хитозана полученного из рачка Gammarus lacustricus и гидрогелей переосажденного хитозана методом потенциометрического титрования. Установлено, что хитозан, являющийся аминополисахаридом обладает высокой способностью нейтрализовать активную кислотность.
ПЕРСПЕКТИВЫ ПРИМЕНЕНИЯ РИБАВИРИНА В ФОРМЕ ИНТРАНАЗАЛЬНОЙ СТИМУЛОЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНОЙ СИСТЕМЫ В ТЕРАПИИ ОПУХОЛЕЙ ГОЛОВНОГО МОЗГА
Authors:   Первый Московский государственный медицинский университет имени И.М. Сеченова, МИХЕЛ И.Б. , БАХРУШИНА Е.О.
Published: April 2024

Онкологические заболевания головного мозга являются одними из самых агрессивных типов рака. Использование известной субстанции рибавирина в лечении опухолей головного мозга ускоряет процесс разработки инновационного лекарственного препарата с новым показанием к применению. Наиболее перспективным и логичным методом доставки рибавирина до головного мозга является интраназальный путь введения. In situ системы, являясь перспективной заменой нынешним интраназальным лекарственным формам, позволяют достигать максимальной биодоступности лекарственного препарата без оказания системных побочных действий на организм. Осваивая новые подходы к лечению опухолей головного мозга, повышается комплаентность пациентов к предлагаемой терапии.
ИЗУЧЕНИЕ СТАБИЛЬНОСТИ КОРРИГИРОВАННОЙ ЛЕКАРСТВЕННОЙ ФОРМЫ -СИРОПА ЛИМОННИКА КИТАЙСКОГО ПЛОДОВ В ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТЕ
Authors:   Северо-Осетинский государственный университет имени Коста Левановича Хетагурова, МОРОЗОВ Ю.А.
Published: April 2024

На основании всесторонних экспериментальных данных разработана жидкая лекарственная форма - сироп лимонника китайского плодов. Основной целью настоящих исследований явилось изучение стабильности предложенного сиропа. В качестве критериальных показателей качества рассматривались следующие: «Описание», «Подлинность», «Количественное содержание действующих веществ в лекарственном препарате», «Осмотическая активность», «Плотность», «Динамическая вязкость» и «Микробиологическая чистота». Исследования проводились в формате долгосрочных испытаний в естественных условиях и первичной упаковке. Результаты эксперимента позволяют считать, что оптимальный срок годности для рассматриваемой лекарственной формы составляет 2 года.
ИССЛЕДОВАНИЯ ПО РАЗРАБОТКЕ ПОЛИЭКСТРАКТА НА ОСНОВЕ ЛИСТЬЕВ PLANTAGO MAJOR L. И ТРАВЫ ALTHAEA OFFICINALIS L
Authors:   Волгоградский государственный медицинский университет, Пятигорский медико-фармацевтический институт, НИКИТИНА Н.В. , РАБАДАНОВА К.Г. , НИКИТИНА А.С.
Published: April 2024

Целью исследования являлось изучение технологических характеристик сырья и обоснование технологии экстракта, содержащего сложный фитокомплекс из листьев подорожника большого и травы алтея лекарственного
Differences in body mass index and height factors between men with and without varicocele
Authors: Shafi Hamid , Agajani Delavar Mouloud
Published: April 2024

Aim
 Despite many studies published in recent years concerning the relationship between demographic factors and varicocele, this issue remains controversial. The aim of this study was to identify a possible influence of body mass index (BMI) and height on occurrence varicocele in men.
Methods
 In a case-control study 153 patients aged 18-40 years from 2004 to 20014, with moderate and sever varicocele were studied. The BMI and height of the 153 patients with varicocele were compared with 250 men who had no varicocele as a control group.
Results
 After the adjustment for socio-demographic factors, the risk of varicocele for obese men was lower than for overweight
and normal men (OR= 0.38, 95% CI= 0.17, 0.85). The adjusted OR for varicocele in taller men was higher than in those with
low height (OR= 3.42, 95% CI= 1.34, 8.72), and moderate height (OR=2.68, 95% CI= 1.12, 6.46).
Conclusion
 The results of this study indicated that tall men and non-obese men may be at higher risk of varicocele, therefore counseling and evaluation of the men at high risk of varicocele may be of benefit for reduced infertility. 
Differences in newborn umbilical cord care
Authors: Kanisek Sanja , Prlić Nada , Barać Ivana , Dubac Nemet Lorna
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate the frequency of different cord care practices as well recommendations to parents on cord care, along with the need to identify as well as reach the consensus on best cord care practices and other procedures in newborn care among health workers.
Methods
 The study was conducted among 110 health care workers at the nursery departments in two general hospitals, six community-health nursing services and 16 pediatric practices in Eastern Croatia. The questionnaire created for this research has evaluated different cord care practices and recommendations to parents, a need to identify, as well as reach the consensus on best practices in cord care and other procedures in newborn care.
