Repository of the University of Rijeka
Not a member yet
40085 research outputs found
Sort by
Geotraffic analyses of passenger flows in liner shipping of Republic of Croatia
No full textPrometni tokovi putnika odnose se na kretanje ljudi i njihove prtljage duž određenih prometnih pravaca, koji iz različitih motiva prometuju do željenog odredišta. Putnički tokovi dijele se prema različitim obrascima kretanja i performansama, ovisno o potrebama putnika, prijevoznom sredstvu te geografskoj udaljenosti koju trebaju prijeći. Linijski pomorsko-putnički promet predstavlja organizirani prijevoz putnika koji se odvija prema unaprijed utvrđenim rutama i voznom redu. U Republici Hrvatskoj, kao i globalno, linijski promet igra ključnu ulogu u gospodarskom razvoju, osiguravajući brz i učinkovit prijevoz putnika i robe. Kako bi se eksplicitno istaknuo problem i ciljevi istraživanja, sukladno navedenom, osnovni cilj ovog istraživanja je analizirati strukturu, dinamiku i prostorni raspored linijskih pomorsko-putničkih tokova kroz prizmu geoprometne analize, s ciljem identifikacije trenutnog stanja te razvojnih potencijala i izazova u daljnjem planiranju linijskog pomorsko-putničkog prometa u Republici Hrvatskoj. Analiza relevantnih indikatora u svezi s problemom i s ciljem istraživanja, temelji se na analizi službenih statističkih pokazatelja, u odnosu na specifičnost praćenja linijskih pomorsko-putničkih tokova prema vrstama linija te prema pomorskim okružjima.Passenger traffic flows refer to the movement of people and their luggage along specific transport routes, driven by various motives to reach their desired destinations. These flows are classified based on different movement patterns and performance criteria, depending on passenger needs, transport modes, and geographical distances. Liner maritime passenger transport represents an organized system of passenger transport that operates on predefined routes and schedules. In Croatia, as well as globally, liner maritime transport plays a crucial role in economic development, ensuring fast and efficient passenger and freight transportation. In order to explicitly highlight the problem and research objectives, and in accordance with the above, the main goal of this research is to analyse the structure, dynamics, and spatial distribution of linear maritime passenger flows through the lens of geographic analysis, with the aim of identifying the current state as well as developmental potentials and challenges in further planning of linear maritime passenger transport in the Republic of Croatia. The analysis of relevant indicators related to the problem and research objectives is based on the examination of official statistical data, considering the specificity of monitoring linear maritime passenger flows by types of lines and by maritime regions
The Impact of Isotonic Seawater on Subjective and Objective Nose Patency in Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
No full textBackground/Objectives: Nasal irrigation with isotonic seawater is a known and oft-used treatment for nasal obstruction in patients with acute and chronic nasal inflammatory disease undergoing therapy with intranasal corticosteroids and antihistamine drugs. Nasal patency in healthy athletes is extremely important; however, to date, the effect of isotonic solutions for nasal irrigation in healthy athletes has not been tested. This randomized controlled trial aimed to investigate the potential synergy of physical exercise and nasal isotonic seawater on airflow and the subjective assessment of nasal patency in healthy, high-level athletes. Methods: The intervention group included 33 healthy athletes who used an isotonic seawater nasal spray daily, with a control group including 31 healthy athletes who did not use any sprays; both groups underwent identical seven-day training periods. The primary outcome measures were subjective NOSE questionnaire scores and secondary peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) measures, while anthropometric and demographic variables were covariates. Results: A significant decrease in subjective nasal resistance scores was observed in the intervention group compared to the control group (binary logistic regression model, p = 0.006, RR 7.695), both in the first and second measurement interval. This effect increased with time (Friedman’s two-way analysis of variance, p < 0.001). Peak nasal inspiratory flow is positively affected by exercise but not by isotonic seawater spray intervention. Conclusions: The effects of nasal isotonic seawater irrigation during intense athletic training are beneficial on subjective nasal patency in the short term, while the effects on objective nasal patency are less clear
