bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between C-reactive protein, anthropometric parameters and lipids in menopausal transition
Authors: Softić Dženana , Mešalić Lejla
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate the relationship between C-reactive protein, anthropometric parameters, and lipids in women in the menopausal transition.
Methods
 This cross-sectional study included 150 women divided into three groups: premenopausal (n=50), perimenopausal (n=50), and postmenopausal (n=50). All women were interviewed, body mass index (BMI) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) values were calculated, and a blood sample was taken for laboratory analysis. The values of the lipids were determined including triglycerides, total cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, while low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol values were obtained through formulas. The concentration of CRP was determined by immunoturbidimetry on the Architect ci8200 device.
Results
The BMI of postmenopausal women was significantly higher than that of premenopausal (p=0.025) and perimenopausal women (p=0.010). The ratio of the waist-hip circumference of postmenopausal women was significantly higher than the ratio of the waist-hip circumference of premenopausal women (p<0.001), as well as that of perimenopausal women (p<0.001). A significant difference in CRP concentration was found only between the postmenopausal and premenopausal groups (p=0.009). CRP significantly positively correlated with BMI in all three groups. A significant positive correlation was found between CRP and WHR in the perimenopause and in the postmenopause group. No significant correlation was found between CRP and lipid parameters in any group.
Conclusion
 An increase in body weight or obesity in the postmenopausal period, increase in CRP concentration, and positive correlation between these parameters suggest that entering menopause could mean a potential increase in the risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
Morphometric analysis of clinically significant parameters of the main trunk of the left coronary artery
Authors: Lujinović Almira , Dervišević Lejla , Ajanović Zurifa , Kapić Dina , Metović Azra , Ćosović Esad , Šahinović Maida , Mušanović Jasmin , Kovačević-Prstojević Jelena , Pepić Esad
Published: April 2024

Aim
To determine the value of angles between the left coronary artery main trunk (LMT) and its branches, the anterior interventricular branch (LAD) and the circumflex branch (CX), and their possible relationship with the LMT length.
Methods
 A total of 29 cadaveric hearts were used. The left coronary artery and its branches were dissected. The hearts were then classified according to the number of branches. The LMT length was measured with a digital gauge, and the LAD-CX angle, LMT-LAD angle and LMT-CX angle with a manual goniometer.
Results
 The average value of the LMT length was 9.0 mm (6.0-13.5). In 20 (68.97%) samples, the LMT was divided into two terminal branches. There was no statistically significant difference (p=0.321) in LMT length between the hearts with a bifurcation and without it. The average value of the LAD-CX angle was 89.0⁰ (74.5-93.0), with a statistically significant difference (p=0.020) comparing to hearts with trifurcation. The mean value of the LMT-LAD angle was 30.83±9.23⁰ and it was significantly lower (p=0.006) in the group of hearts with bifurcation compared to the group with trifurcation of the main trunk.
Conclusion
 The LMT length shows great variability and is not related to the LAD-CX, LMT-LAD or the LMT-CX angle. Knowledge of the left coronary variation is essential in order to avoid misinterpretation of arteriogram.
Lipid status and carotid intima-media thickness in patients with end-stage renal disease
Authors: Rebić Damir , Begić Edin , Šljivo Armin , Granov Nermir , Hasanspahić Senad , Džubur Alen , Durak-Nalbantić Azra
Published: April 2024

Aim
To assess morphological characteristics of carotid blood vessels in uremic patients before to the initiation of the dialysis treatment, and corelate data with various dialysis therapy modules.
Methods
The study included 30 patients with end-stage renal disease (ERDS) prior to commencing dialysis, 30 patients treated with
haemodialysis and 30 patients treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. The control group consisted of 15 subjects with normal kidney function (eGFR>60ml/min). Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), as well as lipid status values (cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), apolipoprotein A, apolipoprotein B) were evaluated.
Results
The significant difference in CIMT was detected between the control and haemodialysis groups (p<0.001), and between
the control and the peritoneal dialysis group (p=0.004). In patients in the predialysis group, CIMT was influenced by cholesterol (p=0.013), HDL (p=0.044), LDL (p=0.001) and ApoB (p=0.042) values. A significant difference in CIMT was proved between the haemodialysis and predialysis group of patients (p<0.001). The only variable from the patient's lipometabolic profile significantly associated with the change in IMT in uremic patients was HDL. A
significant difference was found in the average value for systolic blood pressure (p<0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.018) in patients before starting the dialysis treatment compared to patients treated with other dialysis methods.
Conclusion
Patients on haemodialysis treatment had a significantly greater CIMT, which is in relation with a higher cardiovascular risk.
Comparison of Kegel exercises and a combination of Kegel exercises with the use of the KegelSmart biofeedback device in the treatment of static urinary incontinence
Authors: Begić Mirela , Kapidžić-Bašić Nedima , Hotić-Hadžiefendić Asja , Konjić Asmir , Bojinović-Rodić Dragana , Hudić Igor
Published: April 2024

