Background: The support of close persons is a protective factor in the suicide epidemiology. The ... more Background: The support of close persons is a protective factor in the suicide epidemiology. The aim of this paper is to determine if there are differences between epidemiological characteristics of the suicides committed by married people in relation to singles. Methods: In order to determine epidemiological characteristics of suicide among married and single people in the southeastern Serbia 628 suicides committed from 1995 to 2002 among persons 20 years of age and over were analysed. To compare suicide rates between married and single persons χ² test was performed. Results: From 628 registered suicides, 188 were performed by women, and 440 by men. The average annual suicide rate among males was 24.1 per 100,000 and among females it was 9.9. The highest rates were among widowed (139.0) and divorced men (63.2). The highest risk factor for suicide was to be widowed (men: RR=8.35; women: RR=2.75). The suicide trend among women, both married and single has been declining, whilst among males it has been on significant increase. Seasonality of suicides, weekly and daily distribution had a small influence on the epidemiological characteristics of suicides. Married women committed more suicides by poisoning than single women (p=0.02). In both groups, the most frequent way is hanging. Conclusion: Though marital status plays important role in an increasing rates of suicide, time and the way of its happening, this role is not decisive. Single people are very vulnerable and the time and way of suicide show that their reasons are more serious than among married ones.
The aim of our investigation was to assess HIV/AIDS-related professional risk, knowledge, attitud... more The aim of our investigation was to assess HIV/AIDS-related professional risk, knowledge, attitude and practice of health care workers in Niš. A cross-sectional study of health personnel from Primary Health Centre, Clinical Medical Centre and Dental Clinic in Niš was performed. The data were collected by an anonymous questionnaire. Mantel-Haenszel χ 2 testing and multiple logistic regression analysis were applied. Results show that 89% of health personnel perceived high professional risk of acquiring HIV infection. The risk perception of acquiring HIV infections was higher among those who were frequently exposed to patients' blood and other body fluids (OR=10.1 95% CI=3.1-32.5), and those who had treated HIV-positive patients (OR=3.0 95% CI=1.0-8.8). The majority of respondents had insufficient knowledge about the modes of HIV transmission. Nearly two thirds of health personnel agreed that every hospitalized patient should be tested for HIV, and more than four fifths of them agreed that their personal protection was more important than the confidentiality of patient's HIV/AIDS status. Twenty nine percent of health personnel use adequate protection during their daily work with patients. These findings indicated a need for urgent educational and training initiatives of HIV and AIDS for all categories of health care workers.
The aim of the paper was to study the relationship between dietary intake of fruit and vegetable ... more The aim of the paper was to study the relationship between dietary intake of fruit and vegetable intake and the risk of coronary heart disease. We used data from a case-control study, conducted from 2001 to 2003, among 290 randomly selected cases (mean age 59.98 ± 10.03 years) with first event of an acute coronary syndrome and 290 selected paired controls by sex, age and region (mean age 59.43 ± 10.10 years), admitted to the same hospitals as cases without any suspicion of coronary disease. Using questionnaires, we assessed fruit and vegetable intake and estimated odds ratio of developing coronary heart disease by the intake. The benefit of fruit or vegetable consumption increased proportionally by the number of servings consumed (p for trend < 0.0001). Those in the upper tertile of fruit consumption (≥ 5 items/day) had 60% lower risk for coronary heart disease (odds ratio = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.35-0.89, p < 0.05), when compared to those in the lowest tertile (<1 item/day). Consumption of vegetable ≥3 items/day was associated with 70% lower risk of coronary heart disease (OR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.09-0.66, p < 0.05), compared to subjects who did not consume vegetables. In agreement with previous studies, we found an inverse relation between vegetable and fruit intake and coronary heart risk. Consumption of fruits and vegetables seemed to provide significant protection against coronary heart disease.
