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Hyperhomocysteinemia represents a pathological condition characterized by an increased concentration of homocysteine in the blood, exceeding the threshold of 15 µmol/L. Hyperhomocysteinemia can be caused by genetic defects in enzymes involved in the metabolism of homocysteine and inadequate intake of vitamin B6, folic acid, and/or vitamin B12, disturbances in kidney and thyroid function, malignant diseases, psoriasis, and diabetes, as well as the use of certain medications, alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine. Hyperhomocysteinemia leads to damage to blood vessels through the induction of the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, disruption of physiological endothelial functions, accumulation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, i.e., induction of oxidative and nitrosative stress, increased production of collagen, and degradation of the elastic fibers of the arterial wall, disturbance in the production of nitric oxide, dysfunction in the H2S signaling pathway, cellular hypomethylation, homocysteinylation of proteins, and disturbances in lipid metabolism. These pathophysiological mechanisms lead to accelerated atherosclerosis, which ultimately results in diseases such as acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. In patients with the aforementioned diseases, or with associated risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, or a positive family history of coronary heart disease, it is of great importance to determine and monitor the concentration of homocysteine in the blood and to take measures in the form of lifestyle changes aimed at secondary prevention of the consequences that hyperhomocysteinemia brings with it.

Introduction/Objective. Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) is an age-related systemic disorder, which can affect the whole body, as well as the eye. It is characterized by abnormal production and accumulation of pseudoexfoliative material. When present in the eye, it can cause different difficulties, but most common are PEX glaucoma (XFG) and intraoperative and postoperative complications of cataract surgeries. The aim of this study was to determine an incidence of patients with PEX in two different regions of Serbia. Methods. The study included 7451 patients scheduled for cataract surgery in two regions of Serbia. It was designed as a multicentric, retrospective study with evaluation of the medical records of all patients who underwent cataract surgery. The study evaluated: incidence of PEX syndrome and PEX glaucoma, age, and sex of patients, as well as preoperative antiglaucomatous therapy and intraoperative and postoperative cataract surgery complications. Results. PEX syndrome (XFS)was recorded in 676 patients (407 females and 269 males), while 243 patients had XFS. It represented 3.26% of patients included in the study. Mean age of XFG patients was 78.1 } 2.1 years with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) among incidence of XFG in females compared to males. Intraoperative and postoperative complications during cataract surgery were significantly common in patients with PEX (p < 0.05) Conclusion. PEX can complicate cataract surgery, while on the other hand XFG is more difficult to treat and control than most other glaucomas. Therefore, patients with PEX require special treatment during follow-up and treatment.

Introduction/Objective This study evaluates the effects of hemodialysis (HD) on intraocular pressure (IOP) and ocular anterior chamber morphometry in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Methods In total, 32 ESRD patients (50 eyes) who were on regular HD program, underwent ocular examination. To all of them, 30 minutes before HD and 30 minutes after the end of the HD session, central corneal thickness (CCT), keratometric values (K1, K2), axial length (AL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and lens thickness (LT) were measured using the Lenstar 900 Haag-Streit USA device (Haag-Streit Group, Koniz, Switzerland). IOP was measured using Goldman applanation tonometry. Results IOP before HD was 15.74 ± 3,043 while after HD it was 15.14 ± 3,07 (p = 0.125); K1 and K2 values were 43.11 ± 1.68 vs. 43.13 ± 1.73 (p = 0.688) and 43.11 ± 1.60 vs. 43.11 ± 1.66 (p = 0.158); AL increase from 23.25 ± 0.68 to 23.27 ± 0.68 in postHD (p = 0.158) as well as AL from 23.25 ± 0.68 to 23.27 ± 0.68 (p = 0.264); ACD decrease insignificantly from 3.14 ± 0.40 to 3.10 ± 0.42 (p = 0.063); mean LT before HD was 4.66 ± 0.38 while after HD it was 4.67 ± 0.36 (p = 0.290) and CCT was 563.68 ± 42.02 vs. 563.34 ± 42.26 (p = 0.777). Conclusion HD has no significant influences on ocular anterior segment structures such as on CCT, ACD, LT, AL, K values as well as IOP.

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Background/Aim. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) is very useful for the accurate examination of macular microstructure. The aim of this study was to evaluate macular morphologic changes after successful retinal detachment (RD) surgery by scleral buckling (SB) using SDOCT and assess their impact on vision repair. Methods. SDOCT examination was performed in 1, 6, and 12 months in 27 eyes following SB surgery with the successful anatomical repair of rhegmatogenous RD, which also affected the macular region. The examination was performed in a 6 mm diameter central macular region and included measurements of the central foveal thickness, average total retinal thickness (TRT), and thickness of the inner and outer retinal layer (ORT) separately. The numerical values of parameters for each operated eye were compared with those of the fellow (control) eye of each patient. The condition of the external limiting membrane (ELM) and inner segment (IS) and outer segment (OS) of the photoreceptors was also examined. Results. The mean TRT and ORT in the reattached regions in the operated eyes were significantly thinner than the corresponding regions of the fellow (control) eye, and throughout the follow-up period, the difference was statistically significant. There was a statistically significant difference in TRT (after 1 month, p = 0.021, after 6 months, p = 0.026, after 12 months, p = 0.027) and ORT (after 1 month, p = 0.018, after 6 months, p = 0.019, after 12 months, p = 0.021) between the eyes with a longer preoperative duration of macular detachment (MD) of 2 weeks and eyes with shorter detachment period. Disruptions of the IS and OS of photoreceptors and ELM on SDOCT examination after one month were observed in 37.04% of eyes, after 6 months in 29.6% of eyes, and at the end of the follow-up period in 14.8% of eyes. A statistically significant difference was found in the frequency of disruptions of the IS and OS, and ELM depending on the pre-operative duration of RD (p = 0.007). Conclusion. The overall decrease in the mean retinal thickness after successful anatomical repair of RD is the result of a decrease in the thickness of the outer retinal layers. The alterations of the ELM, IS and OS of photoreceptors observed on the early SDOCT scans are mostly associated with limited vision recovery. The prolonged MD leads to damaging the neurosensory tissue of the retina and especially the photo-receptors, which may explain the limited visual acuity recovery after successful SB repair of RD.