Aim
To determine which of the two methods, Kegel exercises or combination of Kegel exercises with the use of the KegelSmart
biofeedback device, has better therapeutic effects on the symptoms of SUI in females.
Methods
Fifty female patients with SUI were randomly divided into two groups: 25 treated with Kegel exercises, and 25 with the
combination of Kegel exercises with the use of the KegelSmart biofeedback device. Patients in both groups performed Kegel exercises 30 minutes daily for 30 days. Patients in the second group, in addition to Kegel exercises, applied the KegelSmart device intravaginally for 20 minutes daily for 30 days. All patients filled out a questionnaire based on 12 questions consisting of an objective and a subjective component.
Results
The basic characteristics of the patients from both groups were not statistically significantly different: age 55.16 vs 54.52
years; number of births 1.80 vs 1.96; body mass index 29.12 vs 28.40. There was a statistically significant reduction in the values of all analysed objective and subjective parameters in the group treated with combination of Kegel exercises with the use of the KegelSmart biofeedback device compared to Kegel exercises group.
Conclusion
Combination of Kegel exercises with the use of the KegelSmart biofeedback device has better therapeutic effects than
Kegel exercises on the objective and subjective symptoms of SUI.
Serum biomarkers in normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Mehmedika-Suljić Enra , Izetbegović Sebija , Serdarević Nafija , Rovčanin Bekir , Mahmutbegović Nevena , Mehičević Admir , Omerhodžić Ibrahim
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate the serum value of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), proteins S-100, NSE, IL-6 in normal pressure patients (NPH) compared to control (healthy) group and also a possible correlation with radiological findings in NPH patients.
Methods
Study patients were included during the period of 2020-2022. All NPH patients met the diagnostic criteria for probability
of NPH. Control patients group included patients without known brain disorder, without clinical symptoms of NPH. Blood samples were taken before planned surgery for NPH. BDNF serum concentrations were assessed by a sensitive ELISA kit, and serum concentrations of S-100, NSE and IL-6 were assessed by using ECLIA technology for immunoassay detection.
Results
Among 15 patients who were included, seven NPH patients were compared to eight control patients. Non-significant
decrease in BDNF serum concentrations, an increase of protein S-100 serum concentrations, a decrease of NSE serum concentrations, as well as an increase of IL-6 serum concentrations in NPH patients compared to healthy controls was found. Strong positive correlation between BNDF and Evans index was observed (p=0.0295).
Conclusion
We did not find a significant difference of BDNF, protein S-100, IL-6 and NSE between serum concentration in NPH
and healthy patients. More future research is needed to find the
role of BDNF in NPH patients.
COVID-19 associated coagulopathy in septic critically ill patients - a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kovačević Mirza , Rizvanović Nermina , Šabanović Adilović Adisa , Čaušević Senada
Published: April 2024

Aim
To determine the relationship between coagulation disorders and septic condition in COVID-19 critically ill patients.
Methods
Data from 99 patients who presented with COVID-19 acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (CAHRF) were divided into
two groups: Group 1- patients who developed sepsis, and Group 2 - patients who developed septic shock. Age, sex, comorbidities, quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) score, vasopressor and inotrope requirement, laboratory findings (platelets, neutrophils, lymphocytes, procalcitonin - PCT, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, D-dimer, sepsis-induced coagulopathy – SIC, and disseminated intravascular coagulation - DIC score) were recorded on the day of admission and on the day of starting invasive mechanical ventilation. The primary outcome was to establish
COVID-19 associated coagulopathy with sepsis and septic shock; the secondary outcome measure was incidence of coagulopathy in septic COVID-19 critically ill patients.
Results
The most common coagulation abnormality was international normalized ratio (INR) (p=0.019) for Group 2, followed
by the values of inflammatory parameters PCT (p=0.002) and lymphocytes (p=0.011) also for Group 2. The statistical significance of SIC score was observed for both groups (p=0.007) and p=0.012, respectively. Norepinephrine (p=0.000) and dobutamine (p=0.000) for Group 2, qSOFA for both groups (p = 0.000) were
statistically significant.
Conclusion
The observed coagulation abnormalities met the criteria for a SIC diagnosis, therefore, the management of coagulation
disorders at this stage of the disease should follow the management of a septic condition.
Red algae extract suppresses caspase-3 gene expression and induces catalase antioxidant enzyme in testicles of rats induced by boric acid
Authors: Renda Sari Ayu , Wahyu Wibowo Joko , Priyantini Sri , Putra Agung , Amalina Nur Dina
Published: April 2024

Aim
To determine the effect of red algae extract on the gene expression of catalase and caspase-3 in testicules of rats induced by boric acid (BA).
Methods
This is experimental research with post-test control group design. Twenty four healthy male Wistar rats were divided into
four treatment groups: a healthy group, negative control group, two treatment groups with red algae extract 400mg/kgBW/day (T1) and red algae extract 800mg/kgBW/day (T2). Each group was treated with BA 500mg/kgBW/day for 14 days, whereas the healthy group did not receive BA. In the treatment groups T1 and T2 were given red algae extract for 14 days. On day 15 all treatment groups were terminated and catalase and caspase-3 gene
expression were analysed using qRT-PCR.
Results
In the healthy group, the expression of the catalase gene was 1.39±0.67 and the expression of the caspase-3 gene was
1.06±0.17. In the negative control group, there was a significant decrease in catalase gene expression, 0.68±0.27 (p<0.05), and a significant increase in caspase-3 gene expression, 5.71±2.47 (p<0.05). Treatment groups T1 and T2 showed a significant increase in catalase gene expression, 2.67±0.69; and 2.85±0.64, respectively (p<0.05) and caspase-3, 3.96±1,16 and 1.89±0.84, respectively, compared to the control group.
Conclusion
The administration of red algae extract had a significant effect on increasing the expression of the catalase gene and
decreasing the expression of the caspase-3 gene. This suggests that red algae extract has the potential to be developed as a protective agent against exposure to the effects of BA.
Does SarsCoV-2 infection really cause damage to retinal microcirculation in mild cases of COVID-19?
Authors: Pilavdžić Adisa , Pavljašević Suzana , Nadarević Vodenčarević Amra , Međedović Anis , Halilbašić Meliha , Čičkušić Alma , Hodžić Nejra , Terzić Sumeja , Šmigalović Azra , Muhović Sanela
Published: April 2024