Results
Statistically significant differences have been found among respondent groups in three “dry“ cord practices (p=0.000,
p=0.002, and p=0.004, respectively) and three “wet“ cord practices (p=0.000, p=0.001, and p=0.000, respectively). Significant differences were determined in three types of recommendations to parents about the care of ”dry” cord (p=0.000, p=0.000, and p=0.002, respectively) and two recommendations for ”wet” cord (p =0.000, p=0.000, respectively). The majority of respondents stressed the need for publishing guidelines on cord care, 104 (94.5%), and for other procedures in newborn care, 108 (98.2%). More than a half of respondents, 63 (57.3%), declared the need to
reach a national agreement on guidelines for umbilical cord care.
Conclusion
 Healthcare workers employ, as well as recommend, different umbilical cord care practices. It is necessary to prepare
and reach a national agreement on written guidelines for umbilical cord care as well as for other procedures in newborn care.
Effects of perioperative statin treatment on postoperative atrial fibrillation and cardiac mortality in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting: a propensity score analysis
Authors: Kunt Ayşegül , Özcan Sedat , Küçüker Aslihan , Odabaşi Dolunay , Kunt Alper Sami
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To evaluate the effect of perioperative statin treatment on postoperative atrial fibrillation and cardiac mortality in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.
Methods
A total of 1890 patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass were analyzed retrospectively, of which 425
patients (22.4%) older than 70 were included in the study. The demographic properties, preoperative, operative and postoperative data and other medications of these patients were recorded. Continuous preoperative and postoperative atorvastatin therapy were received by 124 (29.17%) patients; 301 (70.82%) patients were matched to a control group (no-statin group). The two groups were matched by propensity score analysis in terms of atrial fibrillation
development and cardiac mortality.
Results
 Medical history, medical treatment, cardiovascular history, and operative characteristics demonstrated significant heterogeneity in both groups. Postoperative atrial fibrillation was similar in both groups. Before propensity score matching, the percentages of patients in postoperative atrial fibrillation with respect to Atorvastain-group and No-statin-group were 13.71 and 10.3 respectively; however, those were 13.71 and 14.51 after matching. In a multivariate regression analysis, five-vessel bypass (odds ratio OR, 2.354; 95% confidence interval CI, 0.99 to 5.57) was an independent predictor of postoperative atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. In-hospital mortality
was higher in the Atorvastatin-group compared with the No-statingroup: 124 (8.9%) versus 301 (3.7%), respectively; p=0.027).
Conclusion
Perioperative atorvastatin treatment is not found to be associated with reduced postoperative atrial fibrillation and cardiac mortality in patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting above the age of seventy years
Association of LPIN1 gene variations with markers of metabolic syndrome in population from Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Bego Tamer , Dujić Tanja , Mlinar Barbara , Semiz Sabina , Malenica Maja , Prnjavorac Besim , Ostanek Barbara , Marc Janja , Čaušević-Ramoševac Anida , Čaušević Adlija
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate association of two LPIN1 gene variations with main traits of metabolic syndrome (MS) (waist circumference,
body mass index, blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol and fasting glucose levels) in population from Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Methods
 This study included 43 patients with metabolic syndrome and 43 healthy controls from General Hospital in Tešanj, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Subjects were genotyped for two LPIN1 gene variations (rs11693809: C>T and rs2716610: C>T) by real
time PCR method.
Results
 In control subjects LPIN1 polymorphism, rs2716610: C>T, was significantly associated with a lower body mass index
(BMI) (p=0.008) and waist circumference (p=0.008). The second analyzed rs11693809: C>T polymorphism was associated with lower blood HbA1c levels (p=0.048) in a group of MS patients.
Conclusion
 Results of our study suggest that rs2716610: C>T polymorphism of LPIN1 gene could have a protective effect against development of metabolic syndrome, while rs11693809: C>T might affect a glucose control in patients with MS.
Therapeutic efficacy and toxicity of bolus application of chemotherapy protocol in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Šišić Ibrahim , Pojskić Belma , Mekić-Abazović Alma , Kovčin Vladimir
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To compare efficacy and toxicity of bolus application of chemotherapy protocol, oxaliplatin, fluorouracil (bolus), leucovorin
(folfox) between two groups of patients in the therapy of metastatic colorectal carcinoma (mCRC).
Methods
A total of 63 patients were treated for mCRC in the period January 2009 – January 2010 at the Department of Oncology
of the Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina (first group, 30 patients) and at the Department of Oncology of the Clinical Hospital Centre Bežanijska kosa in Belgrade, Serbia, in the period January 2005 – January 2006 (second group, 33 patients). The patients were treated according the same protocol, i.v. bolus infusion, but in different day intervals (D), 1, 8, 15/28 days or D1-D5/28 days, respectively. In all patients the following factors were analyzed: tumor response, overall survival (OS), progression free survival, hematological and non-hematological toxicity .
Results
 Colon was the primary localization in almost two thirds of patients. There was no statistically significant difference between
the groups according to the age, hematological and non-hematological toxicity, as well as in achieved OS. Progression free survival expressed in months was in average 5 months though with a large range between minimal and maximal survival time.
