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Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare cancer that presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We analyzed the management and estimated survival of ACC patients in Slovenia over a 17-year period.

The importance of industrial hemp as a source of highly valuable textile fi bres is briefly presented through its use for textiles and composites and its increasing cultivated areas in the 21st century. On the territory of present Slovenia, about 160 ha of agricultural area was cultivated with hemp before WWII, then it quickly began to decline and at the end of the 1970s, it was no longer cultivated. Revitalization of industrial hemp in Slovenia with fi eld experiments started already in the years 2000/2001 for producing seeds, whereas hemp fi bres were used only as an insulation for buildings. The textile technological properties of hemp fi bres from diff erent varieties grown in Slovenia have not been examined till now. They are important for using hemp fibres in highly valuable textile products. The properties of green hemp fi bres extracted mechanically from non-retted hemp stems of Cannabis sativa L. var. sativa (varieties: Novosadska, Juso-11, Bialobrzeskie, Unico- B and Beniko) were determined. All the analysed varieties except Beniko had stem height over 200 cm. The highest yield of green fibres was 33.1% (Novosadska). The analysed green fibres’ content was 1.24–3.26% of ash, 7.77–8.50% of moisture regain, 10.69–13.92% of water-soluble substances and 8.45–10.83% of pectin. Through a biodegradation process of retting green hemp fibres in tap water at temperature 35°C, 9.01– 18.89% of dry mass was removed after ten days. Average linear density of green hemp fi bres was very high, around 200 tex. Tenacity of fi bres’ bundles was in the range of 167–272 MPa, but tenacity of elementary fibres was 548–672 MPa. From the curves of specific stress-strain, it is seen that green hemp fibres from all five varieties had similar superstructure. All analysed green hemp fibres had high linear density and low mechanical properties. For textile application, they should be further processed into finer fibres in order to increase their tensile stress and become also more flexible and soft.

Introduction Lipedema is a chronic condition that affects the majority of women. It involves swelling in fatty parts of the body such as the buttocks, hips, thighs and calves. It usually develops during a period of hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy or menopause) and is often confused with lymphoedema or obesity, leading to a delay in correct diagnosis and the introduction of effective treatment. Fat oedema is estimated to affect 1 in 72,000 people. However, these figures, according to many sources, are much underestimated compared to the actual occurrence of the condition due to misdiagnosis. [1] Purpose of Research The aim of this work is to commonize the knowledge around the problem of lipedema, presenting the current diagnosis and treatment. State of knowledge Lipaemia is a chronic disease characterised by the development of fatty oedema in the lower extremities (in some cases also in the upper extremities), which is resistant to exercise. The pathogenesis of the disease is unclear and diagnosis and treatment still require much research. Review Methods The literature review was based on the most recent studies. PubMed and Google Scholar open databases were used in the research. The focus was put on literature published between 2013 and 2024. Summary Lipedema hinders women's physical, psychological and social functioning. Current diagnosis and treatment is not sufficient to be certain of an accurate diagnosis and to apply appropriate treatment. However, knowledge about this disease is becoming more publicised, through media, among other means, and research is being conducted at a larger scale.

Introduction and Purpose of Research: Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) or Willis-Ekbom disease, is a common neurological disorder significantly impacting one’s sleep and quality of life. It often coexists with various health issues, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Aim of study: The primary purpose of this research is to explore diverse therapeutic options for RLS which are tailored to individual patient needs. In order to understand the complex pathophysiology of the discussed disease, recent advancements are taken into account. Material and Methods of Research: The review is grounded in findings from 36 recent studies sourced through a systematic search of open-access databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on literature published between 2004 and 2024. Results: Adequate and effective management of RLS include non-pharmacological interventions, such as physical activity, acupuncture, yoga and near-infrared light therapy, which can complement pharmacotherapy or prevail as the primary treatment form. Iron therapy emerges as vital for many patients. The correlation between iron metabolism and RLS symptoms requires further analysis and research. Pharmacological strategies involve dopaminergic medications, low-potency opioids, and benzodiazepines, with a target on minimizing side effects and dependency. Conclusion: RLS affects approximately 5-10% of the population, severely disrupting sleep and daily functioning. The condition constrains individualized management, integrating non-pharmacological forms of treatment with pharmacological therapies to improve patient outcomes and reduce dependence on medication.