Aim
To evaluate changes of retinal microcirculation in mild cases of recovered COVID-19 patients at least three months after the infection by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) non-invasive method.
Methods
In this prospective cross-sectional study, 50 right eyes of 50 recovered COVID-19 patients were compared with 50 right
eyes of age and gender-matched healthy controls. After the complete ophthalmological examination, all participants underwent OCTA measurements (RTVue XR Avanti, Optovue, Fremont, CA, USA).
Results
The time between the initial onset of symptoms, and ophthalmologic examination was 479.20 ±197.10 (126-754)
days. Findings of ophthalmic examination of all eyes of the recovered COVID-19 patients were within normal range. Significantly reduced superficial (p=0.046) and deep (p=0.044) macular vessel density (VD) in foveal region in the eyes of the recovered COVID-19 patients was found compared with healthy controls. Significantly enlarged foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area and perimeter in the eyes of the recovered COVID-19 patients (p<0.001) were found too.
Conclusion
Recovered COVID-19 patients have impaired retinal microcirculation, which can be a cause of the development of retinal vascular diseases.
Comparison between conventional open-heart valve surgery and minimally invasive valve replacement surgery regarding the length of hospital stay and usage of blood derivates: insights from a single-centre, single-surgeon study conducted in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Granov Nermir , Hadžimehmedagić Amel , Šljivo Armin , Selimović Tarik , Kurtagić Damir , Kabil Edin , Djedović Muhamed , Abdulkhaliq Arian
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To analyse the correlation between different surgical methodologies employed in valve diseases treatment and their subsequent impact on the duration of hospitalization.
Methods
 This retrospective study conducted at the Clinical Centre of the University of Sarajevo analysed medical records of 163 valve disease patients treated between January 2019 and November 2022. The patients were divided into two groups: 77 had openheart valve surgery and 86 underwent minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS).
Results
 The mean duration of the surgical procedures was 3.9±1.3 hours, with conventional open-heart surgery requiring an average of 3.6±1.1 hours and minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) procedure 4.2±1.5 hours. No substantial disparities were found in the total length of hospitalization between the two groups, as both conventional (8.2±4.5 days) and MICS (8.7±7.0 days) demonstrated similar duration. Similarly, the total duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay displayed similarity, with conventional surgery patients staying an average of 3.9±2.8 days and MICS patients of 4.2±4.1 days. The pattern of blood transfusion and fresh-frozen plasma usage revealed higher rates in the conventional valve surgery group comparing to the MICS group.
Conclusion
 Minimally invasive valve surgery, despite slightly longer operative times, resulted in lower blood transfusion requirements and comparable hospitalization and ICU stay.
The level of occlusion of small saphenous vein after endovenous laser ablation
Authors: Okić Anel , Mujić Hasib , Hadžimehmedagić Amel , Babić Nermina , Krvavac Hafizović Alma , Kajmaković Kožo Azra
Published: April 2024

Aim
To determine the success of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) treatment and long-term occlusion of small saphenous
vein (SSV), as well as factors and conditions that influence the effectiveness of EVLA treatment.
Methods
A total of 250 patients treated with EVLA method over a period of seven years were followed one year after treatment.
The main factors monitored and recorded during EVLA treatment were laser power (W), amount of delivered energy (J), duration of treatment (sec), veins length (cm), diameter (mm) and reflux (sec).
Results
Within the first six months, the recanalization or insufficiently occluded SSV was noticed in ten, and after one year in
one patient. The overall assessment of occlusion and satisfactory findings after one year of SSV was 95.6%.
Conclusion
It is important to choose adequate power and the amount of delivered energy. The physician’s assessment and selection
of an adequate patient greatly improves the outcome of the treatment. It is important to treat larger branches and double SSV between two fascias. Successful and effective EVLA treatment greatly reduces the possibility of recanalization of the treated vein.
Deflazacort and Nevridol 800 to prevent acute carpal tunnel syndrome in adult distal radius fractures
Authors: Meccariello Luigi
Published: April 2024

