Open Access Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences Feed

The Burden of Infections with Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Pathogen on Home Health Care Services

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDExtended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing pathogens are a growing health threat due to their resistance to most of the commonly used antimicrobial agents.AIMIn this paper, we aimed to assess the prevalence of those pathogens among patients who received care in the home parenteral antimicrobial therapy program. We also aimed to examine the burden of those pathogens on the home health care services and discuss the options to minimize this burden.METHODSThis retrospective cohort study was conducted in the Adult Home Health Care Service at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We studied all patients referring to the home health care parenteral antimicrobial program in the period from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2021. Patients' data were retrieved from their electronic medical records. We classified patients as a patient with ESBL infection and a patient with a non-ESBL infection based on their cultures.RESULTSA total of 253 patients, of whom 144 (56.9%) were females, were accepted into the home parenteral antimicrobial therapy during the specified period. Of these, 121 (47.8%) were treated with an infection with ESBL-producing bacteria. Escherichia coli (92.76.0%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (23.19.0%) were the most commonly isolated ESBL pathogens. Female gender, a previous history of UTI or ESBL infection, cognitive impairment and BPH in men were all associated with a higher rate of ESBL infections (P<0.05). Infection caused by ESBL-producing pathogen was not associated with a significantly increased rate of complications, readmission or mortality (P≥0.05).CONCLUSIONAlmost half of the patients treated in the home parenteral antimicrobial program are infected with an ESBL producing pathogens. However, we did not find any significant increase in adverse clinical outcomes associated with those infections in our sample. The burden on the HHC services that comes with these infections is mostly related to the limited choices of antimicrobials and to the high rate of recurrence.

Generalized Kaposi’s Sarcoma in an HIV Negative Patient: Case Report

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDKaposi’s Sarcoma is a vascular neoplasm associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). It typically manifests with cutaneous lesions but can also involve extracutaneous sites such as mucous membranes, lymph nodes and visceral organs. Kaposi’s Sarcoma is classified in 4 major subtypes: classic, epidemic, endemic and iatrogenic. The classic form usually follows a slow course, with progressions of cutaneous lesions over more than 10–15 years. However atypical cases of this form have been described in the literature. We aimed to present an atypical case of generalized Kaposi’s Sarcoma in an HIV negative patient.CASE REPORTWe report an atypical case of Kaposi’s Sarcoma (KS) classic type, in a 62-year-old HIV-negative male, notable for its unusual cutaneous presentation, distribution, and rapid progression. The patient presented to the Emergency Department with asymptomatic violet-to-red cutaneous lesions, including both plaques and nodules, distributed across the upper and lower extremities, abdomen, and back. The lesions first appeared approximately eight months prior but demonstrated a fulminant course in the weeks leading up to presentation, with rapid dissemination. Initial home management of the patient included local and oral folk remedies of unknown composition. A skin biopsy performed during hospitalization revealed nodular Kaposi’s Sarcoma, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was recommended for diagnostic confirmation. HIV serology was negative, and imaging, including lymph node ultrasound, revealed no evidence of visceral involvement.CONCLUSIONSThis case illustrates an atypical presentation of classic Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) in an immunocompetent, HIV-negative patient, characterized by rapid progression and diffuse cutaneous involvement. Such a clinical course is uncommon for the classic subtype, which is typically indolent and slowly progressive. Our findings support the growing body of evidence that subgroups within classic KS may exhibit distinct clinical behaviors, requiring tailored staging and management strategies. Given the absence of any known immunosuppressive conditions or identifiable triggers, further research is needed to elucidate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms in atypical cases of classic KS.