Introduction & Purpose of Research: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Given the high prevalence of PCOS and its impact on infertility, this research explores strategies to stimulate ovulation and improve pregnancy outcomes. To address this issue comprehensively, we specifically selected six main treatment methods: lifestyle changes, clomiphene citrate, antidiabetic drugs, gonadotropin analogues, aromatase inhibitors, and surgical approaches. Our aim was to review various studies, including meta-analyses and comparisons of methods from published texts, to gain valuable insights into the topic.

Introduction and Purpose of Research: Vegetarianism, characterized by the exclusion of meat, poultry, fish, seafood, and their derivatives, has gained popularity as studies continue to highlight its positive impact on health. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the health and lifestyle impacts of vegetarian diets by examining both the benefits and potential risks. Review Methods: The review is grounded in findings from 40 recent studies sourced through a systematic search of open-access databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on literature published between 2000 and 2024. Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge: Vegetarian diets are associated with significant health benefits, including reduced risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, largely due to their high content of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Additionally, vegetarians tend to have lower BMI and improved cholesterol and blood pressure levels. However, unbalanced vegetarian diets may lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as protein, vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can impact overall health. Conclusion: Properly planned vegetarian diets are healthy, nutritionally correct and can be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Careful selection of meal ingredients and adequate supplementation are key to maximising the benefits and counteracting the potential risks associated with such diets.

The objective of this article is to assess the efficacy and safety of diverse therapeutic strategies for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), encompassing both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Additionally, the review identifies potential avenues for future research within this domain. The article compares the results of selected studies. We conducted a literature search in November of 2024, using PubMed. Six studies were identified, chosen, and appraised. Among these studies, three are systematic reviews and three are narrative literature reviews. If it comes to treatment efficacy studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of several strategies. Ketamine and esketamine have shown rapid and substantial efficacy in mitigating the symptoms of TRD. Augmentation with aripiprazole and quetiapine has also been found to enhance the response to antidepressant treatment. The combination of olanzapine and fluoxetine is effective for treating TRD, however, it may be associated with metabolic side effects. Augmentation with lithium, triiodothyronine (T3), and lamotrigine shows promising results, though further research is required to fully evaluate their efficacy and safety in TRD management. The management of TRD is associated with several challenges. These include the absence of a standardized definition and grading system, which impedes the comparison of research outcomes. The multifactorial nature of TRD further complicates the development of a universal treatment strategy. Summarizing, there are several treatment strategies available for TRD, however, the most effective approach should be personalized for each patient. Ongoing research is critical to advancing our understanding of TRD and developing more effective therapeutic options.

Apnea of prematurity (AOP) is a significant health issue affecting neonates born before the 37th week of gestation. It results from the immaturity of respiratory control mechanisms and is often exacerbated by various coexisting factors, which can intensify symptoms and lead to severe health consequences. Despite extensive research on the underlying mechanisms of AOP, a single effective treatment has yet to be identified. Current therapies, such as caffeine administration, are associated with potential adverse effects. Emerging interventions, including sensory stimulation, carbon dioxide inhalation, positional changes, and aromatherapy, offer promising alternatives. These approaches have the potential to complement standard treatments while being less invasive.

