231. Residual non-specific and disease-specific inflammatory markers in successfully treated young psoriasis patients : a cross-sectional studyEva Klara Merzel Šabović, Tadeja Kraner Šumenjak, Mojca Božič Mijovski, Miodrag Janić, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease. The systemic inflammation triggered by psoriasis contributes significantly to increased cardiovascular risk. While various treatments completely clear the skin, the associated effects on systemic inflammation are not yet clear. We investigated residual systemic inflammation in successfully treated patients. Circulating disease-specific and non-specific inflammatory markers were measured and compared in 80 psoriasis patients (aged 30–45 years) successfully treated with topical therapy, methotrexate, adalimumab, secukinumab or guselkumab, and in 20 healthy controls. Non-specific inflammatory markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), complete blood count (CBC) parameters, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), mean platelet volume-to-platelet ratio (MPR), and red blood cell distribution width-to-platelet ratio (RPR)) and disease-specific inflammatory markers (interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-12p70, IL-17, and IL-23) were measured and compared between groups. Disease-specific cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF, IL-1β, IL-12p70, and IL-17, but not IL-23), were significantly elevated in patients compared to controls, while non-specific inflammatory markers showed no differences compared to controls. The residual disease-specific cytokines were similarly elevated in all five treated groups. In addition, they correlated significantly with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. Our results suggest that psoriasis patients have elevated residual disease-specific cytokines despite successful treatment, while the non-specific inflammatory markers are similar to those in control subjects. Residual disease-specific inflammatory markers correlated with BMI and waist circumference. A possible beneficial effect of body weight control in psoriasis patients merits further investigation. The study was registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov (identifier: NCT05957120) on July 24, 2023.
Keywords: psoriasis, biologic therapy, infammation, cytokines
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 125; Downloads: 58
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233. Gender disparity in lipid testing among over 0.5 million adults from Pakistan : females are tested much later despite higher LDL-cholesterol levelsAmjad Nawaz, Madeeha Khan, Quratul Ain, Muhammad Amjad, Jaka Šikonja, Hijab Batool, Mohammad Iqbal Khan, Urh Grošelj, Fouzia Sadiq, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: Background and aims: Dyslipidemia is the major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD); therefore, its early diagnosis and treatment is necessary. While previous studies in Pakistan focused on general lipid profiles, investigations into gender disparities in lipid testing remain scarce. Therefore, the present study aims to explore the gender disparity in lipid testing and lipid levels among the adult Pakistani population. Methods: The lipid profile data was obtained from a tertiary care hospital and a diagnostic laboratory with centers across Pakistan. Dyslipidemia was defined based on the criteria provided by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) guidelines. Gender-based differences in lipid levels were analysed by copula decomposition, breaking down dyslipidemia differences into composition and structure effects. Results: A total of 577,489 adults were included in this study. The highest number of tests (n = 86,709, 14.6%) were conducted in individuals aged between 50 to 54 years. Greater number of males (n = 203,415, 64.3%) were tested before the age of 50 years compared to females (n = 113,030, 35.7%). Conversely, after the age of 50 years, number of tests increased notably among females (n = 137,541, 52.7%) compared to males (n = 123,503, 47.3%; p < 0.001). For all comparisons, significant differences were observed for low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels between males and females (p < 0.001), where average levels of LDL-C, TC and HDL-C were higher in females while average TG levels were higher in males. Conclusion: This study highlights the gender disparity in lipid testing in Pakistan, where females undergo lipid testing later in life, despite higher lipid levels compared to males.
