Natasa Milic

Plain English
Researchers studied alternative treatments for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), focusing on plant-based antacid formulations. They found that different combinations of these formulations helped protect against gastric ulcers in mice, with one specific combination (formulation 4) showing improved results in healing gastric damage and speeding up gastric emptying. This research is important because it highlights potential new therapies for GERD that may have fewer side effects than current medications. Who this helps: Patients suffering from GERD.

Plain English
This study looked at a tree bark extract from Serbia to see if it can help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Researchers found that when this bark extract was given to diabetic rats, it lowered their blood sugar and improved their response to sugar compared to those not receiving the extract, especially when combined with diabetes medications metformin and gliclazide. These results are significant because they show that natural plant extracts might be beneficial in managing diabetes, although more research is needed to fully understand their effects and safety. Who this helps: Patients with diabetes.

Plain English
This study focused on a rare condition called a ruptured isolated dissecting abdominal aortic aneurysm, which can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms often resemble other conditions. The case involved a 39-year-old man who initially appeared to have kidney stones, but an emergency ultrasound revealed a serious problem: a dissecting abdominal aorta with an internal tear and bleeding, leading to emergency surgery. The findings underline the importance of using ultrasound for quick diagnosis, which can lead to timely treatment and improved patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with abdominal pain, as well as doctors diagnosing similar symptoms.

Plain English
This research paper examines a rare and severe condition called adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) in a young woman who had never given birth and was experiencing persistent mild abnormal pap smears alongside multiple types of HPV infections, but not the highest risk types (HPV 16 and 18). The study found that the diagnosis of AIS was confirmed after several procedures, underlining the challenges in detecting such glandular lesions, especially in younger patients with low-grade abnormalities. This matters because it highlights the limitations of current screening methods and the need for careful monitoring in similar cases. Who this helps: This helps patients who may be at risk of cervical glandular lesions, especially young women with abnormal screening results.

Plain English
This study looked at how organized cervical cancer screening programs affect the rates of cervical cancer cases and deaths among women. The findings show that women who regularly participate in these screening programs are 60% less likely to develop cervical cancer and 69% less likely to die from it. This is important because it highlights the effectiveness of regular screening in reducing both cancer incidence and mortality. Who this helps: This helps women by promoting the importance of regular cervical cancer screenings.

Plain English
This study looked at how psoriasis, a skin condition marked by inflammation, is linked to heart disease. Researchers found that patients with psoriasis had a higher risk of heart artery blockages, with remnant cholesterol acting as a strong indicator of these blockages. Specifically, those with coronary atherosclerosis had worse metabolic and lipid profiles, and longer-lasting psoriasis increased this risk. This highlights the need to consider how psoriasis can influence heart health and not only focus on standard risk factors. Who this helps: This helps patients with psoriasis and their doctors in understanding and managing heart disease risks.

Plain English
This study looked at the impact of heavy metals, specifically cadmium and mercury, on women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). They tested the urine of 50 women and found that 28% had cadmium and 60% had mercury in their systems. Higher levels of these metals were linked to lower hormone levels and issues such as more immature eggs, which could affect fertility outcomes. Who this helps: This information benefits women undergoing IVF and their healthcare providers by highlighting potential environmental risks that could impact fertility.

Plain English
This research paper describes a rare case of prostate cancer spreading to the lacrimal gland, which is responsible for tear production, in a 49-year-old man whose cancer had advanced significantly. The patient showed symptoms like drooping of the eyelid seven days before his examination, and imaging tests revealed that his lacrimal gland was enlarged. Sadly, despite treatment, he passed away six months later, highlighting the importance of recognizing unusual signs of cancer spread early to improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients dealing with advanced prostate cancer by raising awareness of rare symptoms indicating spread to the eye area.

Plain English
This study looked at chlorogenic acid, a compound found in Annurca apples, to see how it might help prevent colorectal cancer. Researchers used computer modeling to see how well chlorogenic acid interacts with proteins related to the growth of this cancer. They found that chlorogenic acid binds strongly to several important proteins, suggesting it could play a role in stopping cancer development. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for colorectal cancer.

Plain English
This study focused on improving how we extract beneficial compounds from ginger, a plant known for its health benefits. Researchers found that using a special natural solvent, made from malic acid and glucose, allowed them to effectively pull out 6-gingerol, a key compound in ginger, at a concentration of 1.90 mg per gram. This method not only produced a high-quality extract with strong antioxidant properties but also took just 2 minutes, making it quick and eco-friendly. Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for natural health remedies and the tea industry by improving ginger product quality.

