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Showing papers in "Collegium Antropologicum in 2014"


Journal Article
TL;DR: Results indicate that the annual number of home visits in Croatia is relatively small, whether it is viewed per patient or per doctor with a decreased trend, and it seems that HC reforms did not have any influence on the observed trends.
Abstract: There are a number of approaches to studying medication-taking behavior. Self-report measures have the benefits of being cheap, easy to administer, non-intrusive, and able to provide information on attitudes and beliefs about medication. Potential limitations to self-report are that the ability to understand the items, and willingness to disclose information, can affect response accuracy and, thus, questionnaire validity. A computerized systematic search of the PubMed databases identified articles on scales for medication adherence measuring using the MeSH terms medication adherence, compliance, and persistence combined with the terms questionnaire self-report. Adherence scales have identified mostly in the last few years (2005–2012). One of the main sources has been article (Lavsa et. al) which evaluated literature describing medication adherence surveys/scales to gauge patient behaviors at the point of care. Articles were included if they evaluated or reviewed self-reported adherence medication scale applicable to chronic diseases and with a good coefficient of internal consistency reliability (Cronbach’s a (alpha)). Articles that contained data about self-report medication adherence scales use were included. A total of about one hundred articles were identified. Of those articles, 20% (20 of 100) were included in the review because of their relevance to the article topic. This article describes various self-report scales by which to monitor medication adherence, their advantages and disadvantages, and discusses the effectiveness of their application at different chronic diseases. There are many self-report scales for measuring medication adherence and their derivatives (or subscales). Due to the different nature of the diseases, there is no gold-standard scale for measuring medication adherence. It can be nevertheless concluded that the nearest to gold-standard is the Medication Adherence Questionnaire (MAQ) scale by Morisky et.al. but we found better internal consistency reliability in some other scales.

86 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: Results reveal that GDP per capita and attained education level together explain between 72.6% and 82.
Abstract: The main aim of this article is to explore determinants of life expectancy at birth among 28 European Union countries. Selected variables namely, gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate, population growth rate, level of education attained, education enrolment, GDP per capita and life expectancy have been considered for abovementioned countries in the period from 2001 to 2011 on a yearly basis by applying panel data analyses approach. Obtained results reveal that GDP per capita and attained education level together explain between 72.6% and 82.6% of differences in life expectancy at birth (depending on year of observation).

30 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: From the results, it was found that the variable of job satisfaction had a significant positive relationship with organizational citizenship behavior and one unit increase in organizational citizenshipbehavior is resulted from 0.622unit increase in job satisfaction.
Abstract: Job satisfaction, as an integral part of organizational environment, can affect organizational citizenship behavior. Therefore, the present paper aimed at determination of the relationship between these two factors among the employees to provide an appropriate model. The population of this study consisted of all employees of Golestan Province industry, mine and trade organization (Iran), the number of whom is 154, out of which, 120 employees were selected as a sample by the simple random sampling method. For collecting the data, two questionnaires of job satisfaction and organizational citizenship behavior were applied, and the obtained data was analyzed using the statistical methods of Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Spearman's correlation, Pearson's correlation coefficient, Regression analysis, F-test and T-test. From the results, it was found that the variable of job satisfaction had a significant positive relationship with organizational citizenship behavior and one unit increase in organizational citizenship behavior is resulted from 0.622 unit increase in job satisfaction.

30 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: Negative attitudes are present among the students; therefore, educational efforts should be included in the curricula of medical schools to diminish the negative perceptions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
Abstract: The aim of the study was to investigate whether students in their fifth and sixth years of medical school in Zagreb have homophobic attitudes and assess their knowledge about homosexuality. A survey was conducted among fifth and sixth year medical students during the 2009/2010 academic year. The survey consisted of general demographic data, two validated questionnaires--"Knowledge about Homosexuality Questionnaire" and "Heterosexual Attitudes towards Homosexuality Scale"--and questions about personal experiences created for this study. The mean knowledge scores were X = 14.8 out of 20. Furthermore, gender differences in attitudes were observed, indicating less negative attitudes among the female participants. The regression model was significant (ANOVA: Sum of Squares = 38.065; df = 17, Mean Square= 2239, F = 10.6; p < 0.001) with 38% of explained variance. The significant predictor variables that indicate lower attitudes about homosexuality score were female gender (beta= -0.14, p = 0.015), sixth year of study (beta = -0.16, p = 0.009) and more knowledge about homosexuality (beta = -0.48, p < 0.001). Negative attitudes are present among the students; therefore, educational efforts should be included in the curricula of medical schools to diminish the negative perceptions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

29 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: Six domains of quality of life emerged from patients' reactions to the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus, namely physical and social functioning, work function and social obligations, dietary freedom and conforming to treatment standard, Diabetes management needs to take these themes and patients' feelings associated with theirquality of life into consideration.
Abstract: This study aims to explore patients’ reactions to the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and their health related quality of life. We adopted a qualitative exploratory study design using a thematic analysis. Twelve patients with T2DM for more than a 2-year duration were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Both purposive and theoretical samplings were used for data collection. The in-depth interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim, followed by line-by-line coding and constant comparison to identify the themes. Data management was facilitated using Nvivo 10. Patients shared their mixed feelings about the diagnosis of T2DM. Six domains of quality of life emerged from these interviews, namely physical and social functioning, work function and social obligations, dietary freedom and conforming to treatment standard. Diabetes management needs to take these themes and patients’ feelings associated with their quality of life into consideration.

