bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of Machine Learning Features Based on the Construction of Tropical Functions
Authors: Chukanov Sergey N. , Chukanov Ilya S.
Published: September 2022

One of the main methods of computational topology and topological data analysis is persistent homology, which combines geometric and topological information about an object using persistent diagrams and barcodes. The persistent homology method from computational topology provides a balance between reducing the data dimension and characterizing the internal structure of an object. Combining machine learning and persistent homology is hampered by topological representations of data, distance metrics, and representation of data objects. The paper considers mathematical models and functions for representing persistent landscape objects based on the persistent homology method. The persistent landscape functions allow you to map persistent diagrams to Hilbert space. The representations of topological functions in various machine learning models are considered. An example of finding the distance between images based on the construction of persistent landscape functions is given. Based on the algebra of polynomials in the barcode space, which are used as coordinates, the distances in the barcode space are determined by comparing intervals from one barcode to another and calculating penalties. For these purposes, tropical functions are used that take into account the basic structure of the barcode space. Methods for constructing rational tropical functions are considered. An example of finding the distance between images based on the construction of tropical functions is given. To increase the variety of parameters (machine learning features), filtering of object scanning by rows from left to right and scanning by columns from bottom to top are built. This adds spatial information to topological information. The method of constructing persistent landscapes is compatible with the approach of constructing tropical rational functions when obtaining persistent homologies.
Testing Dependencies and Inference Rules in Databases
Authors: Zykin Sergey V.
Published: September 2022

The process of testing dependencies and inference rules can be used in two ways. First, testing allows verification hypotheses about unknown inference rules. The main goal, in this case, is to search for the relation - a counterexample that illustrates the feasibility of the initial dependencies and contradicts the consequence. The found counterexample refutes the hypothesis, the absence of a counterexample allows searching for a generalization of the rule and conditions for its feasibility (logically imply). Testing cannot be used as a proof of the feasibility of inference rules, since the process of generalization requires the search for universal inference conditions for each rule, which cannot be programmed, since even the form of these conditions is unknown. Secondly, when designing a particular database, it may be necessary to test the feasibility of a rule for which there is no theoretical justification. Such a situation can take place in the presence of anomalies in the superkey. The solution to this problem is based on using join dependency inference rules. For these dependencies, a complete system of rules (axioms) has not yet been found. This paper discusses: 1) a technique for testing inference rules using the example of join dependencies, 2) a scheme of a testing algorithm is proposed, 3) some hypotheses are considered for which there are no counterexamples and inference rules, 4) an example of using testing when searching for a correct decomposition of a superkey is proposed.
Transformation of C Programming Language Memory Model into Object-Oriented Representation of EO Language
Authors: Legalov Alexander I. , Bugayenko Yegor G. , Chuykin Nickolay K. , Shipitsin Maksim V. , Riabtsev Yaroslav I. , Kamenskiy Andrey N.
Published: September 2022

The paper analyzes the possibilities of transforming C programming language constructs into objects of EO programming language. The key challenge of the method is the transpilation from a system programming language into a language of a higher level of abstraction, which doesn’t allow direct manipulations with computer memory. Almost all application and domain-oriented programming languages disable such direct access to memory. Operations that need to be supported in this case include the use of dereferenced pointers, the imposition of data of different types in the same memory area, and different interpretation of the same data which is located in the same memory address space. A decision was made to create additional EO-objects that directly simulate the interaction with computer memory as in C language. These objects encapsulate unreliable data operations which use pointers. An abstract memory object was proposed for simulating the capabilities of C language to provide interaction with computer memory. The memory object is essentially an array of bytes. It is possible to write into memory and read from memory at a given index. The number of bytes read or written depends on which object is being used. The transformation of various C language constructs into EO code is considered at the level of the compilation unit. To study the variants and analyze the results a transpiler was developed that provides necessary transformations. It is implemented on the basis of Clang, which forms an abstract syntax tree. This tree is processed using LibTooling and LibASTMatchers libraries. As a result of compiling a C program, code in EO language is generated. The considered approach turns out to be appropriate for solving different problems. One of such problems is static code analysis. Such solutions make it possible to isolate low-level code fragments into separate program objects, focusing on their study and possible transformations into more reliable code.
IS CHINA PURSUING A ‘REGIONAL’ HEGEMONY? STRATEGIC SOURCES OF CHINA’SASSERTIVE-CUM-BENEVOLENT BEHAVIOUR
Authors: Mirza Muhammad Nadeem , Abbas Hussain , Malik Ahmed Ijaz
Published: September 2022