Aim
Acute carpal tunnel syndrome (ACTS) is a well-recognized and common condition following a distal radius fracture. The aim of this study was to test deflazacort associated with Nevridol®800 or deflazacort alone in order to prevent moderate or severe ACTS after the distal radius fracture in adults.
Methods
Sixty-four patients suffering from extraarticular wrist fractures were divided into three groups. The first group (n=26)
was treated by plaster cast. The second group (n=20) was treated by cast and deflazacort (heterocyclic glucocorticoids prodrug belonging to the class of oxazoline steroids) 30 mg/day for 15 days. The third group (n=18) was treated by cast and deflazacort 30 mg/ day for 15 days + Nevridol (food supplements) 800 mg a day for 40 days. The criteria to evaluate the patients were: the complication of ACTS, the duration of symptoms, the functional results were evaluated according to The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) life correlated with wrist function by the Short Form 12 Health Survey (SF-12), and positive Tinel and Phalen test. The correlation between ACTS signs and volar tilt in the latero-lateral at X-rays in the three studied groups was assessed. The endpoints were set on 7 days, 15 days, 1 months, 2 months and 3 months after a trauma.
Results
In the first group, 12 of 26 (46.15%) and the second group 7 of 20 (35%) patients suffered from ACTS, while in the third
group only two of 18 (11%) patients (p=0.033). After 3 months of treatment, the third group had better results in DASH (p=0.034), SF-12 (p=0.044), Tinel (0.045) and Phalen (0.048) tests.
Conclusion
Deflazacort associated with Nevridol 800 may reduce the prevalence of postoperative median nerve dysfunction.
Association of age at menopause and age at menarche with later-life skeletal fragility fractures in Bosnian postmenopausal women
Authors: Alimanović-Alagić Rubina , Bonić Martina , Pleho Dženan , Kapetanović Amila , Bajić Gordan , Sarić Sabina
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate the effects of estrogen-related events (age at menopause, age at menarche) on later-life skeletal fragility in Bosnian postmenopausal women.
Methods
A total of 100 postmenopausal Bosnian women, aged between 55 and 75 years, were included. The women in the study group (n=50) had fragility fractures, and in the control group (n=50) were without fragility fractures. Bone mineral density
(BMD) was measured using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) on the lumbar spine (L2-L4) and proximal femur.
Results
No statistically significant difference relating to the age between the groups was found. The average age at menopause was 44.70 years in women with fragility fractures and 51.76 years in women without fragility fracture (p=0.0001). The average age at menarche was 14.30 years in women with fragility fractures and 13.70 years in women without fragility fractures (p=0.140). T score of ≤-2.5 SD was found in 40 (80%) women in the study group, and in eight (16%) women in the control group (p=0.0001).
Conclusions
Age at menopause, but not age at menarche, was risk factors for later-life fragility fracture in postmenopausal Bosnian
women. In addition, fragility fractures correlated with low BMD in this population group.
Presence and resistance of Streptococcus agalactiae in vaginal specimens of pregnant and adult non-pregnant women and association with other aerobic bacteria
Authors: Numanović Fatima , Smajlović Jasmina , Gegić Merima , Delibegović Zineta , Bektaš Sabaheta , Nurkić Jasmina , Halilović Emir
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To determine the prevalence rate and resistance profile of Streptococcus agalactiae (S. agalactiae) in vaginal swabs of pregnant and adult non-pregnant women in the Tuzla region, Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H), as well as its association with other aerobic bacteria.
Methods
This prospective study included 200 women, 100 pregnant and 100 adult non-pregnant. The research was conducted at the Institute of Microbiology, University Clinical Center Tuzla from October to December 2015. Standard aerobic microbiological techniques were used for isolation and identification of S. agalactiae and other aerobic bacteria. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the disk diffusion and microdilution method (VITEK 2/AES instrument).
Results
 Among 200 vaginal swabs, 17 (8.50%) were positive for S. agalactiae, e. g., 7% (7/100) of pregnant and 10% (10/100) of adult non-pregnant women. In the pregnant group, 71.4% (5/7) of S. agalactiae isolates were susceptible to clindamycin and 85.7% (6/7) to erythromycin. In the adult non-pregnant group, only resistance to clindamycin was observed in one patient (1/10; 10%). S. agalactiae as single pathogen was isolated in 57.14% (4/7) of pregnant and 60% (6/10) of adult non-pregnant S. agalactiae positive women. In mixed microbial cultures S. agalactiae was most frequently associated with Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli.
Conclusion
 The rate of S. agalactiae positive women in the population of pregnant and adult non-pregnant women of Tuzla Canton, B&H is comparable with other European countries. Large studies are needed to develop a common national strategy for the prevention of S. agalactiae infection in B&H, especially during pregnancy.
Comparison of Goldmann applanation, non-contact, dynamic contour and tonopen tonometry measurements in healthy and glaucomatous eyes, and effect of central corneal thickness on the measurement results
Authors: Yildiz Aydın , Yasar Tekin
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To compare the correlation of intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements obtained using Goldmann applanation tonometry
(GAT), non-contact tonometry (NCT), dynamic contour tonometer (DCT) and tono-pen (TP) in glaucomatous and healthy eyes, and to investigate the effect of central corneal thickness (CCT) on the measurements.
Methods
One hundred eyes of 100 glaucoma patients and 50 eyes of 50 healthy individuals were compared. In all of the eyes, CCT
was evaluated using ultrasonic pachymeter. IOP was measured using NCT, TP, DCT and GAT, respectively. IOP measurements and correlation of these measurements with CCT were calculated using Pearson and intra-group correlation analysis.
Results
 In the glaucoma group, the mean IOP was 16.42 ± 2.80 mmHg with NCT, 17.12 ± 2.49 mmHg with TP, 18.27 ± 2.62
mmHg with DCT and 16.08 ± 3.00 mmHg with GAT. The mean CCT was 532.15 ± 39.08 μm. In normal individuals, mean IOP was 14.64 ± 2.20 mmHg with NCT, 15.32 ± 1.85 mmHg with TP, 16.72 ± 2.31 mmHg with DCT and 14.16 ± 2.80 mmHg with GAT. The mean CCT was 538.40 ± 31.64 μm.
Conclusion
 A strong compliance between NCT and GAT has been observed. NCT can be used instead of GAT.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy effect on renal arterial resistive index changing
Authors: Hiroš Mustafa , Milišić Lejla , Mešić Amira , Begić Edin , Milišić Emir , Zvizdić Zlatan , Jonuzi Asmir
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate a correlation between resistive index (RI) level changes following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in treated and non-treated kidneys depending on the ESWL treatment intensity. The study was conducted on 60 subjects, which were divided in two groups according to age and treatment protocol.
Results
In the group of patients younger than 55 years of age there was a significant increase in mean RI values, on the first (p=0.001) and second day after the treatment (p=0.007). In the group older than 55 years of age, the resulting increase in mean RI levels was also significant on the first (p=0.003) and second (p=0.011) day following the treatment. The RI values in the non-treated kidney on the first day after the treatment grew significantly (p=0.033). In the group older than 55, RI values in the non-treated kidney grew significantly on the first day after the treatment (p=0.044). In the group who received 2000 SWs, RI levels grew significantly (p=0.044) as well as in the group who received 4000 SWs during the treatment, where the significance was more pronounced (p=0.007).
Conclusion
There is a correlation between RI changes and the degree and localization of changes in vascular elements of the kidney. Post-ESWL treatment changes are existent and reversible, over a period of one week after the treatment.
Effect of myocardial infarction on the occurrence of erectile dysfunction
Authors: Hodžić Enisa , Durek Adnan , Begić Edin , Šabanović Bajramović Nirvana , Durak Nalbantić Azra
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate etiological link between acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and the accompanying impotence/erectile dysfunction (ED).
Methods
Study included 99 male patients (48 who had AMI-patient group, and 51 healthy examinees without previous cardiovascular disease-control group). All patients completed a standardized questionnaire, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5).
Results
 Older patients had significantly lower IIEF-5 score (negative correlation) (p <0.05), but higher ED degree (significant positive correlation) (rho=0.522; p=0.0001). In the patient group, 37 (77.1%) patients had ED, while in the control group it was found in 26 (51%) examinees (p<0.05). A clear correlation was found between incidence of ED and diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and positive family history (they were more common in patients with ED, with no statistically significant difference). There was no statistically significant difference between patients with ED and patients without ED according to the beta-blocker usage (p=0.824): ED was reported in 11 (68%) patients in the group who used carvedilol, 14 (82.3%) in the group who used metoprolol, and nine (81.8%) who used nebivolol.
 Conclusion
Myocardial infarction as well as age are directly related to the occurrence of ED. Cardiovascular risk factors are in direct correlation for the occurrence of erectile dysfunction after myocardial infarction.
Does an early discharge of a newborn influence the success of the newborn hearing screening in developing countries? A hospital based study
Authors: Hrnčić Nermin
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate outcomes of newborn hearing screening (NHS) with transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE) depending on the time from the birth to hearing screening.
Methods
 A prospective study was performed in the Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The NHS with TEOAE was done before hospital discharge for all infants. The total of 1217 newborns were tested during a six-month period, from 1 st February to 31 st July 2016. The data of 1167 were available for analysis. Those data were divided in four groups depending on the time passed from the birth to hearing screening: Group A (n = 133 newborns, NHS performed in the first 24 hours after birth); group B (n = 294 newborns, NHS performed between 24-36h after birth); group C (n = 184 newborns, NHS performed between 36-48h after birth) and group D (n= 556 newborns, NHS performed later than 48h after birth).
Results
 Total referral rate was 19.1% (n = 223): for group A 30.1% (n=40), for group B 25.2% (n=74), for group C 19.0% (n=35) and for group D 13.3% (n=74). There was statistically significant difference between groups A and C (p=0.03), between groups A and D (p<0.001) and between groups B and D (p<0.001) in total and in well baby nursery (WBN).
Conclusion
 The total referral rates in NHS were high because of early post birth discharge of newborns. The NHS should be performed in infants older than 36 hours according to the results in this study.
Evaluation of refractive errors in retinopathy of prematurity screening
Authors: Pidro Aida , Alajbegović-Halimić Jasmina , Jovanović Nina , Pidro Ajla
Published: April 2024