25 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: It is concluded that the high prevalence of psychiatric disorders in diabetic patients points to the need for greater investment in appropriate diagnostic evaluation of patients that consider mental issues.
Abstract: Aim of the study was to determine the rate of depression and anxiety in the patients with diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (DM), and also to determine the state of the congnitive functions in patients with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus compared with the control group. Study was designed as a epidemiological cross sectional study, sample consisted of 108 patients, 66 of the patients were diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus, and 42 were control group. All of them were interviwed by psychiatrist and tested through clinical interview with Hamilton depression rating scale, Hamilton Anxiety rating scale, Mini mental state examination and questionnaire about sociodemografic data. Results show that group of patients with DM were statistically significat more depressed than the control group of the patients (p=0.035). Pathological anxiety measured by Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) appeared in 34 DM patients and 7 of the patients in control group, which is also statistically significant difference (p=0.002). Evaluation of the congnitive status done with Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE showed us tha patients with DM presented more cognitive dysfunctions compared with the control group. We can conclude that the high prevalence of psychiatric disorders in diabetic patients points to the need for greater investment in appropriate diagnostic evaluation of patients that consider mental issues.

24 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: The role of cytokine production patterns for IBD presentation in Croatian population is confirmed and extended and the results indicate that serum IL-6 is a clinically relevant parameter for CD and UC that strongly correlates with inflammatory activity of disease.
Abstract: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), is an uncontrolled chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract caused by an interaction of diverse genes and environmental factors. There is growing evidence that cytokine production plays an important role in IBD. One of the key roles in signaling pathway in development of IBD is performed by interleukin 6 (IL-6), although molecular mechanism of this pathway is not yet fully understood. In order to assess the clinical relevance of IL-6 serum concentration in patients with CD and UC we performed cross-sectional, case-control study of IL-6 levels in patients' and healthy blood donors' sera. A total of 100 CD and UC patients and 71 healthy blood donors were investigated. Clinical activity of CD and UC was evaluated using the Crohn's disease activity index and Truelove-Witt's criteria, respectively. Quantitative assessment of serum IL-6 was performed with solid-phase, enzyme-labeled, chemiluminescent sequential immunometric assay. Our results indicate that serum IL-6 is a clinically relevant parameter for CD and UC that strongly correlates with inflammatory activity of disease. We confirmed and extended the role of cytokine production patterns for IBD presentation in Croatian population.

23 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: Wrist index and wrist width were significantly higher in CTS patients than in the control group, and the odds for CTS were estimated to increase 42-fold.
Abstract: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common peripheral entrapment compressive neuropathy in the upper limbs. It is often correlated with personal factors of individuals, not only with certain medical conditions and jobs. The study aimed at clarifying the association of carpal tunnel syndrome with anthropometric characteristics of the hand and body mass index (BMI) as independent risk factors. A total of 100 subjects participated: 50 patients with electro-diagnostically confirmed CTS and 50 healthy volunteers without CTS symptoms as control group, each group including 37 women and 13 men. Height, weight, BMI, wrist depth and width, wrist index, hand shape index, digit index, palm length, palm width, third finger length and ratio of hand length to body height were assessed in all participants. To determine independent risk factors for CTS, multiple logistic regression was used. Wrist index and wrist width were significantly higher in CTS patients than in the control group. The estimated optimal threshold of wrist index for prediction of CTS was 0.69, above which the odds for CTS were estimated to increase 42-fold. Elevated BMI correlated with bilateral CTS in both genders. The study identified wrist index, BMI and ratio of hand length to body height ratio as independent risk factors for CTS.

23 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: It is found that children exposed to all forms of both classic and cyberbullying, unlike their peers who do not have such experience, show less satisfaction with friends, while those exposed to physical and cyber bullying show dissatisfaction with their family, too.
Abstract: This paper analyses the relationship between the exposure of school children to various forms of peer bullying (classic/cyber) and their life satisfaction in the domain of school, family, friends and school performance. The sample included 562 children from rural and urban areas of Croatia who were attending the seventh and the eighth grade of primary school. Results show that children were more often exposed to classic forms of peer bullying, especially verbal, and then physical bullying. On the other hand, cyber bullying most often comprises harassment in forums, blogs, chats or social networks, then on the web, by e-mail and mobile phone. Almost half of the examinees knew the identity of the bully, while a minority believes that bullies are the same ones who also physically abuse them at school. We found that children exposed to all forms of both classic and cyber bullying, unlike their peers who do not have such experience, show less satisfaction with friends, while those exposed to physical and cyber bullying show dissatisfaction with their family, too. However, no statistically significant difference was found in their satisfaction with school. Children exposed to physical bullying showed poorer school performance, poorer achievement in Croatian and math, while children exposed to verbal and cyber bullying and children who were not exposed to such forms of bullying showed no differences in their school achievement.