Background/Aim. Since glaucoma has a very high prevalence worldwide, it is important to examine additional treatment modalities, especially the prevention of its progression. The aim of the study was to determine the importance of laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) in patients with acute primary angle closure (APAC) in preventing primary angle closure glaucoma progression and APAC in the fellow eye. Methods. The research included 40 patients and 80 eyes treated between 2017 and 2021, which was also the follow-up period in the study. In all patients, LPI was performed bilaterally on both the APAC-affected eye and the healthy fellow eye. The patients with an age range from 40 to 79 years who had the pupillary block in one eye were monitored. All patients underwent bilateral LPI, and the changes in angle width were monitored using gonioscopy. Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements were made with an applanation tonometer and Vertical Cup/Disc ratio (Ver C/D rat) performing biomicroscopic examination with indirect ophthalmoscopy and +90 D lens. Results. All 40 patients underwent bilateral LPI. The angle width of the APAC-affected eye before treatment was 0.15 ± 0.36, and 1.20 ± 0.41 of the fellow eye. After 12 months, the measurements taken were 0.85 ± 0.36 for the affected eye and 1.90 ± 0.36 for the fellow eye (Wilcoxon rank test, p < 0.01 statistically significant difference). The mean value of IOP in the eye without progression of the disease before therapy was 53.6 ± 3.73 mmHg, while in the eye with progression, it was 60.10 ± 4.37 mmHg. After 12 months, it was 14.92 ± 1.22 mmHg in the eye without progression, while in the eye with disease progression, it was 23.40 ± 2.53 mmHg (independent samples t-test, p < 0.01). The change in the Ver C/D rat in the eye without progression was 0.40 ± 0.10, while in the eye with progression, it was 0.45 ± 0.05. After 12 months, it remained unchanged in the eye without progression, while in the eye with progression, it was 0.65 ± 0.06 (independent samples t-test, p < 0.01). Conclusion. Simultaneous LPI has been proven efficient in patients with APAC in both affected and fellow eyes.

Introduction/Objective. Diabetic macular oedema is the accumulation of fluid in the macular tissue leading to its thickening. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of concentrated triamcinolone acetonide 10 mg / 0.1 ml injection into the suprachoroidal space in patients with diabetic macular oedema and decreased visual acuity. Methods. In 12 eyes with diabetic macular oedema, without any prior treatment, using a small-diameter 26G needle, an injection of 10 mg / 0.1 ml triamcinolone acetonide was applied into the suprachoroidal space in the superotemporal quadrant of the eye 4 mm from the limbus. Prior to the injection, as well as one, three, six, nine, and 12 months after the injection, visual acuity and intraocular pressure were measured, and central subfield thickness was recorded using optical coherence tomography. Results. After one, three, six, and nine post-injection months there was a statistically significant reduction in central subfield thickness (315.92 μm, 257.66 μm, 281.08 μm and 295.51 μm, respectively) compared to the baseline of 447.67 μm. At the end of the 12th month an increase in central subfield thickness was observed again (392.16 μm). Visual acuity improved significantly from the baseline (0.32) during the first three months (0.61) and remained stable until the end of the nineth month (0.51), but at the end of 12 months it decreased again (0.39). No significant intraocular pressure elevation and cataract development were observed in either eye during the entire follow-up period. Conclusion. A single dose of 10 mg / 0.1 ml triamcinolone acetonide injected in suprachoroidal space can significantly stabilize diabetic macular oedema and maintain satisfactory visual acuity for up to nine months.

Background/Aim. Impaired vision resulting from glaucoma can have deleterious effects on both physical and mental health. This study aims to examine the adverse im-pacts of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG), and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEG) on the quality of life (QoL) in Central Serbia. Methods. This research, designed as a cross-sectional study, included 102 patients treated for POAG, PACG, or PEG. The patients were divided into three groups (POAG, PACG, and PEG) based on the type of glaucoma they suffered from and were monitored for six months. The data on the QoL were obtained with the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire 25 (NEI VFQ-25). Using the appropriate algorithm, the total NEI VFQ-25 scores were calculated for each group. Results. The questionnaire showed that scores for general vision were significantly lower in the PEG group than in the other two groups (PEG: 61.1 ± 12.6; POAG: 71.6 ± 17.9; PACG: 75.7 ± 11.6), p < 0.001. General health, eye pain, distance vision, social functioning, peripheral vision, reduced ability in daily activities, and dependence on others were also statistically significantly lower in the PEG group. The highest value of near vision was recorded for the POAG group (76.2 ± 21.2). The highest mean value in glaucomatous visual field defect was recorded in the PEG group (14.5 ± 3.6 dB). Conclusion. This research has demonstrated that the QoL is significantly lower in patients suffering from PEG compared to those suffering from POAG and PACG. Concerning the general health of patients, eye pain, distance vision, as well as the domain of social and everyday functioning, the lowest scores for individual areas of examination according to the NEI VFQ-25 were recorded in PEG patients. The results indicate that serious measures should be taken in order to improve the QoL of glaucoma patients.

This study aims to explain the variability in organizational commitment by examining a range of individual and organizational factors. The predictors include personality traits from the HEXACO model, organizational orientations, subjective wellbeing, perceived employment uncertainty, duration of employment, and income satisfaction. The sample consisted of 1,127 employees, with 49.4% from the private sector and 50.6% from the public/state-owned sector. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the models were statistically significant for both sectors. Public sector employees demonstrated higher levels of continuance commitment, likely due to job security, while private sector employees exhibited higher levels of affective and normative commitment. The model accounted for 51.8% of the variance in organizational commitment for public sector employees and 39.2% for private sector employees. These findings underscore the distinct commitment patterns between sectors and emphasize the role of both dispositional and contextual factors in shaping organizational commitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Objective. Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is characterized by abnormal production and accumulation of fibrillar, white-gray, “dandruff-like” material in almost all ocular structures. The aim of this study was to examine effect of selective laser trabeculoplasty in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma patients. Methods. Thirty-two patients (47 eyes) with medically uncontrolled pseudoexfoliation glaucoma were enrolled. All the patients could not reach target intraocular pressure with maximal tolerated medical therapy before treatment. Selective laser trabeculoplasty was performed with about 100 non-overlapping spots. Intraocular pressure was measured one hour, seven days, four weeks, three, six, twelve, eighteen, and twenty-four months after the procedure. Results. The mean base intraocular pressure was 23.45 mmHg (SD = 3.07). Statistically significant reduction of mean intraocular pressure was observed at all follow-ups except one hour after treatment. Mean intraocular pressure after 24 months was 18.39 mmHg (SD = 1.82). Success, defined as intraocular pressure reduction from base intraocular pressure by more than 20% after 24 months, was achieved in 27 eyes (57.45%). We did not find any influence of sex and age on selective laser trabeculoplasty effects in pseudoexfoliative glaucoma patients. Baseline intraocular pressure is proved to be a reliable predictor of intraocular pressure-lowering effect, as there was a strong correlation between baseline intraocular pressure and the percentage of reduction of intraocular pressure after 24 months (r = 0.71, p < 0.01). Conclusion. Selective laser trabeculoplasty is a safe and effective method for the reduction of intraocular pressure in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma patients and should be used more often in this challenging form of glaucoma. Baseline intraocular pressure seems to be a reliable predictor of success.

