The article is devoted to one of the acute problems of dermatology – hidradenitis suppurativa/acne inversa. Based on literary sources, it discusses in detail the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and modern methods of treatment of the disease. Attention is focused on the main method of treatment of the disease - antibiotic therapy. A long-term retrospective analysis has established that empirical antibiotic therapy with clindamycin does not guarantee unconditional clinical effectiveness. Antibiotic therapy in (HS/AI) should be individualized and based on preliminary microbiological studies.
The article presents an analysis of the current state and challenges of implementing the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (ASP) within a healthcare organization. An assessment was conducted regarding leadership commitment, staffing, monitoring of antimicrobial use, and feedback systems. Using SWOT analysis, the study identified strengths and weaknesses, as well as key barriers, such as the lack of formal recognition for program leaders and a deficit in targeted funding. Recommendations were formulated to optimize the ASP to enhance the safety and effectiveness of medical care.
Introduction. Hypertension (AH) is one of the most common chronic diseases with a significant impact on brain structure and function. Cognitive impairment in AH often remains underestimated, especially in the early stages. Purpose. To study the effect of elevated blood pressure on cognitive function in patients of different age groups. Materials and methods. 36 patients were examined, divided into three age groups (18-49 years old, 50-60 years old, 60-70 years old) with the presence and absence of hypertension. Used: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), clock drawing test, Schulte test, frontal dysfunction battery (FAB), verbal fluency score. Results. Patients with hypertension aged 50-70 years showed a statistically significant decrease in cognitive indicators compared to normotonics. The greatest decrease was noted in the groups with comorbidity (AH + diabetes mellitus). Taking antihypertensive therapy was associated with better outcomes in the Schulte test and verbal fluency. Conclusion. High blood pressure has a negative impact on cognitive function, especially in older age groups and in the presence of concomitant diseases. Early screening for cognitive impairment is indicated in patients with AH older than 49 years.
Rhythmic gymnastics belongs to complex coordination sports and places high demands on the motor skills of athletes, and working with gymnastic objects requires impeccable work of the nervous system - in particular, the pyramidal and extrapyramidal systems. The current monitoring system makes little or no use of clinical neurological tests, which allow for an objective assessment of coordination, balance and kinesthetic feeling. This study evaluated coordination and motor performance in female athletes at a rhythmic gymnastics school. The goal was to conduct a comparative analysis of the state of the motor sphere, evaluated using a set of neurological tests, in rhythmic gymnastics athletes at different stages of many years of training (with training experience of 1, 2, 5 and 10 years). Motor functions were evaluated using various neurological tests for coordination and balance: Romberg test (simple and complicated); walking on a line; finger-nasal test; heel-knee test; adiadochokinesis test; upper Barre sample; rotary sample. To evaluate the data, each trial performed was scored on a scale of 1 to 10. Mean values were then calculated. Analysis of the results revealed a clear positive trend in all studied parameters, depending on the experience of training athletes. In addition, there was a clear increase in the average score according to training experience (M1 = 4.99 → M2 = 6.43 → M3 = 8.75 → M4 = 9.51). The most significant jump in averages occurred between groups with 2 years of experience (6.4 points) and 5 years (8.8 points). This confirmed that a training period of 2 to 5 years is key for the development of neuromotor functions under the influence of the training process. The study showed that many years of training in rhythmic gymnastics have a specific formative effect on the functional state of the central nervous system, which is objectively reflected in the results of neurological testing. At the initial stage of preparation (1-2 years), the greatest progress is observed in basic tests (simple Romberg test, finger-nasal test, walking along the line), and at the stage of mastery (5-10 years), progress is most noticeable in complex coordination tests (complicated versions of Romberg test, rotational test) and in the speed of alternating movements.
The article presents a methodology for forming an internal quality control (IQC) data array using standardized formulas and quality control procedures based on the "Winter" algorithm. The methodology is implemented using Microsoft Excel spreadsheet software and does not require the purchase of specialized software. The paper describes in detail the workflow algorithm, technical requirements, required specialist competencies, and a step-by-step technological process, including the calculation of key statistical parameters: arithmetic mean, standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV%), as well as the construction of control charts. The application of this methodology allows for the unification of approaches to quality assessment, reduction of operator error probability, and acceleration of managerial decision-making.