Aim
To evaluate the frequency of refractive errors in premature children in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening to find mutual connection of the prematurity level, disease activity and refractive errors.
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted in the Eye Clinic of the University Clinical Centre Sarajevo, between December 2013 and January 2017. A total of 126 patients of gestational age ≤ 34 weeks and birth weight ≤ 2000 g underwent ROP screening program. The patients were divided into three groups: patients without ROP (n=15), patients with spontaneous regression (n=106) and those with active form of ROP (n=5).
Results
There were 68 (54.0%) patients with refractive errors: 45 (35.7%) had hyperopia, 17 (13.5%) myopia and six (4.8%) astigmatism. There were three (60.0%) patients with an active form of ROP who had refractive errors: two (40.0%) had myopia and one (20.0%) hyperopia. The group without active ROP had hyperopia as most frequent refractive error, with 10 (66.7%) patients. The average birth weight of the patients without refractive errors was 1403.9±43.4 g compared to 1390.3±104.2 g of the patients with refractive errors (p=0.498). The average gestational age was 29.7±0.3 weeks in patients without and 29.0 ± 0.3 weeks in patients with refractive errors (p=0.126).
Conclusion
 The birth weight and the gestational age were significantly lower in patients with the active form of ROP. Lower gestational age and birth weight of premature children increase the chance for the development of refractive errors such as hyperopia in all premature children and myopia in patients with active form of ROP.
Effectiveness of stapes surgery in patients with tinnitus and small air-bone gap
Authors: Skarżyński Henryk , Dziendziel Beata , Gos Elżbieta , Skarżyński Piotr H.
Published: April 2024

Wprowadzenie

Obecnie najlepszą możliwą metodą leczenia otosklerozy pozostaje chirurgia strzemiączka. Głównym wyznacznikiem przy podejmowaniu decyzji o chirurgii strzemiączka u pacjentów z otosklerozą jest stopień ubytku słuchu, a dokładnie – wielkość przedoperacyjnej rezerwy ślimakowej. Z tego powodu decyzja o kwalifikacji do operacyjnego leczenia otosklerozy u pacjentów z małą rezerwą ślimakową odkładana jest w czasie do momentu jej zwiększenia się. Tymczasem wielu pacjentów z otosklerozą zmaga się nie tylko z postępującą utratą słuchu, lecz także z szumami usznymi. Celem badania była ocena efektywności chirurgii strzemiączka u pacjentów z otosklerozą i małą rezerwą ślimakową w odniesieniu do zmiany audiometrycznych progów słyszenia, subiektywnego słyszenia w różnych warunkach akustycznych oraz uciążliwości szumów usznych.