The use of continuous glucose monitoring in people living with obesity, intermediate hyperglycemia or type 2 diabetes
No full textA global trend towards increased obesity, intermediate hyperglycemia (previously termed prediabetes) and type
2 diabetes, has prompted a range of international initiatives to proactively raise awareness and provide action-
driven recommendations to prevent and manage these linked disease states. One approach, that has shown
success in managing people already diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, is to use continuous glucose
monitoring (CGM) devices to help them manage their chronic condition through understanding and treating
their daily glucose fluctuations, in assocation with glucose-lowering medications, including insulin. However,
much of the burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus is founded in the delayed detection both of type 2 diabetes
mellitus itself, and the intermediate hyperglycemia that precedes it. In this review, we provide evidence that
using CGM technology in people at-risk of intermediate hyperglycemia or type 2 diabetes mellitus can signifi
cantly improve the rate and timin
A Narrative Review on the Risk Factors and Healthcare Disparities of Type 2 Diabetes
No full textType 2 diabetes (T2D) is a rapidly growing global health concern, projected to affect 1.3 billion people by 2050, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach. This review examines the epidemiological disparities in T2D, focusing on modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors, socioeconomic determinants, and healthcare inequities. While genetic predisposition, age, and ethnicity contribute to T2D risk, socioeconomic status (SES) significantly mediates modifiable factors such as diet, physical activity, and access to healthcare. Lower SES is associated with poorer lifestyle choices, limited access to resources, and increased exposure to risk factors, exacerbating T2D prevalence among vulnerable populations. Geographic variations in T2D prevalence are evident, with racial and ethnic minorities and lower-income individuals being disproportionately affected in regions like the United States and Europe. The economic burden of T2D is substantial, with global healthcare expenditures reaching USD 966 billion in 2021 and projected to rise significantly, albeit with variations across different countries and health systems. Despite advancements in treatment, inequities in healthcare access persist, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, hindering optimal glycemic control and consequently contributing to preventable complications and poor health outcomes. This review highlights the critical need for targeted interventions and policy reforms to address the intersection of demographic, economic, and healthcare-related variables influencing T2D disparities. By bridging gaps in prevention, management, and treatment and accounting for the effect of SES on both modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors, the global disease burden of T2D could be reduced and health equity could be improved
An Oral Health Promotion Model Implemented in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County
No full textBackground and Objectives: Global research has shown that 60–90% of school children have caries, and that oral health care is of great public health significance. We present the data of an oral health promotion Program conducted in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County (PGC), Croatia, from 2008 to 2019. The Program includes comprehensive preventive oral status assessments of first- and fifth-grade elementary school students, as well as oral health promotional and preventative activities for preschool children, pregnant women, and new mothers. Here, we aimed to analyze the Program data and determine its applicability and sustainability. Materials and Methods: We assessed the changes in caries prevalence in first- and fifth-grade PGC students by comparing the 2008–2019 dental registry data on decayed, missing, and filled teeth for primary teeth (dmft)/decayed, missing, and filled teeth for permanent teeth (DMFT) index means. We also analyzed the data from the administrative Program reports. Results: We analyzed the dental registry data of 44,422 children in the PGC (21,714 first and 22,708 fifth grade). The average Program response rate was 83%. We noted a