This article is devoted to the study of the psychological profile of patients at high risk of developing hypertension. The relationship of psychological characteristics such as anxiety, emotional instability, perfectionism and a tendency to suppress emotions with the development of the disease is studied. The psychological profiles of 150 patients with an established high risk of hypertension are analyzed and compared with a control group of 50 healthy volunteers. It has been established that these psychological characteristics contribute to an increased risk of hypertension and affect its course. Arguments in favor of taking psychological factors into account when choosing preventive and therapeutic measures are presented, which opens up new prospects for improving the prognosis and quality of life of patients.
The paper focuses on physiological mechanisms of refraction and accommodation and the loss of retinal image quality in related disorders. The aim is to systematize major disorder types and current diagnostic and correction approaches. A narrative review and a cross-sectional assessment of 150 symptomatic patients (20–30 vs 40–60 years) were performed. Age-related differences in refractive and accommodative disorders and in correction patterns are presented. The novelty lies in emphasizing modern correction technologies: myopia-control optical designs, orthokeratology, surgical solutions using extended-depth-of-focus intraocular lenses, and pharmacological treatment options for presbyopia.
Introduction: Burnout is a significant problem among nurses, who face constant challenges in their work environment,including heavy workloads, emotional pressure and lack of sufficient support. This study aims to provide a review of the literature to identify the factors that contribute to the development of burnout and the consequences it causes on the health of nurses and the quality of patient care, as well as the most effective strategies for its management and prevention. Purpose: This review aims to analyze the existing literature to better understand the prevalence and impact of burnout among nurses, proposing more effective measures to reduce it in healthcare settings. Methodology: To carry out this review, scientific articles published during the last decade were used and analyzed from databases of good academic reputation. The review included evidence-based studies addressing risk factors, their effects, and proposed interventions for the management of burnout in nursing. The literature was selected based on clear criteria of relevance, methodological quality and scientific content. Results: Findings from the existing literature show that the main factors leading to burnout include workplace overload, long shifts, lack of autonomy and emotional support, and the psychological pressure of patient care. Burnout negatively affects not only the physical and emotional well-being of nurses, but also the quality of the healthcare system, leading to a decrease in efficiency and an increase in errors during treatment. Proposed management strategies include institutional interventions, such as improving working conditions, rescheduling and psychological support, as well as individual approaches, such as stress management techniques and mental well-being programs. Conclusions: In conclusion, this review highlights the need for an integrated approach involving both organizational and individual interventions to reduce the impact of work burnout and promote a healthier work environment for nurses.
Background: Nurses working in infectious disease units during the COVID-19 pandemic experienced increased occupational hazards, emotional strain, and physical exhaustion. Understanding the level and sources of stress is essential for developing targeted interventions and fostering a safer working environment. Objective: This study investigates stress levels among nurses working in infectious resuscitation during the COVID-19 pandemic in Albania. It aims to identify contributing factors such as workload, infection exposure, and demographic variables, and assess their impact on nurses’ mental health and care quality. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted at the Infectious Hospital in Tirana between September and December 2021. Twenty nurses who had provided care for COVID-19 patients completed a structured survey and participated in open-ended discussions. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between stress levels and variables including age, workload, and infection frequency. Results: Fifty percent of nurses reported high levels of stress, while 40% reported very high stress during the pandemic. Infection rates and increased workload were positively associated with higher stress levels. Age did not significantly impact stress. Frequent infections and demanding work conditions were key stressors affecting both physical and psychological health. Conclusion: Workload and repeated infections were major contributors to elevated stress levels among infectious disease nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings underline the need for targeted occupational health interventions and mental health support for frontline healthcare workers.
Introduction: Medication errors remain a major global problem for patient safety. They are often associated with misunderstandings in the prescription, dispensing and administration of medicines. The literature suggests that collaboration between doctors, pharmacists and patients is one of the most effective strategies to prevent them. Purpose: This paper aims to examine the specific roles of each actor and to analyze effective forms of their collaboration to minimize medication-related medical errors. Methodology: The review includes 44 international sources published between 2018 and 2024, including scientific articles, institutional guidelines and meta-analyses. Special focus was given to empirical studies on collaborative practices in community and hospital pharmacies. Results: Evidence shows that pharmacist interventions and patient involvement improve adherence to therapy and reduce errors. Models such as PPMC and CDTM have yielded positive results in different countries. However, obstacles such as the lack of common protocols, legal barriers and insufficient communication continue to limit the impact of collaboration. Conclusions: Strengthening physician-pharmacist-patient collaboration is crucial for patient safety. This requires systemic reforms, interprofessional training and policies that promote active patient involvement in the decision-making process.