Recognition of Dementia Symptoms and Related Work Challenges among Nursing Staff in Long-Term Care Facilities

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDRecognition of dementia symptoms among nursing staff is essential for ensuring timely, person-centered and ethically adequate care. Despite an expanding global focus on dementia, evidence concerning the interaction between staff education, work experience, and their recognition competence in Central and Eastern Europe remains limited.AIMThis study investigates the relationship between nursing staff's education and professional experience and their ability to recognize dementia symptoms, as well as their perceived work difficulty in providing care for residents with dementia.METHODSA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 104 nursing staff across three long-term care facilities in Slovenia. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire exploring recognition of dementia symptoms and perceived workload. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were used.RESULTSCognitive symptoms were recognized most accurately, while behavioral and emotional manifestations were less consistently identified. Education and work experience did not significantly predict perceived work difficulty.CONCLUSIONSFindings highlight the importance of strengthening behavioral symptom recognition through targeted education and institutional support mechanisms, rather than relying solely on staff experience or qualification level.

The Booklet and Daily Food Guide Cards to Improve Responsive Feeding Practice of Mothers, on Stunted Children Aged 6-24 Months in Rural Area, West Lombok

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDStunting is at high risk of occurring in the first two years of a child’s life (0-24 months), and will be difficult to overcome if it continues until the child is more than 2 years old. An important determinant of complementary feeding to prevent stunting is the ability of caregivers/parents to provide food, including knowledge, attitudes and practices of feeding.AIMThis study investigates the effectiveness of booklet and daily eating guide card in improving mothers’ feeding practice regarding responsive feeding.METHODSThis study is an experimental research and development study (R&D) with pre-posttest design. Samples were selected using a purposive sampling technique and random sample technique.RESULTSResults showed differences in the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices of respondents between before and after being given education (Sig. (2-tailed): 0.000<0.05). It can be concluded that Booklet and daily eating guide card are proven to be effective in improving feeding practice of mothers of stunted toddlers.CONCLUSIONThese media can be used in education to improve knowledge, attitudes and practice of responsive feeding among mothers.

Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Management: A Systematic Review of Operational Efficiency and Challenges

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDArtificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly applied in healthcare administration, yet systematic evidence on its impact remains scarce. While most reviews focus on clinical decision-making, the non-clinical management domain—where inefficiencies in resource allocation, workflow, and finance persist—remains understudied.OBJECTIVETo systematically evaluate the role of AI in optimizing healthcare management, to identify implementation barriers, and to propose governance recommendations.METHODSWe conducted a systematic review in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and Scopus were searched for peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2024. Eligible studies addressed AI applications in non-clinical healthcare management. Data were extracted on AI type, application domain, and outcomes. The final inclusion comprised 80 studies.RESULTSAI improved operational efficiency (predictive scheduling reduced wait times by 27%), enhanced financial integrity (fraud detection saved $3.2M annually), and optimized supply chains (robotic inventory systems reduced stockouts by 19%). Barriers included ethical risks (15% of triage algorithms exhibited bias) and interoperability challenges.CONCLUSIONSThis review identifies three major domains of impact (efficiency, finance, ethics), highlights the implementation gap, and introduces a governance checklist for equitable adoption. AI substantially enhances healthcare management operations. However, regulatory oversight, bias audits, and workforce adaptation are essential to ensure equitable and sustainable integration. Future reviews should expand cross-country analysis and empirical evaluations in low-resource settings.

Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation after Cardiac Surgery: A Review of Risk Factors, Clinical Outcomes, and Management Strategies

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common arrhythmia following cardiac surgery and is associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and higher long-term risks of stroke, heart failure, and mortality. Once considered a transient and benign condition, POAF is now recognized as a clinically significant complication with lasting prognostic implications. This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on the epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, clinical consequences, and management strategies of POAF. It highlights both pharmacological and non-pharmacological preventive measures, including beta-blockers, amiodarone, and posterior pericardiotomy, while also examining the ongoing controversy surrounding anticoagulation therapy in the postoperative setting. Current guideline recommendations for anticoagulation remain inconsistent, largely due to limited high-quality evidence and the absence of validated risk stratification tools tailored to surgical patients. Future research should focus on refining predictive models such as the CHA₂DS ₂-VASc score and generating robust randomized data to inform treatment decisions, especially concerning anticoagulation. Recognizing POAF as a marker of long-term cardiovascular risk is essential to improving outcomes and guiding individualized postoperative care.