Purpose of the study: Besides analyzing multilateral fora and their importance for China’s ‘Asia Dream,’ this study celaborates on the strategic sources of China’s behavior in the Asia-Pacific and beyond and the strategic initiatives that it has taken to preserve and expand its influence. Methodology: This is a qualitative explanatory case study. The research is conducted using an embedded case study in which phenomena under investigation are analyzed at the individual, state, and system levels. Primary data in the form of speeches (mostly of President Xi Jinping) and white papers issued by the Chinese government are used. Main Findings: China’s contemporary behavior has not only made its foreign policy vital for the pursuance of its interests but has also been gauged by the regional states with a mix of skepticism and opportunism. On the one hand, China’s assertiveness is perceived as a threat by the regional and some extra-regional states, forcing them to pursue balancing and/or hedging strategies. On the other, they have capitalized upon Chinese-led multilateral initiatives to strengthen themselves by bringing their economies in alignment with that of China. The study deliberates the historical traditions of Tianxia and Neo-Confucianism and their impact on contemporary Chinese strategic thinking. The study finds that China's strategic behavior under President Xi Jinping has metamorphosed into an admix of assertiveness and benevolence carefully crafted to pursue its core interests – an aspiring benevolent ‘regional’ hegemon. Applications of this study: The study is useful for the students, scholars, and policy practitioners of International Relations and Area Studies, specifically those involved with China and the Asia Pacific. Novelty/Originality of this study: China has been accused of pursuing hegemonistic designs in the region and beyond. This study dissects this discourse while seeing whether those who are generating the discourse are benefitting from China’s overtures or not.
Memory and Cognitive Impairment in Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Susanti Lydia
Published: September 2022

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease in the neuromuscular junction. This is a relatively uncommon disorder characterized by fluctuating muscle weakness, worst with exertion and improves with rest. This disease is treatable but can result in significant morbidity and mortality. The etiology of  MG is commonly acquired autoimmune but, in some case, result from genetic abnormalities in the neuromuscular junction.1 The incidence of  MG  is about 4.1-30 points million per year, and the prevalence rate ranges from 150-200 cases per million.2  It is believed that MG incidence has increased worldwide over the past seven decades. The majority of MG was estimated at 1 in 200,000 from 1915 to 1934, grew to 1 per 20,000 after the introduction of anticholinesterase drugs in 1934, and rose to 1 per 17,000 population after the discovery of AChR antibodies in 1969.3 Sex and age appear to influence the occurrence of myasthenia gravis. Below 40 years of age, the female: male ratio is about 3: 1; however, between 40 and 50 years, as well as during puberty, it is roughly equal. Over 50 years, it occurs more commonly in males.3

            Cognitive impairment in patients with myasthenia gravis is still a matter of debate. There is some evidence that central nervous system involvement in myasthenia gravis contributes to cognitive impairment—nearly 60% of individuals with MG report memory difficulties.4 Mao et al. reported in their metanalysis study that patients with suspected MG performed worse than healthy controls regarding verbal learning and memory.5 Research by Klaus et al., 2022 on myasthenia gravis showed structural and functional changes in the patient's brain. Structural changes were seen in the form of a significant decrease in the volume of gray matter in the cingulate gyrus, inferior parietal lobe, and fusiform gyrus. Functional changes are characterized by decreased performance in cognitive function, working memory, and somatosensory-related spatial orientation.6
Nagovor dekana Medicinske fakultete Univerze v Mariboru
Authors: Krajnc Ivan
Published: September 2022

Mnogi, ki prebirate te vrstice, veste, da je Medicinska fakulteta Univerze v Mariboru (MF UM) mlada fakulteta, ki po letih ni niti prvošolček, pa vendar je v vaših rokah že prva številka znanstvene revije, katere izid nam je uspel že v letu, v katerem je bila revija zasnova. Tako kot  fakulteta, ki je bila ustanovljena z Odlokom o preoblikovanju Univerze v Mariboru, sprejetim v Državnem zboru Republike Slovenije 2. oktobra  leta 2003, in na katero se je prva generacija študentov vpisala v letu 2004/05, tako je tudi revija dosegla svoj prvi cilj. Načrtovanih ciljev pa je še veliko in verjamem, da bodo doseženi.

Septembra 2004 smo na Ljubljanski ulici 5 svečano odprli zgradbo, v kateri se nahajata Inštitut za anatomijo, histologijo in embriologijo ter  Inštitut za fiziologijo. Dobro leto po tem je minister za visoko šolstvo, znanost in tehnologijo namenu predal obnovljene prostore  Laboratorijskega centra MF UM na Magdalenskem trgu. V letu 2007 smo registrirali novi raziskovalni skupini in številne raziskovalce. Vse to je  bilo v prid razvoju znanstvenoraziskovalnega dela na mladi fakulteti. V želji povezati čim več posameznikov, ki opravljajo raziskovalno in razvojno dejavnost na Univerzi v Mariboru, smo organizirali kar tri sestanke raziskovalcev, in sicer dva v letu 2007 in enega letos, na katerih smo beležili skupno več kot 150 udeležencev. Srečanja bomo organizirali tudi v prihodnje, saj bomo podprli pobudo strokovnega direktorja  UKC, da srečanja postanejo tradicionalna. Prepričani smo, da je predstavitev raziskovalnega dela povezala posamezne strokovnjake, kar se  nedvomno kaže tudi v tem, da bodo naši raziskovalci v novem programskem obdobju aktivni v več raziskovalnih programih oziroma skupinah,  kot so bili v preteklosti.

Ob vsem tem smo spoznali, da imamo v tem prostoru velik potencial za nastanek in razvoj znanstvene in strokovne revije, in se odločili še  močneje povezovati medicinsko in biotehnično znanost. Da bo vsebina novo registrirane strokovne revije lahko zajela čim širši krog  raziskovalne, strokovne in pedagoške javnosti, so v njej objavljeni prispevki v slovenskem in angleškem jeziku.