dmft/DMFT index decrease from 4.66 to 3.73 (first graders) and from 2.50 to 1.00 (fifth graders). The 2017–2019 dmft was significantly smaller than that of 2008–2009. There were 2336 workshops conducted in kindergartens, 1240 in first grades, and 1015 in fifth grades; health visitors educated 26,559 women. There was an increasing trend in the number of insured people under the age of six using pediatric oral health care. Conclusions: The Program improved the behavior and oral health of children and included various stakeholders, avoided additional financial expenses, increased the number of children in care, and proved its necessity and sustainability. It has been recognized on a national level and has led to the creation of two oral health care programs
Fibrous Dysplasia – A Rare Occurence in the Temporal Bone: A Case Report
No full textCilj: Fibrozna je displazija rijedak, dobroćudan poremećaj u kojem tijelo zdrave koštane elemente zamjenjuje vezivnim tkivom. Ovaj prikaz slučaja prezentira bolesnicu s fibroznom displazijom temporalne kosti koja odstupa od tipične kliničke slike – zahvaćenost temporalne kosti te incidencija bolesti u odrasloj dobi vrlo je rijetka pojavnost. Prikaz slučaja: 61-godišnja bolesnica prezentira se glavoboljom, šumom u uhu te oslabljenim sluhom. Zamjedbena nagluhost inicijalno je dijagnosticirana tijekom audiološke obrade. Kompjutorska tomografija (engl. computerized tomography; CT) mozga prikazuje ekspanzivnu, oštro ograničenu leziju dorzalnog dijela piramide lijeve temporalne kosti sa širenjem u mastoidne celule. Magnetska rezonancija (MR) piramida temporalnih kosti i unutrašnjeg uha prikazuje dvije ekspanzivne formacije – jednu u području klivusa i drugu u piramidi lijeve temporalne kosti. Kombinirani nalazi CT-a i MR-a ukazuju na to da se radi o fibroznoj displaziji, no potrebna je patohistološka potvrda kako bi se isključio malignitet. Stoga je učinjena mastoidektomija s redukcijom tvorbe. Pristigao patohistološki nalaz prikazuje sklerotičnu kost s nepravilnim koštanim trabekulama. Takve promjene odgovaraju fibroznoj displaziji. Učinjen je low-dose CT (LDCT) cijelog tijela koji ukazuje da nema promjena u sklopu osnovne bolesti. Za leziju u području klivusa neurokirurg se odlučio za pristup wait and watch s obzirom na to da je pacijentica poslije operacije asimptomatska. Bolesnica je pod redovitom kontrolom otorinolaringologa i neurokirurga, s dobrim funkcionalnim rezultatima, bez subjektivnih tegoba u vidu glavobolje, dok je sluh ostao stacionaran. Zaključak: Ovaj prikaz slučaja ističe važnost operativnog liječenja u svrhu potvrđivanja dijagnoze te redovitog praćenja u odabranim slučajevima fibrozne displazije temporalne kosti.Aim: Fibrous dysplasia is a rare and benign disorder, in which normal bone elements are replaced by fibrous tissue. Temporal bone involvement and adult onset of disease is least frequently reported. Case Report: A case of fibrous dysplasia of temporal bone in a 61-year-old female which presented with a headache, tinnitus and hearing loss is reported. Sensorineural hearing loss was the initial finding on the audiogram. Computed tomography showed an expansive, strictly limited sclerotic lesion of the dorsal part of the pyramid of the left temporal bone spreading into the mastoid cells. Magnetic resonance of the temporal bone and inner ear showed two expansive formations – one in the clivus and the other in the pyramid of the left temporal bone. Both CT and MRI pointed to fibrous dysplasia, but definite histopathological finding was required to exclude malignancy. Mastoidectomy with a reduction of lesion was performed. Histopathological examination revealed sclerotic bone with irregular bony trabeculae – fibrous dysplasia. Whole body low-dose computed tomography was performed and no other occurrences of fibrous dysplasia were detected. For the clival lesion neurosurgeon decided for the „wait and watch policy“ as the patient was asymptomatic after the surgery. Patient is under regular follow-up for both otorhinolaryngologist and neurosurgeon with good functional results, without subjective complaints of headaches, while hearing remained stationary. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of surgery as a confirmation for diagnosis and regular follow-up in selective cases of temporal bone fibrous dysplasia
Fans' Motivation for Attending Football Matches
No full textCilj ovog rada bio je istražiti potrošačko ponašanje s posebnim naglaskom na koncept motivacije
te identificirati ključne motive koji utječu na odluku navijača o odlasku na nogometne utakmice.