The Use of Booklet and “SIGAP ANAK” Application for Education on Early Detection of Pneumonia in Children Under Five

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDPneumonia is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under the age of five around the world particularly in developing countries where access to healthcare is limited. Regular monitoring of children for symptoms is crucial for early detection of pneumonia. Education about pneumonia detection in parents and caregivers is crucial for prevention and lowering mortality rates.METHODThis study used a RnD (Research and Development) design, in which SIGAP ANAK application and booklet were developed as educational media for early detection of pneumonia. The population for this study consisted of mothers under the age of five at rural area and total of 120 mothers were divided into two groups and assigned randomly. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire developed and evaluated for validity and reliability to determine the level of parental knowledge about pneumonia detection in children under five. Additionally, Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests were used to analyze data.RESULTSThe results showed that the control group average before receiving education using booklet was 16.78, while the average after education was 17.93. With the use of SIGAP ANAK application, the average knowledge before and after the intervention was 15.62 and 17.38 respectively. Based on the Wilcoxon test result, education using booklet and “SIGAP ANAK” application significantly affected knowledge about pneumonia p-value = 0.00 (p < 0.05). However, based on the Mann Whitney test result there was no difference between the intervention and control groups p-value = 0.149 (p >0.05).CONCLUSIONThe SIGAP ANAK application and booklet can be used to provide education about early detection of pneumonia for mothers with children under five in rural area.

A Cross-Sectional Study of Maternal Sleep Quality in the First Two Years of Childcare

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDThe postpartum period and early years of motherhood represent a transformative stage in a woman’s life, accompanied by significant physiological, psychological, and social changes. One of the most commonly reported challenges during this period is sleep disruption. Sleep disturbances are common among mothers of young children, yet limited data exist for this issue in the context of North Macedonia. This study explores the prevalence and correlates of poor sleep quality among mothers in the postpartum period.AIMTo assess the sleep patterns, duration, and quality among mothers with young children and identify key demographic, behavioral, and psychosocial factors associated with sleep disturbances.METHODSA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 648 mothers of children aged 0–2 years in North Macedonia. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sleep duration, sleep quality (using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and associated factors such as maternal age, number of children, employment status, co-sleeping, and perceived stress.RESULTSFindings revealed that over 60% of participants reported poor sleep quality, with significant reductions in sleep duration compared to their pre-motherhood period. The most common issues were frequent night awakenings and difficulty falling back asleep. Poor sleep was significantly associated with lack of family support, chronic fatigue, and higher levels of self-reported stress.CONCLUSIONMaternal sleep quality in North Macedonia is substantially affected during early child-rearing years. Tailored interventions focusing on maternal mental health, family support, and sleep hygiene education are needed to improve sleep health in this vulnerable population.

Sublingual Ectopic Thyroid Gland Misdiagnosed as Atrophic Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Case Report

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDEctopic thyroid gland is a rare developmental anomaly caused by aberrant migration of thyroid tissue during embryogenesis. Misdiagnosis as autoimmune thyroiditis, particularly the atrophic form, may occur due to overlapping clinical features, especially in the hypothyroid state.CASE PRESENTATIONWe report the case of a patient who was treated for autoimmune thyroiditis for more than 20 years. Comprehensive imaging with ultrasound and SPECT/CT ultimately revealed an ectopic sublingual thyroid gland, with no orthotopic thyroid tissue present.CONCLUSIONThis case underscores the importance of thorough imaging evaluation in patients with hypothyroidism and absent thyroid tissue in the normal anatomical location, to avoid prolonged misdiagnosis and inappropriate management.