Časopis ima seveda željo in cilj, da bo z nadaljnjim permanentnim kvalitetnim delom dosegel tudi strokovno afirmacijo v mednarodnem  strokovnem prostoru.

Še posebej nas veseli, da smo uspeli v uredniški odbor pritegniti ugledne medicinske strokovnjake, ki nam bodo pomagali slediti strokovnemu  cilju, to je mednarodni strokovni javnosti posredovati čim bolj kakovostne strokovne informacije.
Imaging, virtual reconstruction and computational material tissue) testing
Authors: Vesenjak Matej , Matela Jože , Young Philippe , Said Rajab , Ren Zoran
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Recent advances in professional software and computer hardware allow for reliable computational analyses of new engineering materials as well as biological tissues. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to describe the procedures allowing detailed reconstruction and virtual testing of such materials.

Methods: This paper describes the procedures and techniques for computational reconstruction of specimens, based on three-dimensional (3D) imaging data sets. First, different techniques of acquiring 3D imaging data sets (i.e., computed tomography – CT, magnetic resonance imaging – MRI and ultrasound – US) are introduced. Next the virtual reconstruction procedures for generated material (tissue) scans, based on image recognition, are addressed. For this purpose the up-to-date commercial software package ScanIP was used, allowing for an automatic virtual reconstruction.

Results: The reconstructed models can be virtually redesigned and adopted for special requirements or can be discretized (using +ScanFE and +ScanCAD) for further computational analysis, for example to predict their behaviour under quasi-static or dynamic loading conditions.

Conclusions: The paper concludes with three practical examples: (i) reconstruction and structural analysis of the proximal femur (alone and with a modelled implant), (ii) reconstruction of the lumbar spine and (iii) reconstruction and structural analysis of an irregular aluminium cellular material. The proposed procedures proved to be sophisticated and effective techniques suitable for a wide spectrum of medical and engineering applications.
Prevalence of ethical dilemmas in Slovenian family practice
Authors: Klemenc-Ketiš Zalika , Kersnik Janko
Published: September 2022

Purpose: To determine the perceived prevalence of ethical dilemmas in family practice. Methods: Self-administered questionnaire sent to a random sample of 259 Slovenian family physicians. The main outcome measure was the percentage of doctors reporting the frequency of ethical dilemmas on a 5-point scale.Results: Ethical dilemmas were common (mean score ± standard deviation, 36.2±12.5, out of a maximum of 100). The most common dilemmas involved decision-making regarding use of limited resources (23.9%), patient attempts to abuse the health care service (20.4%) and interfacing with the rest of the health care system (20.4%). Dealing with patients suspected of being physically abused, sexually abused, or involved in other violent acts was the least common ethical dilemma (<0.1%), followed by issues involving breaking bad news (<0.1%) and special situations regarding adolescents (0.7%). Older physicians and those with more experience reported ethical dilemmas less commonly (32.3±11.9 vs. 40.1±11.9, P < 0.001; 32.4±11.8 vs. 39.5±12.2, P = 0.001, respectively). Specialists in family medicine and family medicine residents reported ethical dilemmas more commonly than general practitioners without specialist training (37.0±12.6 vs. 30.7±10.8, P = 0.05 and 39.5±12.5 vs. 30.7±10.8, P = 0.04, respectively).Conclusions: Ethical issues are common in Slovenian family practice and are most often reported by residents in specialist training. This supports the need to continue and even improve specialist training in recognizing and comprehending ethical dilemmas.
Comparison	of	the	UBC	ELISA	test	and	the	BTA Trak test	for	the	detection	of	bladder	tumor	recurrence
Authors: Hajdinjak Tine , Modrič Evgenija
Published: September 2022

Purpose: To compare the sensitivity of the established BTA Trak™ test with the newer UBC ELISA™ test for the detection of bladder tumor recurrence.

Methods: Urine samples from 63 patients were collected prior to cystoscopy. In cases of positive cystoscopy findings, patients were scheduled for TUR and the histologic findings were correlated with the urine test results.

Results: There was a statistically significant increase in median UBC value with increasing tumor grade. Median UBC values (µg/L) for tumor stages were: 22.1, 47.5, 95.7 and >150 for pTa, pT1, pT2/3 and CIS, respectively. The overall sensitivity of the UBC and BTA was 62% and 90% (p=0.0049). Comparing different tumor stages, the sensitivity for the UBC vs. BTA was 52% vs.86% (p=0.022) in pTa, 56% vs. 100% (p=0.039) in pT1, 83% for both tests in pT2/3 and 100% for both in CIS. In low grade tumors, the sensitivity of the UBC vs. BTA was 47% vs. 84% (p=0.022); in high grade tumors it was 75% vs. 95% (NS - p=0.085). The combination of both tests did not increase sensitivity over BTA alone. Overall specificity for the UBC was 71% and for the BTA 50% (NS). Overall test accuracy for the UBC 65% was and for the BTA 75% (NS).