Plain English
This study explored how certain compounds found in Chios mastiha resin could help treat metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a common liver condition with no approved medication. Researchers tested 16 compounds and found that some showed strong potential for impacting key receptors involved in MASLD, suggesting that using a mix of these compounds might be more effective than using just one. This matters because finding effective treatments could improve the lives of many people suffering from liver disease. Who this helps: Patients with liver disease.

Plain English
This study looked at whether the protein galectin-3 could indicate how severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is in patients. Researchers found that higher levels of galectin-3 were associated with more severe OSA; specifically, patients with an Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) over 15 events per hour had higher galectin-3 levels. This is important because it suggests that measuring galectin-3 could help identify patients at greater risk for health issues tied to severe OSA. Who this helps: This benefits patients with obstructive sleep apnea and their doctors.

Plain English
This study looked at risk factors for advanced lung cancer in 205 newly diagnosed patients, comparing those with small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to see if their lifestyle, environment, jobs, and diets played a role. The findings showed that most patients were heavy smokers, SCLC patients had a higher body mass index, and women experienced more stress than men. Notably, women with a specific type of NSCLC were more likely to be exposed to traffic pollution, while SCLC patients used coal for heating more often than other groups. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and public health officials understand factors contributing to different lung cancer types, which can lead to better prevention strategies.

Plain English
This study looked at how well the SUPERA stent works for treating a condition called femoropopliteal disease, which affects circulation in the legs. Out of 294 patients treated with the stent, most had good outcomes: the stent stayed open in 95.6% of patients after one month, but this number gradually decreased to 77.7% by two years. However, more complicated cases (defined as GLASS IV lesions) had worse results, with lower stent success rates and higher risks of serious complications. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with peripheral artery disease, particularly those facing complex leg artery blockages.

Plain English
This study looked at how common high blood pressure disorders during pregnancy, especially preeclampsia, are in women who develop peripartum cardiomyopathy (a type of heart failure right after childbirth) and how these conditions affect heart recovery and survival rates. The researchers found that about 36% of these women had hypertensive disorders, and those with preeclampsia were nearly twice as likely to fully recover heart function compared to those without (58% versus 33%). However, having these conditions did not significantly change the risk of dying within a year. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy and their healthcare providers by helping them understand potential outcomes.

Plain English
This study looked at the mental health of workers in long-term care facilities in Serbia, especially focusing on issues like anxiety, depression, and compassion fatigue that became more prevalent after the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the 300 workers surveyed, 53.3% showed symptoms of anxiety, 43.3% showed symptoms of depression, and 58.3% experienced burnout. These findings highlight the urgent need for support and interventions to improve the mental well-being of these essential workers. Who this helps: This helps long-term care workers and the patients they care for.

Plain English
This study examined the actual number of deaths in Belgrade, Serbia, due to COVID-19, finding that there were 3,175 excess deaths in 2020 and 8,321 in 2021 beyond what was expected. It revealed that the overall death rate increased by nearly 13% in 2020 and about 39% in 2021, primarily due to COVID-19, while younger populations saw fewer deaths compared to older groups. Understanding the true impact of COVID-19 on mortality is important for designing better health responses and policies. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and policymakers who need accurate data to improve health strategies.

Plain English
This study looked at a rare tumor called composite hemangioendothelioma (CHE) by examining a patient case and reviewing other cases reported in medical literature. They found that about 43% of patients did not experience recurrence of the disease after treatment, with a median recurrence-free survival time of 48 months. This information is important because it helps doctors understand the behavior of CHE better, leading to more accurate diagnoses and appropriate management for patients. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with composite hemangioendothelioma and their doctors.

Plain English
This study looked at children under three years old who suffered mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) and did not show any serious neurological symptoms. Researchers analyzed the CT scan results of 224 children and found that 46% had skull fractures—most of which were linear—and 13.8% had bleeding in the brain, while 7.6% had swelling. These results are important because they help doctors identify which young children are at higher risk for serious injuries and therefore may need a CT scan, which can expose them to harmful radiation. Who this helps: This benefits pediatricians and caregivers of young children with head injuries.

Plain English
This study examined 24 new chemical compounds, called succinimides, to see if they could help fight cancer, particularly in different types of tumor cells, including breast and lung cancers. The researchers found that these compounds slowed down the growth of cancer cells while also proving safe for normal cells. One compound, named D11, was especially effective against lung cancer cells, showing results similar to a commonly used chemotherapy drug, doxorubicin. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients and doctors looking for new treatment options.