Satisfaction of Residents in the Social Care Institution Elderly Home Moste-Polje in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDIntroduction: In order to provide safe, effective and quality care for the elderly, satisfaction surveys in care homes play a key role in assessing the quality of care and improving the overall treatment of residents, so we wanted to obtain the views and feedback of residents on their satisfaction with their stay in the home.METHODSThe aim of the study was to determine the residents’ satisfaction with the services provided by the eldary home Moste-Polje in Ljubljana, Slovenia. An anonymous survey was conducted in 2023 among 37 residents living in the social care institution. We used a diagnostic survey method and a questionnaire technique. Descriptive statistics were used to present demographic data with percentages for categorical variables and means and standard deviations for numerical variables.RESULTSIn the questions about satisfaction with the services of the individual services, the residents rated the social services (AS=4.5, ST.N=0.61), the nursing services (AS=4.3, ST.N=0.75), the technical maintenance services (AS=4.2, ST.N=0.68) and the outpatient clinic (AS=4.1, ST.N=0.95) the highest on average. The attitude of the staff towards the residents (AS=4.1, ST.N=0.75), the cleanliness and tidiness of the home (AS=4.1, ST.N=0.78) were also rated highly. The home’s diet (AS=3.4, ST.N=1.06), the availability and range of home activities (AS=3.9, ST.N=0.81 ) were rated lower. The ability to express criticism was evaluated with a score of (AS=3.3, ST.N=1.22 ). The ability to express criticism was rated with a score of (AS=3.3, ST.N=1.22).CONCLUSIONThe results of the survey showed that residents are largely satisfied with their stay in the home, but would like to see minor changes in some areas. The findings showed that improving services requires mutual cooperation between residents and staff, as well as management. In this way, the quality of life can be improved, leading to greater satisfaction of the residents living in the Homes for the Elderly.

Perception (Some Aspects) of Part-Time Students of Study Programme Nursing Care About Communication and Interrelations in Healthcare Teams

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDCommunication in healthcare teams is challenging, as they are mostly composed of professionals from different disciplines who need to work together to achieve positive and desirable patient outcomes. Interpersonal relationships are crucial for optimal and reflective professional nursing care. The joint collaboration and effort of all members of the healthcare team ensures quality and safe healthcare.AIMThe aim of this study was to analyse the opinion of part-time healthcare students (N = 147) on the importance and role of the communication and interrelations in healthcare teams.METHODSWe used a quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental method of empirical research. Data were collected with questionnaires. For statistical analysis we use Levene test, T- test and Pearson correlation coefficient using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 24.0. A statistical significance of p<0.05 was assumed.RESULTSThe majority of respondents said that communication in the healthcare team is clear, respectful, empathetic and understandable. Subjectively, they assess that assertive communication prevails. They are cooperative with their colleagues and rarely encounter individual and organisational issues when communicating in the healthcare team. Respondents perceive that communication (p=0.02) and interpersonal relationships (p=0.01) are better in smaller healthcare teams than in larger teams. They also point out that good communication influences good interpersonal relations in health teams (p=<0.05).CONCLUSIONIn nursing, good communication and interpersonal skills help to meet patient needs. Individuals need to learn how to form these relationships with each other. Each member of the healthcare team needs to know where he or she stands in the team, what his or her tasks and responsibilities are and how he or she should work. The quality standards for teamwork promote the application of a process approach to developing, implementing and improving the effectiveness of the quality management system in the healthcare team, with the aim of increasing patient satisfaction by meeting patient expectations.

Arsenic Content in Groundwater in Two Regions of the Republic of North Macedonia: The Hidden Public Health Threat