Introduction and Purpose of Research Nicotine pouches, popular especially among young people, are smokeless alternatives to traditional tobacco. Placed in the mouth, they release nicotine absorbed through the mucosa, reducing withdrawal symptoms and avoiding harmful tobacco smoke. Often used for smoking cessation, they are considered lower-risk than smoking and may help reduce smoking rates. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the impact of nicotine pouches on overall human health. Review Methods The review is based on 39 articles found in PubMed databases published between 2006–2024. Conclusion While nicotine pouches and snus are marketed as lower-risk alternatives to smoking, their health implications are still significant. These products, popular among young adults and athletes, may help with smoking cessation but carry risks, particularly with long-term use. Research suggests nicotine pouches and snus may have no performance-enhancing effects in sports and could impair physical performance, including endurance and strength. Moreover, their use is linked to various health concerns such as cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, oral mucosal changes, and decreased sperm count. Snus has been associated with a modest increase in cardiovascular disease risk, although the risks are lower than smoking. Additionally, smokeless tobacco use is linked to an increased risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma, especially in women. The use of snus during pregnancy has also been linked to higher risks of post-neonatal mortality and other adverse outcomes. Despite these findings, there is a need for more extensive, well-controlled studies to fully understand the long-term health effects of smokeless tobacco products and their role in public health.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. This leads to pain, inflammatory states, and disruptions in the functioning of pelvic organs, including infertility. Physical activity influences the symptoms of endometriosis associated with the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue in the body. This study analyzes available scientific evidence regarding the role of physical activity in alleviating pain caused by endometriosis. Research findings indicate that regular physical exercise of varying intensity can provide benefits by reducing inflammation, improving pelvic blood flow, and reducing muscle tension. The impact of physical activity on the hormonal system, including the modulation of endorphin levels and the endocannabinoid system, may contribute to pain relief. The effectiveness of exercise in endometriosis therapy depends on the type of exertion, its intensity and frequency, as well as individual factors such as the severity of the disease and the patient's health status. Studies point to yoga, Pilates, and aerobic exercises as the most beneficial forms of activity. Regardless of the type of activity studied, the most crucial factor is the frequency and duration of the exercise. The study also emphasizes the need for further research to develop personalized recommendations for physical activity for patients with endometriosis. In conclusion, physical activity can provide valuable support in the treatment of endometriosis, contributing to an improvement in the quality of life of patients through pain reduction and overall well-being.

This review explores treatment approaches and therapies for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental condition affecting adults, with symptoms often persisting from childhood into adulthood. The research examines the efficacy, tolerability, and accessibility of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions. ADHD management necessitates a multimodal approach combining medications, behavioral therapies, and educational interventions tailored to individual needs. The analysis focuses on stimulant and non-stimulant medications, including methylphenidate, amphetamines, atomoxetine, and alpha-2 agonists, with regional variations in treatment guidelines. Stimulants, primarily methylphenidate and amphetamine formulations, demonstrate robust efficacy in symptom reduction for patients. Non-stimulant options like atomoxetine are recommended for patients with contraindications to stimulants. Emerging formulations, such as extended-release medications, address tolerance and adherence challenges. Psychosocial interventions, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), complement pharmacological treatments by targeting organizational skills, emotional regulation, and comorbidities like anxiety and depression. Evidence suggests that combined approaches improve long-term functional outcomes, such as academic performance and interpersonal relationships. Despite advances, gaps in treatment access and the need for individualized care remain significant challenges. This review underscores the importance of ongoing research to optimize ADHD management strategies and ensure equitable access to effective therapies worldwide.

