Contents
15.02.2025.
Original scientific paper
THE PREVALENCE OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AMONG STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BELGRADE
Introduction/Objective
The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of alcohol use in the student population of the University of
Belgrade.
Methods
The cross-sectional study was conducted in a population of 2,000 students of the Belgrade University. Four faculties (Medicine, Geography,
Economics, Electrical Engineering) from which the students participating in this research were chosen by the method of random choice (by computer
listing), conducted in the period April - June 2010.
Results
Among our respondents, the highest amount of spirits is consumed by respondents from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, with 22% of
them consuming more than 6 shots on each occasion, while the smallest number of students who drink more than 6 shots on each occasion are from
the Faculty of Economics, with 8%. Students from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, who have the lowest prevalence of cigarette use, consume
alcohol in a binge drinking pattern. The highest frequency of binge drinking in the past year and in the past month before the survey was among
respondents from the Faculty of Geography.
Conclusion
There is a need for developing a conscience about all the effects that alcohol has, especially physical ones which are not usually noticed
immediately; taking responsibility for own actions; working on a healthy life style and educating people to enhance and improve their health control.
Mirjana Stojanovic-Tasic, Mirjana Virijevic, Kristina Rakic, Emilija Novakovic, Ivana Stasevic Karlicic, Nenad Milosevic, Jelena Aritonovic Pribakovic, Jovana Milosevic, Milica Bogdanovic, Suzana Adzic, Katarina Bisevac, Mary Vuksa
VITAMIN D - „SOLAR VITAMIN“
The discovery that sunlight can cure rickets was first scientifically confirmed in 1919. Shortly thereafter, in 1924, it was found that inactive lipids in the diet and skin are converted into antirachitic substances under the influence of UV light. Vitamin D (Vit D), also known as the "sunshine vitamin,"
was first identified in 1931. In recent decades, it has regained the focus of interest among the broader scientific community and dermatologists.
Specifically, certain dermatoses have been associated with low Vit D levels, leading to its supplementation in patients. On the other hand, some
dermatoses worsen with sun exposure, necessitating strict avoidance of sunlight and the therapeutic use of Vit D preparations.We are witnessing a
growing number of cases of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, with excessive sun exposure being the primary etiological factor in most
cases. This paper provides a literature review on the historical discovery of Vit D and presents findings from studies examining Vit D levels not only in
various dermatoses but also in other diseases. The number of studies, as well as the spectrum of diseases in which the role of Vit D is being
investigated, continues to increase.
Milijana Relić, Snežana Relić, Tanja Kostić Grujić, Marijana Trajković, Zorica Timotijević, Tamara Jovanovic, Goran Relić
15.02.2025.
Professional paper
EXAMINATION OF INTRACRANIAL TRANLUCENCY AS A MARKER FOR EARLY DETECTION OF OPEN SPINA BIFIDA
This article focuses on the sonographic axamination techique for evaluation of intracranial translucencies during the first trimester ultrasound scan. Appropriate knowledge of sonographic landmarks is the most important factor for evaluation normal as well as abnormal brain structure, and this examination may enable detection of open spina bifida and Arnold – Chiari anomaly at an early stage of fetal develpoment.
Nenad Šulović, Goran Relić
15.02.2025.
Original scientific paper
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE APPROACH TO PATIENTS WITH DISORDERS OF THYRIOD GLAND FUNCTION IN THE DENTAL OFFICE
Thyroid hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine, affect the work of all organs and organ systems. Whether they are in excess or in deficit, they lead to significant disturbances in the homeostasis of the organism, changing first of all the metabolic processes and leading to significant clinical manifestations, primarily in the cardiovascular, but also in other organ systems. The imbalance of thyroid hormones also has oralmanifestations, which are often the reason why patients visit the dentist. However, what worries dentists the most is the possibility of acute decompensation of hyper or hypothyroidism, with the appearance of thyrotoxic storm or myxedema coma, which are life-threatening conditions. Therefore, a valid pre-procedural evaluation and preparation of patients with thyroid hormone function disorders for pre-planned dental interventions is of great importance. During dental procedures, it is necessary to adhere to recommendations regarding the choice of local anesthetics, hemostasis, drug interactions, the possibility of infection and minimizing stress, all in order to avoid acute decompensation of thyroid imbalance.