Conclusion: The UBC ELISA™ test in its present form did not have better sensitivity than the BTA Trak™ test because of its lower validity in low grade/stage tumors.
Thyrotoxic struma ovarii after	thyroid	ablation: a case	report	of	laparoscopic	management
Authors: Takač Iztok , Arko Darja , Kavalar Rajko , Crnjac Anton
Published: September 2022

Struma ovarii is a rare type of germ cell tumor and a rare cause of ectopic thyroidal hormonal production. We report a case of laparoscopic management of a thyrotoxic struma ovarii. In a 49-year-old patient, previously treated by ablative surgery and radioactive iodine for Graves' disease, a new onset of hyperthyroidism occurred unexpectedly. A whole-body scan with 131I detected increased pelvic uptake, suggesting struma ovarii. The patient was subsequently treated with laparoscopic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. The postoperative course was uneventful. Histopathologic examination revealed the presence of a benign struma ovarii. Three years after treatment the patient is disease free and is receiving thyroid replacement therapy with levothyroxine. 

In this case the thyrotoxic struma ovarii was diagnosed preoperatively and laparoscopic surgery proved to be a useful and reliable method for ovarian ablation.
Supercritical CO2 , a clean alternative to traditional methods of processing polymeric biomaterials
Authors: Aionicesei Elena , Škerget Mojca , Knez Željko
Published: September 2022

A wide variety of natural and synthetic polymers have applications in biomedical devices. They are usually processed by melting or by using organic solvents, but these methods may affect the efficiency of incorporating delicate bioactive compounds, such as drugs and proteins, during polymer processing. These shortcomings can be avoided by using supercritical fluids as processing solvents or plasticizers. Supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2 ) has attracted attention for its potential as a plasticizer in polymer processing. It is used for obtaining microspheres, microcapsules, foams, membranes and polymer/drug composites. The method offers important advantages over other techniques, including the absence of harmful organic solvents, the mild processing conditions, and the ready control of particle and foam morphology simply by varying pressure and temperature. ScCO2 may also represent a viable alternative to conventional sterilization processes for medical devices. Because the requirements of the field of biomaterials are specific and increasing with time, the technique of polymer processing with scCO2 may represent a promising alternative to classical methods of obtaining controlled delivery systems and tissue engineering scaffolds.
Attitudes of general practitioners and their patients about ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in family medicine
Authors: Petek Šter Marija , Kersnik Janko
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is increasingly being used in general practice, but there is a lack of information about the attitudes of general practitioners and their patients about the use of ABPM in primary care in Europe.Methods: Cross sectional survey performed on consecutive patients with uncontrolled hypertension treated by at least two different antihypertensive drugs and referred for ABPM in 38 general practices in Slovenia. Patients and physicians completed a questionnaire about their satisfaction with, attitudes about and acceptance of ABPM in general practice; the latter two were assessed using 5 point Likert scales.Results: We obtained complete data for 185 patients; 95 female (51.4 %) and 90 (48.6%) male, aged 37 to 79 years (mean 59.5, SD 9.5 years). 106 (67.3 %) patients were completely satisfied with the instructions given before ABPM. Patients found ABPM an acceptable method of blood pressure control. They believed that ABMP helped to reach better bloodpressure control (Likert scale: 4.46, SD 1.03) and valued having access to ABPM in general practice (Likert scale: 4.65, SD 1.01). General practitioners strongly believed that ABPM wasacceptable to patients, improved patient and physician interest in blood pressure control, improved compliance with treatment and reduced prescription of antihypertensive drugs. They recognised ABPM as being most valuable in cases of patients with suspected white-coat hypertension (Likert scale: 4.79, SD 0.49).Conclusions: Patients and general practitioners find ABPM to be an acceptable method for investigating blood pressure. Patients value being able to access ABPM in general practice rather than in a specialist setting.
Alveolar hemorrhage after treatment with combined antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy before and during primary coronary intervention in acute coronary syndrome with ST elevation
Authors: Kirbiš Simona , Sinkovič Andreja
Published: September 2022

Platelet inhibition with aspirin and systemic anticoagulation with unfractioned heparin to reduce the incidence of recurrent thrombosis after primary coronary intervention (PCI) has been the standard of care for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) with ST elevation for some time. Eptifibatide is the platelet membrane glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor that is often used. Bleeding complications occur most often at sites of vascular access and are more common in elderly patients. Alveolar hemorrhage with hemoptysis is a rare complication. We describe the case of a 43-year old smoker with an ST elevation myocardial infarction admitted for PCI. He was treated with standard anticoagulation and dual antiplatelet therapy before admission. Hemoptysis began approximately five minutes after the intracoronary application of eptifibatide at the end of the procedure. Supportive care including endotracheal intubation, mechanical ventilation, transfusion of packed red blood cells and reversal of all anticoagulation. Alveolar hemorrhage is life-threatening but adequate intensive supportive measures can be life-saving.
Henoch-Schönlein purpura in adulthood
Authors: Skačej Helena , Holc Iztok , Pahor Artur
Published: September 2022

Background: Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a systemic inflammation of small-vessel walls that predominantly affects children. In adults, on the other hand, it appears rarely, and can be more severe. The disease is characterised by a tetrad of clinical signs which manifest the skin, joint, gastrointestinal, and kidney involvement. HSP is diagnosed using internationally-accepted criteria. At present, there is no effective specific therapy for children and adults. However, in cases of severe organ involvement, aggressive treatment may stabilise the disease.