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDArsenic groundwater contamination is a challenging public health threat in many regions globally, it also poses a threat to sustainable agriculture and food production. Hyperpigmentation, hyperkeratosis and skin lesions on the palms and feet are the first symptoms of the long term exposure, both, trough drinking water and food. In terms of its carcinogenic effect, long term exposure to Arsenic is associated with cancer of the bladder, lungs, skin, kidneys, nasal passages, liver and prostate.AIMThe aim of the study was to analyze the effects of long-term exposure to low levels of arsenic in groundwater in two regions in the Republic of North Macedonia - Kumanovo municipality (Northeast Region) and Gevgelija municipality (Southeast Region), related to the cancer incidence rate and some other related diagnoses.METHODSThe relationship between arsenic concentration in groundwater and the death rate due to various causes of deaths was investigated using Poisson Regression.RESULTSOur study despite the methodological limitations suggested important links between the chronic exposure to Arsenic in groundwater and adverse health outcomes such as diabetes mellitus, cancer of larynx, liver, bronchus and lung cancer, stomach cancer leukaemia, lymphoma and cancer of prostate, from total malignancies and malignancies of digestive organs.CONCLUSIONSThe policy and actions in the RN Macedonia supposed to be focus on awareness raising of the local population about the adverse effects of groundwater used for irrigation, crop cultivation or even drinking, replacing high content arsenic sources (wells) with some more safe alternatives, regular monitoring of the arsenic content in the groundwater, drinking water and food (crops) or eventually, ban of the use of arsenic-contaminated wells as a last resort.

Use of Compression Therapy as Preventive Strategy for Recurrent Cellulitis on the Lower Legs

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDRecurrent cellulitis of the lower limbs is a significant clinical challenge, with chronic oedema and impaired lymphatic function identified as key risk factors. While long-term antibiotic prophylaxis is commonly recommended, compression therapy has been proposed as a potential preventive measure, but evidence supporting its effectiveness remains limited.AIMThis study aimed to evaluate whether compression therapy, in addition to standard antibiotic and supportive treatment, reduces the recurrence rate of cellulitis in patients with a history of recurrent cellulitis on the lower legs.METHODSA randomized controlled study was conducted over two years in a dermatology department. Seventy-three patients with a history of recurrent cellulitis were randomized into two groups: one receiving compression therapy along with standard antibiotic and supportive treatment (n=36) and a control group receiving only standard treatment (n=37). Patients were followed for two years to assess recurrence rates. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay and reduction in leg oedema. Data distribution was tested with the Shapiro-Wilk’s W test. Qualitative data of patients with and without relapse were compared with non-parametric tests, quantitative data were compared with Student’s t-test.RESULTSThe recurrence rate was significantly lower in the compression therapy group (13.89%) compared to the control group (37.84%) (p=0.0197). Patients receiving compression therapy also had a significantly greater reduction in leg oedema by day four of hospitalization (p=0.005) and a shorter length of hospital stay (p=0.0006).CONCLUSIONIn this randomized controlled study, using the compressive therapy resulted in lower rate of cellulitis recurrence compared to the standard treatment of cellulitis. These findings support the inclusion of compression therapy in the management strategies for recurrent cellulitis. Further studies are warranted to reinforce these results and optimize treatment protocols.

Correlation of the Radiographic Midpalatal and Zygomaticomaxillary Suture Maturation Stage with the Outcome of Rapid Maxillary Expansion in Patients Over 15 Years of Age

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDThe absence of a standardized radiographic protocol for skeletal expansion assessment necessitates further investigation.AIMThis study evaluates the correlation between midpalatal suture (MPS) and zygomaticomaxillary suture (ZMS) maturation stages and rapid maxillary expansion (RME) outcomes in patients over 15 years.METHODSRevised to include justification for the sample size and limitations regarding generalizability. Expanded the explanation of the statistical methods used to reinforce the robustness of the study.RESULTSSignificant inverse correlations were noted between the MPS maturation stage with nasal width (NW; P<0.001), distance between the two infraorbital foramina (IOF; P=0.030), and distance between the two greater palatine foramina (GPF; P<0.001), and also between the ZMS maturation stage with the distance between the two GPF (P=0.012), and MPSD ratio with NW (P<0.001) and distance between the two GPF (P<0.001). The MPSD ratio was greater in females than males (P=0.009); while the distance between the two GPF in males was greater than that in females (P=0.034).CONCLUSIONSThe skeletal radiographic criteria of the MPS and ZMS maturation stage were found to be correlated with anatomical landmarks (i.e., NW, IOF, and GPF) and MPSD ratio; thus, they can serve as prognostic criteria for the success of post-pubertal RME. The study emphasizes the clinical relevance of CBCT-based assessments in treatment planning for older patients and calls for additional research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-ups.REFINEMENTSRestated key findings while reinforcing their significance for orthodontic treatment planning. Reiterated the study’s limitations and the need for further research.