Background/Aim. Complications of diabetes mellitus (DM) in the eye are the leading cause of blindness in the world. Although research on eye complications of DM is mainly focused on retinal damage, changes in the cornea are also associated with DM. Central corneal thickness (CCT) reflects the metabolic status of the cornea and is also affected by DM. Knowledge of CCT changes that occur within DM is important for accurate IOP measurement, diagnosis, and monitoring of patients with glaucoma. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of DM type 2 on the central corneal thickness. Methods. The study was designed as a clinical, cross-sectional, observational study. It consists of 96 patients, divided into two groups. The first group consisted of 49 patients diagnosed with DM type 2. The second group was the control group and consisted of 47 healthy subjects. The DM group was divided into subgroups depending on the status of diabetic retinopathy, the length of DM treatment, and the levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C). Results. A statistically significant difference in CCT was observed among DM patients and the control group. Analyzing only DM patients, the highest CCT values were observed in patients who had HbA1C > 7.0%, as well as those who have treated DM for more than 15 years, with a statistically significant difference in relation to the corresponding patient sub-groups (p = 0.002 and p = 0.037, respectively). No statistically significant difference was observed depending on the status of retinopathy. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was statistically significantly higher in patients with DM compared to the control group. Conclusion. Our research demonstrated that the status of retinopathy had no statistically significant influence on CCT. Knowing that the increase in CCT also affects the measured IOP values, this research will be useful in better understanding and control of the patients who have glaucoma in addition to DM type 2.

Background/Aim: Hypomagnesaemia is one of the most detected electrolyte abnormalities in diabetics. Modulation of numerous cardiovascular pathophysiological processes is a potential goal for anti-diabetic therapy. Magnesium supplementation prevents subclinical tissue magnesium deficiency, thus delaying the onset of metabolic imbalance in diabetes, but long-term effects of magnesium supplementation in chronic diabetes and numerous pathophysiological processes remain unknown. Aim of this study was to determine the effects of subchronic intake of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich mineral water on cardiometabolic markers and electrolytes in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Methods: A total of 28 Wistar, male rats, body weight 160 g at start, were divided into four groups of 7 each: two controls, group that drank tap water and received a single ip injection of saline (0.9 % NaCl) (TW-C), group that drank mineral water rich in magnesium hydrocarbonate and received a single ip injection of saline (0.9 % NaCl) (MW-C); and two experimental groups with streptozotocin-induced diabetes, group that drank tap water and received a single ip injection of streptozotocin (100 mg/kg) in saline (0.9 % NaCl, 1 mL) (TW-DM), group that drank mineral water rich in magnesium hydrocarbonate and received a single ip injection of streptozotocin (100 mg/kg) in saline (0.9 % NaCl, 1 mL) (MW-DM). Results: Regarding the biochemical parameters, a decrease was observed in the MW-C group for vitamin B12 and proteins, while triglycerides were higher compared to the TW-C group. By comparing the haemostatic biomarkers between TW-C and MW-C groups, a statistically significant decrease was found for fibrinogen, while the electrolyte analysis showed an increase in phosphates for the MW-C group. Biochemical value comparison between TW-DM and MWDM groups showed that magnesium hydrocarbonate usage in diabetic rats did not significantly reduce glycaemia although the average glycaemic values were lower in the group treated with magnesium hydrocarbonate. Regarding the electrolyte values, a statistically significant decrease was observed for sodium, potassium and phosphate in the MW-DM group. The MW-DM group also showed a significant increase in iron value compared to TW-DM group. Conclusion: Subchronic intake of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich mineral water, as a form of magnesium supplementation, did not cause a significant improvement in glycaemia or normalisation of diabetes-induced dyslipidaemia. This study showed the reduction of fibrinogen value, thus indicating the possibility of usage of this form of magnesium supplementation in different pro-thrombogenic conditions.

Background/Aim: Optimal intake of magnesium minerals is essential in maintaining the coordinated physiological functions of cells, tissues and organs. The importance of this element is reflected in the fact that it is the fourth most abundant cation in the human body, participating as a cofactor in more than three hundred enzymatic reactions. Its presence is necessary for the proper functioning of a number of vital functions, such as glycaemic control, the work of the heart and the vascular system and it can potentially play a role in the regulation of body weight. Aim of this study was to investigate the effects of subchronic intake of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water on changes in body weight, organ weight and cardiovascular variables in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Methods: Wistar rats (n = 28) were divided into 4 groups: two control groups, on tap water (TW-C, n = 7) and magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-C, n = 7); and two experimental groups with streptozotocin-induced diabetes, on tap water (TW-DM, n = 7) and magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-DM, n = 7). The values of body weight, organ weight and cardiovascular parameters were compared after 6 weeks between control groups of rats on subchronic treatment with tap water (TW-C) and magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-C) and between groups with streptozotocin-induced diabetes on tap water (TW-DM) and with magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-DM). Results: By comparing the values of cardiovascular parameters between groups, significant (p < 0.05) positive effects of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water were registered on the values of systolic and pulse blood pressure in diabetic rats fed with magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-DM) compared to those fed with tap water (TW-DM). In contrast, no significant effect of magnesium hydrocarbonate on changes in body weight and organ weight was observed. Conclusion: Based on the results, the beneficial effects of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water in the regulation of blood pressure can be clearly observed. Potential effects on other cardiovascular variables and body weight and organ weight should be further investigated.