Materiał i metody

Do badania zakwalifikowano grupę 55 dorosłych pacjentów ze średnią wieku M = 47 lat (SD = 9,7). Badanie audiometrii tonalnej wykonano przed operacją, a następnie 6 i 12–36 miesięcy po operacji. Do oceny subiektywnego słyszenia w różnych sytuacjach akustycznych wykorzystano kwestionariusz Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB). Uciążliwość szumów usznych oceniono za pomocą Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI).

Wyniki

W 6-miesięcznej obserwacji pooperacyjnej średnią rezerwę ślimakową zamknięto w granicach 10 dB w 42 (76,4%) przypadkach, a w granicach 15 dB u 51 (92,7%) pacjentów. Średnie progi przewodnictwa powietrznego, kostnego oraz wielkość rezerwy ślimakowej pozostały stabilne w dłuższej obserwacji pooperacyjnej. Wynik TFI wykazał znaczącą redukcję uciążliwości szumów usznych po operacji u 41 (70,7%) pacjentów z otosklerozą. Także analiza statystyczna wyników APHAB potwierdziła znaczne zmniejszenie problemów z codzienną komunikacją w różnych sytuacjach akustycznych po operacji.

Wnioski

Chirurgia strzemiączka może być efektywną procedurą u pacjentów z otosklerozą i małą rezerwą ślimakową. Możliwość zmniejszenia uciążliwych szumów usznych powinna być uwzględniana w procesie kwalifikacyjnym do chirurgii strzemiączka u pacjenta z otosklerozą
i małą rezerwą ślimakową.
Motivos visuales e intertextualidad de la música popular en el ecosistema transmedia: el álbum visual El Madrileño, de C. Tangana
Authors: Sedeño-Valdellós Ana
Published: April 2024

El contexto contemporáneo de producción cultural se caracteriza por una máxima hibridación estética y es consecuencia de una mayor interrelación audiovisual que prioriza experiencias intertextuales, intermediales y de inmersión para el espectador. La lógica transmedia se expande desde las propuestas audiovisuales a todo tipo de formatos, propiciando un aumento de los canales con los que llegar al espectador. La industria musical, una de las que necesita de mayor innovación, está pendiente de todas las innovaciones aplicables a su producción y los artistas musicales necesitan adaptar su discurso a estrategias globales que les proporcionen visibilidad, para continuar construyendo su identidad. El álbum visual, expansión transmedia del videoclip, es un nuevo dispositivo de promoción musical que permite la generación de contenido visual para alimentar muchas ventanas publicitarias del artista. Se caracteriza por la unidad en sus motivos visuales y una capacidad intertextual o de cita que es adecuada para proyectos musicales como el de El Madrileño, de C. Tangana, producido por Little Spain. El proyecto resulta coherente con una estética de la colaboración musical y de hibridación de imaginarios entre lo tradicional y lo moderno español.
Sadowsky, Jonathan (2022). El imperio de la depresión. Una nueva historia. Alianza Editorial
Authors: Grippaldi Esteban
Published: April 2024

La depresión se ha convertido en un imperio que desde occidente ha colonizado al mundo y desplaza otros lenguajes que dan sentido a la angustia profunda en diferentes culturas. El libro ofrece una historia global de esta aflicción, desde la antigua melancolía hasta la actualidad, a través de rastrear sus múltiples significados, tratamientos y memorias personales para comprender la expansión y el protagonismo que adquiere en nuestros días. En esta historia también aborda las dimensiones sociales de la depresión y evidencia que formar parte de grupos desfavorecidos, oprimidos, estigmatizados o perseguidos incrementa las posibilidades de padecerla. A partir de un abordaje histórico que utiliza herramientas conceptuales interdisciplinarias la obra cuestiona lugares comunes, falsos dilemas, dogmas filosóficos sin sustento empírico y visiones unilaterales sobre la depresión. También aporta una visión compleja de un padecimiento milenario y en crecimiento que contiene, al mismo tiempo, aspectos médicos, sociales, políticos, culturales y del que aún resta mucho por conocer.
Acoustic Stridulating Responses of Various Tarantula Species in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Razak Irham , Muhammad Nasir Dzulhelmi , Ahmad Amirrudin
Published: April 2024

Stridulation by stridulatory organs has been linked to tarantulas’ (Araneae: Theraphosidae) defence or sexual communication, and the morphology of such organ has been extensively used in tarantula systematics. This study was conducted to characterise and compare differences in the acoustic pattern of stridulating sound among seven tarantula species for juveniles and adults of both sexes in Peninsular Malaysia. The species were Psednocnemis jeremyhuffi, P. brachyramosa, Selenocosmia sp. ‘Johor’, Omothymus violaceopes, Cyriopagopus robustus, Chilobrachys sp. ‘Kedah’, and Coremiocnemis sp. ‘Kelantan’. Five provocation methods were used to record the sound which was by tapping the substrate/enclosure, blowing air, waving a pen, poking with blunt object and shaking the enclosure. The stridulating behaviour was assessed using a set of parameters. The result showed that the stridulating behaviour differed between species. Dwarf species like P. jeremyhuffi and P. brachyramosa did not make any audible stridulating sound and preferred to remain motionless. Meanwhile, for the other five species only the large adult females stridulated. Adult males of all species did not make any audible sounds, but rather appeared to be more aggressive and frequently bite. Kruskal-Wallis test showed that intensity, pitch frequency, call duration and pulse duration were significantly different between species. Principal component analaysis (PCA) showed the dissimilarity between the adult females from the five species with Omothymus violaceopes and Chilobrachys sp. ‘Kedah’ the most distinct in terms of call patterns. This study provides evidence on the acoustics pattern of stridulating sound for the tarantulas in Peninsular Malaysia.
Physiological Responses and Tolerance of Three Acacia Species to Cadmium Stress During Germination and Early Seedling Growth
Authors: Davis La Ode Muhammad Muchdar , Nurhasanah Nurhasanah , Juhaeti Titi , Gunawan Indra
Published: April 2024

