71. Redox state is similar in subjects following omnivorous, vegan, vegetarian, and low-carbohydrate high-fat dietNives Bogataj Jontez, Karin Šik Novak, Zala Jenko Pražnikar, Ana Petelin, Nina Mohorko, Saša Kenig, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Age-related noncommunicable diseases are a major health burden in developed countries, with oxidative stress being a key contributing factor. This cross-sectional study aimed to test the hypothesis that redox status among 88 participants with a particular interest in nutrition and habitually following 4 popular dietary patterns (vegan, vegetarian, low-carbohydrate high-fat, and omnivorous), is similar, but correlates with diet quality. Dietary intake was assessed using food diaries, and venous blood samples were collected to measure serum total antioxidative capacity (TAC), bilirubin, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺)/reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) ratio, and sirtuin 1 concentration, and the expression of antioxidative enzymes in leukocytes. TAC and the NAD⁺/NADH ratio were higher in the vegan group compared with the vegetarian group, whereas bilirubin concentration was higher in the omnivorous compared with the low-carbohydrate high-fat group. Other differences between the dietary groups were not significant. NAD+/NADH ratio and sirtuin 1 were positively correlated with diet quality, assessed with the Healthy Eating Index. Correlation analysis between dietary variables and redox markers revealed only a few weak to moderate associations. However, a hierarchical regression model including age, gender, and dietary variables explained 19.8% of the variance in TAC, 21.2% of the variance in the NAD⁺/NADH ratio, and 44.3% of the variance in sirtuin 1 concentration. Therefore, in healthy, relatively young participants with appropriate energy intakes, endogenous mechanisms are able to compensate for oxidative stress to a similar extent, regardless of dietary pattern. Nonetheless, overall diet quality and food selection appear to play a meaningful role in redox balance.
Ključne besede: oxidative stress, total antioxidative capacity, sirtuin 1, diet quality
Objavljeno v RUP: 02.12.2025; Ogledov: 1065; Prenosov: 8
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72. Joint torque and electromyographic activity during eccentric exercise for hip adductors at different hip flexion anglesJan Marušič, Oskar Cvjetičanin, Nejc Šarabon, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Our objective was to investigate the effects of three hip flexion angles (0°, 45°, and 90°) and leg dominance on peak joint torque, angle at peak torque, and peak electromyographic activity (EMGA) of the adductor longus during bilateral eccentric hip adduction. Sixteen recreationally active participants completed bilateral eccentric contractions at each hip flexion angle using a custom-built dynamometer. The primary outcome measures were peak adduction torque, angle at peak torque, and EMGA of the adductor longus. A 3×2 repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess the effects of hip angle and leg dominance. Hip flexion angle had a significant main effect on peak torque (F(2, 30) = 15.75, p<0.01), with peak torque significantly lower at 90° compared to 0° and 45°. No significant effects were observed for leg dominance or interaction. No significant main effects of hip flexion angle, leg dominance, or their interaction were observed on peak EMGA or peak torque angle. Eccentric hip adduction strength is reduced at 90° of flexion, likely due to mechanical disadvantage, while neural activation remains unchanged. These findings support the use of less flexed positions in eccentric training protocols for adductor strength development or injury prevention.
Ključne besede: adductor longus, eccentric training, injury prevention, strength
Objavljeno v RUP: 19.11.2025; Ogledov: 1143; Prenosov: 20
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73. The usefulness of a body shape index in assessing muscle function and strength in older adults hemodialysis patients : aBojan Knap, Boštjan Žvanut, Lucija Brezočnik, Mihaela Jurdana, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Objective: This study investigates the relationship between a new anthropometric measure, the Body Shape Index (ABSI), and body composition and biochemical parameters in hemodialysis patients and, for the first time, the correlation between ABSI and muscle strength and function in these patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 80 patients who were regularly treated in the hemodialysis unit of a single medical center of the University Hospital of Ljubljana, Slovenia. General anthropometric parameters body mass index (BMI) and ABSI=(WC/(BMI2/3x height½) as well as body composition data (fat mass FM, fat-free mass FFM, fat-free mass index FFMI, skeletal muscle index SMI) were determined in 25 women (aged 74.5 ± 7.5 years) and 55 men (aged 70.1 ± 6.6 years) with overweight (25 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 30 kg/m2) and obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Muscle strength was determined using a hand grip strength test, while muscle performance was assessed using the sit-to-stand test. Results: ABSI was significantly negatively associated with muscle strength, functional tests and SMI only in men. Based on the median ABSI value (0.090273 m11/6·kg−2/3 in women and 0.090893 m11/6·kg−2/3 in men), women with a higher ABSI had a significantly higher glucose concentration than those with a lower ABSI. Men with a lower ABSI obtained significantly better results in the hand grip test, sit-to-stand test and waist circumference (WC). In conclusion, our findings suggest an inverse association between ABSI and muscle strength and function in male hemodialysis patients, indicating that higher ABSI may reflect poorer physical condition in this population. Further longitudinal studies are needed to explore the clinical significance of this relationship.