Istraživanje potrošačkog ponašanja pruža uvid u složene psihološke, emocionalne i društvene
čimbenike koji oblikuju odluke pojedinaca, čime se stvara temelj za razumijevanje specifičnih
motivacijskih mehanizama u kontekstu nogometnog navijanja. Motivacija nogometnih navijača
nadilazi tipično ponašanje potrošača, budući da je vođena snažnim emocionalnim vezama s
klubovima, osjećajem pripadnosti određenoj društvenoj skupini i kolektivnim iskustvima koja su
često ukorijenjena u povijesti i kulturi. Ključni motivatori koji navijače potiču na sudjelovanje
uključuju timski uspjeh, divljenje sportskim vještinama igrača, društveni i kulturni značaj
utakmica te tradicija posjećivanja utakmica. Rezultati istraživanja potvrđuju da su sportski
rezultati i tradicija najjači motivatori posjećivanja nogometnih utakmica. S druge strane, odanost
klubu i društveni aspekti pokazali su slabiji utjecaj. Ovaj rad doprinosi razumijevanju složenih
čimbenika koji oblikuju ponašanje nogometnih navijača te pruža temelj za daljnje istraživanje i
razvoj strategija za povećanje angažmana i zadovoljstva navijača.The aim of this paper was to investigate consumer behaviour with a particular emphasis on the
concept of motivation and to identify key motives that influence fans' decision to attend football
matches. Research into consumer behaviour provides insight into the complex psychological,
emotional and social factors that shape individuals' decisions, thus providing a basis for
understanding specific motivational mechanisms in the context of football fandom. Football fan
motivation goes beyond typical consumer behaviour, as it is driven by strong emotional ties to
clubs, a sense of belonging to a particular social group and collective experiences that are often
rooted in history and culture. Key motivators that encourage fans to participate include team
success, admiration for the players' sporting skills, the social and cultural significance of matches
and the tradition of attending matches. The research results confirm that sporting results and
tradition are the strongest motivators for attending football matches. On the other hand, club
loyalty and social aspects have shown a weaker influence. This paper contributes to the
understanding of the complex factors that shape football fan behavior and provides a foundation
for further research and development of strategies to increase fan engagement and satisfaction
HPMA-based nitroxide radical containing nanoparticles with controlled radical release: Detailed physico-chemical characterization
No full textThis research focuses on the measurement of the release of nitroxide radicals from polymer-based nanoparticles by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and potentiometric titration techniques. Nitroxide radicals such as 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) are known to modulate oxidative stress by scavenging reactive oxygen species that cause cell damage. It was also found that these biologically active radicals can inhibit tumor growth by inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Nitroxide radicals, however, cannot be effectively used due to their non-specific accumulation in normal tissue and quick elimination from the body. To address these challenges, we developed pH-responsive nanoparticles based on self-assembly of amphiphilic N-(2-hydroxypropyl)meth- acrylamide (HPMA)-based copolymers containing TEMPO radicals, covalently attached to the hydrophilic shell by a pH-sensitive hydrazone bond, and compared with pH-unresponsive nanoparticles, where the TEMPO radicals were bound by a physiologically stable amide bond. We thoroughly investigated the nitroxide radicals release from nanoparticles by EPR and potentiometric titration for the first time. TEMPO radicals were almost completely released from the pH-responsive nanoparticles within three hours at pH = 5 at 37 degrees C, which corresponds to tumor tissue, while only quite slow release of radicals was observed at physiological pH within 24 h. The results show that nitroxide radicals containing HPMA-based nanoparticles could be potentially used either for tumor visualization or as smart prodrugs to enhance nitroxide radicals' therapeutic efficacy and safety
Vrijednosti doznih indikatora za postupke standardne mamografije i digitalne tomosinteze u KBC-u Rijeka
