bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Application of growth regulators-antistressors in complex with universal bioactive fertilizers in seed production of gourds
Authors: Lazko V. E. , Blagorodova E. N. , Yakimova O. V. , Kovaleva E. V. , Popova A. A. 
Published: February 2023

Relevance. The effectiveness of seed soaking before sowing in a solution of preparations of the epibrassinolide group for the protection and preservation of seedlings of gourds from temperature stresses, increasing the yield of fruits and seeds was studied.Methodology. The objects of research were preparations Epin Extra, Epin Plus, EcoFus, Ferovit, Zircon and Siliplant, which allow to overcome the effects of temperature stresses, increase immunity, and have a stimulating effect on seed germination and plant growth of vegetable crops.Results. In the course of the studies, it was found that preparations of the epibrassinolide group contribute to a significant preservation of seedlings of gourds with prolonged exposure to low temperatures. Soaking watermelon seeds of the Tersky early variety before sowing in a solution of drugs from the epibrassinolide group ensured the safety of seedlings from 24.2 to 35.3%, while in the control variant, the death of plants was 100%. Epin Extra had the greatest anti-stress effect on watermelon. Preparations on melon showed less efficiency in protecting seedlings, 21.1-27.3% of plants survived. The maximum number of seedlings remained when using Epin Plus. It should be noted that soaking seeds in solutions of preparations of the epibrassinolide group, to protect seedlings of gourds from damage by low temperatures, is an effective technological operation that makes it possible to smooth out the impact of the stress factor.
The Faculty of Medicine of the University of Maribor – the first ten years
Authors: Kranjc Ivan 
Published: February 2023

The establishment of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Maribor in the year 2003 and the beginning of a pedagogical process in the 2004/2005 academic year are those important points in the development of higher education system and growth of the local hospital which present an important achievement for the University of Maribor, health care, town and also the Republic of Slovenia. In the year when the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Maribor celebrates its tenth anniversary of operating, and in the year when the town Maribor records the 850th anniversary of its first written mention (1164, Castrum Marburch) the jubilee is getting a touch of a new milestone. In ten years the Faculty of Medicine has travelled its way to a contemporary, European comparable university study, faced Bologna reform and with relocation to the new construction in the direct vicinity of the fundamental educational base - today the University Medical Centre Maribor – ensured the foundation for further development, especially for expansion of the basic research activity.
Telling is a piece of information that in our faculty more than 250 physicians have successfully completed their studies and who, in the period of extremly hard social and economic circumstances, with increasing frequency are looking for their opportunity for work and professional development abroad although they are very much needed at home, for one of the important reasons for the establishment of the second medical faculty in Slovenia was distinctly lack of physicians. The faculty has with the postgraduate study programme Biomedical technology offered also a contemporary doctoral study which to the ambitious, eager for new knowledge enables to realize numerous ideas, all with a purpose to facilitate as qualitative health care as can be. More than fourty Doctors of Science are already realizing their ideas, numerous among them have already been habilitated and are our esteemed professors who follow their predecessors.
In front of our faculty there are numerous challenges - ten years is for such an institution a short period but a cross section of previous achievements which we, numerous authors, have gathered in this monography of which the outcome we expect on the celebration of the faculty, yet everything shows also new directions of development. Excellence on all levels is that which has to make us different, competitive to faculties with long tradition, we need to remain always a step ahead of others with the programme as much as with the pedagogical approaches and equipment. And importantly we need to open up into the world. Tasks for a new decade or perhaps more of them?
Potential interactions between cannabinoids and estrogens in common diseases
Authors: Hojnik Marko , Dobovišek Luka , Ferk Polonca 
Published: February 2023

Molecular associations between the cannabinoid system and estrogens have recently been discovered. This research field is particularly interesting because it could lead to new pharmacotherapeutic approaches, especially in diseases where both molecular systems contribute to the pathophysiology. This paper presents an overview of the role of the cannabinoid system and estrogens in osteoporosis, atherosclerosis and cancer, and discusses the potential benefits of the modulating both systems in the pharmacotherapy of these diseases.
Although an extensive literature review points to likely interactions between the cannabinoid system and estrogens, appropriate molecular studies have not yet been carried out. Our recent results in primary human osteoblasts are the first to demonstrate a possible interaction between the two systems at a molecular level.
Further studies are needed to carefully examine molecular interactions as well as the efficacy and safety of various combinations of estrogens and cannabinoids in the pathogenesis and pharmacotherapy of osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, cancer and other common diseases.