22 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: Statistical analysis confirmed the association between the onset of jaundice in newborns and the following parameters: gestational age, birth weight, maternal infections and other illnesses during pregnancy and premature rupture of membranes as complications during labor and the mode of delivery.
Abstract: Neonatal jaundice is the occurrence of elevated bilirubin levels in the blood. It may be physiological or pathological. If the concentration of non-conjugated bilirubin in the blood is too high, it breaches the blood brain barrier and bilirubin encephalopathy occurs with serious consequences for the child. The aim of the research was to examine the incidence frequency of unconjugated pathologic jaundice in newborns and connect it to some epidemiological variations (medical, social, demographic) as well as to prove the increased frequency of jaundice in children born by stimulation and labour induction. The study included 800 infants: 198 (24.8%) of them did, and 602 (75.2%) did not suffer from jaundice. Statistical analysis confirmed the association between the onset of jaundice in newborns and the following parameters: gestational age, birth weight, maternal infections and other illnesses during pregnancy and premature rupture of membranes as complications during labor and the mode of delivery.

21 citations


Journal Article
TL;DR: In a case of 61 year-old patient with a significant bilateral vertical bony deficiency of the mandible, rhBMP-2 administered via an absorbable collagen sponge carrier (ACS) was used for bilateral alveolar ridge bone induction.
Abstract: In recent years, the delivery of osteoinductive factors such as bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs) has become an alternative approach to traditional bone grafting due to their capacity to produce bone healing and new bone formation. BMP-2 has proved to possess the highest osteoinductive potential among BMPs. The case reported the clinical use of recombinant human BMP-2 for bilateral vertical alveolar ridge augmentation. In a case of 61 year-old patient with a significant bilateral vertical bony deficiency of the mandible, rhBMP-2 administered via an absorbable collagen sponge carrier (ACS) was used for bilateral alveolar ridge bone induction. Augmented sites were covered and fixed with titanium mesh. Augmented sites were reopened 6 months after surgery. Titanium membrane and retaining screws were removed and three dental implants were placed. The tissue samples for the histologic analysis were harvested. Following 3 months healing period, the submerged implants were uncovered and restored with zirconium-ceramic crowns. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), panoramix and 3D radiographic evaluation were obtained prior to and after the surgical procedure. Vertical gain of the bone was 5.5 mm on the left and 5 mm on the right side, with 6 mm width of the bone. Histologic analysis revealed formation of mature trabecular bone with signs of osteoblastic proliferation. Implant stability quotient (ISQ) values were in the range between 69 and 75 for all three implants. No suppuration, gingival recession or pain were present 24 months after surgery. Vertical bone augmentation using rhBMP-2 is optional treatment modality to consider when planning dental implant placement in sites where severe vertical insufficiency exists.

Journal Article
TL;DR: Indicators of the relationship between morphological characteristics and motor abilities, coupled with the results of the specific table tennis tests indicate that subcutaneous fatty tissue on the lower extremities significantly limits the test results where movements involving fast changes in direction are required.
Abstract: The aim of this research was to establish the relationship of certain basic motor abilities and morphological characteristics and efficacy in specific table tennis tasks. The research sample consisted of cadet category table tennis players (N = 101; aged 10.52 +/- 0.78 years, training experience 2.8 +/- 0.93 years). The participants were measured as they performed 24 motor tasks, along with 15 anthropometric measures and 3 specific table tennis tests. Indicators of the relationship between morphological characteristics and motor abilities, coupled with the results of the specific table tennis tests indicate that: a) subcutaneous fatty tissue on the lower extremities significantly limits the test results where movements involving fast changes in direction are required; b) subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissues have a positive influence on tasks demanding controlled and precise alternate bouncing of the ball; c) in general, a positive influence can be seen in the results of specific tests concerning the following motor abilities: arm coordination, agility, explosive arm power, movement frequency speed and repetitive leg power. The test used for a coordination assessment of the whole body revealed a negative influence on the success of performing specific tasks.

Journal Article
TL;DR: In all three types of game, the game-related statistics were shown to discriminate performance (85% or more), with two variables being discriminatory by game outcome (winning or losing teams) in all three cases: shots and goalkeeper-blocked shots.
Abstract: The aims of this study were (i) to compare water polo game-related statistics by game outcome (winning and losing teams) and margins of victory (close games, unbalanced games, and very unbalanced games), and (ii) to identify characteristics that mark the differences in performances for each group of margin of victory. The game-related statistics of the 308 men's matches played in seven International Championships (Olympic Games, World and European Championships) were analysed. A cluster analysis established three groups (close games, unbalanced games, and very unbalanced games) according to the margin of victory. Differences between game outcomes (winning or losing teams) and margins of victory (close, unbalanced, and very unbalanced games) were determined using the chi-squared statistic, also calculating the effect sizes of the differences. A discriminant analysis was then performed applying the sample-splitting method according to game outcome (winning and losing teams) by margin of victory. It was found that the game-related statistics differentiate the winning from the losing teams in each final score group, with 7 (offensive and defensive) variables differentiating winners from losers in close games, 16 in unbalanced games, and 11 in very unbalanced games. In all three types of game, the game-related statistics were shown to discriminate performance (85% or more), with two variables being discriminatory by game outcome (winning or losing teams) in all three cases: shots and goalkeeper-blocked shots.