Case report: We present a case of a 59-year-old immunologically uncompromised patient with an extremely severe form of HSP. Epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, clinical features, diagnostic procedures, differential diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of the disease are discussed.

Conclusions: The patient was treated with corticosteroids, human polyspecific immunoglobulins, and immunosuppressive agents. A satisfactory clinical remission has been achieved.
E-cadherin and β-catenin: Dual roles in carcinogenesis
Authors: Eskelinen Sinikka
Published: September 2022

Strict signalling control mechanisms have evolved to regulate epithelial– mesechymal transitions and regeneration of epithelial tissues, and failure of these processes may lead to carcinogenesis. These signalling processes range from regulation of gene expression and cell cytoskeleton to proliferation and apoptosis, and the central players include E-cadherin and β-catenin. These molecules function as structural elements at cell–cell contact sites and β-catenin is the key intermediate in the Wnt signalling pathway, which regulates gene expression of various proteins involved in morphogenesis and cell survival via the TCF/LEF pathway. The present review describes how the expression of E-cadherin and phosphatases act as negative regulators of Wnt signalling, promoting differentiation, whereas tyrosine kinases amplify the Wnt signalling pathway via phosphorylation of cadherins and catenins, resulting in increased proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis.
Time trends in cerebral palsy incidence in correlation with development of perinatal and neonatal care in Maribor (1988–2003)
Authors: Seme-Ciglenečki Polona , Burja Silva , Hajdinjak Dušanka , Mičetić Turk Dušanka
Published: September 2022

Purpose: To investigate time trends in cerebral palsy (CP) incidence in correlation with development of perinatal and neonatal intensive care in Maribor, Slovenia.

Methods: A population–based study covering the 52.450 live births (1988– 2003) at the Department of Perinatology, University Clinical Center, Maribor and residents in one of the five communities of the Maribor region on January 1, 2006. Multiple sources were used. Neuropediatrician and other professional medical records were evaluated for all children at the rehabilitation units. The prevalence of CP was analyzed in yearly cohorts according to birth weight, gestational age, type of CP, and degree of disability.

Results: Calculated crude mean prevalence of CP for this population group was 3.7/1000 infant survivors, 2.7/1000 for preterm CP, and 1/1000 for term CP, and 44% were Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I and II. Spastic diplegia was the most prevalent subtype of CP. The increase in CP rates in 1999, 2000 and 2001 could be explained by improved survival of preterm infants at 28–32 weeks gestation. The neonatal mortality rate has declined in Maribor significantly from 6.6/1000 live births in 1997 to 3.1/1000 in 2001 and 1.8/1000 in 2009.

Conclusion: Progressive changes in perinatal and neonatal intensive care in Maribor since 1994 have led to a fall in the early neonatal mortality rate, and this increase in survival of preterm infants has increased CP morbidity rate.
Is the Spinal Cord Stimulation an effective treatment for Failed Back Surgery Syndrome? – Our experience with 21 cases
Authors: Strojnik Tadej , Velnar Tomaž , Krčevski Škvarč Nevenka
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Management of failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is a costly challenge for practitioners of multidisciplinary pain management and for clinicians offering medical, surgical or behavioural therapy. We analyzed the outcome of FBSS treatment with the spinal cord stimulation (SCS).

Methods: A retrospective analysis involved 21 patients (10 men and 11 women, median age 50 years) suffering from FBSS. They were treated with the SCS over a 5–year period at the Department of Neurosurgery, University Clinical Centre Maribor. Their pain intensity, clinical alteration in pain relief, functional disability, employment status, analgesics consumption and complications were evaluated.

Result: The median follow–up after the SCS was 24 months. According to Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) measurement, pain intensity before the SCS was scored between 7 and 10, median value 8. After the SCS, the VAS scores ranged between 3 and 6, median value 4 (p<0.0001). A reduction in postoperative drug consumption was evident. All employed patients returned to work. Results of functional disability measured according to Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) ranged from 18% to 78% with the mean value of 39% (moderate disability).

Conclusion: The SCS is a treatment of choice for patients with FBSS–associated chronic leg pain, where the pain persists in spite of the optimized conventional pain treatment. It improves the quality of life, reduces drug consumption and enables patients to return to work.
Health is Wealth – Toward a European Lead Market in Health Care
Authors: Unger Felix
Published: September 2022

Human life represents the highest value. A healthy population is an indispensable prerequisite of a flourishing and wealthy society. There is no Wealth without Health. Any investment in the health sector is one of the most beneficial investments for the wealth of society. Economic growth is only possible with a healthy population. The role of European Union for creating a European Lead Market in Health care for modernization of medical care in Europe is presented.
Aortoduodenal fistula - fatal complication in a patient with aortic prosthesis
Authors: Skok Pavel
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Aortoenteric fistula is an extremely rare source of upper gastrointestinal tract haemorrhage (UGIH).