No full textAim: The aim of the study is to determine typical values of dose indicators for standard mammography and digital breast tomosynthesis at the Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology at the Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka, to assess whether the determined typical values of the dose indicators for standard mammography procedures are in accordance with the national diagnostic reference values and whether the determined typical values of the dose indicators for digital breast tomosynthesis are in accordance with the data published in current international publications. This is one of the first studies in the Republic of Croatia with the aim of determining typical values of dose indicators for digital breast tomosynthesis procedures. Participants and methods: Data from a total of 135 women who had undergone planar mammography and 285 women who had undergone digital breast tomosynthesis were analyzed. Median values of average glandular dose for standard mammography and tomosynthesis were calculated for a compressed breast thickness of 5-6 cm. Results: The median values of the average glandular dose for standard mammography at a compressed breast thickness of 5-6 cm at Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka are 1.51 mGy per projection, while for digital breast tomosynthesis, they are 1.99 mGy per projection. It was found that the values of the typical dose indicator for standard mammography procedures determined at the Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka are lower than the national diagnostic reference values. The determined values of the typical dose indicator for digital breast tomosynthesis are consistent with the values published in recent international publications. Conclusions: The results of this study have shown that the values of the average glandular dose for planar mammography and digital breast tomosynthesis at the Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka are in accordance with national and international recommendations.Cilj: Cilj rada je odrediti tipične vrijednosti doznih indikatora za postupke standardne mamografije i digitalne tomosinteze dojke na Kliničkom zavodu za dijagnostičku i intervencijsku radiologiju Kliničkog bolničkog centra Rijeka, utvrditi jesu li dobivene tipične vrijednosti doznih indikatora za standardne mamografske postupke u skladu s nacionalnim dijagnostičkim referentim razinama u Republici Hrvatskoj te utvrditi jesu li dobivene tipične vrijednosti doznih indikatora za digitalnu tomosintezu dojke u skladu s podatcima objavljenim u recentnim međunarodnim publikacijama. Rad predstavlja jedno od prvih istraživanja u Republici Hrvatskoj čiji je cilj odrediti tipične vrijednosti doznih indikatora za postupke digitalne tomosinteze dojke. Ispitanici i metode: Analizirani su podatci 135 žena koje su podvrgnute standardnoj mamografiji te 285 žena kod kojih je učinjena digitalna tomosinteza dojke. Medijani vrijednosti srednje glandularne doze za standardnu mamografiju i digitalnu tomosintezu dojke izračunati su za debljinu komprimirane dojke od 5 do 6 cm. Rezultati: Medijan srednje glandularne doze za standardnu mamografiju po jednoj projekciji u Kliničkom bolničkom centru Rijeka iznosi 1,51 mGy za debljinu komprimirane dojke od 5 do 6 cm, dok za digitalnu tomosintezu iznosi 1,99 mGy. Utvrđeno je da su dobivene tipične vrijednosti doznih indikatora u Kliničkom bolničkom centru Rijeka za standardne mamografske postupke manje od nacionalnih dijagnostičkih referentnih razina. Dobivene tipične vrijednosti doznih indikatora za digitalnu tomosintezu dojke sukladne su vrijednostima objavljenim u recentnim međunarodnim publikacijama. Zaključci: Rezultati istraživanja pokazuju da su vrijednosti srednje glandularne doze za standardnu mamografiju i digitalnu tomosintezu dojke u Kliničkom bolničkom centru Rijeka u skladu s nacionalnim i međunarodnim preporukama
Brazilian Propolis: Nature’s Liquid Gold with Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Potential
No full textBrazilian propolis is a natural bee product with a unique and diverse chemical composition. It is especially rich in phenols and terpenoids that show a range of significant biological properties. Due to the growing scientific interest, its strong anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity has been highlighted. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate its potential to modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6), as well as by regulating oxidative stress. Additionally, active compounds in Brazilian propolis have the potential to inhibit tumour cell proliferation, induce apoptosis and modulate the tumour microenvironment. Depending on the botanical source and region of occurrence, different types of Brazilian propolis are distinguished, including green, red and brown, which differ in composition and biological activity. Green propolis, rich in artepilin C and phenolic acids, shows strong anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Red propolis contains isoflavones and quercetin that enhance its antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities. Brown propolis, rich in cinnamic acids and benzophenones, exerts cytotoxic effects against certain lines of cancer cells. This article discusses the current state of knowledge on the mechanisms of action of different types of Brazilian propolis and their potential uses as supportive therapy in inflammatory and cancerous diseases in combination with nanotechnology