Conclusion
 Both groups have shown equivalent efficacy to applied chemotherapy protocols. Overall survival in the two groups
matched data from the literature. Further research should confirm success of the combination of chemotherapy protocols and their combination with the biological therapy.
Familial autoimmune thyroid disease and PTPN-22
Authors: Conzuelo Rodríguez Gabriel , Mendieta Zerón Hugo
Published: April 2024

Aim
Autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) is a multifactorial disease with a genetic predisposition. The protein tyrosine phosphatase-22 (PTPN-22) gene is a powerful inhibitor of T-cell activation. The aim of this study was to compare messenger RNA (mRNA) PTPN22 expression between healthy persons and patients with hypothyroidism and with their affected relatives.
Methods
 This was a cross-sectional, prospective and descriptive study. DNA was extracted from leukocytes (4,000-10,000 cells)
using the Magna Pure LC 2.0 Instrument and MagNA Pure LC RNA Isolation Kit I (Roche, Germany). A real-time polymerase reaction (qPCR) was performed utilizing the primer sets specific for the PTPN-22 gene, and the succinate dehydrogenase complex, the subunit A, Flavoprotein (Fp) (SDHA) constitutive gene. All reactions were performed with the 7500 Fast Real Time PCR System (Applied Biosystems, Applera International, Inc. Cheshire, UK) employing the SYBR Advantage qPCR Premix Kit (Clontech, USA).
Results
Twenty five patients with AITD (hypothyroidism), all females (mean age 39.6 ± 11.8 years) and 23 control subjects (mean
age 24.4 ± 4.2 years) were included in the study. There was no statistical difference between both groups in PTPN-22 mRNA expression (p = 0.125).
Conclusion
 There is no clear difference in mRNA PTPN-22 expression. The ideal genes for a systematic screening for familial
AITD are yet to be found. 
Genetic polymorphisms variants in interleukin-6 and interleukin- 1beta patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in East Northern Turkey
Authors: Gok Ilhami , Huseyinoglu Nergiz , Ilhan Dogan
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate the relationship of IL-1β and IL-6 cytokine gene polymorphisms with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
(OSAS) in 61 patients admitted to the neurology clinic in Kafkas University Hospital with insomnia problem who were diagnosed with OSAS in sleeping labs, and 80 healthy subjects not associated with the syndrome.
Methods
Blood samples were taken to isolate DNA from patients diagnosed with OSAS based on polysomnography results and
healthy controls. DNA amplification of the genes was performed with PCR. Amplification products were cut with the restriction enzymes in order to determine IL-1 gene (TaqI) and IL-6 gene (Lwel) polymorphisms. The cut DNA fragments were carried out in agarose gel electrophoresis, and RFLP analysis was performed by utilizing the images with gel imaging system. PCR products were sequenced with an Applied Biosystems Automated Sequencer.
Results
Polymorphic changes were observed for IL-1β gene in 26 of 62 patients (41.9%), and 16 of the 80 (25.8%) in the control
group. The incidence of polymorphic changes in IL-6 gene was in seen in seven (of the 62 patients) (11.3%), and in the 16 (20%) controls.
Conclusion
 The findings on the genomic level in OSAS may provide an important contribution to diagnosis of obstructive sleep
apnea syndrome in clinical practice, as well as it helps to obtain the results easily about environmental and genetic interaction of OSAS patients.
Brucellosis in children in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the period 2000 - 2013
Authors: Ahmetagić Sead , Porobić-Jahić Humera , Koluder Nada , Čalkić Lejla , Mehanić Snježana , Hadžić Eldira , Ibrahimpašić Nevzeta , Grgić Svjetlana , Zirić Mirela , Bajić Jelena , Žepić Denis
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To analyse clinical, laboratory and epidemiological characteristics of brucellosis in children in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Methods
 The study included 246 children aged 0-18 years, who were hospitalized in Clinics and Departments for Infectious Diseases in Tuzla, Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Zenica and Bihać in the period 2000-2013, in whom the diagnosis of brucellosis was established based on anamnestic data, clinical features and positive results from blood culture and/or positive results from one of the serological tests.
Results
 In this period, a total of 2630 patients, 246 (9.35%) of whom were children, were treated from brucellosis at the Clinics and Departments in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In the majority of cases, the children were from rural parts of the country, 226
(91.87%);214 (87.04%) cases had direct contact with sick animals, sick family member or consumption of unpasteurized dairy products from farms where brucellosis had been already established. Male children predominated, 157 (63.82%). The most frequent clinical features in affected children were fever, 194 (78.86%) and joint pain, 158 (64.22%). The average duration of antimicrobial treatment was 42.85 ± 10.67 days. A total of 228 (92.68%) children were completely cured, while relapses occurred in 18 (7.32%) children.
Conclusion
Since brucellosis is an endemic disease in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is important that physicians in their daily practice
consider brucellosis and establish proper diagnosis and therapy in children with prolonged fever, arthralgia, leukopenia and positive epidemiological data, especially in rural parts of the country.
Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), extended-spectrum (ESBL)- and plasmid-mediated AmpC ß-lactamase -producing Gram-negative bacteria associated with skin and soft tissue infections in hospital and community settings
Authors: Uzunović Selma , Bedenić Branka , Budimir Ana , Ibrahimagić Amir , Kamberović Farah , Fiolić Zlatko , I. A. Rijnders Michelle , E. Stobberingh Ellen
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate the characteristics of meticillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), extended-spectrum (ESBL), and plasmid-mediated AmpC beta-lactamase producing Gram-negative bacteria causing skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) in hospital and outpatient settings of Zenica-Doboj Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Methods
 Antibiotic susceptibility was determined by disc-diffusion and broth microdillution methods according to CLSI guidelines. MecA gene was detected by PCR, and genetic characterization of MRSA was performed using spa-typing and the algorithm based upon repeat patterns (BURP). Double-disk-synergy test was used to screen for ESBLs. PCR was used to detect blaESBL alleles. Genetic relatedness of the strains was tested by PFGE.
Results
 Seventeen in-patients with MRSA, 13 with ESBL-producing Gram-negative bacteria and three patients co-infected with
both, were detected. Five MRSA and 16 ESBL-producing Gramnegative bacteria were found in outpatient samples. Klebsiella spp. was isolated in 11 in- and seven outpatients. MLST CC152 was the most prevalent MRSA. Seven (38.9%) Klebsiella spp. yielded amplicons with primers specific for SHV, TEM-1 and CTXM group 1 β-lactamases. Eight K. pneumonia (44.4%) and 16 (64%) MRSA (including the in- and outpatient) strains were clonally related.
Conclusion
The presence of MRSA and ESBL-producing organisms causing SSTIs in the community poses a substantial concern,
due to the high morbidity and mortality associated with possible consequent hospital infections. 
Positive correlation between uric acid and C-reactive protein serum level in healthy individuals and patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Spahić Emina , Hasić Sabaheta , Kiseljaković Emina , Resić Halima , Kulić Mehmed
Published: April 2024

Aim
To assess serum levels and correlation between uric acid (UA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in acute coronary syndrome
(ACS) and apparently healthy individuals.
Methods
 The cross-sectional study included 116 examinees of age 44 to 83 years, distributed in two groups: 80 ACS patients
including 40 with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and 40 with unstable angina pectoris (UAP), and 36 apparently healthy (control group) individuals. Patients with ACS were hospitalized at the Cardiology Clinic, Clinical Centre Sarajevo in the period OctoberDecember 2012. Laboratory analyses were conducted by standard methods. The accepted statistical significance level was p<0.05.
Results
 Serum levels of CRP and UA were higher in patients with ACS as compared to control group (p<0.01). The median serum
UA was insignificantly lower, and CRP was significantly higher in patients with AMI compared to UAP (p=0.118 and p=0.001, respectively). Both CRP and UA correlated positively in both ACS and control groups (rho=0.246; p=0.028 and rho=0.374; p=0.027). A positive correlation between serum CRP and UA was noted in patients with AMI, but negative in patients with UAP (p>0.05).
Conclusion
 The correlation between CRP and UA in the patients with ACS indicates the association of oxidative stress and
inflammation intensity in damaged cardiomyocytes. Correlation between UA and CRP in apparently healthy individuals indicates a possible role of UA as a marker of low-grade inflammation and its potential in risk assessment in cardiovascular diseases.
Possibilities of differentiation of solitary focal liver lesions by computed tomography perfusion
Authors: Sefić Pašić Irmina , Pašić Anes , Kristić Spomenka , Beganović Adnan , Čarovac Aladin , Dzananovic Amra , Lincender Lidija , Vegar Zubović Sandra
Published: April 2024

Aim
To evaluate possibilities of computed tomography (CT) perfusion in differentiation of solitary focal liver lesions based on
their characteristic vascularization through perfusion parameters analysis.
Methods
 Prospective study was conducted on 50 patients in the period 2009-2012. Patients were divided in two groups: benign
and malignant lesions. The following CT perfusion parameters were analyzed: blood flow (BF), blood volume (BV), mean transit time (MTT), capillary permeability surface area product (PS), hepatic arterial fraction (HAF), and impulse residual function (IRF). During the study another perfusion parameter was analyzed: hepatic perfusion index (HPI). All patients were examined on Multidetector 64-slice CT machine (GE) with application of perfusion protocol for liver with i.v. administration of contrast agent.
Results
 In both groups an increase of vascularization and arterial blood flow was noticed, but there was no significant statistical
difference between any of 6 analyzed parameters. Hepatic perfusion index values were increased in all lesions in comparison with normal liver parenchyma.
Conclusion
 Computed tomography perfusion in our study did not allow differentiation of benign and malignant liver lesions based
on analysis of functional perfusion parameters. Hepatic perfusion index should be investigated in further studies as a parameter for detection of possible presence of micro-metastases in visually homogeneous liver in cases with no lesions found during standard CT protocol
Effects of post-sampling analysis time, type of blood samples and collection tubes on values of blood gas testing
Authors: Smajić Jasmina , Kadić Damira , Hasić Sabaheta , Serdarević Nafija
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate effects of post-sampling analysis time, a type of blood samples and collection tubes on blood gas testing.
