Dejana Nikitovic | University of Calgary (original) (raw)
Papers by Dejana Nikitovic
“We Aren’t Meant to Go Through the Hardest Parts of Our Lives Alone”: Family Experience With Restricted PICU Presence During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Critical Care Explorations
CONTEXT: PICUs across Canada restricted family presence (RFP) in response to the COVID-19 pandemi... more CONTEXT: PICUs across Canada restricted family presence (RFP) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic from allowing two or more family members to often only one family member at the bedside. The objective of this study was to describe the experiences and impact of RFP on families of critically ill children to inform future policy and practice. HYPOTHESIS: RFP policies negatively impacted families of PICU patients and caused moral distress. METHODS AND MODELS: National, cross-sectional, online, self-administered survey. Family members of children admitted to a Canadian PICU between March 2020 and February 2021 were invited to complete the survey. RFP-attributable distress was measured with a modified distress thermometer (0–10). Closed-ended questions were reported with descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression assessed factors associated with RFP-attributable distress. Open-ended questions were analyzed using inductive content analysis. RESULTS: Of 250 respondents who ...
Homo-journal of Comparative Human Biology, Sep 1, 2018
In this study, we examine the scurvy associated skeletal lesions among juveniles from the late Me... more In this study, we examine the scurvy associated skeletal lesions among juveniles from the late Medieval site Uzdolje-Grablje in Croatia. The study aims to establish a demographic pattern of scurvy using existing diagnostic criteria. The sample consists of 16 well-preserved and fairly complete juveniles, excavated from a cemetery dating to 1420-1920. Skeletal remains were analyzed macroscopically for signs of porosity and new bone formation. Scurvy is diagnosed using the "Ortner criteria" of cranial and postcranial lesions. Depending on the location of the lesions, individuals were diagnosed with either scurvy or possible scurvy. Half of the individuals in our sample are diagnosed with scurvy, with additional 25% being diagnosed with possible scurvy. Along with porotic lesions, all individuals diagnosed with scurvy/possible scurvy showed new bone formation on at least one skeletal element. The occurrence of lesions associated with scurvy in our sample is unusually high. Instead of focusing solely on diet and insufficient intake of the vitamin C, a more likely explanation lies in the synergy between diet, exposure to infections, and the environment.
Video Review of Simulated Pediatric Cardiac Arrest to Identify Errors/Latent Safety Threats: A Mixed Methods Study
Simulation in healthcare : journal of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, May 25, 2022
Juvenile elbow dislocation from the prehistoric site of Josipovac–Gravinjak, Croatia
International Journal of Paleopathology, 2012
This paper examines a rare case of juvenile elbow dislocation in the human skeletal remains from ... more This paper examines a rare case of juvenile elbow dislocation in the human skeletal remains from the Eneolithic (Copper Age) site of Josipovac-Gravinjak in Croatia, dated to 3500-2780 BC. Although dislocations from the archaeological context have been previously reported in adults, they are rarely diagnosed in juveniles. The skeletal remains of a 7.5-8.5 year old juvenile were examined using gross observation and radiography. Analyses of the skeletal remains confirm the absence of a fracture, while comparison with clinical studies suggests that the observed lesions are indicative of a radial head dislocation. The severity of the injury and bone remodelling suggest that the injury occurred more than 6 months prior to death and that it was left untreated.
American Journal of Physical Anthropology, 2008
Using Schutkowski's method for juvenile sex determination (Schutkowski H. 1993. Am J Phys Anthrop... more Using Schutkowski's method for juvenile sex determination (Schutkowski H. 1993. Am J Phys Anthropol 90:199-205), we evaluated the morphology of the greater sciatic notch of 56 ilia (23 females and 33 males) from a documented skeletal collection housed at the Bocage Museum in Lisbon (Portugal). After applying Schutkowski's original methodology and comparing the results with previous studies, we used age-adjusted metrical variables to describe greater sciatic notch depth, breadth, and angle. Although results of both morphologi
Key Considerations in Establishing a Pediatric Rescue Extracorporeal Life Support Program: A Multi Methods Review
ASAIO Journal
Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is generally limited to centers with cardiac surgery. However,... more Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is generally limited to centers with cardiac surgery. However, pediatric centers without cardiac surgery can still provide potentially lifesaving ECLS through a Rescue Program, allowing a local team to cannulate and stabilize patients before they are transported to a center with cardiac surgery support for ongoing care. This multimethod study provides an exploration of pediatric ECLS team insights regarding program implementation and offers recommendations for other centers wishing to develop a similar program. We performed surveys and semi-structured interviews to gather perspectives from ECLS team members. Demographics and preliminary perspectives were obtained from surveys. Interviews were transcribed and coded using thematic analysis to identify key considerations, facilitators, and barriers related to rescue program implementation. Our multidisciplinary ECLS team perceived great value in the rescue program and identified elements critical to successful program development and implementation, including barriers that might exist for any center wishing to set up a similar program. Participants emphasized that the initial design and continued maintenance of any Rescue ECLS Program be a comprehensive, multidisciplinary initiative. Clear communication, a mechanism for debriefing and feedback, and a strategy allowing for flexible program evolution are essential.
