Nevin Manimala

Med Glas (Zenica). 2026 Feb 27;23(1):233-237. doi: 10.17392/2052-23-01.

ABSTRACT

AIM: To assess the level of knowledge about risk factors and prevention of lung cancer among medical students, and to identify differences in knowledge based on the year of study and previous secondary education background.

METHODS: The study was conducted among 223 students of the School of Medicine, University of Zenica, and the School of Medicine, University Clinical Center Tuzla using an anonymous online survey via the Google Forms platform. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the χ2 test to assess statistical significance.

RESULTS: The majority of students identified smoking as the main risk factor for lung cancer, while air pollution was rated as the most overlooked risk factor. There were significant differences in the perception of neglected risk factors between years of study (p<0.05). Most students from Zenica acquire their knowledge through formal education, while students from Tuzla more often rely on the internet and media (p<0.05). Additionally, 82.5% of students believe that passive smoking is equally harmful as active smoking, with no significant differences between groups.

CONCLUSION: Medical students demonstrate a good level of awareness regarding risk factors and prevention of lung cancer; however, there is a need for greater emphasis on environmental risks and passive smoking in their education. The results highlight the importance of continuous education to ensure that future healthcare professionals are equipped to effectively promote health and prevent this disease.

PMID:42047091 | DOI:10.17392/2052-23-01

Med Glas (Zenica). 2026 Feb 27;23(1):227-232. doi: 10.17392/2026-23-01.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Environmental factors may influence postoperative outcomes and quality of life following total hip replacement (THR). This study investigated the impact of the geographical location of the surgical site, as well as the patient’s place of birth and residence, on treatment outcomes in individuals with artificial hips.

METHODS: A prospective study was conducted involving 280 patients (both genderes; mean age 62 ± 8.8 years) who underwent THR due to primary or secondary hip osteoarthritis. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 64) included individuals who were not operated on in their place of birth and residence, while Group B (n = 216) consisted of those who were born, resided, and underwent surgery in the same geographical location. Outcomes were assessed using the EQ-5D questionnaire (covering mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression), the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, and a VAS-based treatment satisfaction scale, administered preoperatively and one year postoperatively. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher’s exact test (p < 0.05).

RESULTS: Only 22.9% of all patients underwent surgery in their place of birth and residence, mostly for primary hip osteoarthritis. Preoperatively, Group A reported significantly greater limitations in self-care (p < 0.05). One year postoperatively, Group B showed significantly higher VAS scores for treatment satisfaction (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent total hip replacement in their place of birth and residence demonstrated better postoperative outcomes compared to those who had relocated.

PMID:42047090 | DOI:10.17392/2026-23-01

Med Glas (Zenica). 2026 Feb 27;23(1):216-220. doi: 10.17392/2037-23-01.

ABSTRACT

AIM: Orthopedic implants must meet specific criteria, including mechanical strength, durability, and biocompatibility. This study compares the immune response of zirconia, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), and stainless-steel implants in vivo, focusing on lymphocyte and fibroblast infiltration as indicators of immune activation.

METHODS: A total of 27 New Zealand white rabbits were used, with nine animals in each group. Implants of zirconia, PEEK, or stainless steel were surgically placed in the thigh and observed for 4 weeks. Histological analysis measured lymphocyte and fibroblast infiltration at the implant site using a microscope at 400x magnification. Statistical analysis included the Kruskal-Wallis test for group comparisons, followed by Mann-Whitney and Bonferroni correction for pairwise comparisons.

RESULTS: The Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant differences in lymphocyte (p=0.002) and fibroblast (p=0.003) counts among the groups. Zirconia exhibited significantly lower lymphocyte (median=0.5) and fibroblast (median=1.0) infiltration compared to stainless steel (lymphocytes: median=3.0, fibroblasts: median=2.0), and PEEK (lymphocytes: median=2.0, fibroblasts: median=3.0). Bonferroni correction confirmed zirconia showed the least immune activation (p<0.0167).

CONCLUSION: Zirconia offers superior biocompatibility with minimal immune response, making it an ideal material for orthopedic implants, particularly for patients with metal sensitivities. PEEK showed moderate immune activation but is helpful for non-load-bearing applications. Stainless Steel induced the highest immune response due to the release of metal ions and corrosion. Zirconia is the most biocompatible material tested, making it a promising choice for orthopedic implants.

PMID:42047088 | DOI:10.17392/2037-23-01

Med Glas (Zenica). 2026 Feb 27;23(1):206-210. doi: 10.17392/2058-23-01.