Keywords: cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, gender disparity, lipid testing, opportunistic testing, Pakistan
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 114; Downloads: 54
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234. Postprandial time in tight range with faster insulin aspart compared with standard insulin aspart in youth with type 1 diabetes using automated insulin deliveryKlemen Dovč, Charles Spanbauer, Eleonora Chiarle, Nataša Bratina, Elke Fröhlich-Reiterer, Nejka Potočnik, Dessi P. Zaharieva, Tim Hropot, Maria Fritsch, Peter Calhoun, Tadej Battelino, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: Aims The aim of this study was to assess postprandial glycaemic outcomes using automated insulin delivery with faster acting insulin aspart (FIA) or standard insulin aspart (SIA) over 4 weeks in youth (aged 10–18 years) with type 1 diabetes. Materials and Methods We undertook a secondary analysis of postprandial glycaemic outcomes from a double-blind, randomised, crossover study comparing FIA to SIA using an investigational version of MiniMed™ 780G. Endpoints included postprandial time in tight range (70–140 mg/dL; TITR), postprandial glucose excursions and peak glucose, and incremental area under curve (iAUC). Results The mean ± SD age of 30 included participants was 15.0 ± 1.7 years, 47% were male, mean HbA1c was 7.5% ± 0.9% (58 ± 9.8 mmol/mol) and the number of meals per day per participant was 3.2 ± 1.2 meals. Overall, the postprandial outcomes were improved with FIA compared with SIA. Mean glucose at the start of the meal was 151 mg/dL in the FIA group and reached a peak glucose of 194 mg/dL, compared with starting level of 151 mg/dL in the SIA group and a peak of 198 mg/dL (difference in excursion: −3.8 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval −5.8 to −1.7; p <0.001). FIA group also had a 1.9% increase in mean TITR (p = 0.02) and a 2.0-mg/dL decrease in mean iAUC (p = 0.003). Differences in outcomes were the most noticeable for breakfast, meals with a larger amount of carbohydrates (>45 g) and participants with lower insulin-to-carbohydrate ratios.Conclusions Faster insulin formulation with AID improved postprandial glycaemic outcomes and could be a useful therapeutical option in youth with type 1 diabetes that have challenges achieving glycaemic targets.
Keywords: postprandial time in tight, range standard insulin aspart in youth with type 1, automated insulin delivery
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 93; Downloads: 43
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235. Reference areas selection affects registration of AI-segmented mandibles acquired with CBCTKlemen Leopold, Aleš Fidler, Manushaqe Selmani-Bukleta, Milan Kuhar, 2024, original scientific article Abstract: Precise registration of sequential 3D datasets is crucial for accurate dimensional analysis. Utilizing the Local Best-Fit (LBF) algorithm and stable Registration Reference Areas (RRAs) facilitates the accurate alignment of 3D surface models. Currently, Cone-beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and Deep Learn-ing (DL) algorithms are at the forefront for segmenting CBCT scans to monitor morphological changes in the residual alveolar ridge. This study compares the effectiveness of different RRAs in registration sequen-tial 3D surface models of partially edentulous mandibles. DL-assisted software segmented two sequential CBCTs (T0 and T1) from 10 patients, producing sequential 3D mandibular models. These models were aligned using three distinct RRAs: (i) WHOLE, encompassing the entire surface model; (ii) MND_BODY, covering the mandibular body while excluding the unstable alveolar ridge; and (iii) SPIN_FOR, incorpo-rating stable RRAs (mental foramina and mental spine). An innovative method assessed registration accu-racy by generating centroids from cross-sectional outlines of the mandibular nerve canals at the anterior third (A), medial third (B), and posterior third (C) of the posterior edentulous areas. The distance between centroids at T0 and T1 quantified registration accuracy. The MND_BODY group exhibited superior accu-racy, whereas the SPIN_FOR group showed the least, with accuracy decreasing from A to C, suggesting rotational misalignments. When selecting RRAs, both stability and spatial distribution must be taken into account. For optimal alignment, sequential 3D surface models should use RRAs that are both stable and widely distributed.