Case report: We present the case of a 58-year-old man who was admitted to our ward with UGIH. During diagnosis, urgent upper and lower GI endoscopy, abdominal US, CT angiography and ileojejunography were performed. Unfortunately, the bleeding source was not found and the patient was discharged. He returned 2 weeks later with profound anemia. Urgent upper GI endoscopy did not elucidate the bleeding source. The patient died suddenly a few days after receiving symptomatic treatment. At autopsy, a secondary aortoduodenal fistula due to prosthetic aortic reconstruction was found, which had led to fatal haemorrhage.

Conclusion: Some sources of UGIH are very rare. In the diagnostic work up of these patients we should be aware of the limitations of different imaging procedures.
Pelvic expansion hidden by concomitant lumbar compression as a cause of sciatica - report of three cases
Authors: Bunc Gorazd , Ravnik Janez , Voršič Matjaž
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Three patients with sciatica caused by contemporary involvement of intra- and extraspinal compression of the sciatic nerve are presented.

Case report: The diagnostic workup initially revealed intraspinal compression as the cause of sciatica. All patients underwent surgery that did not lead to clinical improvement. Additional diagnosis in two patients and autopsy in one revealed that residual pain was caused by nerve sheath tumors in two cases and pelvic abscess compression of the lumbosacral plexus in the third case.

Conclusion: Extraspinal compression of the sciatic nerve should be considered where standard surgical decompression of the intraspinal cause of sciatica fails to improve the clinical picture.
Anaphylactic shock after Ranitidine – a Case report
Authors: Željko Tadej , Sinkovič Andreja
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Anaphylactic shock is a severe, unexpected, life-threatening generalized hypersensitivity reaction that is usually triggered by antigens such as food, venom or drugs. Among drugs, ranitidine is considered safe and is even used in allergic reactions to decrease skin rash. However, in rare cases, ranitidine can provoke anaphylaxis or even anaphylactic shock.

Case report: We present the case of a 30-year-old woman with abdominal pain, treated with i.v. bolus of ranitidine after previous occasional oral ranitidine ingestion. Within minutes, she developed symptoms and signs of anaphylactic shock. Immediate treatment was initiated with i.v. adrenaline, fluid infusion, and i.v. hydrocortisone and clemastine. After admission to the intensive care unit, treatment was continued, includingi.v. vasopressors. Intubation and mechanical ventilation were needed because of acute respiratory failure. After 2 days, the situation resolved completely. After she was extubated, the patient could breathe spontaneously without the need for additional oxygen. She was discharged without any sequelae within a few days.

Conclusion: We conclude that even ranitidine, which has been used safely for many years, can trigger anaphylaxis and/or anaphylactic shock. In cases of anaphylactic shock, treatment with vasopressors, intubation and mechanical ventilation is needed to preserve life.
Marking of the proximal facial nerve stump for delayed repair after vestibular schwannoma removal
Authors: Rebol Janez , Milojković Vojin
Published: September 2022

Objective: To investigate whether marking the facial nerve stump during surgery permits facial nerve reconstruction to be performed successfully at later surgical intervention.

Case report: The patient was operated for a large residual vestibular schwannoma via the retrosigmoid approach and the facial nerve was injured during tumor removal. A metal clip was placed on a facial nerve stump to permit localization and identification at a later time. One month after the first operation nerve repair employing a sural nerve graft from the cerebellopontine angle to the mastoid portion of the facial nerve was performed through the translabyrinthine approach.

Conclusion: Follow-up of facial function was carried up for more than two years. The patient achieved very good functional results, confirming that end-to-end facial nerve repair with an interposition graft with positive outcome can be successfully performed as a delayed procedure.
Ultrasound-guided Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheotomy: A fast and safe technique for airway management
Authors: Metterlein Thomas , Negele Sabrina , Wunder Christian , Roewer Norbert , Schuster Frank
Published: September 2022

Purpose: To describe a modified technique for percutaneous dilational tracheotomy (PDT) offering possible significant advantages over currently used procedures.

Methods: An observational animal study using ultrasound for PDT was performed. After pre-incisional ultrasonic examination, and with continuing ultrasound guidance, the trachea was punctured with an 18-gauge introducer needle and a tracheal tube was inserted using the Seldinger technique and a Ciaglia single dilator. Setting: University Hospital animal laboratory center. Subjects: 11 pietrain pigs (weight 26–36 kg).

Results: Successful tracheotomy was accomplished in all 11 pigs. The mean duration of the procedure was 20 seconds from skin penetration to guide wire placement. In one pig, the dorsal wall of the trachea was punctured.

Conclusion: This novel procedure is a simple and effective technique for PDT tube placement.
Bronchoscopy and cricothyrotomy: results from cadavers embalmed with Thiel’s method compared to other embalming methods and living subjects
Authors: Feigl Georg , Benkhadra Mehdi , Lenfant François , Trouilloud Pierre , Anderhuber Friedrich , Bonniaud Philippe , Fasel Jean HD , Nemetz Wolfgang
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Cricothyrotomy and bronchoscopy were performed on cadavers embalmed according to Thiel’s method, and the results compared with findings from other types of cadavers and living subjects, to assess the suitability of such specimens for medical teaching and research.