The authors conducted pressure drop numerical simulations of multiphase gassolid flow characteristics, within a fly ash pneumatic conveying system, in 620 MW thermal power plant. The objective of this study is to verify the OpenFoam model by comparing the numerical results with pressure measurements taken along the considered pipeline. The numerical model is developed on the base of extensive experimental research of high-capacity long-distance pneumatic conveying system for Kolubara lignite fly ash. The numerical simulations of pneumatic conveying were performed using the Euler-Euler approach in OpenFoam, that is twoPhaseEulerFoam solver, for the air mass-flow rate of 5500 Nm³ per hour, the fly ash mass-flow rate 77 tonne per hour. The calculation input air pressure at the pipeline outlet was assumed to be as measured approximately 234 kPa, the air-ash mixture temperature was 373.15 K, the mean ash particle diameter of 0.128 µm, and physical density of ash 2100 kg/m³. Numerical mesh is generated as an O-grid for the first two pipeline sections, first with a length of 90 m, a diameter of 0.2604 m, and an inclination of 1.885°, and the second with a length of 102 m, a diameter of 0.3097 m, and an inclination of 2.163°, while every mesh cell is substantially larger than the diameter of the ash particle. The applied Euler-Euler approach enables a comprehensive investigation of the complex dynamics involved in pneumatic conveying, considering the two-phase nature of the system and providing valuable insights into the particle behavior, pressure drop, and other key parameters. The comparison of the experimental and numerical model simulations data show good agreement regarding pressure drop. Although Euler-Euler model is complex in terms of necessary closure models, it might prove itself as reliable for simulated conditions in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to obtain data on the effect of moisture content on the grindability of coals, experimental research was conducted. The experiment included six samples of coal from the Kolubara basin. The samples were selected based on experimentally obtained values of their Hardgrove grindability index (HGI), in order to cover the entire range of experimental HGI values. In addition to determining the HGI, proximate, and petrographic analyses were performed on all samples. Lignites are naturally tough, soft, and greasy when in a moist state. By reducing the moisture content, lignites become more brittle. For this reason, Hardgrove grindability index values have different values depending on the moisture content at which they are determined. The HGI has a non-linear dependence on the moisture content of the coal. All curves have two inflection points, one minimum and one maximum value of Hardgrove grindability index in the tested range. The minimum values of HGI are in the range of 15-22% of the mass fraction of total moisture in coal, while the maximum values of HGI are for a total moisture content of 5-13%. In the case of high moisture content in coal, the obtained high values of HGI may not reflect the true grindability of the coal. These values could be misleading and not necessarily indicative of the coal inherent characteristics. Instead, they could be a result of the imperfections in the Hardgrove method used to determine the grindability index of coal with high moisture content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the technical solution of the main sewer collector on the Herceg Novi Riviera, which was built from 2008 to 2019, as a gravity-pushing pipeline. It is located in the trunk of the coastal road-pedestrian road, with 11 pumping stations, connected in a row. The collector is connected to the Herceg Novi sewage system through a wastewater treatment plant, located in the central part of the municipality, in Meljine. It is presented through technical problems that are reflected in its functionality.

Counselling psychology addresses the emotional, social, work, school, and physical health concerns people may have at different stages in their lives, focusing on typical life stresses and more severe issues with which people may struggle as individuals and as a part of families, groups, and organizations. The increasing rate of psychological problems and their consequences indicate that student centres that provide psychological assistance have to exist. The pilot project "Psychological counselling centre for students" at the University of Niš is one of the largest and longest running projects of this type among the universities in Serbia. The basic research problem is an attempt to predict the frequency of occurrence of student-related problems regarding: learning and intellectual functioning, emotional relationships, communication, and social relations based on self - concept, quality of family communication and emotional intelligence. The sample consisted of 400 students from University of Niš. A self-concept scale (Bezinović, 1988) was used to measure the self-concepts of adolescents, while (primary) family satisfaction was measured using the Faces IV questionnaire (Olson & Gorrall, 2006). To estimate emotional intelligence, the Emotional Competence Questionnaire was used (Takšić et al., 2006). Almost all the models were obtained via the hierarchical regression analysis, and proved to be statistically significant, so that the percentage of the explained variance ranges from 7.9% when it comes to problems in the sphere of emotional relationships, to 24,8% in the sphere of communication and social relations. This means that the models best functioned precisely when it came to explaining the problem of communication and social functioning among students, even though the percentage of the explained variance of 10,9% in the case of the problem of studying and intellectual functioning is not negligible. The study of potential and significant factors which could have an impact, whether positive or negative, on the mental health of the student population is and should be an imperative for the scientific and professional community.

Introduction: Isoprenaline or isoproterenol (1-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-isopropylaminoethanolhydrochloride; ISO), a synthetic b-adrenergic agonist, can be used to establish myocardial ischemia, cardiotoxicity, necrosis and/or an experimental model of infarction in rats. Aim: Determination of the dynamics of myocardial injury biomarkers production of aspartate transaminase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), and high-sensitive troponin T (hsTnT), with changes on electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters during the subcutaneous aplication of ISO in male Wistar rats. Material and methods: All animals (n = 23) were divided into two groups: control group (n = 11) treated with a saline solution, during two consecutive days (0,2 ml/kg b.m. daily, sc); and the ISO group (n = 12) treated with isoprenaline, during two consecutive days (85 mg/kg b.m. daily, sc). Blood was drawn from the rat tail vein in both groups, in order to determine serum activity levels of myocardial injury biomarkers, and an ECG (n = 6) was registered prior to the application, as well as 48h following the first dose of of saline solution or isoprenaline. Results: In comparison to the control group, in which no significant enzyme activities elevation (p > 0.05) nor ECG changes were registered, ISO group presented a significant rise of two clinically significant biomarkers of acute myocardial injury/myocardial infarction (AMI), CK (p = 0.05) and hsTnT (p < 0.01), as well as an ST segment elevation, with a patognomonic ECG change. Conclusion: Obtained results support previous studies, proving that isoprenaline represents an adequate experimental model for myocardial injury/AMI induction, and a "golden standard" for evaluating potential cardioprotective effects of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic modalities, with the ultimate goal of lowering the degree of lesions and improving post-infarction myocardium function.