S staranjem prihaja do upada zdravja in porasta z njim povezanih omejitev, kar vpliva na kakovost življenja. Pri ohranjanju samostojnosti starejših v domačem bivalnem okolju lahko pomembno oporo predstavlja uporaba ustrezne podporne tehnologije. V pričujoči raziskavi nas je zanimalo, kako starejši ocenjujejo kakovost svojega življenja, katera področja v vsakdanjem življenju se jim zdijo najbolj pomembna, pri katerih instrumentalnih dejavnostih vsakdanjega življenja potrebujejo pomoč in ali bi pri teh aktivnostih bili pripravljeni uporabljati novo tehnologijo. Prav tako nas je zanimalo, kakšen odnos do tehnologije imajo starejši, natančneje, v kolikšni meri doživljajo strah pred uporabo tehnologije. Iz rezultatov naše raziskave je razvidno, da starejši poročajo o srednji do visoki izraženosti vseh vidikov kakovosti življenja, pri čemer so najvišje vrednosti zabeležene pri dimenzijah »dom in soseska« in »psihološko in čustveno blagostanje«, medtem ko je najnižja povprečna vrednost zabeležena pri dimenziji »zdravje«. Glede na vidike strahu pred tehnologijo so bolj izraženi vidiki osebnega neuspeha in preferiranja človeškega stika kot pa prepričanja, da je nova tehnologija neprijetna za uporabo ali pa neuporabna. Glede na pomembnost, potrebo po pomoči in pripravljenost za uporabo tehnologije lahko zaključimo, da so prioritetna področja zdravje, skrb za dom in mobilnost. Izsledki raziskave so pomembni kot usmeritve za oblikovanje potencialnih prihodnjih intervencij s podporo informacijsko komunikacijske tehnologije.

Incidentalom nadledvičnice je sprememba brez simptomov, naključno odkrita pri slikovnih preiskavah zaradi razlogov, ki ne vključujejo bolezni nadledvičnic. Njihova prevalenca strmo narašča na račun vedno večjega števila opravljenih slikovnih preiskav. Pretežno gre za benigne, hormonsko neaktivne adenome. Ob odkritju incidentaloma moramo razlikovati med benignimi in malignimi spremembami ter ugotoviti morebitno hormonsko aktivnost. Sodobno obravnavo incidentalomov predstavljava na izjemnem kliničnem primeru bolnice z drobnim incidentalomom leve nadledvičnice. Kljub visoki gostoti na nativni računalniški tomografiji (CT) smo na podlagi izplavljanja kontrasta v skladu s takratno prakso spremembo označili za benigno in odsvetovali nadaljnje morfološko spremljanje. Kljub temu je bolnica v naslednjih letih zaradi različnih zdravstvenih težav opravila več slikovnih preiskav, vendar spremembe velikosti tumorja ni bilo. Šele 6 let od odkritja so zaradi posledic covida-19 svetovali CT prsnega koša, ki je razkril izrazito rast tumorja. Bolnico smo napotili na levostransko laparoskopsko adrenalektomijo. Patohistološko je bil potrjen karcinom skorje nadledvične žleze, zato smo uvedli adjuvantno adrenolitično zdravljenje z mitotanom. Incidentalomi nadledvičnic so pretežno benigni in klinično nepomembni, včasih pa lahko ogrozijo življenje. Zato je pomembno, da jih obravnavamo v skladu s predstavljenimi smernicami. V izjemnih primerih z atipičnim potekom, kot je bilo pri naši bolnici, bo za ugoden razplet ključna obravnava znotraj interdisciplinarnega tima.

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is the most straightforward way to rapidly sinter nanoceramics, but the applied pressure prevents sintering of additively manufactured ceramics. Therefore, fast firing techniques such as “pressureless” SPS and ultra-fast high-temperature sintering, based on intense thermal radiation, are gaining interest. Here we compare pressure/current-assisted and pressureless SPS techniques for the rapid heating (∼300 °C/min, 5 min) of nanocrystalline zirconia with high sintering activity. The applied pressure and current indeed contributed to the lowestr temperatures needed for full densification of nanocrystalline zirconia, retaining very fine grain size, but also induced tetragonal phase transformations in the final sintering stages. When the radiative heat transfer was “decoupled” (pressureless SPS), a pronounced temperature difference between graphite crucible wall and simulated specimen temperature along with non-steady-state conditions during dwell were observed. Nevertheless, high heating rates facilitated fine and dense microstructures even in the absence of pressure/current.