The aim of this study is to find association between some groups of occupational stressors and se... more The aim of this study is to find association between some groups of occupational stressors and serum lipids and glucose concentrations in professional drivers in road traffic. The study included 417 male professional drivers (162 inter city bus drivers, 36 suburban bus drivers, 33 city bus drivers, 81 truck drivers, 71 official car drivers and 34 professional taxi drivers). Occupational stressors were identified and total occupational stress index score was measured by standardized questionnaire authorized by Karen Belkic. Occupational stressors were divided into seven groups (underload, high demand, strictness, extrinsic time pressure, noxious exposures, avoidance and conflict). Serum glucose and lipids concentrations (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triacylglycerols) were measured in study group of drivers. Maximal total OSI values were achieved in group of professional truck drivers. The highest values of serum glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triacylglycerols and the lowest values of serum HDL cholesterol were found at professional truck drivers. With the increase of occupational stress index, there is an increase of the serum glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triacylglycerols concentration in the exposed group of drivers. Specific analytes thresholds′ level of occupational stress index exists.
Cilj rada bio je ocena sanitarno-higijenskih uslova pripreme i distribucije obroka u Narodnoj kuh... more Cilj rada bio je ocena sanitarno-higijenskih uslova pripreme i distribucije obroka u Narodnoj kuhinji u Nišu, kao i nutritivne vrednosti obroka, radi procene rizika po zdravlje korisnika. Sanitarno-higijenski uslovi kontrolisani su lokalnom inspekcijom, kao i bakteriološkom analizom briseva. Energetska vrednost i hemijska struktura obroka određivani su standardnim fizičko-hemijskim metodama, a izračunata je i energetska gustina obroka. Istraživanje se odnosi na period od 2002. do 2005. godine. Sanitarno-higijensko stanje u objektu nije bilo zadovoljavajuće, pre svega zbog velikog procenta bakteriološki neispravnih briseva. Od ukupnog broja pregledanih briseva (n = 970) u navedenom periodu, 13,4% bilo je bakteriološki neispravno. Energetska vrednost obroka bila je zadovoljavajuća (1157-1564 kcal, odnosno 4837-6581 kJ), a zabeležen je stalni pad hranljive vrednosti sa godinama ispitivanja. Hemijska struktura obroka je bila uglavnom odgovarajuća, što znači da je obrok bio dobro planiran. Energetska gustina obroka bila je srednje visoka i kretala se od 1,18 do 1,42 kcal/g. Zaključak je da dalje kontinuirano zdravstveno prosvećenje zaposlenog osoblja, uz redovnu sanitarno higijensku kontrolu, nema alternativu, a sve u cilju postizanja potpune društvene funkcije Narodne kuhinje i zaštite zdravlja korisnika.
The aim of this study is to indicate the significance of air quality monitoring and to determine ... more The aim of this study is to indicate the significance of air quality monitoring and to determine the air quality fields for the assessment of air pollution health effects, with special attention to risk population. Radial basis function network was used for air quality index mapping. Between 1991 and 2005, on the territory of Nis, several epidemiological studies were performed on risk groups (pre-school children, school children, pregnant women and persons older than 65). The total number of subjects was 5837. The exposed group comprised individuals living in the areas with unhealthy AQI, while the control group comprised individuals living in city areas with good or moderate AQI. It was determined that even relatively low levels of air pollution had impact on respiratory system and the occurrence of anaemia, allergy and skin symptoms.
Job satisfaction is very important factor of productivity and job quality, especially in health c... more Job satisfaction is very important factor of productivity and job quality, especially in health care workers. The aim of the paper was to assess some of the parameters of job satisfaction among heath care workers. The pilot cross-secional study conducted in the Clinical Center Nis from February to June 2007. Instrument for investigation was MM-40 EA questionnaire (Örebo University, Sweden). Interviews of physicians and nurses were conducted by the Faculty of Medicine students. 770 health care workers (209 male, 561 female) were polled, mean age 40.65±9.82 years. Most of the participants thought that their work was interesting and stimulating, but that they worked too hard. The health care workers were not satisfied with their influence on the work organization, as well as on the working environment conditions. More than half of participants had very good experiences with teamwork. The investigations in this field should have high priority in the country in transition.
To describe and compare mortality and population changes in the Roma and non-Roma population in S... more To describe and compare mortality and population changes in the Roma and non-Roma population in Serbia in 2002 and 2005. The number of cases of death were obtained from the 2002 and 2005 Mortality Database and population data from the Population Census 2002. Standardized sex specific rates of non-traumatic and traumatic mortality in 2002 and 2005 were calculated in relation to the European standard population. We presented population pyramid and aging index for both populations in 2002 and compared sex specific standardized traumatic and non-traumatic mortality rates and the average age of death for 2002 and 2005. The causes of death were coded according to the 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) groups, and the proportional mortalities in the year 2002 and 2005 were compared between the Roma and non-Roma population using chi2 test. Standardized mortality rates were higher in the Roma than in the general population. Non-traumatic mortality rate in ...