Methods
This study included 100 patients at the Clinic for Pulmonary Diseases, Clinical Centre Sarajevo. The partial pressure of
oxygen (pO2) and carbon dioxide (pCO2), and the oxygen saturation level of hemoglobin (sO2) were analyzed in the arterial bloodsamples (ABS) and capillary blood samples (CBS) by a potentiometric method using a blood gas analyzer ABL 555 (Radiometer, Copenhagen, Denmark). Paired measurements of ABS were performed within 15 minutes and after 60 minutes from sampling and compared. The results of CBS obtained within 15 minutes were compared with matching ABS results, as well as the results obtained from CBS within 15 minutes taken into glass and plastic tubes.
Results
pO2 and sO2 values were significantly lower after 60 minutes compared to those within 15 minutes in ABS (9.20±1.89 vs.
9.51±1.95 and 91.25±5.03 vs. 92.40±4.5; p<0.01, respectively). Values of pO2 and sO2 in CBS were significantly lower than values obtained in ABS (8.92±2.07 vs. 9.51±1.95 and 91.25±4.86 vs. 92.40±4.50; p<0.01, respectively). Obtained pO2 and sO2 values in CBS in the plastic tubes were higher than those in the glass tubes (8.50±1.98 vs. 7.89±2.0 and 89.66±11.04 vs. 88.23±11.22, p<0.01 respectively). pCO2 blood values were not influenced significantly (p>0.05).
Conclusion
 The length of post-sampling analysis time, a type of blood samples and collection tubes have significant impact on
blood oxygen parameters. Analysis within 15 minutes after blood sampling is considered as appropriate. 
A thin line between Meniere’s disease and spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome
Authors: Botica Iva , Vrca Anđelko , Špero Martina , Šubarić Marin , Carić Tomislav , Vrca Botica Marija , Kovačić Jelena , Makaruha Kristijan , Roglić Aleksandra
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To point out the similarity of Meniere disease and spontaneous intracranial hypotension and difference of their treatment.
Methods
A case of a 54-year-old male patient with previously diagnosed Meniere’s disease and newly diagnosed spontaneous
intracranial hypotension syndrome is presented. Additional neuroradiological examination, Brain contrast-enhanced MRI and MR myelography were used for diagnosis.
Results
 Due to deterioration of vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus in the right ear the patient was referred to the additional neuroradiological examination which confirmed the diagnosis of spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome. Brain contrast-enhanced MRI showed increased pachymeningeal contrast enhancement, and MR myelography identified the location of CSF leak. The patient was successfully treated conservatively.
Conclusion
According to our knowledge this is the fifth case report of Meniere’s disease and spontaneous intracranial hypotension coexistence. Both diseases have similar clinical presentation and initial treatment. We suggest procedures of additional examination when the treatment fails and initial diagnosis becomes questionable.
Assessment of relation between neutrophil lympocyte, platelet lympocyte ratios and epicardial fat thickness in patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Boyraz Ismail , Onur Caglar Sabri , Erdem Fatma , Yazic Mehmet , Yazici Selma , Koc Bunyamin , Gunduz Ramazan , Karakoyun Ahmet
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate whether there is a relation between neutrophillymphocyte (N/L) and platelet- lymphocyte (P/L) ratios and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) thickness in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
Methods
Thirty patients diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis and 25 healthy people (controls) were included in the study. Age,
gender, body mass index (BMI), height, hemogram, sedimentation, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, platelet/lymphocyte ratio, CRP, hepatic and renal function tests, lipid profile of the all patients were recorded. Data related to duration of the disease, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) values of the cases in the patient group were obtained. A cardiologist measured EAT thickness by ECHO in both patient and control groups.
Results
 In the patient group, mean BASDAI and BASFI scores were 2.48±2.21 and 1.5±2.07, respectively. Age, gender, BMI values did not show statistically significant difference between the patient and the control groups. N/L and P/L ratios did not change significantly in the patient group having higher EAT, BASFI values and taking anti-TNF compared to the control group.
Conclusion
 In patients with AS, EAT measurements, which are related to inflammatory response increase, can be used for monitoring of the risk of development of cardiac disease. We could not find the relation between EAT and N/L, P/L ratios in terms of
evaluation of inflammatory response.
Can a finding of cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials contribute to vestibular migraine diagnostics?
Authors: Vešligaj Tihana , Maslovara Siniša
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate differences in vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) results with patients suffering from vestibular migraine and healthy people, taking into consideration values of threshold and latency of occurrence of the characteristic wave complex, size of amplitude, and interaural amplitude ratio. According to the results, determine the importance and usefulness of VEMP in vestibular migraine diagnostics.
Methods
A total number of 62 subjects were included in the study, 32 of them belonging to a group of patients suffering from vestibular migraine (VM), while other 30 were in a control group of healthy subjects. Information was collected during the diagnostic evaluation. General and otoneurological history of patients and bedside tests, audiological results, videonystagmography and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMP) were made.