Radomir Mitić, Nina Dimitrijević Jovanović, Hristina Ugrinović, Jelena Vulović, Milena Šibalić, Nevena Kalezić
THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DETECTION OF DIABETES INSIPIDUS IN CHILDHOOD
Introduction:
Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a disease that occurs due to inappropriate secretion of anti-diuretic hormone from the pituitary, or as a result of disorder in which the level of the kidneys cannot adequately respond to the secretion of this hormone. Also, it is known as central diabetes insipidus. The most common causes are head traumas, tumors of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, inflammatory processes, histiocytosis, anomalies in the development of brain. It can appear in the form of familial diabetes insipidus or in certain syndromes (Wolfram syndrome). It is characterized by hypotonic polyuria higher than 3l/24h (which persists if even taking liquids stops), then by nocturia and compensatory polydipsia. Enuresis often occurs among children.
Case report:
A boy, aged 11, lives with his mother and brothers. Mother noticed that the boy was urinating frequently in last few months (diuresis 4.6 l/24h, and 3.25 l/24h). After two months, the boy developed double images and severe headaches, vomiting, inability to see, squinting in the right eye and headache in the back of the head. MNR of the endocranium indicates the presence of a tumor formation. The tumor was surgically removed, and the boy started with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Due to persistent diabetes insipidus, the boy started using desmopressin-acetate - in tablet form. Active substance desmopressin - acts in the same way as the natural hormone vasopressin and regulates the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. The positive effect of taking the drug appeared after three weeks from the start of taking the therapy.
Conclusion:
Central (neurogenic) DI occurs as a result of a relative or absolute deficiency of antidiuretic hormone, which is responsible for the osmolality of body fluids. Based on this case, we want to show the importance of early diagnosis of the disease in order to improve the prognosis and the necessity of careful monitoring of these patients.
Danijela Jovanović, Snezana Marković- Jovanović, Teodora Tubić
01.12.2021.
Professional paper
Lichen planus disseminatus partim vesiculosus after COVID-19 vaccine
Introduction: Lichen planus is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that can be associated with infections, drugs and vaccines. As concerning the potential triggering effect of vaccine, there is evidence a few cases of new-onset lichen planus that appeared after COVID vaccine, particularly the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. Case report: This report is a case of a newonset lichen planus triggered by the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine administration in a healthy young female. Dermatological examination revealed polygonal, itchy, erythematous papules on trunk, upper and lower limbs, that coalesced into brownish plaques in the ankles, flexural wrist and knee. No mucosal involvement was noted. In view of the clinical picture, the timing of the skin eruption with respect to the vaccine and the histopathologic findings, a vaccine-induced lichen planus triggered by the COVID-19 vaccine has been diagnosed. Conclusion: Lichen planus or lichenoid-like eruption as a cutaneous manifestation following COVID-19 vaccines are rare, and the pathogenesis for its development is still unclear. Clinical trials showed that the leading vaccines upregulate Tcell response (Th1) and incrementing inflammatory cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, such as lichen planus. Although we still do not completely understand its pathogenesis, dermatologists should be aware of the possibility and keep an eye out for worsening or debut of this disease after the COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccinated patients should be monitored for skin manifestations, and dermatological evaluation should be offered, when needed.
Dragica Milosavljević, Milijana Relić, Mirjana Stojanović-Tasić
01.12.2021.
Professional paper
Prevention of micronutrient deficiencies in the elderly
The ageing process is characterized by numerous changes in the body that negatively affect the health, lifestyle and diet of the elderly. An adequate and balanced diet plays a vital role in the quality of life of the elderly, including physical, mental and social health. Physiological decline in food intake in the elderly is a risk factor for certain micronutrient deficiencies such as osteoporosis, anaemia and decreased immunity. To prevent these public health diseases, it is suggested to promote the intake of foods of animal origin (offal, meat) to prevent iron and vitamin B group deficiency. An adequate intake of anthocyanidins, fruits and vegetables with blue-purple pigments is recommended for the prevention of anaemia. Adequate intake is also important, i.e. intake of at least two portions of dairy products per day and fish products per week in combination with physical activity can provide adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D for the prevention of osteoporosis. The intake of fresh or minimally processed foods has played a significant role in ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin C, which, in addition to improving iron absorption and preventing anaemia, also affects the proper functioning of the immune system. For the same reason, it is recommended to take vitamin A from offals or beta-carotene from yellow-brown and orange fruits and vegetables. In general, appropriate nutritional interventions can be effective and financially effective forms of preventing and treating micronutrient deficits, thus improving the overall quality of life of the elderly
Dora Serenče, Hajnalka Požar
01.12.2021.