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a diseases associated with indoor air quality accompanied with va... more Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a diseases associated with indoor air quality accompanied with various nonspecific symptoms that occur in the occupants of a building. This syndrome has been the subject of serious scientific investigation in the past years, but there are not enough studies in transition countries.The aim of this study was to investigate the symptoms of the syndrome among employees in the commercial centers in Niš, Serbia.MethodsThe cross-sectional study was conducted amongst employees of two commercial centers in the city of Niš, Serbia. In this study the MM-040EA questionnaire was used with two additional questions and 1152 employed were interviewed during the period of three years. Data extracted from the questionnaires were analyzed using the chi-square test and binary logistic regression.ResultsThe prevalence of SBS was high. The most common symptoms reported by employees included high room temperature (74.9%), stuffy air (73.5%), and dry air (75.7%), while rare ...
The purpose was to study the effect of long-term exposure to ambient air pollution on the prevale... more The purpose was to study the effect of long-term exposure to ambient air pollution on the prevalence of dry eye disease (DED) among women. A total of 1356 women, who were recruited in two locations, with different levels of black smoke and sulphur dioxide from the city of Nis were examined to establish the prevalence of DED. A 13-point questionnaire, Tear film break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer's test and Rose Bengal test were used to diagnose dry eye. The univariate and multivariate regression analysis were used to investigate the relationship between long-tem exposure of air pollution and DED adjusted for potential confounding factors (age, passive smoking, keeping of pets, home dampness and use of biomass fuels). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated significant associations between the presence of DED and exposure to outdoor air pollution (OR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.47-2.52, p<0.001) and passive smoking (OR = 1.13, 95%CI 1.04-1.64, p<0.001). According to our study, exposure to outdoor air pollution of black smoke and sulphur dioxide appear to have a very significant effect on the occurrence of DED at women.
The aim of this research was to determine the interdependence between calcium and magnesium in dr... more The aim of this research was to determine the interdependence between calcium and magnesium in drinking water, and the morbidity from ischemic heart disease (IHD). A structured epidemiological questionnaire was used to collect information on the amount of drinking water consumed by 200 respondents in areas with the highest and lowest values of Ca and Mg. In addition, information on various risk factors for IHD (smoking, physical activity) was assembled for the same population group. In order to determine the average daily intake of Mg and Ca among the respondents, we ran a semi-quantitative questionnaire on frequency of food intake over the course of the previous year. The correlation between risk factors was assessed using linear regression and Pearson's coefficient of linear correlation. Finally, ROC analysis was employed to determine the minimal protective values for Mg and Ca. Despite the daily intake of drinking water in the respondents averaging less than 2l, a negative correlation between Ca and Mg from drinking water and risk factors for IHD were still observed. The analysis concluded that from the standpoint of preventing IHD, it would be necessary to have a daily intake of Ca and Mg of at least 75 mg Ca and 7 mg of Mg consumed through drinking water.
Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly, 2012
In the last few years, numerous epidemiological studies have brought new evidence on the effects ... more In the last few years, numerous epidemiological studies have brought new evidence on the effects of particle air pollution on cardiovascular hospitalisations. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between ambient concentrations of black smoke (BS) and daily total non-accidental cardiovascular hospitalisations in elderly in Niš. The daily mean number of all age cardiovascular hospitalisations was 12.46±6.26 (0 to 38) and 5.92±3.29 (0 to 20) among persons 65 years of age or older. Daily measurements for black smoke (BS) and SO 2 , as well as the daily number of cardiovascular hospitalisations among persons 65 years of age or older, have been collected. BS (μg/m 3) was measured by the refractometry method and SO 2 (µg/m 3) was measured by spectrophotometry. A generalized linear model extending Poisson regression was applied. The effects of time trend, seasonal variations, day of week, temperature, relative humidity and barometric pressure were adjusted. Estimated OR of unipolutant regression model for person ≥65 yrs was 1.00135 (95% CI: 0.97835 to 1.02489), and the estimated OR of bipolutant model was 1.00975 (95% CI: 0.99457 to 1.02394) per 10 µg/m 3. The results do not support findings from previous studies that had shown an increase in the number of cardiovascular hospitalisation in the elderly in association with black smoke.