Unicystic Ameloblastoma: Case Report with Insights into Molecular and Immunological Pathogenesis

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDUnicystic ameloblastoma is a benign yet locally aggressive odontogenic tumor, predominantly affecting the mandible in young adults. Its pathogenesis involves dysregulation of odontogenic signaling pathways, including MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and Sonic Hedgehog, as well as molecular alterations affecting proliferation and extracellular matrix remodeling. Activating BRAF V600E mutations and cytokine-mediated mechanisms, such as osteoclast activation, contribute to tumor growth and local invasiveness. We aimed to present a case of unicystic ameloblastoma and discuss its clinical, radiographic, and histopathological features, with emphasis on molecular and immunological mechanisms relevant to management.CASE REPORTA 40-year-old female presented with a persistent, firm swelling in the anterior mandible. CBCT revealed a unilocular radiolucent lesion involving teeth 32 and 33. Preoperative endodontic therapy was performed, followed by surgical enucleation under local anesthesia. Histopathology confirmed a unicystic plexiform ameloblastoma. Postoperative healing was uneventful, and one-year follow-up imaging showed no recurrence.CONCLUSIONLocal invasiveness and recurrence are driven by molecular and immunological mechanisms, including BRAF V600E mutations, MAPK/Wnt signaling dysregulation, and TNF-α–mediated stromal interactions. Complete surgical removal with careful follow-up remains critical for favorable outcomes.

Upper Extremity Nerve Compression Syndromes – More Than Just a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Review Article

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDBesides carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome, other nerve entrapment sites in the upper extremity are less recognized. Only half of the upper extremity compression neuropathy syndromes are actually carpal tunnel and cubital tunnel compressions. This suggests that the rest of the entrapment syndromes are potentially not treated adequately. They are often misdiagnosed or the level of compression is not being distinguished.AIMTo raise awareness of compression syndromes (other than the carpal tunnel) in the arms and to describe the clinical triad to diagnose them.METHODSThis is a narrative review of the clinical features of the compression syndromes of the median, ulnar, and radial nerves in the upper extremities. The diagnostic triad for each syndrome is analyzed. The review focuses especially on the lacertus syndrome and describes the surgical release.CONCLUSIONA correct diagnosis is essential for targeted treatment of upper extremity nerve compression syndromes. It should also include an assessment of individual muscle strength, which is a critical part of the clinical neurological tests.

Neurological Manifestations of Wegener’s Granulomatosis - Case Report

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDGranulomatosis with polyangiitis is an inflammatory process that affects the endothelium of small and medium blood vessels. It is an autoimmune disease, which is systemic and attacks multiple organ systems. It is also called Wegener’s granulomatosis (Wegener Granulomatosis), according to the German pathologist Wegener who described the first cases of granulomatous inflammation of small and medium blood vessels.CASE PRESENTATIONThis paper presents a clinical case report of a middle-aged female patient with Wegener’s granulomatosis, treated at the Department of Neurology at City General Hospital 8th September. The patient’s initial symptoms began nine years ago. The course of her disease is chronic with a progressive nature, followed by relapses and exacerbations. The patient was promptly diagnosed and treated with appropriate therapy, which she tolerates well. The definitive diagnosis is established by biopsy of the affected tissue and pathohistological analysis, where the presence of granulomas is detected.CONCLUSIONThis form of polyangiitis is significant for the presence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) in the patient’s blood. But their absence does not exclude the disease. In terms of therapy, drugs are used that regulate the patient’s immune system. We must be aware of the risk of complications and worsening of the course of the disease. This condition requires a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Motivation of Participants in Healthy Weight Loss Workshops for Weight Maintenance