ABSTRACT

AIM: Tendon healing involves a crucial proliferative phase, during which fibroblasts and fibrocytes orchestrate collagen deposition. The use of liquid nitrogen (LN) in orthopedic oncology may inadvertently affect adjacent tendon tissues. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of LN exposure on the histological features of tendon healing.

METHODS: This experimental study employed a randomized post-test-only control group design involving 24 males Rattus norvegicus, randomly divided into four groups: control (no LN exposure) and three treatment groups exposed to LN for 1, 5, and 10 minutes, respectively, following Achilles tendon transection and repair. After a 21-day healing period, histological analysis was performed to assess the counts of fibroblasts, fibrocytes, and collagen content. Statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA, Post-hoc Tukey, and Pearson correlation (p<0.05 was considered significant).

RESULTS: LN exposure significantly reduced fibroblast, fibrocyte, and collagen levels compared to controls (p<0.05). The 10-minute group showed the lowest counts. A significant negative correlation was found between LN immersion duration and the number of fibroblasts (r= -0.87), fibrocytes (r= -0.829), and collagen content (r= -0.83) (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Liquid nitrogen (LN) impairs tendon healing in a dose-dependent manner, likely due to cryo-induced cell death and disruption of blood flow. This results in an acellular and avascular tendon matrix, hindering the repair process. LN exposure negatively impacts the proliferative phase of tendon healing in rats, suggesting the need for caution in clinical use to prevent damage to surrounding tendinous tissues.

PMID:42047087 | DOI:10.17392/2058-23-01

Med Glas (Zenica). 2026 Feb 27;23(1):186-190. doi: 10.17392/2047-23-01.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Distal radius fractures are among the most common orthopedic injuries, posing significant challenges due to their high prevalence and potential for long-term functional impairment. Volar locking plates have emerged as the gold standard for managing unstable and extra-articular fractures, offering superior outcomes compared to traditional methods. This study evaluates the clinical, radiographic, and functional outcomes of volar locking plate fixation in 34 patients with intra and extra-articular distal radius fractures.

METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed 34 patients treated for intra and extra-articular distal radius fractures with volar locking plates at a single orthopedic center. Patients were followed for a mean duration of 24 months (range: 12–36 months). Outcomes were assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, range of motion (ROM), and radiographic parameters. Complications, including hardware-related issues and soft tissue irritation, were recorded. Statistical analysis compared preoperative and postoperative outcomes, with significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS: The mean DASH score at the final follow-up was 4.2 ± 1.8, reflecting excellent functional recovery. Pain relief was complete, with all patients reporting a VAS score of 0. ROM restoration was highly satisfactory, achieving 93–98% of contralateral wrist motion. Radiographic evaluations confirmed 100% fracture consolidation with no cases of malunion or nonunion. Complications were minimal, with only two patients experiencing transient soft tissue discomfort, managed conservatively. No tendon irritation or hardware-related complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS: Volar locking plate fixation for intra and extra-articular distal radius fractures demonstrated excellent clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes in this cohort of 34 patients. The low-profile design and anatomical contouring of modern plates minimized complications while promoting effective pain relief and rapid functional recovery.

PMID:42047083 | DOI:10.17392/2047-23-01

Med Glas (Zenica). 2026 Feb 27;23(1):162-166. doi: 10.17392/2045-23-01.

ABSTRACT

AIM: Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) presents diagnostic challenges, with head computed tomography (head CT) often overutilized in emergency settings. Blood biomarkers such as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1) have shown promise in early injury detection. Aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic utility of GFAP and UCH-L1 in identifying   intracranial injuries early and potential reduction in unnecessary head CT scans in mTBI patients.

METHODS: A prospective study was conducted on 102 adult patients with mTBI. Serum levels of GFAP and UCH-L1 were measured within 12 hours post-injury and compared with head CT findings using appropriate statistical analyses.

RESULTS: Both biomarkers demonstrated 100% sensitivity and moderate specificity, with high negative predictive value (NPV), supporting their utility in ruling out injuries detectable on CT.

CONCLUSION: GFAP and UCH-L1 are effective early biomarkers for excluding significant intracranial injuries and may help optimize head CT scan utilization in the acute management of mTBI.

PMID:42047078 | DOI:10.17392/2045-23-01

Respir Res. 2026 Apr 28. doi: 10.1186/s12931-026-03656-9. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:42045892 | DOI:10.1186/s12931-026-03656-9

Clin Transl Sci. 2026 May;19(5):e70531. doi: 10.1111/cts.70531.