Introduction. The number of people who are considered to be either overweight or obese continues ... more Introduction. The number of people who are considered to be either overweight or obese continues to increase, worldwide. The aim of the paper was to determine the influence of overweight on the quality of life of health workers. Material and methods. The study of prevalence was used. We observed 108 health workers both men and women from the Institute for Public Health in the City of Nis. The questionnaire Obesity Related Well-Being 97 (ORWELL97) was applied in all health workers. Results. A hundred and five health workers filled in the ORWELL97 questionnaire. There were 40% of men and 60% of women; 72% of them were married and 28% of them were single; 68% were from the urban area and 32% were from the rural area. The average age was 29.5 (SD=3.2) and the average value of BMI was 25.4 (SD=4,0). There were 54 (48.6%) health workers having normal weight and there were 51(5.4%) who were considered overweight. No one was obese among them. The difference between the average sum of scores...
Background/Aim. There are no recommendations for the dietary intake of carbohydrates compared wit... more Background/Aim. There are no recommendations for the dietary intake of carbohydrates compared with the dietary intake of lipids in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD). The aim of the study was to assess the influence of high dietary glycemic load (GL) on the occurrence of IHD. Methods. The case-control study was carried out between 2003 and 2004. The study group consisted of 290 patients with IHD hospitalized in the Clinical Center in the town of Nis. There were 290 controls admitted to the same medical institution as cases for a wide spectrum of acute conditions unrelated to known or potential risk factors for IHD. The data about risk factors for IHD were collected by the epidemiological questionnaire. The data about nutrition were collected by administered food frequency questionnaire. A total GL for each patient was calculated by the international tables and the standard for the glycemic index (GI) was used. Standard anthropometric measurements were applied. A total level ...
The aim of our study was (1) to test the possibilities of standardized questionnaires for burnout... more The aim of our study was (1) to test the possibilities of standardized questionnaires for burnout, quality of life, and work ability in Serbia by investigating interactions of these phenomena in food manufacturing workers in Serbia; and (2) to determine possible preventive measures. The study enrolled 489 food manufacturing workers in the region of Niš (Serbia) during the period from January 2008 to February 2009. We included three standardized questionnaires: for burnout (CBI), quality of life (ComQoL-A5), and the work ability index (WAI) in the Serbian language. The results of our study indicate high scores in personal (60.0) and work burnout (67.9), lower scores for objective (66.2%SM) and subjective quality of life in enrolled subjects (69.2%SM), and an excellent work ability index in most workers (65.8%). The questionnaires tested are reliable instruments in the Serbian region. Burnout, quality of life, and work ability are significantly interrelated categories in food manufact...
Background/Aim. Numerous epidemiological studies have reported effects of air pollution on the pr... more Background/Aim. Numerous epidemiological studies have reported effects of air pollution on the prevalence of respiratory diseases in children. Association between air pollution and hospital admissions for respiratory diseases among children has not been investigated in our country yet. The purpose of this study was to examine impact of ordinary air pollutants (sulfur dioxide and black smoke) in concentrations regularly reported during monitoring on hospital admissions for respiratory diseases among children. Methods. We compared daily data of sulphur dioxide and black smoke concentrations in air with data of daily hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in children 0-14 years of age in two periods (1992-1995 and 2002-2005) in Nis, Serbia. Results. There were totally 4 283 and 3 842 hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in children in the first (1992-1995), and the second (2002-2005) period observed, respectively. The highest number of hospital admissions was registered i...
The treatment of eating disorders demands a comprehensive medical approach, where a dietitian has... more The treatment of eating disorders demands a comprehensive medical approach, where a dietitian has an important role, primarily due to numerous instances of malnutrition. The objective of this paper was to recapitulate the research findings and clinical evidence which show the importance of medical nutrition therapy in the treatment of eating disorders; furthermore, they present significant guidelines for clinical practice. The research methods have entailed a thorough exploration of literature available at research data bases. The results of the research studies published so far have unambiguously pointed out that, when eating disorders are concerned, there is an urgent need for a diet therapy in order for the patient to restore the appropriate body weight as well as normal eating habits. On the one hand, certain authors suggest returning to normal nutritional habits immediately, whereas, on the other hand, certain others advocate a diet therapy program, that is, a gradual process o...