Results
 There was a difference in an interaural ratio of amplitudes in the experimental and control groups, but it was not found to
be clinically significant. By ToneBurst 500 Hz method, the interaural amplitude ratio higher than 35% was measured in 46.97% subjects, while the response was totally unilaterally missing in 28.8% patients.
Conclusion
 Even the sophisticated method as cVEMP does not give the ultimate result confirming the vestibular migraine diagnosis, and neither do other diagnostic methods. cVEMP result can contribute to the completion of full mosaic of vestibular migraine diagnostics.
Application of high viscosity bone cement in vertebroplasty for treatment of painful vertebral body fracture
Authors: Rapan Saša , Krnić Karin , Rapan Vjeran , Kolarević Vjekoslav
Published: April 2024

Aim
To evaluate the effectiveness and complication of vertebroplasty with high viscosity cement (HVC).
Methods
 The patients with intensive pain caused by a fractured vertebrae were treated by application of HVC into the vertebral
body, through unilateral transpedicular approach. The application was performed in 422 patients (221 were treated for osteoporosis and 201 for malignancy) on 846 vertebrae.
Results
Preoperative Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score was 8.35 and 2.21 (p<0.00001) 24 hours after surgery and 3 months later,
respectively. There was no serious intra- and post-surgery complication. By diascopy during the surgery in 121 (14.3%) vertebrae cement leakage from the fractured vertebral body was evidenced, which did not cause any aggravation of patients’ clinical status.
Conclusion
 Vertebroplasty with HVC is a method that successfully combines all advantages of this method but it also minimizes the risk of extra-ossal cement leakage which makes it significantly safer for the surgeon and for the patient as well.
Frequency of thyroid cancer in patients operated at Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the period 2007- 2014
Authors: Hrnčić Nermin , Goga Amna , Hrnčić Selma , Filipovska-Mušanović Marijana , Hatibović Haris , Hodžić Đenad
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To determine frequency and type of thyroid cancer (TC) as well as gender and age distribution of patients operated at the Department of Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Methods
 A retrospective analysis of data obtained from an operating protocol and disease history of patients operated in the eightyear period (2007- 2014) was made according to the frequency and type of thyroid cancer, as well as age and gender of the patients. χ2 test was used for statistical with p˂0.05.
Results
 A total of 818 surgeries of the thyroid gland were conducted, in 714 (87.29%) female and 104 (12.71%) male patients.
Malignancies were diagnosed in 74 (9.05%) patients, of whom 64 (86.49%) were females and 10 (13.51%) were males, resulting in the gender prevalence of 8.96% and 9.62%, respectively. The most often presented type was papillary carcinoma, in 48 (out of 74, 64.86%) patients, followed by follicular carcinoma in 10 (13.51%), medullary carcinoma in four (5.41%), Hurthle cell carcinoma in four (5.41%) patients, while anaplastic carcinoma was found in one (1.35%) patient. The number of diagnosed malignancy varied from 0% (in 2007) to 13.91% (in 2014) (p=0.05).
Conclusion
 The prevalence of thyroid cancer is low, but has an increasing trend. A large number of unnecessary surgeries on
thyroid gland was performed. Preoperative diagnostic procedures for diseases of the thyroid gland in Cantonal Hospital Zenica should be improved in order to avoid unessential surgeries.
Secular trend of anthropometric parameters of newborns in municipalities of Tuzla Canton (1976 – 2007)
Authors: Begić Amela , H. Halilović Jasminka , Mešalić Lejla , H.Halilović Sabina
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To determine the acceleration of birth weight and birth length of newborns in the municipalities of Tuzla Canton in the last four decades. Tuzla Canton (TC) as an administrative territorial unit of the FBiH includes 13 municipalities.
Methods
 In this retrospective study data from the Protocol Book of Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic, University Clinical Center,
from 1976 to 2007 were used. The sample of live-born infants by municipalities was divided into four sub-samples: a subsample of infants born in 1976, 1987, 1997 and 2007. During the monitored years there were 19,312 live births in Tuzla Canton (TC), but the study included 17,907 newborns of both sexes. Statistical data processing was performed using standard methods, descriptive and inference statistics.
Results
Ascertained results of the secular trend for birth weight showed that this parameter had positive values in seven municipalities, but in six municipalities it was negative. The highest values of increasing birth length of newborns, which were statistically significant, were found in the municipalities of Srebrenik and this increase was 0.06 cm per year.
Conclusion
 Different values of the secular trend in the monitored TC are result of different socio-economic and ecological conditions in these municipalities, as well as of violent mass population migration that occurred as a result of
the war in BiH in the period from 1992 to 1995.
Relation of red cell distribution width with dipper and non-dipper hypertension
Authors: Buyukkaya Eyup , Erayman Ali , Karakas Esra , Bugra Nacar Alper , Kurt Mustafa , Buyukkaya Sule , Burak Akcay Adnan , Sen Nihat
Published: April 2024

Aim
Red cell distribution width (RDW), an index of erythrocyte size, is associated with high risk for cardiovascular disease. Nondipping hypertension (HT) is lack of nocturnal fall in blood pressure (BP). The association between RDW and non-dipping BP in normotensive and hypertensive patients was investigated.