Journal Article
TL;DR: An overview of the current knowledge on epidermal SCs in the HF describing their essential characteristics and the control of follicle SCs fate, their role in alopecia, as well as their use in tissue engineering is provided.
Abstract: Human skin maintains the ability to regenerate during adulthood, as it constantly renews itself throughout adult life, and the hair follicle (HF) undergoes a perpetual cycle of growth and degeneration. The study of stem cells (SCs) in the epidermis and skin tissue engineering is a rapidly emerging field, where advances have been made in both basic and clinical research. Advances in basic science include the ability to assay SCs of the epidermis in vivo, identification of an independent interfollicular epidermal SC, and improved ability to analyze individual SCs divisions, as well as the recent hair organ regeneration via the bioengineered hair follicular unit transplantation (FUT) in mice. Advances in the clinic include recognition of the importance of SCs for wound repair and for gene therapy in inherited skin diseases, for example epidermolysis bullosa. The study of the HF stem cells (HFSCs) started by identification of epidermal SC in the HF bulge as quiescent "label retaining cells". The research of these cells emerged rapidly after the identification of bulge cell molecular markers, such as keratin 15 (K15) and CD34 in mice and CD200 in humans, which allowed the isolation and characterization of bulge cells from follicles. This paper provides an overview of the current knowledge on epidermal SCs in the HF describing their essential characteristics and the control of follicle SCs fate, their role in alopecia, as well as their use in tissue engineering.

Journal Article
TL;DR: The loss of both hormone receptors in carcinoma cells and loss of PGR in the myometrium was a predictor of a more aggressive type of endometrial cancer and a poor prognosis.
Abstract: Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological malignancy in Croatia. The aim of this study was to determine the immunohistochemical expression of estrogen receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors (PGR) in cancer cells and in the myometrium and to correlate it with prognostic factors of endometrial carcinoma. ER positivity in carcinoma cell nuclei was found in 42 cases (73.7%) and PGR positivity was found in 39 cases (68.4%). Loss of ER in carcinoma cell nuclei correlated with larger tumor size (p = 0.041), poor carcinoma differentiation (p = 0.012), a more aggressive histological type (p < 0.001), lymphovascular space invasion (p = 0.002) and a higher surgical stage (p = 0.037). Loss of PGR in carcinoma cell nuclei correlated with an increased age in patients (p = 0.009), poor tumor differentiation (p = 0.002), a more aggressive histological type (p < 0.001), lymphovascular space invasion (p = 0.002) and a higher surgical stage (p < 0.001). The lower expression of both receptors did not correlate with the depth of myometrial invasion. Regarding the status of receptors in the myometrium, loss of PGR in the myometrium correlated with a more aggressive histological type (p = 0.005) and a lack of ER in the myometrium tended to correlate with tumor growth (p = 0.059). In conclusion, the loss of both hormone receptors in carcinoma cells and loss of PGR in the myometrium was a predictor of a more aggressive type of endometrial cancer and a poor prognosis.

Journal Article
TL;DR: Despite the introduction of numerous potent bioengineered systemic medications in the field of dermatology, phototherapy remains established, and often preferred, option for the most common dermatoses.
Abstract: Phototherapy is a second-line treatment modality for the most common dermatoses that is safe and effective. Most phototherapy regimens denote the use of ultraviolet (UV) radiation of different wavelengths in the management of several dermatoses. Currently, irradiations with broadband UVB (290-320 nm), narrowband UVB (311-313 nm), 308 nm excimer laser, UVA 1 (340-400 nm), UVA with psoralen (PUVA), and extracorporeal photochemotherapy (photopheresis) are being used. Beneficial effects of UV radiation are far from being completely understood. Dermatoses that may benefit from such approach are numerous, with psoriasis, parapsoriasis, atopic dermatitis, cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, morphea, and vitiligo vulgaris as main indications. UVB radiation primarily acts on cells at the epidermis and the epidermodermal junction, while UVA radiation affects epidermal and dermal components, especially blood vessels. UVradiation has im- mediate and delayed effects. Immediate effects are the formation of DNA photoproducts and DNA damage leading to apoptosis of heratinocytes, Langerhans cells, activated T-lymphocytes, neutrophils, macrophages, NK cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and mast-cells, cell membrane damage by lipid peroxidation, and isomerization of chromophores such as urocanic acid. Delayed effects include synthesis of prostaglandins and cytokines that play important roles in immune suppression. Systemic and local immune suppression, alteration in cytokine expression (induction of interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor antagonist, decrease in IL-2, increase in IL-IO, IL-15), and cell cycle arrest may all contribute to the suppression of disease activity. PUVA is a form of controlled and repeated induction of phototoxic reactions which uses UVA light to activate chemicals known as psoralens. The conjunction of psoralens with epidermal DNA inhibits DNA synthesis and causes cell apoptosis. PUVA also causes an alteration in the expression of cytokines and cytokine receptors. Psoralens interact with RNA, proteins and other cellular components and indirectly modify proteins and lipids via singlet oxygen-mediated reactions or by generating of free radicals. Psoralens and UV radiation also stimulate melanogenesis with variable effects in patients with vitiligo vulgaris. Extracorporealphotopheresis is treatment modality used in management of erythrodermic cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. It is very potent in induction of lymphocyte apoptosis. Despite the introduction of numerous potent bioengineered systemic medications in the field of dermatology, phototherapy remains established, and often preferred, option for the most common dermatoses.