Background: The support of close persons is a protective factor in the suicide epidemiology. The ... more Background: The support of close persons is a protective factor in the suicide epidemiology. The aim of this paper is to determine if there are differences between epidemiological characteristics of the suicides committed by married people in relation to singles. Methods: In order to determine epidemiological characteristics of suicide among married and single people in the southeastern Serbia 628 suicides committed from 1995 to 2002 among persons 20 years of age and over were analysed. To compare suicide rates between married and single persons χ² test was performed. Results: From 628 registered suicides, 188 were performed by women, and 440 by men. The average annual suicide rate among males was 24.1 per 100,000 and among females it was 9.9. The highest rates were among widowed (139.0) and divorced men (63.2). The highest risk factor for suicide was to be widowed (men: RR=8.35; women: RR=2.75). The suicide trend among women, both married and single has been declining, whilst among males it has been on significant increase. Seasonality of suicides, weekly and daily distribution had a small influence on the epidemiological characteristics of suicides. Married women committed more suicides by poisoning than single women (p=0.02). In both groups, the most frequent way is hanging. Conclusion: Though marital status plays important role in an increasing rates of suicide, time and the way of its happening, this role is not decisive. Single people are very vulnerable and the time and way of suicide show that their reasons are more serious than among married ones.
The aim of our investigation was to assess HIV/AIDS-related professional risk, knowledge, attitud... more The aim of our investigation was to assess HIV/AIDS-related professional risk, knowledge, attitude and practice of health care workers in Niš. A cross-sectional study of health personnel from Primary Health Centre, Clinical Medical Centre and Dental Clinic in Niš was performed. The data were collected by an anonymous questionnaire. Mantel-Haenszel χ 2 testing and multiple logistic regression analysis were applied. Results show that 89% of health personnel perceived high professional risk of acquiring HIV infection. The risk perception of acquiring HIV infections was higher among those who were frequently exposed to patients' blood and other body fluids (OR=10.1 95% CI=3.1-32.5), and those who had treated HIV-positive patients (OR=3.0 95% CI=1.0-8.8). The majority of respondents had insufficient knowledge about the modes of HIV transmission. Nearly two thirds of health personnel agreed that every hospitalized patient should be tested for HIV, and more than four fifths of them agreed that their personal protection was more important than the confidentiality of patient's HIV/AIDS status. Twenty nine percent of health personnel use adequate protection during their daily work with patients. These findings indicated a need for urgent educational and training initiatives of HIV and AIDS for all categories of health care workers.
The aim of the paper was to study the relationship between dietary intake of fruit and vegetable ... more The aim of the paper was to study the relationship between dietary intake of fruit and vegetable intake and the risk of coronary heart disease. We used data from a case-control study, conducted from 2001 to 2003, among 290 randomly selected cases (mean age 59.98 ± 10.03 years) with first event of an acute coronary syndrome and 290 selected paired controls by sex, age and region (mean age 59.43 ± 10.10 years), admitted to the same hospitals as cases without any suspicion of coronary disease. Using questionnaires, we assessed fruit and vegetable intake and estimated odds ratio of developing coronary heart disease by the intake. The benefit of fruit or vegetable consumption increased proportionally by the number of servings consumed (p for trend < 0.0001). Those in the upper tertile of fruit consumption (≥ 5 items/day) had 60% lower risk for coronary heart disease (odds ratio = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.35-0.89, p < 0.05), when compared to those in the lowest tertile (<1 item/day). Consumption of vegetable ≥3 items/day was associated with 70% lower risk of coronary heart disease (OR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.09-0.66, p < 0.05), compared to subjects who did not consume vegetables. In agreement with previous studies, we found an inverse relation between vegetable and fruit intake and coronary heart risk. Consumption of fruits and vegetables seemed to provide significant protection against coronary heart disease.