Methods
A total of 170 patients were categorized into 4 groups: Normotensive-Dipper (NT-D), Normotensive-Non-dipper (NTND), Hypertensive-Dipper (HT-D) and Hypertensive-Non-dipper (HT-ND). RDW and hs-CRP levels were measured.
Results
 Hypertensive patients had higher RDW and hs-CRP levels (14.5 ± 0.87 vs.12.7 ± 0.66, p<0.001 for RDW; 0.99 ± 0.52
vs.0.63 ± 0.43, p<0.001 for hs-CRP). Besides, the RDW levels were higher in non-dippers (13.0 ± 0.63 vs.12.4 ± 0.55, p<0.001 for NT-ND and NT-D; 14.9 ± 0.78 vs.14.2 ± 0.82, p<0.001 for HT-ND and HT-D)
Conclusion
RDW is elevated in non-dipping BP both in normotensive and hypertensive subjects, which may be related with
increased inflammatory state.
Conditions of endotracheal intubation with and without muscle relaxant in children
Authors: Rizvanović Nermina , Čaušević Senada , Šabanović Adisa
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To compare intubation conditions and hemodynamic response of two induction regimens, with or without muscle relaxant
using a combination of either fentanyl and propofol or propofol and suxamethonium.
Methods
 A total of 80 children aged 4-12 years were enrolled in a prospective randomized double-blinded study. Children were randomly allocated in two equal groups. In group F induction was done with fentanyl and propofol, while propofol and suxamethonium were used in group S. Intubation conditions were assessed using Copenhagen Consensus Score (CCS), based on ease of laryngoscopy, position of vocal cords, degree of coughing, jaw relaxation and limb movements. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were observed at preinduction, postinduction and postintubation at 1, 3 and 5 minute.
Results
 Clinically acceptable CCS was found in 95% of patients in group F versus 100% in group S. Intubation conditions were
excellent in 85%, good in 10% and poor in 5% of patients in group F. In the group F, signifficantly lower SBP and MAP postinduction and postintubation at 1 and 3 minute, and lower DBP postinduction and postintubation at 1 minute (p<0.05) was found comparing to group S. In group S, significantly higher postinduction and postintubation HR at 1 minute was found comparing to group F (p<0.05).
Conclusion
 Induction combination fentanyl-propofol provide acceptable intubation conditions comparable with suxamethonium
in children. This induction regimen ensures better hemodynamic stability associated with endotracheal intubation. It could be recommended for intubation when muscle relaxants are not indicated.
Knowledge and attitudes of physicians and pharmacists towards the use of generic medicines in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Čatić Tarik , Avdagić Lejla , Martinović Igor
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate and assess knowledge and attitudes of pharmacists and physicians towards generic drugs prescription in order to evaluate current trends, obstacles to prescribe/dispense generics and suggest possible improvements of rational and economic prescribing having in mind scarce public budgets for drugs.
Methods
 A cross-sectional survey among 450 primary care physicians (prescribers) and pharmacists in four major cities in Bosnia
and Herzegovina (Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Tuzla and Mostar) during the period between January and March 2016 was conducted. The survey (questionnaire) was developed and physicians’ and pharmacists’ perception was examined using the 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics was used to examine respondents’ characteristics and their responses to survey questions. The respondents perception based on different characteristics was assessed using
ordinal logistic regression.
Results
 Generally, positive attitudes towards generic drugs were found. Majority of respondents, 392 (87.0%) considered generic
drugs the same as originators and they could be mutually substituted. Physicians were more likely to prescribe branded drugs, 297 (66.6%), even 391 (86.8%) were aware of generic alternatives. Respondents believed that patients considered generic drugs less effective, 204 (45.4%), and 221 (49.0%) disapproved generic substitution.
Conclusion
 Our findings suggest that further education and more information about benefits of generic drugs should be provided
to key stakeholders including patients. Also, clearer generic drugs policies should be introduced in order to improve generic prescribing and potentially improve access and optimize pharmaceutical public expenditures.
Cochlear potential difference between endolymph fluid and the hair cell's interior: a retold interpretation based on the Goldman equation
Authors: Kurbel Sven , Borzan Vladimir , Golem Hilda , Dinjar Kristijan
Published: April 2024

Reported cochlear potential values of near 150 mV are often attributed to endolymph itself, although membrane potentials result from ion fluxes across the adjacent semipermeable membranes due to concentration gradients. Since any two fluids separated by a semipermeable membrane develop potential due to differences in solute concentrations, a proposed interpretation here is that positive potential emanates from the Reissner membrane due to small influx of sodium from perilymph to endolymph. Basolateral hair cell membranes leak potassium into the interstitial fluid and this negative potential inside hair cells further augments the electric gradient of cochlear potential. Taken together as a sum, these two potentials are near the reported values of cochlear potential. This is based on reported data for cochlear fluids used for the calculation of Nernst and Goldman potentials. The reported positive potential of Reissner membrane can be explained almost entirely by the traffic of Na+ that enters endolymph through this membrane. At the apical membrane of hair cells, acoustic stimulation modulates stereocillia permeability to potassium. Potassium concentration gradients on the apical membrane are low (the calculated Nernst value is <+3 mV), suggesting that the potassium current is not caused by the local potassium concentration gradient, but an electric field between the positive sodium generated potential on the Reissner membrane and negative inside hair cells. Potassium is forced by this overall electric field to enter hair cells when stereocilia are permeable due to mechanical bending.