Journal Article
TL;DR: Results confirmed the hypothesis that M/D students of Ljubljana Faculty of Medicine who frequently experience stress (especially those with poor coping mechanisms), exhibit higher degree of burnout.
Abstract: Medical education is challenging, but for some students it can be very stressful. Studies suggest that stress during medical education can have a negative impact on students' mental health and that burnout is frequent among medical school students. The aim of this study was to measure burnout among students of medicine/dentistry (M/D) at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia, in relation to their perception of stress, so as to enable planning preventative activities for students at risk. The data were collected in a cross-sectional study, carried out in spring 2008 among the total population of MID students of 1St, 3rd, 4th and 6th year, using a self-administered online questionnaire. Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) instrument was used. Separate burnout scores were calculated for the exhaustion and disengagement dimensions of burnout, and related to students'perception of stress. Multiple linear regression method was carried out to adjust the association estimates for several potential confounders (gender, study program, relationship status, and grade). The overall response rate was 47.2%, and a total of 476 students participated. Students scored higher on exhaustion than on disengagement dimension--the mean value of burnout scores on the exhaustion dimension scale was -1.68, while it was -4.58 on the disengagement dimension scale. The results showed a statistically significant difference between high and low risk-for-stress groups of students in both burnout dimensions (average value of burnout scores on the exhaustion scale: high risk-for-stress group -3.69, low risk-for-stress group 0.19, p<0.001; average value of burnout scores on the disengagement scale: high risk-for-stress group -5.57, low risk-for-stress group -3.65, p<0.001). After adjustment for potential confounders differences on both burnout subscales remained almost unchanged. Results confirmed our hypothesis that M/D students of Ljubljana Faculty of Medicine who frequently experience stress (especially those with poor coping mechanisms), exhibit higher degree of burnout.

Journal Article
TL;DR: Obesity is not influenced by rural/urban residence, marital status of parents, number of children in the family, mother's education, or by parents' smoking habits, and positive correlation between obesity and father's education and parents' unemployment was found.
Abstract: The perception of obesity among people has not changed significantly regardless numerous public educational programs. Reasons for obesity pandemics are numerous and complex, but can be mostly resumed to life-style changes. The aim of this research was to determine connection between socioeconomic factors and obesity with children of our region. Study included pupils aged 7-8 from 19 first grades in 8 primary schools in Osijek-Baranya County. Body height and weight were measured and socioeconomic data status were collected. Socioeconomic status included data on marital status, educational level, employment, number of children in the family, kindergarten attendance and urban/rural location and also smoking habits of parents. BMI was calculated as a parameter for obesity assessment according to Croatian reference values. Total of 372 children were measured. There were 6.5% of overweight children (BMI between 90th and 97th percentile) and 2.4% of obese children (BMI above 97th percentile). The prevalence of obese children in our research was 8.9%. Obesity is not influenced by rural/urban residence, marital status of parents, number of children in the family, mother's education, or by parents' smoking habits. Positive correlation between obesity and father's education and parents' unemployment was found. Available literature data, same as our study, did not show consistent association between socioeconomic factors and obesity with children. Contradictory results of different studies can be a result of a small sample, difference in study design and different criteria for defining categories within investigated socioeconomic factor.

Journal Article
TL;DR: In conclusion, premature neonates from pregnancies complicated by chorioamnionitis are more often born at < or = 28 weeks of gestation than in neonates with a longer gestation period.
Abstract: The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of chorioamnionitis on mortality and early onset neonatal sepsis (EONS) and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm neonates with birth weight or = 33 weeks gestation. Chorioamnionitis was diagnosed significantly more often in the first gestational age group (91/132-69% of infants, chi2 = 51.307, p 0.05). Lethal outcome ensued in 54/132 (41%) infants from the first gestational age group; 30/54 (55%) were born from pregnancies complicated by chorioamnionitis. In comparison with the control group, mortality was significantly higher in the group of premature infants with gestation 0.05). In conclusion, premature neonates from pregnancies complicated by chorioamnionitis are more often born at < or = 28 weeks of gestation. Chorioamnionitis in neonates whose gestation is < or = 28 weeks leads to a significantly higher rate of mortality than in neonates with a longer gestation period. A greater incidence of EONS was proven in the group of infants with chorioamnionitis. The difference between the incidence of BPD in preterm infants born from pregnancies complicated by chorioamnionitis and the control group was not significant.