The aim of this study is to find association between some groups of occupational stressors and se... more The aim of this study is to find association between some groups of occupational stressors and serum lipids and glucose concentrations in professional drivers in road traffic. The study included 417 male professional drivers (162 inter city bus drivers, 36 suburban bus drivers, 33 city bus drivers, 81 truck drivers, 71 official car drivers and 34 professional taxi drivers). Occupational stressors were identified and total occupational stress index score was measured by standardized questionnaire authorized by Karen Belkic. Occupational stressors were divided into seven groups (underload, high demand, strictness, extrinsic time pressure, noxious exposures, avoidance and conflict). Serum glucose and lipids concentrations (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triacylglycerols) were measured in study group of drivers. Maximal total OSI values were achieved in group of professional truck drivers. The highest values of serum glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triacylglycerols and the lowest values of serum HDL cholesterol were found at professional truck drivers. With the increase of occupational stress index, there is an increase of the serum glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triacylglycerols concentration in the exposed group of drivers. Specific analytes thresholds′ level of occupational stress index exists.
Cilj rada bio je ocena sanitarno-higijenskih uslova pripreme i distribucije obroka u Narodnoj kuh... more Cilj rada bio je ocena sanitarno-higijenskih uslova pripreme i distribucije obroka u Narodnoj kuhinji u Nišu, kao i nutritivne vrednosti obroka, radi procene rizika po zdravlje korisnika. Sanitarno-higijenski uslovi kontrolisani su lokalnom inspekcijom, kao i bakteriološkom analizom briseva. Energetska vrednost i hemijska struktura obroka određivani su standardnim fizičko-hemijskim metodama, a izračunata je i energetska gustina obroka. Istraživanje se odnosi na period od 2002. do 2005. godine. Sanitarno-higijensko stanje u objektu nije bilo zadovoljavajuće, pre svega zbog velikog procenta bakteriološki neispravnih briseva. Od ukupnog broja pregledanih briseva (n = 970) u navedenom periodu, 13,4% bilo je bakteriološki neispravno. Energetska vrednost obroka bila je zadovoljavajuća (1157-1564 kcal, odnosno 4837-6581 kJ), a zabeležen je stalni pad hranljive vrednosti sa godinama ispitivanja. Hemijska struktura obroka je bila uglavnom odgovarajuća, što znači da je obrok bio dobro planiran. Energetska gustina obroka bila je srednje visoka i kretala se od 1,18 do 1,42 kcal/g. Zaključak je da dalje kontinuirano zdravstveno prosvećenje zaposlenog osoblja, uz redovnu sanitarno higijensku kontrolu, nema alternativu, a sve u cilju postizanja potpune društvene funkcije Narodne kuhinje i zaštite zdravlja korisnika.
The aim of this study is to indicate the significance of air quality monitoring and to determine ... more The aim of this study is to indicate the significance of air quality monitoring and to determine the air quality fields for the assessment of air pollution health effects, with special attention to risk population. Radial basis function network was used for air quality index mapping. Between 1991 and 2005, on the territory of Nis, several epidemiological studies were performed on risk groups (pre-school children, school children, pregnant women and persons older than 65). The total number of subjects was 5837. The exposed group comprised individuals living in the areas with unhealthy AQI, while the control group comprised individuals living in city areas with good or moderate AQI. It was determined that even relatively low levels of air pollution had impact on respiratory system and the occurrence of anaemia, allergy and skin symptoms.
Job satisfaction is very important factor of productivity and job quality, especially in health c... more Job satisfaction is very important factor of productivity and job quality, especially in health care workers. The aim of the paper was to assess some of the parameters of job satisfaction among heath care workers. The pilot cross-secional study conducted in the Clinical Center Nis from February to June 2007. Instrument for investigation was MM-40 EA questionnaire (Örebo University, Sweden). Interviews of physicians and nurses were conducted by the Faculty of Medicine students. 770 health care workers (209 male, 561 female) were polled, mean age 40.65±9.82 years. Most of the participants thought that their work was interesting and stimulating, but that they worked too hard. The health care workers were not satisfied with their influence on the work organization, as well as on the working environment conditions. More than half of participants had very good experiences with teamwork. The investigations in this field should have high priority in the country in transition.
To describe and compare mortality and population changes in the Roma and non-Roma population in S... more To describe and compare mortality and population changes in the Roma and non-Roma population in Serbia in 2002 and 2005. The number of cases of death were obtained from the 2002 and 2005 Mortality Database and population data from the Population Census 2002. Standardized sex specific rates of non-traumatic and traumatic mortality in 2002 and 2005 were calculated in relation to the European standard population. We presented population pyramid and aging index for both populations in 2002 and compared sex specific standardized traumatic and non-traumatic mortality rates and the average age of death for 2002 and 2005. The causes of death were coded according to the 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) groups, and the proportional mortalities in the year 2002 and 2005 were compared between the Roma and non-Roma population using chi2 test. Standardized mortality rates were higher in the Roma than in the general population. Non-traumatic mortality rate in ...