The impact of kinesio taping on pain relief in patients with lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Jesenšek Papež Breda 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To compare the short–term effect of kinesio taping on reducing pain in subjects with lateral epicondylitis (LE) treated with physiotherapy alone compared to physiotherapy withkinesio taping.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical documentation of 188 patients diagnosed with LE and treated between January 2012 and December 2013. Ninety–five patients who were treated with the same multi–modality physiotherapy with or without kinesio taping (T0 and T1 groups, respectively) were included in our analysis. Pain intensity was measured using a visual analogue scale (VAS) before therapy and after therapy was concluded. To compare the groups, we used Student's t–test and Pearsons χ2–test. To compare the VAS score of the two groups before and after treatment, we used analysis of variance for repeated measurements. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.
Results: The mean VAS score prior to treatment (VAS1) in theT0 group was 6.3±1.5 (range, 4–9; median, 6), andthe mean VAS score in the T1 group was 6.4±1.8 (range, 3–10; median, 6.5). The mean VAS score after treatment (VAS2) in theT0 group was 2.1±1.7 (range, 0–7; median, 2), and the mean VAS score in the T1 group was 1.4±1.6 (range, 0–6; median, 1). The pain in both groups was significantly reduced (p<0.001), whereas the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant at the 0.05 level, although marginally (p=0.056).
Conclusions: Based on a retrospective analysis, we were not able to confirm the short–term effect of kinesio taping on reducing pain in subjects with LE; however, due to the low probability of obtaining our results by chance (< 6%), it is reasonable to suggest that the use of KT may be effective in treating LE.
Cesarean scar pregnancy: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Dovnik Andraž , Kores Testen Polona , Mlakar Lea , Reljič Milan , Arko Darja , Takač Iztok 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: A cesarean scar pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy in which the gestational sac is implanted in the uterine scar after a previous cesarean section. Early diagnosis is crucial, and transvaginal ultrasound is the most appropriate diagnostic tool. Different management options have been described in the literature; however, there is no consensus regarding optimal treatment due to the rarity of the condition.
Case report: We present a case involving a cesarean scar pregnancy which was managed with hysterotomy due to the advanced stage of pregnancy (fetal crown–rump length = 3.5 cm).
Conclusion: Early diagnosis of a cesarean scar pregnancy is important to avoid complications and to preserve fertility. Various treatment modalities have been described in the literature, including medical and surgical options.
Peripheral arterial embolization and limb ischemia complicating septic internal jugular vein thrombosis: a case report of Lemierre’s syndrome
Authors: Flis Vojko , Borovšak Zvonko 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein is a life-threatening complication of venous thrombosis. While heparin is frequently added to antimicrobial therapy, its usefulness in patients with Lemierre’s syndrome is controversial. In this case report, we demonstrate that delayed use of intravenous heparin may be associated with septic embolization of peripheral arteries. Limb ischemia has rarely been reported in patients with Lemierre’s syndrome.
Case presentation: Lemierre’s syndrome is a complex and unusual clinical entity, characterized by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein and accompanied by sepsis. We present an unusual case of a young female with Lemierre’s syndrome who developed peripheral arterial embolization and Streptococcus pyogenes sepsis, complicating septic internal jugular vein thrombosis. The patient was initially treated with antibiotics without therapeutic heparin. The patient developed digital gangrene in all four extremities, septic meningitis, and a severe fungal infection; she died 6 weeks after admission secondary to multisystem organ failure. We discuss the importance of rapid diagnosis of disease extent in directing heparin treatment in patients with Lemierre’s syndrome.
Conclusion: It may be advisable to treat Lemierre’s syndrome with anticoagulation in the acute setting.
Legal basis for the development of the Slovenian health system - from the enlightenment to the second world war
Authors: Pivec Gregor 
Published: February 2023

Throughout the history of medicine, patient-doctor relationships remained intimate and were based on the patient’s expectations, which were more or less limited by the expert knowledge of the physician. At first, the economic relationship between patient and doctor was based on a personal agreement; state regulations were only involved later. In Roman times the relationship was affected indirectly by the state, mostly by the adoption of the Act on Hygiene and partly by various socialeconomic regulations. However, in the early Middle Ages, the charitable activities undertaken by the monastic population, with their limited medical knowledge, proved to be a backward step in the development of the healthcare system. It was not until the development of medical knowledge at the emerging universities, especially during the Renaissance, that regulations reentered healthcare and the better education of physicians marked the new era. During the investigated period (from the Enlightenment to the Second World War), the state, as a third party, was completely integrated in the system. Furthermore, in addition to the existing health services, health insurance was established, which marked the beginning of a healthcare system. This formed a solid foundation for the development of modern medicine and the regulation of the so-called welfare state. This article discusses the basic healthcare legislation in Slovenia during four different development periods; the Habsburg Monarchy, the Austro- Hungarian Monarchy, the State of Slovenes, Croats and Serbs, and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. The development of the healthcare system during this sensitive era is clearly described; the changes in healthcare services are presented and healthcare insurance is analysed from a legal point of view. All of this led to the formation of the social healthcare policy, which signifies the existence of a modern state.