Journal Article
TL;DR: Construct validity was confirmed with important and significant correlation between PACIC and EUROPEP questionnaire and principal component factor analysis identifies two major factors which are labeled according to the PACIC domains as "Patient activation, decision support and problem solving" and "Goal settings and coordination".
Abstract: The Chronic Care Model (CCM) is a conceptual framework that supports the evidence-based proactive and planned care of chronic diseases. Our aim was to validate a Slovenian translation of Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (PACIC)--a self-reported instrument designed to measure the extent to which patients with chronic illnesses receive care congruent with CCM--on a sample of patients with coronary heart disease. Secondary analysis of patients' evaluation of general practice care (EPA Cardio study) was done in patients with coronary heart disease in Slovenia. Patients completed a written questionnaire, which included the instrument for assessing chronic illness care (PACIC), the EUROPEP questionnaire and demographical data. Internal consistency was expressed in terms of Cronbach's alpha. Reliability was expressed as the intra class correlation coefficient (ICC). Correlation between PACIC and EUROPEP was considered as a measure of construct validity. Factor analysis was done to identify number and types of domains in the instrument. Questionnaires of 843 patients were analysed. The mean age was 68.2 (SD 11.1) years, 34.6% of participants were female. 32.7% of PACIC questionnaires were not completely fulfilled. The internal consistency of the entire questionnaire assessed by Cronbach's alpha was 0.953 and reliability was 0.937. Construct validity was confirmed with important and significant correlation between PACIC and EUROPEP questionnaire (Spearman's correlation coefficient = 0.60, p < 0.001). Principal component factor analysis identifies two major factors which we labeled according to the PACIC domains as "Patient activation, decision support and problem solving" and "Goal settings and coordination". A translated and validated Slovenian version of PACIC questionnaire is now available. Further research on its validity in other groups of chronically ill patients and the use of instrument for monitoring changes of chronic care over time is recommended.

Journal Article
TL;DR: The study shows that students starting school earlier also have earlier chronotypes, which might be consequence of the adaptation to one hour earlier school starting time.
Abstract: Chronotype is a characteristic of a person in a certain point of one’s lifetime and it slowly changes with age. Adolescents start to go to bed later while schools impose early starting hours, which may become a problem for students who are unable to adapt their circadian rhythm. The aim of this study was to determine if differences in school starting times affect the students’ chronotype, school success, or daytime sleepiness. We tested a total of 1020 students from four high schools in Osijek, Croatia. The students had alternating school shifts (school starting hours 7 AM or 13 PM and 8 AM or 14 PM, every other week, alternatively, respectively). The participants were tested using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the Morningness – Eveningness Questionnaire. Earlier chronotypes were characteristic of the students starting school earlier, but without significant difference in daytime sleepiness in comparison with those starting school later . Differences were also found between different age and gender groups, female and older students having earlier chronotypes. Students going to school earlier showed better school success than the latter. In conclusion, the study shows that students starting school earlier also have earlier chronotypes, which might be consequence of the adaptation to one hour earlier school starting time.

Journal Article
TL;DR: Results showed that using a short program of exercises and education leads to significant changes in self-reported quality of life of subjects, and a statistically significant reduction in pain using a visual analog scale (VAS) before and after the program.
Abstract: Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by decreased bone mass and impaired microarchitecture resulting in bone fragility and an increased risk of fractures. Prevention of osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures among others include adequate physical activity. Epidemiological studies indicate that fewer fractures in active women, regardless of whether it is a result of direct effects on bone or improve coordination, balance and muscle strength. The aim of research was to examine the impact of exercise program for osteoporosis in the duration of four weeks on health and psychological aspects of patient quality of life using the questionnaire SF-36, used before and after the program. The SF-36 is used for self-assessment of health status and represents the operationalization of two general concept of health such as physical and mental health and consists of 36 particles. The study included 39 participants with osteopenia and osteoporosis. All respondents have implemented a program of exercises for osteoporosis in duration 28 days. The program consisted of exercises for osteoporosis, advice on diet, tips on preventing falls, interviews and examinations performed before and during implementation of the program. Results showed that using a short program of exercises and education leads to significant changes in self-reported quality of life of subjects. The study confirmed a statistically significant reduction in pain using a visual analog scale (VAS) before and after the program.

Journal Article
TL;DR: Rome III survey questionnaire proved to be an acceptable method for diagnosing this functional disorder in clinical-consilliary and primary health care, and for persons showing signs of alarm and needing further diagnostic treatment.
Abstract: Aim of the research is to establish the prevalence of constipation in Osjecko-baranjska County, to establish its specific characteristics and to determine the effect of demographic, anthropometric and socioeconomic factors. It is a cross-sectional and case control study conducted in 2010. on systematic sample of 900 subjects between 20 and 69 years of age. Every subject was sent an invitation letter and a Rome III diagnostic questionnaire for one of the disorders. A scoring algorithm was used to confirm or exclude the diagnosis of functional constipation. The chi-square test, t-test and logistic regression were used for analysis. The prevalence of constipation in our study was 22.19%, which is higher than the prevalence in most other countries, where it ranges from 5% to 18%. In our study statistically significant variables were: place of current residence (urban), education level (high school), marital status (divorced people), a larger number of household members and a lower health status by self-assessment. According to t-test persons with constipation on average are older, have higher average BMI and lower average grade valued financial status of households and their health. There were a greater number of subjects that had at least one alarm symptom or some of the psychosocial factors and they often suffered from a chronic disease. Functional constipation presents a significant health problem. Rome III survey questionnaire proved to be an acceptable method for diagnosing this functional disorder in clinical-consilliary and primary health care,and for persons showing signs of alarm and needing further diagnostic treatment.