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a diseases associated with indoor air quality accompanied with va... more Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a diseases associated with indoor air quality accompanied with various nonspecific symptoms that occur in the occupants of a building. This syndrome has been the subject of serious scientific investigation in the past years, but there are not enough studies in transition countries.The aim of this study was to investigate the symptoms of the syndrome among employees in the commercial centers in Niš, Serbia.MethodsThe cross-sectional study was conducted amongst employees of two commercial centers in the city of Niš, Serbia. In this study the MM-040EA questionnaire was used with two additional questions and 1152 employed were interviewed during the period of three years. Data extracted from the questionnaires were analyzed using the chi-square test and binary logistic regression.ResultsThe prevalence of SBS was high. The most common symptoms reported by employees included high room temperature (74.9%), stuffy air (73.5%), and dry air (75.7%), while rare ...
The purpose was to study the effect of long-term exposure to ambient air pollution on the prevale... more The purpose was to study the effect of long-term exposure to ambient air pollution on the prevalence of dry eye disease (DED) among women. A total of 1356 women, who were recruited in two locations, with different levels of black smoke and sulphur dioxide from the city of Nis were examined to establish the prevalence of DED. A 13-point questionnaire, Tear film break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer's test and Rose Bengal test were used to diagnose dry eye. The univariate and multivariate regression analysis were used to investigate the relationship between long-tem exposure of air pollution and DED adjusted for potential confounding factors (age, passive smoking, keeping of pets, home dampness and use of biomass fuels). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated significant associations between the presence of DED and exposure to outdoor air pollution (OR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.47-2.52, p<0.001) and passive smoking (OR = 1.13, 95%CI 1.04-1.64, p<0.001). According to our study, exposure to outdoor air pollution of black smoke and sulphur dioxide appear to have a very significant effect on the occurrence of DED at women.
The aim of this research was to determine the interdependence between calcium and magnesium in dr... more The aim of this research was to determine the interdependence between calcium and magnesium in drinking water, and the morbidity from ischemic heart disease (IHD). A structured epidemiological questionnaire was used to collect information on the amount of drinking water consumed by 200 respondents in areas with the highest and lowest values of Ca and Mg. In addition, information on various risk factors for IHD (smoking, physical activity) was assembled for the same population group. In order to determine the average daily intake of Mg and Ca among the respondents, we ran a semi-quantitative questionnaire on frequency of food intake over the course of the previous year. The correlation between risk factors was assessed using linear regression and Pearson's coefficient of linear correlation. Finally, ROC analysis was employed to determine the minimal protective values for Mg and Ca. Despite the daily intake of drinking water in the respondents averaging less than 2l, a negative correlation between Ca and Mg from drinking water and risk factors for IHD were still observed. The analysis concluded that from the standpoint of preventing IHD, it would be necessary to have a daily intake of Ca and Mg of at least 75 mg Ca and 7 mg of Mg consumed through drinking water.
Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly, 2012
In the last few years, numerous epidemiological studies have brought new evidence on the effects ... more In the last few years, numerous epidemiological studies have brought new evidence on the effects of particle air pollution on cardiovascular hospitalisations. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between ambient concentrations of black smoke (BS) and daily total non-accidental cardiovascular hospitalisations in elderly in Niš. The daily mean number of all age cardiovascular hospitalisations was 12.46±6.26 (0 to 38) and 5.92±3.29 (0 to 20) among persons 65 years of age or older. Daily measurements for black smoke (BS) and SO 2 , as well as the daily number of cardiovascular hospitalisations among persons 65 years of age or older, have been collected. BS (μg/m 3) was measured by the refractometry method and SO 2 (µg/m 3) was measured by spectrophotometry. A generalized linear model extending Poisson regression was applied. The effects of time trend, seasonal variations, day of week, temperature, relative humidity and barometric pressure were adjusted. Estimated OR of unipolutant regression model for person ≥65 yrs was 1.00135 (95% CI: 0.97835 to 1.02489), and the estimated OR of bipolutant model was 1.00975 (95% CI: 0.99457 to 1.02394) per 10 µg/m 3. The results do not support findings from previous studies that had shown an increase in the number of cardiovascular hospitalisation in the elderly in association with black smoke.