The development of the health system in Slovenia was mainly influenced by two significant factors: firstly, by the reforms initiated by Empress Maria Theresa and her son Joseph II at the end of the 18th century and, secondly, by the establishment of insurance some one hundred years later.
Single peritoneal dialysis centre observations of treatment adequacy, anemia treatment, inflammation, mineral bone disease, and peritonitis rate – In patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis versus automated peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Knehtl Maša , Hren Martin , Hojs Nina , Bevc Sebastjan , Hojs Radovan , Ekart Robert 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Peritoneal dialysis was introduced to our centre in 1998. The aim of our retrospective analysis was to evaluate the difference in treatment adequacy, erythropoietin requirements, serum haemoglobin, serum C–reactive protein (CRP) and serum intact parathyroid hormone (i–PTH) levels, and episodes of peritonitis in patients switching from continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) to automated peritoneal dialysis (APD). We introduce peritoneal dialysis as a method of treatment for end–stage renal disease and the results of a retros-pective analysis.
Methods: From May 1998 to December 2013, we retrospectively reviewed 12 patients (9 males and 3 females; mean age, 52.8±11.7 years) who switched from CAPD to APD. According to the peritoneal equilibration test, 75% of the patients were high transporters. We compared thetwo periods regarding peritoneal treatment adequacy number (Kt/V), erythropoietin requirements, serum haemoglobin, and CRP and i–PTH levels. We analysed the episodes of peritonitis during the CAPD and APD periods.
Results: The average time spent on CAPD was 747.1±1028.2 days, and the average time spent on APD was 1300.0±1042.0 days. For the CAPD period, the mean Kt/V was 2.13±0.43, the mean haemoglobin value was 117.8±6.2 g/l, the mean erythropoietin requirement was 5290.1±4641.4 IU/week, the mean CRP value was 8.7±9.3 mg/l, and the mean i–PTH value was 580.2±445.9 pg/ml. For the APD period, the mean Kt/V was 2.24±0.35, the mean haemoglobin value was 117.1±8.6 g/l, the mean erythropoietin requirement was 4829.9±4976.6 IU/week, the mean CRP value was 9.1±8.3 mg/l, and the mean i–PTH value was 550.5±400.0 pg/ml. When comparing the two treatment modalities with a paired samples test, we found no significant differences regarding time spent (p=0.273), Kt/V (p=0.159), haemoglobin concentration (p=0.804), erythropoietin requirements (p=0.303), and CRP (p=0.886) and i–PTH levels (p=0.802). Further, no difference in the rate of peritonitis episodes between both modalities was found.
Conclusion: Both peritoneal dialysis modalities are equal with respect to treatment adequacy, erythropoietin requirements, serum haemoglobin concentration, CRP and i–PTH levels, and peritonitis episodes.
Elective caesarean section after 39 weeks gestation and the influence on neonatal morbidity: Does a strict policy really help?
Authors: Mujezinović Faris 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The aim of the current study was to determine if the decision to strictly follow clinical guidelines recommending elective caesarean section at or after 39 weeks gestation (late– term) in an effort to reduce respiratory disorders in term neonates influence the incidence of early–term elective caesarean sections and the rate of neonatal respiratory disorders.
Methods: Hospital records pertaining to elective caesarean section after 37 weeks gestation from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2016 were analyzed. Two subgroups were established (“before” and “after”). The rate of elective caesarean section before 39 weeks gestation, the rate of neonatal respiratory disorders, and admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit were compared between the subgroups.
Results: A total of 1881 elective caesarean sections were performed from 37 weeks gestation (1.083 [57.6%] in the before sub–group and 798 [42.4%] in the after sub– group). In the after sub–group there was a 9.8% reduction of procedures performed before 39 weeks gestation. Of the newborns, 1.59% had various respiratory problems (2.3% and 1.00% in the before and after sub–groups, respectively; p = 0.08). Six of 30 (20.0%) newborns were transferred to the neonatal intensive unit (4/22 [18.2%] and 2/8 [25.0%] in the before and after sub–groups, respectively).
Conclusion: The policy reduced the rate of elective caesarean sections before 39 weeks gestation and the rate of neonatal respiratory disorders, even though the incidence of these disorders was rather low, even before the new policy.
Prevention of Campylobacter jejuni K49/4 adhesion to porcine small intestine cell line PSI cl1 using different plant extracts
Authors: Šikić Pogačar Maja , Klančnik Anja , Smole Možina Sonja , Mičetić Turk Dušanka 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro anti–adhesive properties of chemically characterized ethanolic extracts from waste Pinot noir grape (GSS) skins and seeds, olive tree leaves (OE), thyme (Thymus vulgaris) prior to (TE) and its residue after (TE–R) hydrodistillation of the essential oil, as well as Alpinia katsumadai ethanolic seed extracts (SEE) and its hydrodistillation residue (hd- SEE–R) against the pig small intestine epithelial cell line, PSI cl1.