Prevention of trismus with different pharmacological therapies after surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molar
Authors: Selimović Edin , Ibrahimagić-Šeper Lejla , Šišić Ibrahim , Sivić Suad , Huseinagić Senad
Published: April 2024

Aim
To assess prevention and reduction of trismus after surgically extracted impacted mandibular third molars with individual
and combined therapy with corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory analgesics.
Methods
 The research included 60 randomly selected patients (3 groups) attended to the Dental Oral Surgery of the Public Institution Healthcare Center Zenica during the period January-December 2008. Patients of both genders, 18-45 years of age, were presented without pain and other inflammatory symptoms at the time of surgery. According to a scheme established in the research protocol, two medications were administered orally: methylprednisolone (corticosteroid) 32 mg and meloxicam (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory analgesic, NSAID) 15 mg as a single drug, or a combination of both drugs. The level of trismus is assessed on the basis of differences of preoperative and postoperative values of interincisal spaces when fully opening the mouth on the second and the seventh post-operative day. The differences between groups of patients were evaluated by means of Tukey’s HSD test.
Results
 On the second and on the seventh post-operative day significantly better results were registered in the group that received
only corticosteroids and in the group that received both, corticosteroids and NSAIDs compared to the group that received only NSAIDs. A tendency of trismus reduction was present in all patient groups for the second and seventh day after surgery.
Conclusion
 Prevention and control of postoperative trismus after surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars with combined therapy is effective and superior comparing to individual therapy with meloxicam-or methylprednisolone alone.
Treatment of posttraumatic epilepsy with new generation antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) – our experience
Authors: Šapina Lidija , Ratković Marija
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate influence of therapy with new generation antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in fastening of posttraumatic epilepsy
(PTE) remission comparing to therapy with standard AEDs, as well as the time to remission in the presence of psychiatric comorbidities.
Methods
 The study was conducted during the 1988-2008 period and included 113 patients (47 females and 67 males) with PTE and
113 patients (93 females and 20 males) suffering from complex partial seizures (CPS) of temporal lobe origin. In both patient groups, epileptic seizure phenotype, brain magnetic resonance imaging (1.5 T and 3.0 T) and electroencephalogram were analyzed within 24 hours of epileptic seizure and after 5 years of treatment. Psychological testing was administered prior to therapy initiation.
Results
 The patients treated with standard AEDs achieved remission in 82 (73%) cases as compared with 87 (77%) patients
administered with a new generation AEDs; in the latter group, remission was achieved faster (1.85 vs. 1.6 months). In both patient groups, psychiatric comorbidity prolonged time to remission by 3.4 months.
Conclusion
Therapy with new generation AEDs enables achieving faster and complete remission in PTE patients.
Results of bronchoscopic excision in typical carcinoid tumors of the lung in Turkey
Authors: Boyacı Hilal , Çörtük Mustafa , Gül Şule , Tanrıverdi Elif , Akif Özgül Mehmet , Erhan Dinçer Hüseyin , Çetinkaya Erdoğan
Published: April 2024

Aim
 Carcinoid tumors of the lung are the tumors originating from the neuroendocrine cells. Surgical excision remains the gold standard for the treatment. Treatment with interventional bronchoscopic excision has also been reported as an alternative option in typical carcinoid tumors of the lung. The aim of this study was to present results and outcomes in patients who were bronchoscopically treated and followed-up.
Methods
 Data of 14 patients, who had undergone bronchoscopic excision due to typical carcinoid tumor of the lung between April
2008 and July 2015 were retrospectively evaluated. Bronchoscopic excision procedures were performed under general anesthesia, while control bronchoscopies were carried out with flexible bronchoscopy. Time between the first and last bronchoscopies was accepted as the follow-up duration.
Results
A total of 14 patients was evaluated with eight (57.1%) males. Mean age was 43.57±14.07 (23-68) years. The most
common symptoms were shortness of breath and coughing. Mean of 5.69±3.35 (2-12) bronchoscopy procedures were performed in the patients during the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Mean follow-up duration was 32.0±19.22 months. At the long-term follow-up, two patients developed 50% stenosis and one patient developed granulation tissue in the endobronchial treatment site. None of the patients developed recurrence during the mean 32-month follow-up.
Conclusion
 Endobronchial treatment is a safe and successful treatment method in well selected typical carcinoid tumor cases that
are centrally located, having no radiological suspicion of local or distant metastasis, distally visible but not located on the bronchi with a wide base on bronchoscopy. 