„Die Unterscheidung der Geister“ klingt für zeitgenössische Ohren anachronistisch und wird mit Exorzismen, Okkultismus oder anderen unklaren Praktiken in Verbindung gebracht. Selten denkt jemand an die Gemeinschaft von Qumran, den heiligen Paulus, Origenes oder die Wüstenväter, obwohl man dort bereits eine gründliche Bearbeitung dieses Themas finden kann. Noch seltener kommt jemand auf moderne Philosophie oder Psychologie, obwohl gerade dort eine weitere Entwicklung der angesprochenen Fragen zu finden ist. Die Unterscheidung der Geister hat eine lange, faszinierende Geschichte und deckt sich mit den Ereignissen des menschlichen Geistes. Darüber hinaus dauert der Kampf der Geister — ob wir es wollen oder nicht — weiter an, und jedes weitere menschliche Dasein wird zu ihrem Schlachtfeld. Das letzte Wort in dieser Angelegenheit ist noch nicht gesprochen. Daher ist die Rückkehr zur Theologie der „Unterscheidung der Geister“ bei Hans Urs Balthasar, die auf den geistlichen Übungen des heiligen Ignatius von Loyola basiert, die in diesem Artikel vorgestellt werden, von Interesse. Die Rolle dieses Artikels ist dankbarerweise weniger auf die Systematik und Disziplin des Unterrichts ausgerichtet, sondern betont die Praktikabilität und Nützlichkeit der präsentierten Realität, insbesondere bei der „Unterscheidung der Geister“ im Rahmen des Synodalen Weges in Deutschland.

In this paper, we present four significant records of plants in Slovenia: a vascular plant Calepina irregularis, and three moss species, Ptychostomum torquescens, Sphagnum papillosum; Tortella fasciculata.

Using a person-centered approach, this study sought to identify motivation types of volunteers based on their pattern of motives for volunteering and to compare volunteer types in terms of personality and subjective well-being. A two-step cluster analysis conducted on a sample of 441 volunteers revealed four clusters: integrated high function (high on all motives); integrated low function (low on all motives); self-oriented (primarily motivated to advance own career); other-oriented (primarily motivated to pursue values to help others). The other-oriented and the integrated high function clusters reported the highest levels of extraversion, agreeableness, and openness. While satisfaction with volunteering, subjective well-being, and satisfaction of the needs for relatedness and competence were highest in the integrated high function cluster, the other-oriented cluster exhibited the highest satisfaction of the need for autonomy. Our results complement the dimensional approaches to volunteer motivation and show that optimal motivation is achieved by pursuing multiple motives.

Due to their very wide range of indications, anticoagulants are one of the most commonly used drug groups. Although these drugs are characterized by different mechanisms of action, the most common complication of their use is still bleeding episodes, the frequency of which depends largely on the clinical condition of the patient using such therapy. For this reason, to this day, the best method of preventing bleeding complications remains the assessment of bleeding risk using scales such as HAS-BLED. There are many reports in the literature assessing the occurrence of this type of complication after the use of drugs affecting the coagulation process, as well as many reports comparing individual groups of drugs with different mechanisms of action. However, there are still no clear guidelines that would indicate which group of anticoagulants should be preferred in particular groups of patients. The aim of our article is to summarize the data collected so far regarding the safety of using specific groups of anticoagulants and the frequency of bleeding complications after their use.

Osteoporoza je sistemska bolezen kosti z znižano mineralno kostno gostoto in spremenjeno mikroarhitekturo kostnine, kar vodi do zlomov ob majhni sili. Čeprav pogosteje prizadene ženske, imajo moški zaradi osteoporoze več zapletov in višjo umrljivost po zlomih. Pri moških diagnozo osteoporoze večkrat postavimo šele po zlomu. Pogosteje je sekundarna, med najpomembnejšimi sekundarnimi vzroki je hipogonadizem, ki je prav tako podcenjeno, premalo prepoznano ter preredko diagnosticirano in zdravljeno stanje. Zdravljenje osteoporoze pri moških je kompleksno, vključuje nefarmakološke in farmakološke ukrepe. Cilj zdravljenja je preprečevanje zlomov. Nadomestno zdravljenje s testosteronom poleg pozitivnih učinkov na skelet pri hipogonadnih moških izboljša tudi kakovost življenja. Neposrednih dokazov, da bi zdravljenje s testosteronom zmanjšalo tveganje za osteoporozne zlome, zaenkrat ni. Pred uvedbo testosterona skupaj z bolnikom skrbno pretehtamo koristi in tveganja. Bisfosfonati, denosumab in teriparatid izboljšajo mineralno kostno gostoto in zmanjšajo tveganje za zlome vretenc. Učinkoviti so tudi pri moških z osteoporozo in s hipogonadizmom.