Methods: Using PSI cl1, the anti– adhesion activities of these extracts, which normally represent "waste material" and by–products from the agro– food industry, were determined. Initially, the anti–Campylobacter jejuni and cytotoxic activities of GSS, TE, TE–R, SEE and hdSEE–R were determined to avoid any interference in the anti– adhesion assay being used.
Results: The A. katsumadai extracts showed the strongest anti–adhesive activities against C. jejuni K49/4. When using TE and TE–R, C. jejuni adhesion to PSI cl1 cells was inhibited by almost 30% over a large concentration range of extracts. GSS extracts had the lowest impact on the adhesion rate of C. jejuni to PSI cl1 cells.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that agro–food waste material and many by–products from the agro–food industry represent sources of bioactive phytochemicals that are effective at low concentrations and could be used as therapeutic agents to prevent bacterial adhesion. This represents a step towards the application of new innovative strategies to control Campylobacter contamination and infection in the food chain. We suggest that not only plant extracts, but also waste material and agro–food industry by–products can be used as promising novel therapeutic agents with possible medical and industrial applications.
Detection of Technical Errors and Construction Optimization for Custom Tissue Arrays at Transplanting and Casting
Authors: Munda Miha 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to identify causes for the most common typical defects in the production of tissue arrays at the most crucial stages, and to optimize protocols for custom-made tissue arrays at variable input parameters and different final requirements. In this way, we can avoid difficult repairs of tissue arrays, at which, because of re-allocation, major losses can occur, including destruction of the sample due to mechanical and thermal effects.
Methods: Seven hundred and twenty tissue array blocks were included, some for clients and others for experimentation and protocol refinement. Human and animal tissue were used. We tested and evaluated configurations, structural stability, consistency, stability, and practical usability of such designed tissue arrays under different laboratory physical conditions.
Results: We recognized and analyzed 12 mistakes in the production of tissue arrays in the histology laboratory during the stages of transplantation and casting. At each examined error we found the causes, gave suggestions for prevention, and provided instructions on how to eliminate or prevent those causes.
Conclusion: Problems have solutions that are technically feasible but they require individual adjustments of laboratory procedures, time, and learning. This is more difficult or even impossible for automated laboratories, as in the described handmade tissue arrays. However, all laboratories need to produce with maximum quality and precision, which is possible only with addressing problems regularly. The results of this study will contribute to the optimization of custom made tissue array processes.
Sporadic Creutzfeldt–Jacob Disease: A case report
Authors: Mandjikoska Sonja , Horvat Pinterić Gordana 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Creutzfeldt–Jacob Disease (CJD) is a rare progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the most common form of prion disease. CJD is categorized into four subtypes: sporadic (sCJD), familial, iatrogenic, and variant. The clinical presentation of sCJD is characterized by progressive dementia, myoclonus, visual disturbances, cerebellar ataxia, and pyramidal and/ or extrapyramidal signs. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation, and the results of an electroencephalogram, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and cranial magnetic resonance imaging.
Case Report: The case of an 81-yearold woman with progressive dementia and typical electroencephalogram and magnetic resonance imaging findings for sporadic is presented.
Conclusion: No single diagnostic test for sCJD is available. In suspected sCJD, the first priority is to exclude treatable forms of dementia, such as encephalitis or chronic meningitis.
Partial vs. superficial parotidectomy for surgical treatment of pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland
Authors: Čizmarevič Bogdan , Lanišnik Boštjan , Dinevski Dejan 
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Superficial parotidectomy is still the gold standard in surgical therapy for pleomorphic adenoma. Recently, less extensive procedures such as extracapsular dissection and before that partial parotidectomy were introduced. We analyzed the data of patients treated with either partial or superficial parotidectomyand compared recurrence rates and postoperative morbidity.
Methods: WA retrospective analysis of all the patients with pleomorphic adenomas who were treated at the Department of Otolaryngology from 2002 to 2016 was performed. The patients’ data were analyzed for outcome measures: facial nerve deficit, margin status, Frey’s syndrome, tumor size, duration of surgery and tumor recurrence.
Results: During this period, 186 patients with pleomorphic adenomas of the parotid gland underwent surgery, 177 of these for the first time. Nine patients were referred to us with recurrence from another institution. Among these 177 patients, 86 were treated by partial parotidectomy, 75 by superficial parotidectomy and 16 by total parotidectomy. Transient facial weakness and the duration of surgery differed significantly between the different types of operation. Frey’s syndrome and recurrence rate were not significantly different between the groups.
Conclusions: Radical surgery could be achieved with limited removal of the parotid while the recurrence rate was the same between the groups.