Soil contamination with cadmium (Cd) is a serious threat to ecosystems. Phytoremediation is a cost-effective green technology that can be used to clean up Cd pollution, and Acacia species are potential phytoremediation agents due to their fast growth, significant biomass, and tolerance to environmental stresses. Most studies of Cd stress on Acacia focused on later vegetative stages and the tolerances during germination and early seedling are elusive. This study aimed to assess the tolerance of Acacia mangium, Acacia crassicarpa, and Acacia auriculiformis to Cd stress during germination and early seedling growth. In response to 250 μM Cd treatment, A. auriculiformis germination was slightly increased compared to the control. Leaf organ formation remained largely unaffected by Cd stress, except for the true leaf number in A. mangium, which was significantly higher in response to 125 µM Cd than those to 250 µM Cd treatment and control at 8 and 10 weeks after treatment. The onset of phyllode development transition from true leaf was significantly delayed in A. mangium compared with the other two Acacia, irrespective of the presence of Cd. There were no significant differences in leaf gas exchange parameters (photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and transpiration), leaf-level water use efficiency, or leaf chlorophyll content between Cd-treated and control plants, suggesting that the three Acacia species are tolerant to Cd at both germination and early seedling phases. Cd accumulation during the experiment was very low in A. mangium seedlings (2.8 mg kg-1 upon 250 µM Cd) and insignificant in A. crassicarpa and A. auriculiformis, indicating non-hyperaccumulation or Cd exclusion at the seedling stage.
Novel Blood Pressure-Lowering Effect of Spathulenol in Rats
Authors: Raslan Ain-Fatin , Yee Yong Mei , Hoe See Ziau , Ong Hooi Tin , Lam Sau Kuen
Published: April 2024

In recent years, natural compounds from plant sources are sought after as alternative anti-hypertensive treatments. Spathulenol (Spa), a terpenoid plant metabolite obtained mainly from the Origanum species has shown anecdotal evidence of blood pressure (BP)-lowering properties probably through the effects on vasoreactivity. This study aimed to investigate the BP-lowering activities of Spa in vivo as well as to ascertain the mechanisms of action in vitro. Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (n=16) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) (n=16) with their normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats (n=16) as controls were subjected to anaesthesia and administered intravenous boluses of Spa at 0.0, 0.045, 0.90, 0.18, 0.36, and 0.7 mg/kg or positive control losartan at 0.0, 0.6, 1.2, 1.8, 2.4 and 3.0 mg/kg. The BP and heart rate (HR) of the rats were recorded by a computerised physiographical system (Power Lab) through carotid arterial cannulation that was connected to a pressure transducer. The data were analysed by using the Lab Chart 6 software. Spathulenol was also tested for angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity by using the ACE1 inhibitor screening kit (PromoKine). Spathulenol was able to decrease the BP of rats in a dose-dependent manner with the BP-lowering effect being significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the SHRs than in the WKY controls. Furthermore, Spa was able to inhibit the ACE activity suggesting the possibility that this could be one of the mechanisms underlying the observed BP-lowering effect.
Suatu Ulasan Mengenai Antioksidan, Sifat Fizikokimia, Manfaat Kesihatan, dan Pengendalian Selepas Tuai Tomato Ceri
Authors: Mohd Ali Maimunah , Chu Chia Yu , Mohd Thani Nurfatimah , Uda M.N.A.
Published: April 2024

Tomato ceri (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) merupakan salah satu jenis buah-buahan yang semakin digemari di kalangan pengguna kerana kualiti dan kepelbagaian manfaat kesihatan yang tinggi. Ulasan ini bertujuan untuk menyediakan maklumat mendalam tentang beberapa aspek penting berkaitan tomato ceri termasuk fisiologi, potensi antioksidan, sifat fizikokimia, kandungan nutrien, manfaat kesihatan dan pengendalian selepas tuai yang berkesan. Tomato ceri mengandungi pelbagai jenis antioksidan seperti likopena, beta-karotena dan vitamin C. Antioksidan ini berperanan penting dalam menangani radikal bebas dan mengurangkan risiko penyakit degeneratif dan penyakit kardiovaskular. Di samping itu, ulasan ini juga meneliti sifat fizikokimia tomato ceri yang mempengaruhi kualiti dan nilai pemakanan buah ini. Pemahaman terhadap sifat fizikokimia adalah penting dalam menentukan kematangan dan kualiti tomato ceri terhadap rasa dan daya tarikan kepada pengguna. Tumpuan utama dalam kajian ini juga menjurus kepada potensi kesihatan tomato ceri dan manfaat dalam pemakanan manusia. Pengendalian selepas tuai yang berkesan turut dibincangkan untuk memastikan kualiti dan kebergunaan tomato ceri termasuk kaedah penyimpanan, pengangkutan dan pemprosesan yang tepat untuk memastikan buah kekal segar dan nutrisinya terpelihara. Maklumat yang dikumpulkan memberikan panduan penting kepada pihak industri dan pengguna dalam memahami potensi dan kegunaan tomato ceri sebagai sumber makanan yang bernilai tinggi dalam pemakanan seimbang. Diharapkan kajian ini akan mendorong peningkatan pengetahuan dan minat dalam penanaman dan penggunaan tomato ceri bagi kebaikan kesihatan dan kehidupan manusia.
Kesan Ekstrak Daun Jambu Batu (Psidium Guajava) Terhadap Eritrosit Terinfeksi Plasmodium Berghei NK 65
Authors: Ishak Shafariatul Akmar , Ariffin Noraniza , Azmi Fifi Fariza
Published: April 2024