Ključne besede: hemodialysis, muscle strenght, sarcopenia
Objavljeno v RUP: 10.11.2025; Ogledov: 986; Prenosov: 9
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74. Eccentric quasi-isometric exercise produces greater impulse with less pain than isokinetic heavy–slow resistance exercise in ankle plantar flexors : quasi-randomized controlled trialLuka Križaj, Žiga Kozinc, Nejc Šarabon, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Recently, there has been growing interest in optimizing exercise protocols in sports training and rehabilitation, with particular attention to eccentric quasi-isometric (EQI) contractions, which involve maintaining joint position until isometric failure and then resisting the subsequent eccentric phase. Evidence directly comparing EQI with other contraction modes remains scarce. This quasi-randomized controlled trial examined the short-term effects of EQI versus isokinetic heavy–slow resistance (IHSR) exercises on ankle plantar flexors, focusing on pain, range of motion (RoM), and strength performance. Thirty-two physically active participants were allocated to EQI (n = 16) or IHSR (n = 16) groups and assessed at baseline, immediately post-exercise, and 24 and 48 h later. Both groups performed three exercise sets with 3 min breaks. The protocols were designed to approximate matched loading, based on preliminary testing. Nevertheless, the EQI group achieved a significantly greater total impulse (p = 0.028), a shorter time under tension (p = 0.001), and lower effort scores (p < 0.001). Group × time analysis revealed less decline in maximal voluntary isometric contraction torque (p = 0.002; η2 = 0.16), as well as lower general (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.32) and activity-related pain (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.32) in the EQI group, with no significant differences in dorsiflexion RoM (p = 0.893). In conclusion, EQI produced a higher torque impulse while inducing less fatigue and post-exercise pain than IHSR, suggesting it may be a more efficient loading strategy for the ankle plantar flexors. The results contribute to the understanding of contraction-specific efficiency, and may inform the design of future training and rehabilitation protocols targeting the ankle plantar flexors.
Ključne besede: eccentric quasi-isometric contraction, isokinetic heavy–slow resistance contraction, ankle plantar flexors, impulse, pain, range of motion
Objavljeno v RUP: 27.10.2025; Ogledov: 1109; Prenosov: 20
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75. Postural sway in multiple sclerosis patients : interaction of vision, surface, and fatigue effectsŽiga Kozinc, Eva Žura, Gregor Brecl Jakob, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Introduction: Postural control impairments are common in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), resulting in postural instability and increased fall risk. Sensory inputs are crucial to maintain balance adequately. Additionally, fatigue is one of the common and most disabling symptoms of MS, possibly contributing to postural deficits. Previous studies have examined the effects of fatigue and altered sensory conditions on postural control in patients with MS. The present study aimed to extend this knowledge by jointly assessing these factors within the same experimental framework, providing additional insight into how fatigue modulates sensory contributions to balance. Methods: A total of 21 patients with MS (age = 41.1 ± 10.1 years; EDSS = 1.9 ± 1.0; disease duration = 6.8 ± 4.9 years) completed balance assessments on firm and compliant surfaces with both eyes open and eyes closed, before and after a 6-min walk test used to induce fatigue. Postural sway was quantified using sway velocity and root mean square (RMS). Results: There was a significant effect of surface on sway velocity (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.60), with a greater sway on the compliant surface compared to the firm surface. Fatigue significantly increased sway RMS (p = 0.023, η2 = 0.23) but did not affect sway velocity (p > 0.05). The absence of visual input (eyes closed) also significantly increased sway RMS (p = 0.001, η2 = 0.46). There was a significant interaction between surface and vision for sway RMS (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.54), with a larger effect of surface instability in the eyes-closed condition. Discussion: Patients with MS face increased challenges in maintaining postural control under conditions of fatigue, surface instability, and lack of visual input. Sway RMS may be more sensitive to these effects than sway velocity.