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 127; Downloads: 45
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236. Multidisciplinary management of pregnancy in bladder exstrophyMarija Batkoska, Polona Pečlin, 2025, other scientific articles Abstract: BACKGROUND: Classic bladder exstrophy (CBE) is a rare congenital condition affecting multiple organs, primarily the urinary and musculoskeletal systems. Management involves multiple reconstructive surgical procedures and aims to maintain renal function, achieve urinary continence, and support normal reproductive health. Pregnancies in women with CBE can be complicated by recurrent urinary tract infections, pelvic prolapse, and a higher risk of preterm birth. CASE REPORT: We report the case of a 33-year-old woman with a history of CBE, admitted at 32 weeks of pregnancy with fever and symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Her medical history included multiple surgeries, including formation of neovesica from the cecum with appendicovesicostomy to the abdominal wall. The pregnancy was complicated by recurrent urinary tract infections, anemia, gestational diabetes, and stage IV uterine prolapse. A multidisciplinary team managed her care, with imaging revealing altered abdominal anatomy and breech fetal presentation. At 37 weeks, due to concerns about fetal growth restriction, breech position, and potential prolapse exacerbation, an elective cesarean delivery with median relaparotomy and vertical uterine fundal incision was performed to avoid emergency intervention. Both the delivery and postpartum recovery were uneventful despite the complexity of the case. CONCLUSIONS: Managing pregnancy in patients with CBE requires close, multidisciplinary collaboration to address potential complications. Detailed delivery planning and vigilant monitoring are crucial to ensure maternal and fetal safety.
Keywords: bladder exstrophy, cesarean section, congenital abnormalities, fetal growth retardation, urinary tract infections
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 129; Downloads: 54
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237. Newborn screening programs for spinal muscular atrophy worldwide in 2023Eva Vrščaj, Tamara Dangouloff, Damjan Osredkar, Laurent Servais, 2024, original scientific article Abstract: BackgroundSpinal muscular atrophy is a rare, genetic neuromuscular disorder. Disease-modifying therapies, when administered early, have shown improved outcomes, leading to the implementation of numerous newborn screening programs for spinal muscular atrophy. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the progress in implementing newborn screening for spinal muscular atrophy and therapy accessibility worldwide, after the first paper published in 2021. MethodsWe conducted a survey, contacted experts from 143 countries worldwide, gathered responses from 86 experts from 80 countries. ResultsBy 2023, 31 countries reported established programs, 33 in the beginning of the year 2024; identifying approximately 1176 cases of spinal muscular atrophy. Additionally, the availability of disease-modifying therapies has expanded. At least one therapy is now accessible in 62 countries. Challenges, such as lack of governmental support, resource constraints, and varying healthcare priorities continue to impede implementation in some countries. ConclusionsThe data shows a significant increase in the implementation of newborn screening programs since 2021. The experts are still expressing a strong need for equitable access to standard of care for all the patients globally. Despite all setbacks, collaborative efforts have played a crucial role in newborn screening for spinal muscular atrophy implementation and currently 7% of world newborns are being screened, projections indicate an estimated 18% screening rate by 2028
Keywords: newborn screening, spinal muscular atrophy, pre-symptomatic, nusinersen, risdiplam, onasemnogene abeparvovec
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 129; Downloads: 57
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238. Mechanisms of tremor-modulating effects of primidone and propranolol in essential tremorKatarina Vogelnik Žakelj, Neža Prezelj, Milica Gregorič Kramberger, Maja Kojović, 2024, original scientific article Abstract: Introduction: Primidone and propranolol are primary treatments for essential tremor, however the exact mechanisms underlying their efficacy are not fully elucidated. Understanding how these medications alleviate tremor may guide the development of additional pharmacologic treatments. Our prospective observational study employed transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to explore mechanisms of primidone and propranolol effects in essential tremor. Eyeblink classical conditioning (EBCC) was tested as a potential predictor of treatment response. Methods: Patients with essential tremor underwent two evaluations: prior to commencing primidone or propranolol and following