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Introduction/Objective. The most frequent postoperative complication of a successfully performed phacoemulsification cataract surgery is the development of posterior capsule opacification (PCO). It is caused by the proliferation and migration of the remaining residual epithelial cells. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of two different intraocular lenses and two different anti-inflammatory drugs on the development of PCO in one-year follow-up period. Methods. Investigation included 120 patients (120 eyes), equally divided into four groups. The first two groups included patients who used non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) postoperatively, while the other groups had corticosteroid therapy. The first and third group got hydrophilic intraocular lenses (IOL), the second and fourth group had hydrophobic IOL. Software program EPCO 2000 was used for the analysis of PCO. Student’s t-test, Wilcoxon test, and ANOVA were used for data analysis and p < 0.05 value was accepted as statistically significant. Results. After the first three postoperative months, patients from NSAID groups had mean PCO score 0.25 Ѓ} 0.03, which was statistically significant higher (p = 0.042) comparing to corticosteroid groups. At the end of the investigation, the best result in PCO preventing was seen in the group of patients with hydrophobic IOL and corticosteroid therapy, with the mean PCO score of 0.47 Ѓ} 0.08. Conclusion. This study has revealed that IOL made of acrylic hydrophobic material seemed to be the right choice when choosing intraocular lens to prevent PCO development. On the other hand, NSAID and corticosteroid therapy have showed similar results in preventing postoperative intraocular inflammation. This fact can be very useful in situations when corticosteroids must be used with great caution.

A thermochemical equilibrium model is formulated for wood chips downdraft gasification. Steady state ASPEN Plus simulator was utilized to evaluate producer gas composition and low heating value. Three cases are considered, due to mathematical model developed issues, and described in details. Experimental work was carried out within commercial small-scale CHP system where twelve beech wood samples were taken. Equivalence ratio is between 0.32 and 0.38 and air-fuel ratio ranges from 1.49 to 1.81, when gasifier capacity is optimal, at 250 kW. Mole fractions of CO2, H2, CO, CH4 and N2, in dry producer gas, are respectively, 16.06-17.64, 17.98-20.33, 13.71-17.26, 1.65-2.89 and 43.21-48.36. Multiple validation approach was applied for model verification. The results are in reasonable agreement with different literature sources (experimental work and modeling) and in a great agreement with the modified equilibrium model developed in Engineering Equation Solver found in the literature. Result deviations are explained by two major facts: wood downdraft gasification experiments are to a certain extent different and the model parameters could not be adjusted enough to fully minimize differences between model results. Predicted low heating value of dry producer gas is between 4.67-5.61 MJ/Nm3.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aerobic treadmill training regimen of four weeks duration on oxidative stress parameters, metabolic enzymes, and histomorphometric changes in the colon of hyperhomocysteinemic rats. Male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups (n = 10, per group): C, 0.9% NaCl 0.2 mL/day subcutaneous injection (s.c.) 2x/day; H, homocysteine 0.45 µmol/g b.w./day s.c. 2x/day; CPA, saline (0.9% NaCl 0.2 mL/day s.c. 2x/day) and an aerobic treadmill training program; and HPA, homocysteine (0.45 µmol/g b.w./day s.c. 2x/day) and an aerobic treadmill training program. The HPA group had an increased level of malondialdehyde (5.568 ± 0.872 μmol/mg protein, p = 0.0128 vs. CPA (3.080 ± 0.887 μmol/mg protein)), catalase activity (3.195 ± 0.533 U/mg protein, p < 0.0001 vs. C (1.467 ± 0.501 U/mg protein), p = 0.0012 vs. H (1.955 ± 0.293 U/mg protein), and p = 0.0003 vs. CPA (1.789 ± 0.256 U/mg protein)), and total superoxide dismutase activity (9.857 ± 1.566 U/mg protein, p < 0.0001 vs. C (6.738 ± 0.339 U/mg protein), p < 0.0001 vs. H (6.015 ± 0.424 U/mg protein), and p < 0.0001 vs. CPA (5.172 ± 0.284 U/mg protein)) were detected in the rat colon. In the HPA group, higher activities of lactate dehydrogenase (2.675 ± 1.364 mU/mg protein) were detected in comparison to the CPA group (1.198 ± 0.217 mU/mg protein, p = 0.0234) and higher activities of malate dehydrogenase (9.962 (5.752–10.220) mU/mg protein) were detected in comparison to the CPA group (4.727 (4.562–5.299) mU/mg protein, p = 0.0385). Subchronic treadmill training in the rats with hyperhomocysteinemia triggers the colon tissue antioxidant response (by increasing the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase) and elicits an increase in metabolic enzyme activities (lactate dehydrogenase and malate dehydrogenase). This study offers a comprehensive assessment of the effects of aerobic exercise on colonic tissues in a rat model of hyperhomocysteinemia, evaluating a range of biological indicators including antioxidant enzyme activity, metabolic enzyme activity, and morphometric parameters, which suggested that exercise may confer protective effects at both the physiological and morphological levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Objective. Dry eye development after phacoemulsification is a very common complication of cataract surgery. Combined with other risk factors, such as pseudoexfoliation (PEX), this complication becomes more frequent. The aim of this study was to expose the influence of phacoemulsification associated with PEX on the development of dry eye in patients who underwent cataract surgery. Methods. The study included 160 eyes (160 patients) who underwent phacoemulsification. The patients were divided into four groups (n = 40 patients). Groups I and II involved patients without PEX. The patients from Group II were prescribed artificial tears (AT) postoperatively. The patients from Groups III and IV had a presentation of PEX. The patients from Group IV got AT postoperatively. Ocular Surface Disease Index, the tear breakup time (TBUT) test, fluorescein staining, and Schirmer’s test served as “dry eye” tests in this study. The χ2 test and paired t-test were used for data analysis. Results. Measurements were taken for every patient preoperatively, on the first and the seventh day after the surgery, one month and three months, and one year after the surgery. The tests showed postoperatively developed dry eye in all the groups, with the recovery of the tear film within three months, except for Group III. The highest statistical significance (p < 0.001) was recorded between Groups II and III, three and 12 months after the surgery. Values of TBUT (6.09 ± 1.29 seconds) and Schirmer’s test (8.91 ± 2.14 mm) in Group III strongly indicated that dry eye was still present one year after phacoemulsification. The greatest recovery of the tear film was recorded in Group II in all the measurements. Conclusion. The study showed how strongly PEX and the use of AT affect the tear film during the first postoperative year. Based on our experience, we highly recommend the use of AT after performing phacoemulsification.