Methods: Blind cricothyrotomy was performed in 40 cadavers using two different devices (Cook and Portex sets) on each of 20 cadavers and the procedures were recorded by a monitoring fibreoptic bronchoscope placed in the larynx. Bronchoscopy was performed on another 22 cadavers. All procedures were videotaped and evaluated by board certified anatomists and anaesthetists. Tissue behaviour, ligament resistance, palpability of anatomical structures, mucosal colour and cadaver flexibility, especially during jaw thrust and tongue lift, were evaluated and qualitatively compared to conditions found in the living and to reports of studies using specimens embalmed with the classic formalin method. Where the procedures caused mucosal lesions, the damaged was assessed during subsequent dissection.

Results: The cadavers were life-like in all criteria evaluated. Portex and Cook cricothyrotomy was feasible in all cases. Bronchoscopy was feasible in all cadavers without difficulty. Jaw thrust and tongue lift was never limited and lobar bronchi were always reached. Further advancement was limited in half of the cases by either the preservation liquid or the diameter of the segmental bronchi; in the remaining half, advancement into the smaller airways was limited only by their diameter.

Conclusion: Cadavers fixed according to Thiel’s method are highly useable, life-like specimens for teaching and researching cricothyrotomy and bronchoscopy. The data obtained are transferable to the living, so research findings should be valid and teaching effective.
Are frequent attenders also heartsink patients?
Authors: Kersnik Janko , Kuralt Marija
Published: September 2022

Ali so pogosti obiskovalci za zdravnika tudi težavni bolniki?

Namen: Pogoste obiskovalce ambulant imamo pogosto za težaven bolnike, ki za zdravnike predstavljajo velik stres. Naš namen je bil ugotoviti, če pogosti obiskovalci za zdravnike resnično predstavljajo tak stres. Metode: Izvedli smo presečno opazovalno raziskavo v zdravstvenem domu v Kranju. S seznama registriranih bolnikov smo izbrali naključni vzorec 400 bolnikov, starih od 18 do 95 let. Izračunali smo odstotek pogostih obiskovalce v skupini težavnih bolnikov. Izdelali smo multivariatni model, ki napoveduje lastnosti težavnih bolnikov.Rezultati: Pogosti obiskovalci so bili pogosteje starejši bolniki, ki živijo z družinami, so upokojeni, imajo kronično bolezen, rakasto bolezen, v opazovanem letu poškodbo ali akutno stanje, so potrebovali administrativno storitev (bolniški list, ponovno predpisovanje recepta itn.) in presenetljivo, pogosteje bolniki, ki jih je zdravnik označil kot prijetne. Regresijska analiza je pokazala, da večja starost, alkoholizem, veliko število obiskov pred opazovanim letom in manj pogosti obiski v opazovanem letu neodvisno napovedujejo, da jih bo zdravnik označil kot težavne bolnike.Zaključek: Težavni bolniki niso zgolj podskupina pogostih obiskovalcev, ali celo lastnost pogostih obiskovalcev, zato bi morali njihove lastnosti podrobneje proučiti, da bi zdravnikom omogočili prenesti stres zaradi stikov s takimi bolniki.
TCD	monitoring of cerebral blood flow
Authors: Tetičkovič Erih , Menih Marija , Magdič Jožef
Published: September 2022

Transcranial Doppler monitoring of intracranial blood flow during carotid endarterectomy, carotid angioplasty with stenting, surgical management of intracranial aneurysms, coronary artery bypass grafting, and thrombolysis of middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions is important because it enables recording of the flow in the MCA in real time. An adequate blood flow through the MCA during carotid endarterectomy allows for selective use of an intraluminal shunt (or the decision to operate without it) and timely identification of cerebral hyperperfusion, vasospasm, hypoperfusion, and cerebral microembolisms as well as recanalization of the cerebral artery, thus minimizing postoperative neurologic complications such as stroke or cognitive dysfunction.
Pomen stališč učencev do angleščine za pouk v heterogenih razredih
Authors: Klemen Blatnik Nina , Bratož Silva
Published: September 2022

The article investigates the impact factors which influence pupils' attitudes towards learning English as a foreign language since these represent an important source of information for planning lessons in heterogeneous or mixed ability classes. The empirical part presents the results of a study among third graders (n=90), aimed at identifying the impact of the following factors on their attitudes: the age at which they started learning English, their gender, the exposure to English in their home environment and the valuable others (teachers, parents, and peers). The results suggest that in this age group, parents and teachers have a more salient influence on the learners' attitudes towards English than their peers.
Subjectively Perceived Importance of Education by University Students at the Beginning of Their Studies
Authors: Burkovičová Radmila
Published: September 2022

The article investigates students perception of the importance of education and its rationale at the beginning of their studies. Fifty-seven students from the bachelor’s programme Teacher Training for Kindergarten from 2018/2019 to 2021/2022 participated. The sampling was based on convenience. A qualitative approach was used through open verbal statements transcribed into a text. The individual importance of education to students at the beginning of the first semester and their personal justifications for the importance of education were identified, representing several categories. We found the following dimensions for the categories of the meaning of education (personal goal category) and personal definition of education (categories: association with context; from individual to society; on the background of historical development; personality development and evolution; essence; mode of acquisition; value; through the lens of the present; Dionysian conception; general overview; confused definitions).
Kahoot! Games Enhance Vocabulary Learning?
Authors: Katemba Caroline V. , Tobing Joshua H. L. , Putri Talitha A.
Published: September 2022