Plain English
This study focused on creating a new tool to predict the risk of blood clots in patients with polycythemia vera, a condition that can lead to serious health issues. Researchers looked at data from 817 patients and found that 13.2% of them had experienced blood clots. They developed the ThromboVera Clinical Score, which categorizes patients into low, moderate, or high-risk groups based on specific health factors, showing that nearly 50% of those in the high-risk group will have a thrombotic event. Who this helps: This tool benefits doctors and healthcare providers by helping them identify patients who are at high risk for blood clots.

Plain English
This study looked at a virus called canine circovirus in wild animals, specifically red foxes and golden jackals, in northwestern Serbia. Researchers found that about 31.6% of the 98 animals tested had the virus, with jackals mostly carrying one type (genotype 4) and foxes primarily carrying a different type (genotype 5). This matters because understanding the virus's genetic diversity can help monitor its spread, potentially protecting both wildlife and domestic animals from outbreaks. Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians and wildlife conservationists working to manage animal health.

Plain English
This research studied how to extract useful antioxidants from orange peel waste left over from the tea industry using different temperatures and solvents. The best method found increased levels of the antioxidants hesperidin (662.82 mg/L) and naringin (62.37 mg/L), which could help in skin health and might even have anti-aging effects due to their potential to interact with important cellular receptors. The findings are important because they show that orange peel waste can be used effectively for making products that could benefit skin health, paving the way for more sustainable usage of food waste. Who this helps: This helps patients looking for natural skincare options and companies in the cosmetic industry.

Plain English
This study focused on patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) to see if certain tiny particles, called extracellular vesicles (EVs), could indicate a risk for blood clots, known as venous thromboembolism (VTE). Out of 62 patients, 11 (about 17.7%) developed VTE, and those with DLBCL had higher levels of several types of EVs compared to healthy individuals. However, the study found that these EVs were not linked to an increased risk of VTE or overall survival in the patients. Who this helps: This research helps doctors who treat patients with DLBCL by providing information about variance in EV levels, although it does not currently indicate a direct link to blood clot risks.

Plain English
This study looked at how machine learning can help predict whether pneumonia patients in the hospital might die. Researchers reviewed 16 studies involving over 313,000 patients and found that factors like age, oxygen levels, and albumin were important in determining risk. They then created a model using data from 343 patients that was 99% accurate in predicting outcomes, showing this technology outperformed standard methods. Who this helps: This benefits doctors treating pneumonia patients by providing better tools to assess risk and improve care.

Plain English
This study examined the leather from Australian saltwater crocodiles to understand how its structure changes based on different finishes, like matte and gloss, and to investigate skin blemishes. Researchers found that the thickness and quality of the leather varied significantly, including differences in collagen arrangement related to skin lesions. Specifically, they noted that some lesions showed signs that might be linked to infections, such as the Kunjin strain of West Nile virus. Who this helps: This research benefits crocodile farmers and leather manufacturers by improving product quality and disease management.

Plain English
This study looked at how a protective layer called the glycocalyx in blood vessels changes during pregnancy and how it relates to kidney health markers in women with normal pregnancies and those with preeclampsia. Researchers found that in healthy pregnancies, there was a rise in glycocalyx degradation and microvascular function decreased in the second trimester but returned to initial levels by the third trimester. Notably, women with preeclampsia had higher urinary markers of kidney injury throughout their pregnancies, indicating that the changes observed might signal early kidney stress before any symptoms appear. Who this helps: This research benefits expectant mothers, especially those at risk for preeclampsia, and their healthcare providers.

Plain English
This study examined sweet wormwood, a plant grown in Serbia, to understand its beneficial compounds and effects, including how well it can fight free radicals and its potential to slow down cancer cell growth. Researchers found that an ethanol extract of sweet wormwood was particularly effective at stopping harmful radicals at a concentration of just 5.17 micrograms per milliliter and contained a significant amount of chlorogenic acid. This is important because it highlights sweet wormwood’s strong antioxidant properties and its potential to help slow the growth of certain cancer cells, suggesting that it could be valuable in health and disease prevention. Who this helps: Patients with cancer and healthcare providers looking for natural treatment options.

Plain English
This research examined the effectiveness of flipped classrooms (FCs) in medical education, where students learn instructional content outside of class and use class time for discussions and hands-on activities. The study found that students taught through flipped classrooms scored better on knowledge tests (average score improvement of 0.90) and were more satisfied with their learning experience (score improvement of 0.82) compared to those in traditional classrooms. This matters because improving medical education can lead to better-prepared healthcare professionals. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and educators looking for more effective teaching methods.