Malaria kini tergolong dalam senarai dunia sebagai penyakit berjangkit yang menyebabkan banyak kematian. Oleh itu, kajian antimalaria secaraex vivo oleh ekstrak daun jambu batu (Psidium guajava) terhadap mencit yang terjangkitPlasmodium berghei (NK65) ini adalah penting dalam penghasilan alternatif ubatan antimalaria yang baharu. Kajian dimulakan dengan ujian penyaringan awal menggunakan darjah parasitemia 10%, diikuti dengan pemilihan pelarut terbaik antara metanol, aseton, etil asetat dan heksana. Hasil mendapati ekstrak metanol menunjukkan bacaan IC50, 4.270 mg/mL yang menghampiri nilai IC50 piawai klorokuin iaitu 3.080 mg/mL. Ujian statistik ANOVA satu hala membuktikan tiada perbezaan signifikan antara keduanya dan bacaan adalah seperti berikut; F (1, 18) = 1.091, p>0.05 (0.310). Kemudian, ekstrak metanol daun jambu batu terpilih sebagai pelarut terbaik, ini diteruskan dengan ujian parasitemia pada 5%, 10% dan 30%. Keputusan kajian mendapati, aktiviti perencatan malaria lebih berkesan dan cekap pada parasitemia 10% dan ANOVA sehala menunjukkan F (1, 18) = 0.797, p>0.05 (0.384). Akhir sekali proses sinkronisasi dijalankan dengan menggunakan kaedah sorbitol lisis. Hasil mendapati pada peringkat cecincin (trofozoit muda), bacaan IC50 adalah 0.0001 mg/mL manakala pada peringkat trofozoit matang dan skizon bacaan IC50 hampir sama; 4.295 mg/mL dan 4.276 mg/mL. Kesimpulannya, ekstrak methanol daun Psidium guajava menunjukkan adanya aktiviti antimalaria dan berupaya merencatkan semua kitaran hidup sel parasit malaria tetapi lebih berkesan pada peringkat trofozoit matang dan skizon.
Dual Response Surface Optimization based on Skill Scores
Authors: Kozan Agah , Zeybek Melis , Kozan Elif
Published: April 2024

The popular formulations of dual-response optimization are constructed on minimizing a function of bias and system variability. This study provides an opportunity to evaluate the dual response surface (DRS) problem from a different perspective by adapting two new terms such that internal and external quality forecasts. The background of the proposed approach focuses on the relationship between internal and external quality forecasts and discusses the DRS problem in regards of skill scores by defining a model quality criterion. Skill is the relative accuracy of the forecast and defines a correspondence between forecast of interest and reference forecasts. The reference forecast does not require any knowledge or modelling; thus, it is an unskilled forecast. In this context, skill score is a measure of this relative improvement and widely used in evaluating the performance of operational and experimental forecasts. An alternative version of mean square error (MSE) which is reconstructed by skill scores and model quality criterion is proposed as an objective function for the DRS problem. Integrating the relationship between internal and external quality forecasts into such a response function can improve the effectiveness and cooperation of the applied technique. The proposed approach has a flexible structure and provides decision makers alternative solutions for different values of the model quality criterion. The proposed procedure is discussed by conducted a simulation study and demonstrated in an engineering process.
Latent Hidden Factor Model for Malaysia Consumer Price Index
Authors: Masseran Nurulkamal , Ahmad Farouk Siti Norsalsabila , R. Nur-Firyal , M. Mansor Mahayaudin
Published: April 2024

The consumer price index (CPI) is one of the significant indicators that can be used to track the inflation rate of a country and assess changes in the cost of living. Generally, the CPI measures the change in the average price of goods and services used by households. The increase in inflation can have a negative socioeconomic effects and the changes in the CPI value needs to be monitored to ensure that the country does not experience a serious inflation rate. In this work, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was employed to interpret the importance of each variable in the CPI and determine how the latent factors influence the CPI structure in Malaysia for the period of 2003–2022. The findings showed that there are two main latent factors that can be formed. Factor 1 can be classified as ‘Household Expenditures and Lifestyle Choices’ and consists of six variables, namely, ‘alcoholic beverages and tobacco’, ‘housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels’, ‘decoration, hardware, and household maintenance’, ‘health’, ‘recreational and cultural services’, and ‘education’. In contrast, Factor 2 can be classified as ‘Daily Necessities and Lifestyle Convenience’ which consists of six variables, namely, ‘food and non-alcoholic beverages’, ‘clothing and shoes’, ‘transportation’, ‘communication’, ‘restaurants and hotels’, and ‘various goods and services’. In addition, the results of our analysis showed that Factor 1 is more dominant in influencing the CPI structure in Malaysia.