ABSTRACT

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is closely associated with systemic inflammation. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on inflammatory markers in patients with CKD undergoing hemodialysis. Eligible participants with CKD receiving hemodialysis were randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group received three capsules of omega-3 fatty acids (3 g/day) for two months, while the control group received placebo capsules containing medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil. Inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were measured both before and after the interventions. The results showed that CRP levels increased from 9.86 ± 12.64 to 11.46 ± 22.23 mg/L in the intervention group and from 5.24 ± 9.01 to 5.61 ± 7.93 mg/L in the control group (p = 0.11). Similarly, IL-6 levels increased from 17.84 ± 14.08 to 81.82 ± 66.22 pg/mL in the intervention group and from 14.96 ± 18.41 to 56.73 ± 115.45 pg/mL in the control group (p = 0.53). No statistically significant group differences were observed after adjusting for confounders such as age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking, dietary intake, and pre-existing diseases. The study findings showed that a two-month intake of omega-3 fatty acids supplements did not have a significant impact on reducing the levels of inflammatory markers in CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis. Larger trials with longer durations are warranted. Study Highlights What is the Current Knowledge on the Topic? ○ Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and are reported to be potentially beneficial in reducing inflammation associated with CKD, but the evidence regarding the effectiveness of omega-3 supplements in reducing inflammatory markers in this population remains inconsistent. What Question did this Study Address? ○ What is the effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation for 2 months on CRP and IL-6 levels in patients with CKD undergoing hemodialysis? What Does This Study Add to Our Knowledge? ○ Contrary to previous studies, this study found that omega-3 fatty acids supplementation did not significantly reduce CRP or IL-6 levels compared with placebo over 2 months and that short-term supplementation is not sufficient to reduce systemic inflammation in hemodialysis patients. How Might this Change Clinical Pharmacology or Translational Science? ○ These findings suggest that short-term omega-3 fatty acids supplementation may not be sufficient in reducing inflammatory markers in CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis and highlight the need for larger-scale clinical trials with different doses and longer durations to investigate nutritional or pharmacological strategies.

PMID:42045798 | DOI:10.1111/cts.70531

Eur J Dent Educ. 2026 Apr 27. doi: 10.1111/eje.70175. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Dental caries remains a major public health issue worldwide, particularly among children. Pit and fissure sealants represent a high-quality, evidence-based preventive measure. However, ensuring the reliability of their application by newly graduated intern dental students trained through tele-education remains an emerging area of growing interest. Thus, the current study aimed to assess the clinical success of pit and fissure sealants placed by intern dental students following tele-demonstration training compared to traditional training approaches.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized controlled trial involved 100 mandibular first permanent molars in 50 children aged 7 to 9 years, treated by 20 dental interns assigned to two groups using a split-mouth design. One group received direct clinical demonstration, while the other received tele-education via a pre-recorded video. Sealant retention and marginal discolouration were assessed after a 3-month period.

RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in sealant retention (p = 0.766) or marginal discolouration (p = 1.000) between the two studied groups. The tele-education group had a slightly higher relative risk, but this was not clinically significant.

CONCLUSION: Tele-demonstration can be used as a supplementary instructional modality for training dental interns in preventive procedures, reinforcing the use of innovative teaching tools while ensuring safe and high-quality patient care.

PMID:42045787 | DOI:10.1111/eje.70175

Clin Transl Sci. 2026 May;19(5):e70562. doi: 10.1111/cts.70562.

ABSTRACT

Reliable biomarkers that enable noninvasive, longitudinal assessment of disease activity and therapeutic response remain a major unmet need in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While colonic biopsies are the gold standard for evaluating mucosal inflammation, their invasive nature and limited spatial and temporal resolution constrain their utility in routine monitoring and clinical trials. Blood-based biomarkers offer a complementary approach, providing minimally invasive, readily accessible measures that can be repeatedly sampled over time. Emerging blood-derived signatures, including gene expression profiles and circulating molecular inflammation scores, capture systemic immune activity and have shown promise in predicting treatment response, disease flares, and pharmacodynamic (PD) effects of therapies. Recent advances utilizing multi-omics technologies and machine learning methods have further improved the predictive performance of blood-based biomarkers, particularly in the context of biologic therapies such as anti-tumor necrosis factor agents. Despite these advances and growing promises, challenges related to validation, standardization, and clinical integration persist. This review focused on recent advances in blood-based biomarkers for IBD, with an emphasis on their use in predicting treatment response and assessing pharmacodynamic effects in clinical trials.

PMID:42045784 | DOI:10.1111/cts.70562