Ključne besede: balance control, sensory integration, proprioception, motor impairments, fall prevention, neurological disorders, physical fatigue
Objavljeno v RUP: 27.10.2025; Ogledov: 1215; Prenosov: 12
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76. Exploring family communication as a predictor of happinessArmin Nuhić, Denis Karahasanović, Mirzeta Nuhić, Rebeka Lekše, Mirko Prosen, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Introduction: Family communication is a key factor in shaping an individual’s psychological well-being and subjective happiness. This study aimed to examine the association between the quality of family communication and subjective happiness in the general population. Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental, descriptive design was used. Data were collected through an online questionnaire including the Family Communication Scale (FCS) and the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS). The sample included 125 participants ( = 34.28 years). Both scales showed high internal consistency (FCS α = 0.924; SHS α = 0.796). Due to nonnormal distribution, non-parametric tests and Spearman’s correlation were applied. Results: Participants reported above-average family communication ( = 37.81; s = 7.56) and relatively high subjective happiness ( = 20.43; s = 4.60). A moderately strong positive correlation was found between family communication and happiness (rs = 0.489; n = 125; p < 0.001). Discussion and conclusion: Individuals who perceive family communication as more open and emotionally supportive report greater happiness. These findings highlight the importance of fostering emotionally intelligent family interactions as a protective factor for mental health.
Ključne besede: emotional support, interpersonal relationships, psychological wellbeing, resilience
Objavljeno v RUP: 15.10.2025; Ogledov: 1251; Prenosov: 26
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77. Perspektiva moških in žensk v procesu skrbi za reproduktivno zdravjeAnton Grmšek Svetlin, Nika Jerina, Melisa Smajlović, Mirko Prosen, Rebeka Lekše, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Research Questions (RQ):What factors do men and women think influence the quality of their reproductive health? What differences exist between men and women in their perception of their own reproductive health? How do stigmas and taboos affect reproductive health?Purpose:The purpose of this research wasto examine the perspectives of men and women in the process of reproductive health care.Method:Qualitative method was used.Data was collectedfrom a purposive sample throughfourfocus groups. The data was analyzed using content analysis.Results:Results: three themes were identified through the qualitative analysis method: (1) reproductive health of men and women, (2) socio-cultural aspects of reproductive health, and (3) challenges of reproductive health. At the same time, 13 sub-themes were identified. The study showed that primary socialization has a significant impact on an individual's attitudes towards reproductive health in adulthood. It was found that women are more concerned about reproductive health than men. It was also found that stigmas and taboos, which prevent open discussion about reproductive health, have a major impact on the quality of reproductive health. This leads to lack of information, fear, discrimination and inequalities in access to healthservices.Organization:The research highlights the need for more education and emphasis on preventive care and reducing social exclusion and stigma related to reproductive health.Society:The results of the research contribute to a better understanding of men's and women's perceptions of reproductive health and how they think it is influenced by society. In this context, it also provides a better understanding of how stigmas and taboos affect reproductive health and how to seek help when reproductive health problems arise.Originality:The research provides insights into the specific nature of men's and women's reproductive health and how society views it. The originality of the research is that it offers a broad insight into how men and women understand reproductive health. It also provides an outline of the current state of reproductive health in society.Limitations/Future Research: The answers obtained from the participantsare subjective in nature and are subject to interpretation by the researchers. It would be useful to conduct quantitative type of studies in the future. Also, one of the limitations is related to the research sample, which includes a set of participantsfrom two Slovenian regions. In the future, it would be necessary to include participantsfrom the whole of Slovenia so that the results can be generalizedto the whole population.