Introduction/Objective. Vitreal hemorrhage (VH) is one of the possible complications of the diabetic retinopathy which is followed by intensive decrease of visual acuity. Corticosteroides are commonly used in treatment of different retinal diseases, due to their antiinflammatory and anti-angiogenetic effect. Triamcinolone acetonide applied invtravitreally remains in the eye for several months, releases its crystals and decreases the density of vitreal hemorrhage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of 20 mg intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide for the managementof long lasting VH, occurred as a complication of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in non-vitrectomized eyes. Methods. In prospective study, from January 1st 2015 until the January 1st 2016, 24 patients with VH who received intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide, were compared to 21 patients from the control group (patients with PDR and similar degree of VH). All patients passed ophthalmological examination at the beginning of the study, 7 days, 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after intravitreal application of 20mg triamcinolone acetonide. Besides VH and visual acuity, intraocular pressure and cataract development were also analyzed. Results. Statistically significant difference was recorded 1st and 3rd month after the usage of triamacinolone, in the density of vitreal hemorrhage and visual acuity. Twenty-nine percent of patients had temporally intraocular pressure rise after the intravitreal triamacinolone application, and 4.1% of patients ended the study with the developed cataract. Conclusion. Intravitreally applied triamcinolone acetonide has moderate and temporary influence on the velocity of vitreal hemorrhage reabsorption. It can be useful treatment option when the vitrectomy in not possible.

Although a significant number of researchers in spite of the large number of scientific papers dealing with various psychological and physiological effects of physical fatigue, there are few works which are considered objective ways of registering the psychological consequences of physical fatigue. This paper represents pilot research with the aim of ascertaining whether physical tiredness significantly affects the occurrence and prominence of some cognitive and executive functions (concentration and inhibition). Conducted on the sample of 41 respondents including the 2nd, 3rd and 4th year Psychology students at the Faculty of Philosophy in Nis, the research consisted of two phases. In order to assess concentration and inhibition, in the first, pre-test phase the respondents were given two tasks - Code Task and Left-Right Task. This was followed by the physical tiring out of the respondents, which consisted of jumping over the skipping rope for 5 minutes. Immediately afterwards, the respondents took part in the second, post-test phase, which included the assessment of cognitive and executive functions by applying the same tasks from the pre-test phase. T-test for dependent samples was used in order to test the existence of significant effects of physical tiredness on concentration and inhibition. The results point to the existence of significant differences between the number of correct and incorrect answers within each research phase (pre-test and post-test) for both functions. However, the results were slightly different when we examined the difference between correct answers in the pre-test and post-test phase and the difference between the number of incorrect answers in the pre-test and post-test phase. Namely, what was noticed is a significant effect of physical tiredness on the concentration, but not on the inhibition. Since it was pilot research, it can be said that the obtained results show that it seems reasonable to examine the influence of physical tiredness on the occurrence and prominence of cognitive and executive functions, but a series of further research is required in order to check more thoroughly the relation between the examined variables. Since the effects of fatigue on individual cognitive and executive functions measured with instruments that were inflicted on the computer and the duration (cognitive tasks) do not exceed 2 minutes, in this paper points to the possibility of constructing fast and flexible software devices to measure some of the consequences of the murder.

Introduction: Methionine is an essential sulfuric amino acid, which, according to numerous studies, has a role in the reduction of inflammation, caused by changes in colon, and inhibits important pathways in the development of numerous gastrointestinal disorders. However, subchronic methionine loading leads to oxidative stress, which is a potential cause of disease of numerous organs, digestive tract being one of them. N-acetyl-L-cysteine is a natural antioxidant, which affects some of the important signaling pathways and has a potential therapeutic role in treatment of colon disorders. Aim: To examine the influence of N-acetyl-L-cysteine on histological parameters of rat colon, after subchronic methionine load. Material and methods: Experiments were conducted on 15-20 days old male (Wistar albino) rats, weighing 160 g. There were used 24 animals in the experiment, divided into 3 groups, with eight animals per group. First, control group (K), received NaCl, second group received methionine (M group), while third group received methionine + N-acetyl-L-cysteine (N group). The rats were sacrificed after 21 day and tissue samples of colon were obtained. In all of the three groups, changes of histological parameters of rat colon were analyzed. Results: Methionine load leads to statistically significant increase (p < 0.01) in crypt depth of rat colon, lamina muscularis mucosae thickness, the mucosal thickness and increase in lamina propria cell density compared to control, while N-acetyl- L-cysteine application showed statistically significant decrease (p < 0.01) of these histological parameters compared to M group. Conclusion: N-acetyl-L-cysteine has a significantly protective effect on methionine load induced changes in rat colon.

Introduction/Aim: The goal of our study was to analyze the epidemiological`s characteristics of ocular hypertension, as well as the influence of chronic risk factors on glaucoma development (conversion in glaucoma). We tried to make some entries for solving this complex ophthalmological problem. Material /Methods: From 2009 to 2015, a retrospective control study was performed on 121 patient with diagnoses of bilateral ocular hypertension and without disease progression/conversion of glaucoma (by standard protocols of diagnosis and basic procedures) on tertiary level at Clinic of Ophthalmology, Clinical Centre of Kragujevac, Serbia.. The authors analyzed epidemiological characteristics: sex, age groups, positive/negative family history and personal history with chronic risk factors (one and/or two) of ocular hypertension. The data obtained from this study were statistically analyzed in SPSS program, version 20.00. Results: As for the patients, 69 of them (57.02%) were male and 52 female (42.98%). Dominant age group was between 40-49 (42.15%) and then group between 50-59 (40.50%) years of age. Anamnesis data indicated the absence of family anamnesis 71 (58.68%). Risk factors for ocular hypertension were presented in 103 (85.13%) patients, 18 of them (14.87%) did not respond. One risk factor - cardiovascular disease was noted in 83 (68.59%), with two risk factors - cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus in 20 patients (16.53%) and with PEX syndroma at other respondents. Conclusion: Ocular hypertension is not a common disease, but with risk factors, such as older age, positive family history, and chronic risk factors syndicated, represents a serious clinical and social problem, so the question remains for ophthalmologists - pro or against therapy? Those in favor of therapy would state the safety and protection from conversion/progression of glaucoma; but those  against therapy would only mention adequate monitoring of patients.

The period of studying is a time of actualization of the capacities of the individual in almost every aspect of life. The students face changes related to the stage of development they are going through, and to which new requests of adaptation are added during professional qualification. The increased rate of psychological problems shows a necessity for existence of student services that provide psychological help. The research results point out the positive effect of counseling and the importance of university coun­seling services for the students, the effect on their academic success, subjective welfare and their remaining at the faculty. The pilot-project 'Psychological Counseling Center for Students' at the University of Nis is one of the largest and most permanent projects of this kind among univer­sities of the region. The services of the counseling are completely free, and they are realized through three sectors: Counseling, Education and the Research Sector. Work reports of The Counseling service show that there is a need for this kind of psychological services and that the students are interested in attending seminars and debates where different aspects of mental health would be considered. The institutionalization of the above mentioned project, with the possible expansion of the network of psychological counseling services of this type in the region would give greater effects and contribute to the more comprehensive work concerning protection and improvement of the mental health of the students not only in Serbia, but also in surrounding countries.