Plain English
This study examined the heart-related risks that patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) face when taking the drug ibrutinib. Researchers looked at 79 CLL patients and found that nearly 29% developed heart problems, notably 10% experienced atrial fibrillation, which led to stopping treatment in over 60% of those affected. This is important because it shows that patients with existing heart issues are three times more likely to suffer from these side effects, indicating that careful heart monitoring is essential for CLL patients on ibrutinib. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, especially those with pre-existing heart conditions.

Plain English
Researchers studied bacteria from different areas in Greece to find new compounds that could help reduce skin aging. They tested 980 strains and discovered six promising molecules, including Cyclo (L-proline-L-tyrosine) and P-(acetylamino) benzoic acid, which showed ability to inhibit enzymes linked to skin aging and boost antioxidant activity. This work is important because it could lead to new skin treatments that help maintain youthful skin. Who this helps: Patients looking for effective anti-aging skincare solutions.

Plain English
Researchers studied the levels of certain small molecules called microRNAs in the blood of 11 patients with head and neck cancer who were receiving combination treatment of chemotherapy and radiation. They found that after treatment, a specific microRNA called miR-335-5p was present at lower levels and seemed to be linked with the cancer type's specific characteristics. Although no strong conclusions about survival outcomes could be drawn due to the small number of patients, identifying these microRNAs could help in predicting how well patients respond to treatment. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with head and neck cancer by potentially leading to better treatment personalization in the future.

Plain English
This study looked at how different levels of exercise affect people with a heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Researchers reviewed 14 studies involving nearly 10,500 patients and found that moderate exercise improved fitness levels, with peak oxygen consumption increasing by about 1.77 milliliters per kilogram per minute, while the risk of heart-related problems like abnormal heart rhythms remained largely the same. This matters because it shows that regular exercise can be safe and helpful for people with HCM, potentially improving their overall health without increasing risks. Who this helps: Patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Plain English
This study looked at a version of a questionnaire called the Southampton Dupuytren's Scoring Scheme (SDSS) to see how well it works for Serbian patients with Dupuytren's contracture, a hand condition that causes fingers to bend. The researchers found that this Serbian version of the SDSS is very reliable, scoring 0.914 for internal consistency, and works well to measure patients’ disabilities, correlating strongly with other assessments like the DASH questionnaire. This is important because it provides doctors and researchers with a useful tool to understand and address the needs of these patients more effectively. Who this helps: Patients with Dupuytren's contracture.

Plain English
This research looked at pancreatic hamartomas, rare and benign growths in the pancreas that can easily be mistaken for cancer. The study reviewed 77 documented cases and found that over half of the patients with these growths were men, averaging 59.5 years old, and many did not show symptoms. It demonstrated that specific imaging characteristics on MRI can help doctors correctly identify these lesions, potentially preventing unnecessary surgeries. Who this helps: This helps patients by reducing the risk of misdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures.

Plain English
This research paper looks at three natural compounds—baicalein, galangin, and isorhamnetin—that might help prevent and treat chronic liver diseases (CLDs) such as fatty liver and cirrhosis. The study finds these compounds can protect the liver by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are harmful to liver health. This is important because CLDs are becoming a major health issue, and better treatment options are needed. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic liver diseases and their doctors.

Plain English
This study looked at the effects of whey proteins on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a common condition affecting about 30% of adults and up to 75% of those with obesity. It found that whey proteins have beneficial properties that could help manage issues related to MASLD, including obesity, glucose and lipid metabolism, and liver damage. This matters because dietary changes, like adding whey protein, are practical and safe ways to improve health for people with MASLD. Who this helps: This helps patients with obesity and metabolic disorders.

Plain English
This study looked at how tiny gas bubbles, called gaseous microemboli (GME), affect patients after heart surgery. Researchers found that patients who experienced postoperative delirium (POD) had significantly more gas bubbles in their blood during surgery—over 5,000 bubbles compared to around 2,400 in those without POD. This matters because it highlights the importance of reducing these bubbles during surgery to help prevent mental confusion and improve recovery in heart surgery patients.

Plain English
This study looked at the levels of toxic metals in the urine of 63 patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer. It found that 44% of the patients had high levels of arsenic, over half had elevated nickel, and nearly 62% had cadmium in their urine, indicating these metals may be linked to lung cancer risk. Understanding these relationships is crucial for identifying environmental factors that contribute to lung cancer and could help guide prevention strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by highlighting potential environmental risks associated with lung cancer.