Ključne besede: reproductive health, sexuality, society, taboos
Objavljeno v RUP: 28.09.2025; Ogledov: 992; Prenosov: 15
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78. Promoting sustainable medical education through digital competence : a cross-sectional pilot studySabina Ličen, Mirko Prosen, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: The increasing digitalisation of medical education requires teachers to have a broad range of competences that go beyond basic technical knowledge. This pilot cross-sectional study assessed the self-perceived digital competence of medical faculty members and examined differences by professional role, experience and gender. Of 298 eligible staff, 48 participated (response rate 16.1%), including 19 women (39.6%) and 29 men (60.4%). The data was collected via an online survey using the validated Digital Competence Scale for University Teachers, which comprises four subscales: digital literacy, digital skills, digital interaction and technology integration. The overall median score indicated a generally high level of self-perceived digital competence, with 95% bootstrap confidence intervals confirming this pattern. Assistant professors achieved higher scores in all subscales than associate and full professors. Self-perceived digital competence was positively correlated with participation in structured training, higher interest and frequency of use of digital tools, while age and teaching experience were negatively correlated. The findings suggest unequal levels of self-perceived digital competence across the academic status and highlight the positive association of self-perceived digital competence with participation in targeted, practical and inclusive training programmes.
Ključne besede: sustainable education, medical education, university teachers, faculty development, digital teaching
Objavljeno v RUP: 28.09.2025; Ogledov: 1391; Prenosov: 30
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79. Radiation-induced impairment of skeletal muscle regenerationMaja Čemažar, Mihaela Jurdana, 2025, pregledni znanstveni članek Opis: Background. Radiotherapy is a cornerstone of treatment for various cancers, but often causes collateral damage to surrounding healthy tissue, including skeletal muscle. Ionizing radiation leads to oxidative stress and inflammation, which impairs the regenerative capacity of muscle tissue. Irradiation reduces the number and functionality of satellite cells and disrupts the tightly regulated processes of myogenesis and tissue remodelling. In addition, irradiation alters the muscle microenvironment by promoting fibrosis and vascular damage, which further impedes effective regenera-tion. Cytokine signalling pathways are also dysregulated following irradiation, contributing to impaired activation and differentiation of satellite cells. Conclusions. There is evidence that factors such as melatonin and growth factors can improve muscle regenera-tion. Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the impairment of muscle regeneration after radiotherapy is crucial for the development of targeted strategies to mitigate side effects and improve patients’ qual-ity of life. Overall, the preservation and restoration of muscle function in irradiated tissue remains a critical challenge that requires multidisciplinary approaches
Ključne besede: skeletal muscle, radiotherapy, muscle regeneration, melatonine
Objavljeno v RUP: 11.09.2025; Ogledov: 1130; Prenosov: 2
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80. Enhancing crisis response efficiency through ICT : a Delphi study on operational and decision-making improvements in mass casualty incidentsPrimož Režek, Boštjan Žvanut, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: The potential of information and communication technology (ICT) to improve coordination and decision-making during the training and operational phases of mass casualty incidents (MCIs) has not yet been sufficiently explored. This three-round Delphi study investigates whether ICT use in MCIs can enhance decision-making and increase victim survival rates. The study was conducted from 10 February to 20 September 2024, with 25 international experts from academia, clinical practice, and health informatics. The results were summarised using a SWOT analysis, confirming ICT's perceived potential in MCI management. The analysis revealed a critical asymmetry: while the strengths and opportunities were mainly associated with technical factors (e.g. the effectiveness of drones, global positioning systems, artificial intelligence, dashboards, and virtual and augmented reality to improve the cost-effectiveness of training), weaknesses and threats were mainly social and organisational. These included a lack of standardisation and interoperability, limited ICT-supported training, infrastructure and cybersecurity gaps, resistance to change, legal constraints, underfunding, low technological readiness, and scepticism about the cost-effectiveness of ICT in real-world MCI contexts. Our findings highlight the gap between technological readiness and implementation challenges, suggesting that ICT innovation alone is insufficient without supportive governance, infrastructure, and stakeholder engagement. As the first Delphi study of its kind, it provides a strategic foundation for evidence-based ICT integration in training and operational MCI responses. The findings provide clear priorities for future policy development and empirical validation, emphasising the need to address persistent non-technical barriers to realise ICT’s full potential in crisis management.
Ključne besede: mass casualty incidents (MCI), information and communication technology (ICT), artificial intelligence (AI), drones, electronic triage systems, delphi study, SWOT analysis
Objavljeno v RUP: 08.09.2025; Ogledov: 1307; Prenosov: 11
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