Fatigue and dyspnea are the most commonly reported long-term complaints in individuals previously infected with SARS-CoV-2. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate diaphragm muscle function in post-COVID-19 patients and investigate whether potential diaphragm dysfunction contributes to physical functioning impairment. A total of 46 patients who qualified for pulmonary rehabilitation were examined. Diaphragm muscle function parameters were evaluated using ultrasonography, while the severity of dyspnea, aerobic capacity, and the amount of energy used by the body during physical activity were assessed using the six-minute walk test, mMRC scale, and Metabolic Equivalent Task (MET), respectively. We identified that 69.5% of patients had diaphragm atrophy and 6.5% had diaphragm paralysis. The percentage of atrophy was not related to age, gender, BMI, oxygen therapy usage during the COVID-19 infection course, and disease severity. Patients who experienced cough, fever, and no loss of smell during the COVID-19 course had significantly greater diaphragm inspiratory thickness values, while patients with cough and no smell disorders had a significantly lower percentage of diaphragm atrophy. Diaphragm functional parameters were strongly associated with selected variables of exercise tolerance, such as distance in the six-minute walk test, oxygen saturation levels, fatigue, and exertion on the Borg scale. In conclusion, diaphragm muscle dysfunction is a serious long-term post-COVID-19 consequence and can be viewed as a major contributing factor to prolonged functional impairments.

(1) Background: Pituitary adenomas are benign tumors comprising about 18% of all intracranial tumors, and they often require surgical intervention. Differentiating pituitary tissue from adenoma during surgery is crucial to minimize complications. We hypothesized that using ICG dye would reduce the hormonal complication rates. (2) Methods: A prospective randomized study (February 2019–October 2023) included 34 patients with non-functional macroadenomas of the pituitary gland randomly assigned to receive intraoperative ICG or be in the control group. All underwent endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery. Pituitary function was assessed preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and 3–6 months postoperatively. Adenohypophysis function was evaluated with hormonal tests (Cosyntropin stimulation test, TSH, fT3, fT4, prolactin, IGF-1, FSH, LH, and testosterone in men) and neurohypophysis function with fluid balance, plasma and urine osmolality, and serum and urinary sodium. (3) Results: Of the 34 patients (23 men, 11 women; average age 60.9 years), 5.9% in the ICG group developed diabetes insipidus postoperatively, compared to 23.5% in the control group. Adenohypophysis function worsened in 52.9% of the ICG group and in 35.3% of the control group. (4) Conclusions: Our study did not confirm the benefits of using ICG in these surgeries. Further research with a larger sample is needed.

Obravnava žensk v obdobju predmenopavze, ob menopavzi in kasneje se je v novem tisočletju pomembno spremenila. Randomizirane klinične raziskave so bistveno omejile indikacije za uvedbo hormonskega zdravljenja (HZ) in s tem menopavzno medicino postavile pred velik izziv. Na srečo so najnovejša dognanja potrdila, da je ob pravilni uporabi in izbiri HZ korist še vedno bistveno večja od tveganja. Zato smo pripravili posodobljena stališča o menopavzni medicini, ki so v skladu z aktualnimi mednarodnimi priporočili in prilagojena posebnostim slovenskega prostora.