Journal Article
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated whether air pollution is related to children's growth and found a significant difference in the prevalence of thinness in children exposed to higher concentrations of air pollutants.
Abstract: The growth is considered a very sensitive indicator of the impact of environment of the health status of children The aim of the study was to investigate whether air pollution is related to children’s growth The subjects were 1059 pupils, aged 7-11 years, living for more than ten years in the same home in the city of Nis (Serbia) Exposed group of children (n=545) were attending the school located in a city area with a high level of air pollution, while the children (n=514), in the comparison group, designed as non-exposed group, were attending the school in the area with a lower level of air pollution The air concentrations of black smoke, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and lead in sediment matter were determined in ten-year period Air pollution is associated with children’s height and weight , specially before the age of 9 years There was a significant difference in the prevalence of thinness in children exposed to higher concentrations of air pollutants (p =0038) It might be possible that air pollution negatively contributed to the growth rate in urban children

Journal Article
TL;DR: In this article, the influence of tillage treatments on soil CO 2 efflux and a relationship between tillage induced CO 2 emissions and climatic factors was determined. But the results were limited to a single field experiment.
Abstract: There has been a significant increase of atmospheric greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations since industrial revolution till nowadays. Approximately 10% of total GHG emissions in Croatia belong to the agricultural sector. In this sector, one part of CO 2 is released from soil by soil respiration (soil CO 2 efflux). Due to these facts, it is of scientists’ interest to determine the influence of tillage treatments on soil CO 2 efflux and to determine a relationship between tillage induced CO 2 emissions and climatic factors. Field experiment with six different tillage treatments was set up on Stagnic Luvisols near Daruvar (central lowland Croatia). Tillage treatments were: black fallow (BF), ploughing up and down the slope to 30 cm (PUDS), no - tillage (NT), ploughing up and down slope to 30 cm (PAS), very deep ploughing across the slope to 50 cm (VDPAS) and subsoiling across the slope to 50 cm (SSPAS) . Soil CO 2 efflux was measured using closed static chamber method to quantify soil CO 2 efflux during 2012 (n=13) when cover crop was corn. Tillage had a significant effect on CO 2 efflux. The lowest average CO 2 efflux was determined at the BF treatment with the average CO 2 efflux of 29.4 kg ha -1 day -1 . Comparing the treatments with the cover crop, the highest average CO 2 efflux was determined at the NT treatment followed by SSPAS, VDPAS, PAS and PUDS treatment with the average CO 2 efflux of 90.9 kg ha -1 day -1 , 83.5 kg ha -1 day -1 , 68.9 kg ha -1 day -1 , 66.7 kg ha -1 day -1 , 56.0 kg ha -1 day -1 respectively. A verage CO 2 effluxes were moderate positively correlated with soil temperatures at 10 cm depth (r=0.42), moderate positively correlated with air temperature (r=0.45), and non correlated with soil moisture content at 10 cm depth (r=0.08), while strong negatively correlated with relative air humidity (r=0.55). T he CO 2 efflux was higher during the second half of spring and in the first half of summer while lower CO 2 efflux was determined during the period autumn – winter CO 2 effluxes were higher in first half of corn growing season than in the second half of corn growing season and the period without the cover crop. Our study suggests that tillage practices have significant influence on soil CO 2 emissions.

Journal Article
TL;DR: It is thought that both sprinting and agility performance characteristics are independent qualities and that age and gender are two factors that influence the correlation results.
Abstract: 72 1024x768 The purposes of the study were to assess sprinting and agility performance characteristics and to determine the relationship between these two motor skills in elementary education students . Sprinting and agility performance were assessed in 176 children (88 boys and 88 girls) divided into three groups: Group 1 (G1, n = 98; 48 boys and 50 girls), from the first year of elementary education; Group 2 (G2, n = 38; 15 boys and 23 girls), from the second year of elementary education; Group 3 (G3, n = 40; 25 boys and 15 girls), from the third year of elementary education. Significant differences ( P < 0.001) were found in agility ability among the groups and between G1- G3and G2- G3 in the 5 and 15 m sprint. Regarding gender of the students of the same age, significant differences (P < 0.001) between boys and girls in group G1 and G2 were obtained in the 5 and 15 m sprint. The correlation between agility and acceleration was significant but moderate (0.3 < r ≤ 0.7) in all groups ( G1 , G2, and G3), in most cases. When the gender factor was included, the results were heterogeneous. Assessing this correlation according to age and gender produced heterogeneous results. For this reason, we think that both are independent qualities and that age and gender are two factors that influence the correlation results Normal 0 21 false false false ES X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Tabla normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}