Professional paper
Coronary sinus, microanatomical study
INTRODUCTION: Complete appreciation of the cardiac venous system requires an understanding of its embryological basis, its usual patterns of distribution, and its common variations. AIM: The aim of our study was to improve our understanding of the coronary sinus morphometrical and topographical anatomy. METHODS: The investigations were carried out on 25 human hearts (from 11 male and 14 female persons of mean age 59.5; range: 40 to 75 years). The classic anatomical technique of microdissection (using neurosurgical microinstruments) was performed under the stereoscopic microscope on 10 specimens injected with a 10% formaldehyde solution. The arteries and veins of an additional 15 hearts were injected with methylmethacrylate and immersed in a 40% solution of NaOH for corrosion. Following washing out and drying, the obtained vascular casts were examined and measured. RESULTS: Coronary sinus (CS) extends from the opening of the oblique vein of the left atrium into the great cardiac vein, to its empty orifice into the right atrium. The length of CS varied between 22.4 and 41.4 mm (mean 33.0 ± 6.1 mm). The diameter of CS at its beginning was 5.0 - 9.6 mm (mean 6.6 ± 1.3 mm), and its diameter at its atrial mouth varied from 6.6 - 12.0 mm (mean 8.4 ± 1.6 mm). The CS had varied relationships to the branches of the left or right coronary arteries. It extended superficial and above the artery in 16 (64%) hearts, and close superficial to the artery in 9 (36%) cases. Duplication of the superior vena cava associated with an aberrant left hepatic vein was found in one case. The persistent left superior vena cava, which drained into the right atrium via the enlarged coronary sinus, was formed by the persistence of the left anterior cardinal vein. CONCLUSION: Our study shows that the coronary sinus, created in an early stage of embryological development, is an important collecting vessel receiving the main veins of the heart.
Ema Bexheti, Emilija Novaković, Zdravko Vitošević, Milan Milisavljević
01.12.2021.
Professional paper
Anatomical and morphological characteristics of the appendix in acute appendicitis
Introduction: Echosonography of the appendix is the primary method in the diagnostic algorithm of acute appendicitis, after clinical and laboratory examination. Non-invasiveness, availability and easy performance are the advantages of this method in detecting acute appendicitis. Aim: The research aimed to determine the morphological characteristics of the appendix, as well as to evaluate the role of echo sonography in the exploration and visualization of pathological changes in the appendix in acute appendicitis. Material and methods: The cross-sectional study included 59 people who underwent appendectomy and echosonographic examination of the abdomen and pelvis within the Department of Radiological Diagnostics of UHC "Dr Dragisa Misovic-Dedinje" in Belgrade. Results: In 48 out of a total of 59 people (81.4%), there were echosonographic signs of acute appendicitis, of which incompressibility of the wall was present in 40 people (83%), diameter of the appendix over 6mm in 38 (79%), wall thickness over 3mm in 45 (94%), target sign in 33 (69%), hypervascularization of the wall in 28 (58%), as well as the presence of fecoliths with nonhomogeneous content intraluminally in 15 (31.2%) persons. The sensitivity of echosonographic examination for obtaining positive results in persons with acute appendicitis was 86.5%. The specificity of the echosonographic examination to obtain negative results in persons who do not have acute inflammation of the appendix was 57.1%. The positive predictive value (PPV) was 93.7%. The negative predictive value (NPV) was 36.4%. The accuracy of the method was 83.1%. Conclusion: Based on the high sensitivity values of the tests tested in this cross-sectional study, we estimate that echosonographic examination has a primary role in the diagnostic algorithm of a person with suspected acute appendicitis.
Milica Perić, Sava Stajić, Tatjana Filipović, Sanja Gašić, Teodora Jorgaćević, Marko Stalević
01.12.2021.
Professional paper
Case report of Parkinson's disease and orthostatic hypotension
Introduction: Parkinson's disease is an idiopathic, slow progressive neurodegenerative condition with the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra compacta of the midbrain. Due to cardiovascular dysautonomia and impaired baroreflex function in Parkinson's disease, the development of orthostatic hypotension is most common, along with increased blood pressure variability, supine hypertension, nocturnal hypertension, etc. Orthostatic hypotension in Parkinson's disease increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, and the risk of overall, and cardiovascular mortality. Case report: Orthostatic hypotension in Parkinson's disease is associated with an increased risk of gait disturbances, loss of balance, falls resulting in injuries and limb fractures, and mortality. In this paper, we presented a patient who had previously been treated for arterial hypertension, with the current clinical presentation of symptomatic orthostatic hypotension in Parkinson's disease. After neurological evaluation and the implementation of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy for orthostatic hypotension, gradual improvement and stabilization of blood pressure values are achieved, along with a reduction in orthostatic hypotension symptoms and a decrease in subjective discomfort. Conclusion: In the presence of orthostatic hypotension in Parkinson's disease, in addition to pharmacological therapy, nonpharmacological treatment measures are very important for stabilizing blood pressure values and reducing the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension.
Miloš Mijalković, Nikola Vukašinović