The research refers to a possible link between the dimensions of partner affective attachment (avoidance and anxiety), operationalized by questionnaire PAV, and the global self-esteem measured by The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Research was conducted on a sample of 120 students of the University of Nis. Results show the statistically significant low negative correlation between global self-esteem and dimension avoidance, and the statistically significant medium negative correlation between global self-esteem and dimension anxiety. The results also show that respondents with secure attachment pattern and dismissing pattern (positive inner working model of self) have a higher degree of global self-esteem than respondents with disorganized pattern and preoccupied pattern (negative inner working model of self). .

The paper presents the results of the research of relation of sex and gender roles, more precisely, how much the degree of egalitarianism in attitudes toward gender roles depends on the category and the level of adopted sex role. The sample included 236 subjects of both sexes with high education between the ages of 25 to 65, in central and south Serbia. For the evaluation of gender role BSRI (Bem) was used and for egalitarianism in attitudes SRES (Raboteg-Šarić, Ravlić). The results show that egalitarianism of attitudes is positively correlated with femininity (p

Marriage is defined as a social, religious and legal community of a husband and wife, and the quality of this relationship is very important for spouses, children and the society in the widest sense. According to the definition of marriage itself it is clear that a suitable gender ideology and the attitudes towards native roles have the significant role in many aspects of the marital and family dynamics. What is more, it is considered that native roles have the leading role in the determination of the quality of marital relations by determining what people expect from their partners and marriage. The role of women and the attitudes towards their role have undergone many changes in the last few decades under the influence of particular social changes, primarily thanks to the higher employment rate of women, and consequently different gender division of labor between men and women, both at work and in families. This paper analyses how the employment of women and the change in the traditional division of labor influence the quality of marital relationships. First of all, we have indicated the significant positive, as well as negative implications which the change in the marital division of labor has to the quality of marital relations. In the end, we have tried to point out that the adopted gender ideology, traditional or egalitarian/feminist acts as an important and essential mediator in the relation between the division of labor and perceived quality of marital relationship.