Journal Article
TL;DR: The results indicated that the developed FFQ is valid instrument to assess the habitual intake of energy and most of the nutrients in healthy adults in the Republic of Croatia, while men tended to have higher correlation coefficients than women and therefore a higher correlation of the FFQ with the three 24-hour recalls.
Abstract: Food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) are designed to assess habitual diet by asking about the frequency with which food items or specific food groups are consumed over a reference period. In this study, we have developed a FFQ to assess habitual dietary intake of healthy adults to estimate the quality of their nutrition and conducted a study to validate the developed FFQ against a three-day 24-hour recall. Second aim of the study is to establish the correlation between the FFQ to assess habitual dietary intake and a three-day 24-hour recall, in relation with participants’ age and education level. FFQ used in our study was adapted from the Harvard Semiquantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire, consisted of 101 food items, divided into 9 groups. The 24-hour recalls were collected during one week (the same week when the FFQ was completed) and on each different day of the week (two weekdays and one weekend day). Both the FFQ and three day 24-hour recall were distributed to 100 healthy, employed subjects, 32 males (aged 39.73±14.02) and 36 females (aged 34.20±10.63). The results indicated that the developed FFQ is valid instrument to assess the habitual intake of energy and most of the nutrients in healthy adults in the Republic of Croatia, while men tended to have higher correlation coefficients than women and therefore a higher correlation of the FFQ with the three 24-hour recalls. Statistically significant correlations are not found between energy and nutrient intake based on the education level of the participants.

Journal Article
TL;DR: The purpose of this review is to provide a brief overview of the molecular basis of this disease, describe clinical presentations, as well as to present orthopaedic therapeutic modalities for the patients with OI.
Abstract: Osteogenesis imperfecta or brittle bone disease, a heritable disorder of connective tissue, is the most common of the inherited disorders primarily affecting bone. There are approximately 400 individuals with OI in Croatia alone. It is estimated that twice that number is present, represented by individuals with mild OI in whom the diagnosis has not been made. Due to the relatively low number of patients in the general population, treating physicians have limited experience with this disease, either with children or adults. The basis of this disease in European populations is mostly the result of defects in the structure or processing of collagen type I, an important protein of the extracellular matrix of many tissues. Presently, molecular defects in 16 different genes have been discovered to result in at least one type of OI of which 14 are not COL1 mutation loci. Although fractures occurring with no injury or minor injury are the hallmark of OI, other non-mineralized tissues can be affected as well and the pathological changes can be present in skin, tendons, eyes, teeth and blood vessels. Clinical manifestations are very heterogeneous and numerous signs and symptoms such as blue sclera, deafness, abnormal teeth development, joint hypermobility, increased risk of hernias, capillary fragility, aneurysms etc. Although there is no cure for this disease, there are specific therapies that can reduce the pain and complications associated with OI. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief overview of the molecular basis of this disease, describe clinical presentations, as well as to present orthopaedic therapeutic modalities for the patients with OI.

Journal Article
TL;DR: It was showed that FS-T is a more appropriate index for describing variation in the population with higher caries experience and there was a significant statistical difference in comparison of smoking habits depending on the reason to visit the dentist.
Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate caries prevalence and smoking habit in the population of 19-year-old Croatian male recruits. Dental examination of 505 male recruits was conducted in 2001 in the military centre in Koprivnica. Caries status was described by the FS-T (Filled and Sound Teeth) index and DMFT (Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth) index. Mean DMFT scores were 7.32 and FST 23.56. There was a significant statistical difference in comparison of smoking habits depending on the reason to visit the dentist (p=0.001). The subjects who do not smoke tobacco have less decayed teeth (DT index with p<0.001), and more teeth with fillings and/or sound teeth (FT with p=0.005 and FST with p=0.004). There is no statistically significant difference for the DMFT (p=0.657) and MT (p=0.703). In conclusion, it showed that FS-T is a more appropriate index for describing variation in the population with higher caries experience. In the population of Croatian recruits, there were an astonishing 58.6% of smokers.

Journal Article
TL;DR: It is concluded that the dietary intake of Croatian women and breastfeeding practice over six months significantly influence their weight loss.
Abstract: Postpartum weight retention is a risk factor for the development of midlife obesity. Since dietary intake and breastfeeding practice could be promoters of weight loss during postpartum, the objective of this study was to investigate their influence on weight retention during six months postpartum. The study sample consisted of 83 lactating and 76 non-lactating Croatian women who were examined at three measurement waves: at 1 month ±1 week, 3 months ±1 week and 6 months ±1 week postpartum. At each measurement wave, two consecutive 24-hour dietary recalls were collected, and body weight measurements were made. Both groups had a daily energy intake lower by about 25% than recommended. Although both groups continuously decreased energy and macronutrient intake, lactating women had energy intake higher by 205 kcal (p=0.048) and 370 kcal (p<0.001) after one and three months, respectively. At six months postpartum lactating women had a higher intake of fat (p=0.036) but a lower intake of protein (p=0.009) compared with non-lactating mothers. After six months, lactating women retained 101.9% of pre-pregnancy weight, which was significantly less than the percentage of weight retained among non-lactating women (p=0.014). Multiple regression analysis showed that weight retention were predicted by: type of feeding (b=–0.281; p<0.001), and time since parturition (b=–0.151; p< 0.001), while gestational weight gain (b=0.491; p<0.001), energy intake (b=0.157; p<0.001) and energy derived from fat (b=0.122; p=0.035) were positive predictors. We concluded that the dietary intake of Croatian women and breastfeeding practice over six months significantly influence their weight loss.