Plain English
The study focused on how universities in Europe teach environmental chemistry, aiming to improve educational programs for future scientists. Researchers held discussions and surveyed participants at a conference, finding a strong interest in combining practical training with academic studies to equip students with important skills for tackling environmental issues. This is important because developing knowledgeable professionals is key to creating effective solutions for sustainability. Who this helps: This helps students pursuing careers in environmental science and the planet as a whole.

Plain English
This study examined the effects of certain chemicals, specifically bisphenol A (BPA) and triclosan (TCS), which can disrupt hormonal functions in the body. Researchers found that some BPA substitutes and TCS derivatives might be even more harmful, as they showed a stronger ability to bind to important hormone receptors than BPA itself, with specific analogs found in receipts displaying concerning properties. This is important because it highlights potential dangers from these commonly found chemicals in our daily products, suggesting we need better safety regulations. Who this helps: This benefits patients and consumers by raising awareness about potential health risks from these chemicals.

Plain English
This study looked at 85 patients who had heart-related issues after recovering from COVID-19 and how these issues affected their quality of life. It found that 78.8% of patients showed signs of heart injury, with many experiencing symptoms like irregular heartbeat and fluid around the heart, which all contributed to a lower quality of life. Specifically, patients with fluid around the heart had a significantly worse quality of life, and those with heart problems lasting over 12 weeks were particularly affected. Who this helps: This research benefits patients recovering from COVID-19 who experience ongoing heart problems.

Plain English
This study looked at the Serbian version of the DASH questionnaire, which helps assess how well people use their arms, shoulders, and hands, particularly for those with disabilities. Researchers tested 297 patients and found that the questionnaire provides reliable and valid results for measuring physical function and symptoms, with excellent scores indicating it works well across different areas. This matters because it means medical professionals in Serbia can confidently use this tool to understand and treat patients with upper limb disabilities. Who this helps: This helps patients with hand and wrist disabilities and their doctors in Serbia.

Plain English
This study looked at the impact of having high blood pressure during pregnancy (known as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy) on women's heart health later in life. Researchers found that women with a history of these disorders developed coronary artery disease earlier, at an average age of 64.8 years compared to 71.8 years for those without such a history. They also had a higher chance of experiencing serious heart issues, including conditions where arteries are not blocked (known as MINOCA), with a two-fold increased risk. Who this helps: This information is crucial for doctors and patients, especially women who have had high blood pressure during pregnancy, to monitor and manage heart health proactively.

Plain English
This study looked at the connection between environmental pollution and the occurrence of multiple chronic illnesses in Serbia. Researchers found that 33.4% of participants had two or more chronic diseases, with higher levels of air pollutants like particulate matter and sulfur dioxide increasing the risk of multimorbidity. Additionally, water contamination raised the likelihood of having multiple conditions by up to 5.54%. This is important because it highlights how pollution can lead to worse health, particularly among certain groups in the population. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those living in areas with high pollution and chronic health issues.

Plain English
This study looked at how medical students feel about research and plagiarism across three universities, involving 793 students overall. It found that students generally had very positive attitudes towards research, with their enthusiasm correlated with age; those studying for a PhD experienced more anxiety about research but also held favorable views on plagiarism. These insights matter because they highlight the importance of educating medical students about research practices and ethics to improve healthcare quality. Who this helps: This helps medical students and educators by identifying areas to enhance training in research ethics.

Plain English
This study examined a type of Mediterranean sponge to identify the chemical compounds it contains using advanced techniques. Researchers found a total of 53 different compounds, including 22 that had never been reported before, specifically within the crambescin family, which are types of natural products. Understanding these compounds is important because they could lead to new discoveries in medicine, such as potential treatments derived from them. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and researchers developing new drugs.

Plain English
This study focused on a type of thyme found mainly in Northern Serbia, looking at how to best extract its beneficial compounds using a method called supercritical carbon dioxide extraction. Researchers found that using enzymatic pre-treatments improved the yield of these extracts, with a maximum yield of 3.89% when using the right conditions. The extracts contained high levels of compounds known for their potential health benefits, particularly in fighting liver cancer, making this plant a promising candidate for further medical research. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially those with liver cancer, and researchers exploring new treatment options.

Plain English
This study investigated the phenolic compounds found in three plants from the Boraginaceae family in Greece. Researchers discovered a total of 94 different phenolic compounds across the plants, with OL showing the highest antioxidant activity and OG having the greatest amount of flavonoids. These findings are important because they enhance our knowledge of the plants' potential health benefits, which could lead to new medicinal uses. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers looking for natural treatments.