Introduction and Aim: Bastar ointment is a widely used medicinal product in the Tirana Highlands and beyond. It is composed of a blend of several herbs known for their medicinal properties, along with meat by-products. This precise combination results in an ointment that effectively treats various types of wounds, including burns, infected wounds, deep lacerations, and scratches. The aim of this study is to investigate how this popular medicine influences the treatment of various wounds, referencing the research conducted by the respective authors for each plant. Materials and Methods: A total of 513 cases were included in the study. Participants who responded to the questionnaire varied in age and had different types of wounds. Additionally, they were not exclusively from the Tirana highlands. The responses included information on the care provided, the duration of treatment, any combinations with other herbs, as well as any side effects or allergies experienced. Results: The average time for wound healing is approximately 12 days, with burns accounting for 32% of the cases. Fortunately, no allergic reactions were observed, and the medication was administered twice daily in 63% of cases. Conclusions: Bastar Ointment has demonstrated positive effects on wound healing, thereby confirming the pharmacological properties of this traditional folk medicine. The findings indicate its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antinociceptive, antioxidant, and anticarcinogenic effects, as well as its content of essential vitamins and beneficial fats. Given its diverse range of biological activities, Bastar Ointment can be regarded as a medicine with valuable and intriguing properties.
The article presents a clinical case of polycystic kidney disease, emphasizing the importance of careful collection of anamnestic data, family history for the early diagnosis of this pathology. The presented clinical observation clearly demonstrates the onset of the disease from extrarenal manifestations, the progressive course of the disease.
Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation and systemic manifestations. Increasing attention has been directed towards the role of modifiable lifestyle factors in influencing RA susceptibility, disease progression, and therapeutic response. Objective: This review aims to systematically evaluate the associations between lifestyle factor including tobacco use, dietary patterns, obesity, physical activity, educational attainment, and socioeconomic status and the risk, clinical course, and treatment outcomes of RA. Methods: A comprehensive search of the PubMed database was conducted to identify epidemiological and prospective studies examining the impact of lifestyle behaviors on RA onset and management. Studies were selected based on relevance, methodological rigor, and focus on both disease incidence and treatment efficacy. Results: Consistent evidence implicates smoking, poor dietary quality, excess adiposity, lower educational levels, and socioeconomic deprivation as significant contributors to increased RA incidence. Furthermore, smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity are associated with attenuated responses to disease-modifying antirheumatic therapies. However, heterogeneity in study designs and residual confounding limit definitive causal conclusions. Conclusions: Despite inherent methodological challenges, current data underscore the importance of lifestyle modification—specifically smoking cessation, adherence to a nutritious diet, maintenance of healthy body weight, and regular exercise— as critical strategies to mitigate RA risk and enhance therapeutic outcomes. Future longitudinal and mechanistic studies are warranted to further elucidate these relationships and inform personalized interventions.
Introduction: Bridging the gap from lectures in the classroom to clinical practices is one of the most crucial moments in the life of a radiology student, and it impacts their career development and satisfaction level with their work, especially for the desired career. This research aims to assess how clinical practice influences the career choices of radiology students, looking at their practical exposure to the profession and perceptions. Objective: The study investigates whether practical radiology experiences support or contradict students’ initial career motivations by contrasting their attitudes and expectations before and after clinical exposure. Methodology: The study includes interviews and surveys with radiology students at various educational stages, as well as the analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data. Two interviews were conducted with the students: one prior to and one subsequent to their clinical exposure. Results: According to the findings, clinical exposure is essential for fostering students’ enthusiasm for the field, for 79% of first-year students and 94% of third-year students. Important elements like patient interaction, innovation in technology, and workplace culture affect their long-term job satisfaction. Conclusion: Given that radiology is one of the most popular field among high school graduates and that approximately 200 imaging technicians graduate annually only from the Faculty of Medical Technical Sciences Tirana, this study also offers insightful information for new educational strategies and program development aimed at improving curriculum design, to better support students during clinical training, and ultimately to help them make informed decisions about their future in radiology.