Aim: We aimed to single out admission predictors of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in hospitalized COVID-19 patients and investigate the role of bioelectrical impedance (BIA) measurements in ARDS development. Method: An observational, prospective cohort study was conducted on 407 consecutive COVID-19 patients hospitalized at the University Clinical Center Kragujevac between September 2021 and March 2022. Patients were followed during the hospitalization, and ARDS was observed as a primary endpoint. Body composition was assessed using the BMI, body fat percentage (BF%), and visceral fat (VF) via BIA. Within 24 h of admission, patients were sampled for blood gas and laboratory analysis. Results: Patients with BMI above 30 kg/m2, very high BF%, and/or very high VF levels were at a significantly higher risk of developing ARDS compared to nonobese patients (OR: 4.568, 8.892, and 2.448, respectively). In addition, after performing multiple regression analysis, six admission predictors of ARDS were singled out: (1) very high BF (aOR 8.059), (2) SaO2 < 87.5 (aOR 5.120), (3) IL-6 > 59.75 (aOR 4.089), (4) low lymphocyte count (aOR 2.880), (5) female sex (aOR 2.290), and (6) age < 68.5 (aOR 1.976). Conclusion: Obesity is an important risk factor for the clinical deterioration of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. BF%, assessed through BIA measuring, was the strongest independent predictor of ARDS in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood chips are often used as solid fuel in modern biomass boilers. Experiments were conducted on 22 boilers located in Serbia burning wood chips as fuel. The influence of wood chips characteristics is analyzed in relation to the flue gas losses and the thermal efficiency of the boiler. Measured useful heat output of the tested boilers was 460-2585 kW. Moisture content of the wood chips was 19.21-38.23% with a net calorific value of 10177-14139 kJ/kg and ash content of 0.84-3.59%. Thermal efficiency of the boilers was 88.78-94.06%, flue gas losses 5.84-11.13% and flue gas temperature 121.83-188.44 °C. Experimental research and analysis of the results showed that an increase in moisture content of wood chips lead to a decrease of net calorific value i.e., decrease in flue gas temperature. Moisture content of wood chips has an influence on both useful heat output and boiler thermal efficiency. The experimental results showed that for a given boiler construction, this impact is not negative. Based on regression analysis, mathematical expressions were derived for the calculation of thermal efficiency and flue gas losses. Throughout the experiments, pollutant emissions were measured, NOx, CO, and particulate matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve as complete fuel burnout with as little excess air as possible, small wood log boilers (< 50 kW) use stage combustion. The first stage is often a process similar to downdraft gasification that consequently produces a flue gas laden with particulates. To prevent the build-up of solids and promote heat transfer in pipes of the convective part of these boilers, wire coils are used. The paper presents their in-situ examination together with CFD analysis. The analysis is carried out in a 460 mm long pipe, with a diameter of 82.5 mm, equipped with different wire coils for flue gas temperatures in the range between 300 °C and 150 °C. The analyzed coils are with and without a conical spring at their free end. The addition of this conical top is economical and should influence the rotation of the core flow. Proper pipe surface cleaning limited the analyzed wire coil designs to the dimensionless pitch, p/d, in the range between 0.36-0.61, dimensionless wire diameter e/d = 0.04-0.1, and pitch to wire diameter ratios p/e = 3.75-14.3, and three different angles (60⁰, 90⁰, and 120⁰) of the conical top. The goals are to find the optimal flue gas velocity for the given operating conditions, pipe, and wire coil dimensions, and to investigate the addition of the conical top on heat transfer enhancement. Several evaluation criteria are used to achieve the goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Optimal intake of magnesium minerals is essential in maintaining the coordinated physiological functions of cells, tissues and organs. The importance of this element is reflected in the fact that it is the fourth most abundant cation in the human body, participating as a cofactor in more than three hundred enzymatic reactions. Its presence is necessary for the proper functioning of a number of vital functions, such as glycaemic control, the work of the heart and the vascular system and it can potentially play a role in the regulation of body weight. Aim of this study was to investigate the effects of subchronic intake of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water on changes in body weight, organ weight and cardiovascular variables in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Methods: Wistar rats (n = 28) were divided into 4 groups: two control groups, on tap water (TW-C, n = 7) and magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-C, n = 7); and two experimental groups with streptozotocin-induced diabetes, on tap water (TW-DM, n = 7) and magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-DM, n = 7). The values of body weight, organ weight and cardiovascular parameters were compared after 6 weeks between control groups of rats on subchronic treatment with tap water (TW-C) and magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-C) and between groups with streptozotocin-induced diabetes on tap water (TW-DM) and with magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-DM). Results: By comparing the values of cardiovascular parameters between groups, significant (p < 0.05) positive effects of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water were registered on the values of systolic and pulse blood pressure in diabetic rats fed with magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water (MW-DM) compared to those fed with tap water (TW-DM). In contrast, no significant effect of magnesium hydrocarbonate on changes in body weight and organ weight was observed. Conclusion: Based on the results, the beneficial effects of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich water in the regulation of blood pressure can be clearly observed. Potential effects on other cardiovascular variables and body weight and organ weight should be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Hypomagnesaemia is one of the most detected electrolyte abnormalities in diabetics. Modulation of numerous cardiovascular pathophysiological processes is a potential goal for anti-diabetic therapy. Magnesium supplementation prevents subclinical tissue magnesium deficiency, thus delaying the onset of metabolic imbalance in diabetes, but long-term effects of magnesium supplementation in chronic diabetes and numerous pathophysiological processes remain unknown. Aim of this study was to determine the effects of subchronic intake of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich mineral water on cardiometabolic markers and electrolytes in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Methods: A total of 28 Wistar, male rats, body weight 160 g at start, were divided into four groups of 7 each: two controls, group that drank tap water and received a single ip injection of saline (0.9 % NaCl) (TW-C), group that drank mineral water rich in magnesium hydrocarbonate and received a single ip injection of saline (0.9 % NaCl) (MW-C); and two experimental groups with streptozotocin-induced diabetes, group that drank tap water and received a single ip injection of streptozotocin (100 mg/kg) in saline (0.9 % NaCl, 1 mL) (TW-DM), group that drank mineral water rich in magnesium hydrocarbonate and received a single ip injection of streptozotocin (100 mg/kg) in saline (0.9 % NaCl, 1 mL) (MW-DM). Results: Regarding the biochemical parameters, a decrease was observed in the MW-C group for vitamin B12 and proteins, while triglycerides were higher compared to the TW-C group. By comparing the haemostatic biomarkers between TW-C and MW-C groups, a statistically significant decrease was found for fibrinogen, while the electrolyte analysis showed an increase in phosphates for the MW-C group. Biochemical value comparison between TW-DM and MWDM groups showed that magnesium hydrocarbonate usage in diabetic rats did not significantly reduce glycaemia although the average glycaemic values were lower in the group treated with magnesium hydrocarbonate. Regarding the electrolyte values, a statistically significant decrease was observed for sodium, potassium and phosphate in the MW-DM group. The MW-DM group also showed a significant increase in iron value compared to TW-DM group. Conclusion: Subchronic intake of magnesium hydrocarbonate-rich mineral water, as a form of magnesium supplementation, did not cause a significant improvement in glycaemia or normalisation of diabetes-induced dyslipidaemia. This study showed the reduction of fibrinogen value, thus indicating the possibility of usage of this form of magnesium supplementation in different pro-thrombogenic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. The relationship between the foveal avascular zone (FAV) and visual acuity (VA) in retinal diseases remains a matter of discussion. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of diabetic macular ischemia (DMI) on VA through the analysis of the perifoveal capillary network in various stages of diabetic retinopathy - DR (non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy – NPDR and proliferative diabetic retinopathy – PDR). Methods. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of 143 angiograms of patients with different stages of DR was performed. The degree of macular ischemia was assessed by the analysis of 2 parameters: perifoveal capillary ring, ie, the FAZ outline irregularity, and capillary loss. Finally, a comparison was made between the degree of macular ischemia with the best-corrected VA, depending on macular thickness. Results. In the eyes with mild and moderate NPDR, without significant macular thickening, no statistically significant decrease in VA caused by macular ischemia was noticed (p = 0.81). Opposite, in a subgroup with severe NPDR and PDR, without significant macular thickening, a statistically significant difference was presented among eyes with moderate and severe macular ischemia compared to e yes with l ower g rades of m acular i schemia (p = 0.021 and p = 0.018, respectively). In the eyes with moderate NPDR and mild macular ischemia, the increase in macular thickness resulted in a statistically insignificant decrease in VA compared to eyes with a normal macular thickness (p = 0.088). However, in the eyes with severe NPDR, every pathological increase in macular thickness caused a statistically significant decrease in VA, regardless of the degree of macular ischemia (p = 0.018–0.040). A similar relationship was also found in the eyes with PDR (p = 0.017–0.042). In the eyes with a statistically significant decrease in VA, most of the examined eyes (98%) had the FAZ outline irregularity in the nasal perifoveal subfield. Conclusion. In the absence of significant macular thickening, the destruction of one-half of the perifoveal capillary network, or greater, is associated with reduced VA. The location of macular ischemic changes in the nasal parts of the perifoveal capillary ring plays a crucial role in its effects on visual function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combat sports and martial arts are often associated with aggressiveness among the general public, although data on judo and/or martial arts and aggressiveness seem to be unclear. This research aims to compare athletes who have trained judo for a prolonged time (minimum 5 years) and athletes from various team sports, primarily regarding the manifestation of aggression, but also regarding personality traits, emotional intelligence, and self-efficacy. Also, the potential predictive value of personality traits, emotional intelligence, and self-efficacy for aggression within subsamples of judokas and team athletes was tested. The research findings showed that professional judo athletes are characterized by a low degree of aggression, especially low indirect and physical manifestations of aggression. In addition, the personality traits Honesty-Humility and Openness to experience are well expressed, contrary to Emotionality and Extraversion, which are less pronounced. They are also characterized by moderate general self-efficacy. On the other hand, members of team sports produced the opposite results, as they are characterized by increased aggression, pronounced traits of Emotionality and Extraversion, somewhat less pronounced traits of Honesty-Humility, Openness to new experience, and less pronounced general self-efficacy. The percentage of explained variability of aggression is slightly higher in the subsample of team sports and constitutes 49.9% of the variability, while in the subsample of judokas it constitutes 47.8% of the variability of the criteria. Practical implications, limitations, and future research directions were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]