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDAn individual’s decision to maintain weight is not enough without a strong motivational reason. Reasons to improve health, change body image, increase self-confidence, feel good, be more active and have a social life help to focus and motivate a healthy lifestyle.AIMThe aim of this study is to identify personal, social and environmental factors that influence the motivation to maintain a reduced weight among participants in healthy weight loss workshops.METHODSA quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental method of empirical research was used. The measurement instrument employed was a questionnaire that was completed by 160 participants of healthy weight loss workshops. For statistical analysis we used the binomial test to analyze whether the results matched the defined expectations and the Mann-Whitney U test to analyze the importance of individual factors in motivation for weight maintenance.RESULTSHealthy weight loss workshop facilitators found that weight loss and appearance improvement (x̄= 4.4), desire for a changed, more beautiful body image (x̄= 4.3), concern for well-being (x̄= 4.2), concern for health and low self-esteem (x̄= 4.2) were the most prevalent reasons for participation among workshop participants. They also note that there is a need for individualized weight loss maintenance plans (p<0.001) and for the inclusion of additional content to motivate weight maintenance in healthy weight loss programs (p<0.001).CONCLUSIONParticipants of healthy weight loss workshops are aware of the adoption of a healthy lifestyle for weight management and maintenance after the completion of healthy weight loss workshops, which is largely dependent on personal, social and environmental factors.

The Influence of Chemical Elements on Implant Success

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDDental implantology is a field focused on placing dental implants in areas where natural teeth are missing. The dental implant is embedded in the bone to replace the root of the missing tooth, with a prosthetic structure placed on top. This modern method provides functionality and aesthetics while protecting adjacent teeth from shifting and elongating. Today, there are numerous implant systems that offer various dental implants, providing doctors with options but also creating dilemmas regarding implant and system selection. Dentists sometimes encounter peri-implantitis, which can lead to implant rejection.AIMThis research study aims to assist dental implant manufacturers and guide practitioners in choosing the right implant for successful implants.METHODSFor this reason, this study examined three groups of dental implants from different manufacturers. The implants were analyzed using an electron microscope and compared. The surfaces of the dental implants were examined to assess how surface contamination affects implant rejection.RESULTSIn the first and second groups of implants, multiple chemical elements were detected. Unsurprisingly, the rejected implants showed more elements on their surfaces.CONCLUSIONContaminants on dental implants are associated with implantation failures and can be a key factor in the development of peri- implantitis, which may lead to implant rejection.

Quality of Healthy Weight Loss Workshop Delivery: The Perspective of Healthy Weight Loss Workshop Providers

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BACKGROUNDIn Slovenia, we run a preventive healthy weight loss programme for the adult population, which has been running healthy weight loss workshops since 2002. It focuses on the management of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and also includes health education. In the Healthy Weight Loss Programme, participants receive professional support and assistance with weight loss, knowledge and skills to change their diet and exercise habits, and psychological support in the process of losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.AIMThe aim of the study is to analyse the perceptions of healthy weight loss workshop providers on the quality of healthy weight loss workshops.METHODSA quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental method of empirical research was used. The measurement instrument employed was a questionnaire that was completed by 144 healthy weight loss workshop participants. For statistical analysis we used the binomial test to analyse whether the results matched the defined expectations and the Mann-Whitney U test to analyse the importance of individual factors in motivation for weight maintenance.RESULTSHealthy weight loss workshop facilitators found that weight loss and appearance improvement (x̄= 4.4), desire for a changed, more beautiful body image (x̄= 4.3), concern for well-being (x̄= 4.2), concern for health and low self-esteem (x̄= 4.2) were the most prevalent reasons for participation among workshop participants. They also note that there is a need for individualised weight loss maintenance plans (p<0.001) and for the inclusion of additional content to motivate weight maintenance in healthy weight loss programmes (p<0.001).CONCLUSIONHealthy weight loss workshop facilitators support the continuous follow-up of participants, as they are aware that weight management and maintenance after healthy weight loss workshops is about participants adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes knowledge of nutrition and exercise, a positive attitude towards change and the right kind of motivation.