One of the main focuses of police psychology is the psychological assessment of potential officers. The main purpose of the study is to evaluate how useful the NEOPI inventory and its variants are in the recruitment of police officers. A systematic review of the literature using Google Scholar, PsycNet and ScienceDirect databases was conducted. Key phrases such as “Big Five” and “police officer” or “NEO-PI” and “public safety officer” were identified and analyzed to filter the material. Based on the studies using the application of the NEO-PI test in the recruitment of police officers, they provide significant data for psychological well-being, adaptability to work, and professional integrity. The use of the NEO-PI in the selection process of police candidates provides meaningful data to police structures and other law enforcement agencies about mental health, skills, work performance, and professional ethics. Based on applied studies and international practices, the use of personality tests such as NEO-PI in our country would be effective for candidates, the police organization, the Security Academy, and for research purposes.
The eukaryotic cell cycle is a finely orchestrated sequence of events ensuring accurate DNA replication and equal segregation of chromosomes. Dysregulation of this system lies at the heart of malignant transformation and cancer progression. Here, we provide an in-depth synthesis of the genetic, epigenetic, and biochemical alterations that affect cell cycle regulation in cancer, emphasising oncogene activation, tumour suppressor inactivation, and disruption of checkpoint fidelity. We explore the molecular mechanisms by which these perturbations foster replication stress, genomic instability, and aneuploidy. Furthermore, we review emerging therapeutic strategies that target these vulnerabilities, including inhibitors of cell cycle kinases, replication stress response mediators, and chromosomal segregation checkpoints. By integrating foundational discoveries with contemporary insights, this review elucidates the central role of cell cycle dynamics in oncogenesis and its therapeutic exploitation.
Physical health, mental health, and professional roles are deeply interconnected and influence one another. According to the biopsychosocial model it is important to understand and address human well-being holistically. Understanding this interconnectedness enhances professional competence, the overall well-being of health care professionals and empathy in practice. In this issue of the journal, there are mainly included the following topics of occupational challenges such as mental health in the workplace, professional development, personality and work-related strength and weaknesses.
In order to objectify the evaluation of ejaculate viscosity and make it accessible directly to married couples in home, intimate conditions, the author launched the production of a ceramic funnel with a volume of one milliliter, having an outlet channel diameter of 1.5 millimeters - "Alexey Lobkarev's Funnel". Objective: to develop Alexey Lobkarev's spermoviscosimetric nomogram based on statistical analysis of data obtained using Alexey Lobkarev's funnel, and to introduce the term "sperm viscosiflowmetry" and the methodology for its implementation into clinical practice. Materials and methods. The funnel is used by men according to the instructions: during the first minute after ejaculation, it is necessary to fill it with ejaculate, place it horizontally and note the time (in seconds) required for the funnel to empty. A statistical analysis of the time values was conducted. Results. The author suggests that the range from 657 seconds to 4041 seconds be considered the normal range of the Lobkarev’s parameter. Conclusions. The author developed Alexey Lobkarev's spermoviscosimetric nomogram. The term "sperm viscosiflowmetry" and the method for its implementation were also proposed.
Orphan diseases pose a significant problem for clinical medicine due to their rarity, clinical heterogeneity, and genetic variability. Diagnosis is particularly complex in pediatric dentistry, where oral manifestations may be the first or even the only signs of systemic pathology. This article presents two clinical cases of patients with rare genetic disorders – hereditary hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia and hypomelanosis of Ito – both accompanied by pronounced dental symptoms. The importance of early identification of oral signs, interdisciplinary collaboration, and genetic diagnostics is emphasized.
Acute pyelonephritis is one of the most common infectious-inflammatory kidney diseases in children. Its course is accompanied by damage to the renal tissue and the pelvic system, which can lead to serious complications, including the outcome in chronic kidney disease. Awareness of the regional features of clinical and laboratory manifestations of this pathology can help a differentiated approach in the diagnosis and therapy of acute pyelonephritis in children. The article presents the results of a retrospective analysis of 64 case histories of children who were hospitalized in the nephrological department of the State Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the Republic of Moldova "Children's Republican Clinical Hospital" in Saransk from 1.01.2022 to 1.08.2024 for acute pyelonephritis. It has been established that acute pyelonephritis in children of the Republic of Mordovia at the present stage is characterized by an increase in body temperature of the pyretic and febrile level, with a predominance of pain syndrome in the lumbar region, a combination of leukocyturia with insignificant hematuria in more than half of the cases, a predominance in the structure of E. coli microflora, impaired renal function by osmotic concentration, and an increase in kidney volume in more than a third of the subjects.