Many educators are considering using online games for learning vocabulary. Among the existing online games is Kahoot. This study aimed to determine if male and female students learn vocabulary the same way using Kahoot! Games. The study examined whether there was any significant difference among the female and male groups in their vocabulary enhancement. This quantitative research study used a pre-test and a post-test administered to sixty-eight seventh-grade students. Findings revealed a significant difference in vocabulary enhancement between female and male students, thus supporting the use of Kahoot! games as an effective method for teaching vocabulary.
Genç Futbolcularda İzoinertial Antrenmanların Sıçrama Performansına Etkisi
Authors: KORKMAZ Halil , ÇAMLIGÜNEY Filiz
Published: September 2022

Aim: Strength and power-related variables are essential mechanisms of performance that require jumping in football. Isoinertial training has been an important training method for improving power performance. The aim of the study is to observe the effect of eight-week isoinertial training on jumping in young football players.

Methods: Twenty-four volunteer male football players playing in the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) U19 Development League 1st League group were divided into two groups as training group (age: 16.91±0.72 years, height: 176.42±6.02 cm, body weight: 71.17±7.11 kg, BMI: 23.80±2.20 kg/m2) and isoinertial group (age: 16.83±0.39 years, height: 176.17±6.13 cm, body weight: 68.28±5.69 kg, BMI: 22.02±1.77 kg/m2). The training group performed exercises consisting of four sets, six repetitions, and five movements (squat, right/left lunge, right/left side lunge) with their body weight. The isoinertial group performed, same training with the isoinertial training device at 80% of the maximal intensity. The training groups performed the exercises two days a week for eight weeks, a total of sixteen training, during the training period. We measured the athletes’ performance with a jump meter (Takai, Japan) device before and after the eight-week training. Paired simple t-test was used to compare the pre-test and post-test of the groups. Independent simple t-test analysis was used for comparisons between groups.

Results: The jumping grades of the group isoinertial training have increased (p0.05).

Conclusion: The result of the research showed that the eight-week isoinertial exercises that the young football players will do in addition to their training increase the jump height.
Food-Related Impulsivity in the Triangle of Obesity, Eating Behaviors and Diet
Authors: EMİROĞLU Elif , AKTAÇ Şule
Published: September 2022

One of the determinants of food intake, impulsivity may contribute to the development and maintenance of obesity by triggering uncontrolled and excessive eating. It is estimated that increased impulsivity makes it harder to resist foods high in sugar, salt and fat. Evidence has been increasing in recent years regarding the roles of different components of impulsivity in obesity and some eating behaviors (especially uncontrolled, emotional and restrictive eating). Unfortunately, animal and human experiments examining the effects of dietary interventions on impulsivity and cross-sectional studies examining the food choices and consumption habits of individuals with high impulsivity are limited. Considering the role of impulsivity in eating disorders is important to elucidate the development and onset of eating disorders, as impulsivity may be associated with some impaired eating behaviors and behaviors such as substance use and non-suicidal self-harm. Current research shows that the use of impulsivity-focused approaches (computer-assisted cognitive training, psychotherapy etc.) to modify impulsivity in people with binge eating episodes is promising. In addition, mindful and intuitive eating trainings that focuses on problematic eating behaviors and difficulties in controlling food intake, can use in the treatment of eating disorders and obesity for reducing the level of impulsivity. In these treatments, complementary therapy to reduce impulsivity in addition to the healthy diet approach should be considered. This article examines the role of impulsivity in obesity and eating behaviors, the results of current intervention studies on this subject, and treatment approaches targeting impulsivity.
Investigation of the Perceived Corporate Image and Organizational Commitment of Nurses and Midwives
Authors: GÜNGÖR Tuğba , OKSAY ŞAHİN Ayşegül
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to examine the relationship between the perceived corporate image and organizational commitment levels of nurses and midwives working in a public hospital. A descriptive information form, the Perceived Corporate Image Scale (based on the Model of Organizational Identification), and the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire were used to collect data from a sample of 225 nurses and midwives. Data were analyzed using numbers, percentages, means, internal consistency coefficients of scales, t-test, analysis of variance, Kruskal Wallis-H test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Spearman’s correlation test. The results were evaluated at the 0.05 significance level. The study group had a high mean score in perceived corporate image (3.32 ± 0.78), moderate mean scores in organization commitment (3.77 ± 0.97), affective commitment (3.97 ± 1.34), and continuance commitment (3.86 ± 1.13), and a low mean score in normative commitment (3.49 ± 1.34). There was a moderately significant positive correlation between perceived corporate image and organizational commitment (r = 0.435), affective commitment (r = 0.423), and normative commitment (r = 0.418). In today’s competitive environment, it is recommended to focus on studies aimed at increasing the organizational commitment of employees and improving their perceived corporate image to maintain the continuity of healthcare services and gain organizational benefits.