Author(s): Tina Kavcic [sup.1] , Gaja Zager Kocjan [sup.2] , Petra Dolenc [sup.3] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.8954.0, 0000 0001 0721 6013, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, , Zdravstvena [...], The study aimed to investigate measurement invariance of the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10) across gender, age, and education. Adults from a general population of Slovenia (N = 431; 58% female; age 18 to 59 years) filled in the CD-RISC-10, the short form of the Mental Health Continuum and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. Measurement invariance of the proposed one-factor model of CD-RISC-10 by gender, age, and level of education was examined using multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis. The results showed configural, metric, and scalar invariance of the CD-RISC-10 across gender, age, and educational groups. The measure showed satisfactory reliability, positive associations with emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and negative links with negative emotional states. Group differences in latent means suggested higher resilience in men than women, early adults as compared to emerging adults, and people with higher as compared to those with lower level of education. The Slovenian version of the CD-RISC-10 is an acceptably reliable and valid measure of resilience, suitable to detect possible differences between gender, age, and educational groups. Resilience shows favorable associations with enhanced positive mental health and diminished symptoms of mental problems.

Preclinical and clinical research on two-piece zirconia implants are warranted. Therefore, we evaluated the in vitro fracture resistance of such a zirconia oral implant system. The present study comprised 32 two-piece zirconia implants and abutments attached to the implants using a titanium (n = 16) or a zirconia abutment screw (n = 16). Both groups were subdivided (n = 8): group T-0 comprised implants with a titanium abutment screw and no artificial loading; group T-HL was the titanium screw group exposed to hydro-thermomechanical loading in a chewing simulator; group Z-0 was the zirconia abutment screw group with no artificial loading; and group Z-HL comprised the zirconia screw group with hydro-thermomechanical loading. Groups T-HL and Z-HL were loaded with 98 N and aged in 85 °C hot water for 107 chewing cycles. All samples were loaded to fracture. Kruskal–Wallis tests were executed to assess the loading/bending moment group differences. The significance level was established at a probability of 0.05. During the artificial loading, there was a single occurrence of an implant fracture. The mean fracture resistances measured in a universal testing machine were 749 N for group T-0, 828 N for group Z-0, 652 N for group T-HL, and 826 N for group Z-HL. The corresponding bending moments were as follows: group T-0, 411 Ncm; group Z-0, 452 Ncm; group T-HL, 356 Ncm; and group Z-HL, 456 Ncm. There were no statistically significant differences found between the experimental groups. Therefore, the conclusion was that loading and aging did not diminish the fracture resistance of the evaluated implant system.

Although a growing body of evidence emphasizes the superiority of VATS over conventional thoracotomy, little is still known about early postoperative diaphragm muscle function after lobectomy via these two approaches. To fill the gap in existing literature, we conducted a comparative study between VATS and conventional thoracotomy in terms of postoperative diaphragm muscle function, assessing its contractility, strength, the magnitude of effort and potential risk of dysfunction such as atrophy and paralysis. A total of 59 patients (30 after VATS), who underwent anatomical pulmonary resection at our institution, were enrolled in this study. The control group consisted of 28 health subjects without medical conditions that could contribute to diaphragm dysfunction. Diaphragm muscle was assessed before and after surgery using ultrasonography. We found that both surgical approaches were associated with postoperative impairment of diaphragm muscle function—compared to baseline data. Postoperative reduction in diaphragm contraction was demonstrated in most of the 59 patients. In the case of the control group, the differences between measurements were not observed. We noted that lobectomy via thoracotomy was linked with a greater percentage of patients with diaphragm paralysis and/or atrophy than VATS. Similar findings were observed in referring to diaphragm magnitude effort, as well as diaphragm contraction strength, where minimally invasive surgery was associated with better diaphragm function parameters—in comparison to thoracotomy. Disturbance of diaphragm work was reported both at the operated and non-operated side. Upper-right and left lobectomy were connected with greater diaphragm function impairment than other segments. In conclusion, the VATS technique seems to be less invasive than conventional thoracotomy providing a better postoperative function of the main respiratory muscle.