a minimum of three months of treatment. Tremor severity was assessed using accelerometry and clinically. TMS was employed to study changes in corticospinal excitability - resting and active motor thresholds, resting and active input/output curves and intracortical excitability - cortical silent period (CSP), short interval intracortical inhibition intensity curve (SICI), long interval intracortical inhibition (LICI), intracortical facilitation (ICF), and short afferent inhibition (SAI). EBCC, a marker of cerebellar function, was studied at baseline. Results: Of the 54 enrolled patients (28 primidone, 26 propranolol), 35 completed both visits. Primidone effect on decreasing hand tremor was associated with decreased corticospinal excitability, prolongation of CSP, increased LICI, increased SAI and decreased SICI. Propranolol effect on hand tremor was associated with decreased corticospinal excitability and increased SAI. Better EBCC at baseline predicted better response to primidone. Conclusions: Primidone exerts its therapeutic effects by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels and by modulating GABA-A and GABA-B intracortical circuits. Propranolol's central effects are likely mediated via noradrenergic modulation of GABA outflow
Keywords: essential tremor, primidone and propranolol treatments
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 82; Downloads: 49
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239. Preverjanje verjetnostne napovedi sanitarnega poseka smreke zaradi podlubnikov v Sloveniji v 2025Nikica Ogris, Maarten De Groot, 2024, other scientific articles Abstract: Preverili smo zanesljivost verjetnostne napovedi sanitarnega poseka smreke zaradi podlubnikov v Sloveniji v 2024. Verjetnostni model za napoved sanitarnega poseka smreke zaradi podlubnikov je potrdil visoko zanesljivost (AUC modela = 0,83, AUC napovedi = 0,83). Ugotovili smo optimalni prag za verjetnost sanitarnega poseka, ki ga bomo lahko uporabili pri naslednjih napovedih za bolj jasno določitev območij, kjer se bodo potencialno pojavila žarišča smrekovih podlubnikov. Napoved za leto 2024 smo naredili s pragom 0,45, ki pa se je izkazal za prenizkega, saj je bilo 24,1 % modelskih celic lažno pozitivnih. Optimalen prag za verjetnostni model v letu 2024 je bil 0,50, ki ga predlagamo za izdelavo vseh nadaljnjih verjetnostnih napovedih sanitarnega poseka smreke zaradi podlubnikov v Sloveniji.
Keywords: gozdovi, varstvo gozdov, navadna smreka, Picea abies, sanitarni posek, napovedi, ogroženost gozdov, modeli, validacija, zmogljivost, zanesljivost, točnost, natančnost, AUC, občutljivost, specifičnost
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 108; Downloads: 65
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240. Urban Cycling Lab : a ǂcitizen science protocol for assessing and reducing exposure to environmental stressors among bike commutersMaria Alejandra Rubio, Rok Novak, Janja Snoj Tratnik, Davor Kontić, Gregor Bučar, David Kocman, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: Bike commuters are regularly exposed to environmental stressors that impact their health and well-being. The Urban Cycling Lab in Ljubljana, developed within an Urban Living Lab and citizen science framework, engaged stakeholders in assessing exposure to particulate matter and noise, and in co-creating strategies to reduce it. This citizen science intervention combined sensor-enhanced ICT tools with behaviour change theory to assess both environmental and behavioural aspects of exposure. Exposure assessment included low-cost personal sensors as well as chemical analysis in biological samples to evaluate environmental exposure, while biochemical analysis of biological samples aimed to evaluate potential biological effects of exposure. Participants collected data using portable sensors and accessed real-time exposure comparisons via the Route Exposure Comparator web app. Biological samples (peripheral blood and spot urine) were collected from each participant at the end of data collection period. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, commuting habits, and environmental health literacy were collected via questionnaires. Ethnographic methods captured participants’ perceptions, route choices, and the intervention’s influence on commuting behaviour. This paper presents the methodology used to implement this intervention and provides a transferable model for participatory environmental exposure assessment. 1. Designed and implemented a citizen science intervention to assess cyclists’ exposure to air pollution and noise using sensor-enhanced ICT tools. 2. Promoted environmentally informed route choices through behaviour change strategies and digital feedback. 3. Applied survey and ethnographic methods to explore commuting behaviours and intervention impact.
Keywords: personal sensors, environmental exposure assessment
Published in DiRROS: 03.12.2025; Views: 111; Downloads: 54
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