Introduction. The number of people who are considered to be either overweight or obese continues ... more Introduction. The number of people who are considered to be either overweight or obese continues to increase, worldwide. The aim of the paper was to determine the influence of overweight on the quality of life of health workers. Material and methods. The study of prevalence was used. We observed 108 health workers both men and women from the Institute for Public Health in the City of Nis. The questionnaire Obesity Related Well-Being 97 (ORWELL97) was applied in all health workers. Results. A hundred and five health workers filled in the ORWELL97 questionnaire. There were 40% of men and 60% of women; 72% of them were married and 28% of them were single; 68% were from the urban area and 32% were from the rural area. The average age was 29.5 (SD=3.2) and the average value of BMI was 25.4 (SD=4,0). There were 54 (48.6%) health workers having normal weight and there were 51(5.4%) who were considered overweight. No one was obese among them. The difference between the average sum of scores...
Background/Aim. There are no recommendations for the dietary intake of carbohydrates compared wit... more Background/Aim. There are no recommendations for the dietary intake of carbohydrates compared with the dietary intake of lipids in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD). The aim of the study was to assess the influence of high dietary glycemic load (GL) on the occurrence of IHD. Methods. The case-control study was carried out between 2003 and 2004. The study group consisted of 290 patients with IHD hospitalized in the Clinical Center in the town of Nis. There were 290 controls admitted to the same medical institution as cases for a wide spectrum of acute conditions unrelated to known or potential risk factors for IHD. The data about risk factors for IHD were collected by the epidemiological questionnaire. The data about nutrition were collected by administered food frequency questionnaire. A total GL for each patient was calculated by the international tables and the standard for the glycemic index (GI) was used. Standard anthropometric measurements were applied. A total level ...
The aim of our study was (1) to test the possibilities of standardized questionnaires for burnout... more The aim of our study was (1) to test the possibilities of standardized questionnaires for burnout, quality of life, and work ability in Serbia by investigating interactions of these phenomena in food manufacturing workers in Serbia; and (2) to determine possible preventive measures. The study enrolled 489 food manufacturing workers in the region of Niš (Serbia) during the period from January 2008 to February 2009. We included three standardized questionnaires: for burnout (CBI), quality of life (ComQoL-A5), and the work ability index (WAI) in the Serbian language. The results of our study indicate high scores in personal (60.0) and work burnout (67.9), lower scores for objective (66.2%SM) and subjective quality of life in enrolled subjects (69.2%SM), and an excellent work ability index in most workers (65.8%). The questionnaires tested are reliable instruments in the Serbian region. Burnout, quality of life, and work ability are significantly interrelated categories in food manufact...
Background/Aim. Numerous epidemiological studies have reported effects of air pollution on the pr... more Background/Aim. Numerous epidemiological studies have reported effects of air pollution on the prevalence of respiratory diseases in children. Association between air pollution and hospital admissions for respiratory diseases among children has not been investigated in our country yet. The purpose of this study was to examine impact of ordinary air pollutants (sulfur dioxide and black smoke) in concentrations regularly reported during monitoring on hospital admissions for respiratory diseases among children. Methods. We compared daily data of sulphur dioxide and black smoke concentrations in air with data of daily hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in children 0-14 years of age in two periods (1992-1995 and 2002-2005) in Nis, Serbia. Results. There were totally 4 283 and 3 842 hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in children in the first (1992-1995), and the second (2002-2005) period observed, respectively. The highest number of hospital admissions was registered i...
The treatment of eating disorders demands a comprehensive medical approach, where a dietitian has... more The treatment of eating disorders demands a comprehensive medical approach, where a dietitian has an important role, primarily due to numerous instances of malnutrition. The objective of this paper was to recapitulate the research findings and clinical evidence which show the importance of medical nutrition therapy in the treatment of eating disorders; furthermore, they present significant guidelines for clinical practice. The research methods have entailed a thorough exploration of literature available at research data bases. The results of the research studies published so far have unambiguously pointed out that, when eating disorders are concerned, there is an urgent need for a diet therapy in order for the patient to restore the appropriate body weight as well as normal eating habits. On the one hand, certain authors suggest returning to normal nutritional habits immediately, whereas, on the other hand, certain others advocate a diet therapy program, that is, a gradual process o...
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