Setting up a Rescue Extracorporeal Life Support Program
ASAIO Journal
Sexual dimorphism (humans)
Reconstruction of breastfeeding and weaning practices in aboriginal populations from Western Cuba
Neolithic Flaked Stone Artefacts from Vela Cave Near Vranja (Istria)
U radu predstavljamo rezultate analiza izrađevina od cijepanog kamena iz postmezolitickih slojeva... more U radu predstavljamo rezultate analiza izrađevina od cijepanog kamena iz postmezolitickih slojeva Vele peci. Vecina spomenutih nalaza može se prema svojim tehnoloskim i tipoloskim obilježjima te prema kontekstima iz kojih su prikupljeni pripisati neolitiku. Usporedba sa skupom litickih nalaza iz susjedne Pupicine peci ukazuje da su oba nalazista bila koristena istovremeno, ali su se na njima odvijale ponesto razlicite aktivnosti.
In this paper we present the results of the analysis of flaked stone artefacts found in post-Meso... more In this paper we present the results of the analysis of flaked stone artefacts found in post-Mesolithic levels of Vela Cave (Vela pec) in North Istria. We directly link to our paper published in the previous issue of this journal where we described the site in detail, explained its phasing and presented the results of the analyses of the pottery assemblages. We stress that Phase 3, which in the previous paper was not dated to any particular period, is now, after the analyses oflithic artefacts, dated to the Late Neolithic period. A total of 144 flaked stone artefacts were recovered from the secure post-Mesolithic contexts of Vela Cave, mostly from Neolithic Phases 2 and 3. Twenty-eight lithic artefacts (mostly chips) from the context of the Middle/Late Bronze Age Phase 4 are considered to be residual finds from the Neolithic levels. Two main classes of raw material were used in the production of lithic artefacts in Vela Cave. The first class is made up of dark cherts of lesser quali...
Embodiment of Puebloan Childhoods: Towards a Bioarchaeology of Childhood
Journal of anatomy, Feb 28, 2017
Variation in the shape of the human face and in stature is determined by complex interactions bet... more Variation in the shape of the human face and in stature is determined by complex interactions between genetic and environmental influences. One such environmental influence is malnourishment, which can result in growth faltering, usually diagnosed by means of comparing an individual's stature with a set of age-appropriate standards. These standards for stature, however, are typically ascertained in groups where people are at low risk for growth faltering. Moreover, genetic differences among populations with respect to stature are well established, further complicating the generalizability of stature-based diagnostic tools. In a large sample of children aged 5-19 years, we obtained high-resolution genomic data, anthropometric measures and 3D facial images from individuals within and around the city of Mwanza, Tanzania. With genome-wide complex trait analysis, we partitioned genetic and environmental variance for growth outcomes and facial shape. We found that children with growth...
Histria Archaeologica, Dec 15, 2009
Neoliticke Izrađevine Od Cijepanog Kamena Iz Vele Peći Kod Vranje (Istria)
Histria Archaeologica, 2007
... However, a careful survey of quantitative analyses results shows that there are a number of d... more ... However, a careful survey of quantitative analyses results shows that there are a number of differences in representation of raw material classes and technological categories of artefacts, as well as different diachronic trends. ...
Elongated styloid process in late medieval skeletons from Uzdolje-Grablje, Croatia
International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, 2008
Abstract Analysis of skeletons from Uzdolje-Grablje cemetery near Knin, Croatia, reveals three ca... more Abstract Analysis of skeletons from Uzdolje-Grablje cemetery near Knin, Croatia, reveals three cases of an elongated styloid process. Elongation is a condition of unknown aetiology characterised by a styloid process that exceeds 30 mm. Although the prevalence of this condition has been reported in modern populations, we document for the first time elongated styloid processes in human skeletal material from an archaeological population. Copyright© 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identifying the descendents of the Chaco Anasazi
Death in the line of duty: late medieval burials at the site of Lepenski Vir, Serbia
International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, 2007
... Rogers T. 2004. Recognizing inter-personal violence: a forensic perspective. ... In Violent I... more ... Rogers T. 2004. Recognizing inter-personal violence: a forensic perspective. ... In Violent Interactions in the Mesolithic: Evidence and Meaning, Roksandic M (ed.). Archaeopress: Oxford; 1 17. Srejovic D. 1969. ... Anatomical interpretations of Anglo-Saxon weapon injuries. ...
Autoimmune joint diseases in Late Medieval skeletal sample from Croatia
Rheumatology International, 2010
Analysis of 25 skeletons from Late Medieval cemetery Uzdolje-Grablje near Knin, Croatia, revealed... more Analysis of 25 skeletons from Late Medieval cemetery Uzdolje-Grablje near Knin, Croatia, revealed three cases of systematic pathological changes to joints. Observed pathological lesions were examined macroscopically and radiologically and compared to the available paleopathological standards in order to formulate a differential diagnosis. In all three cases observed changes were most consistent with autoimmune joint diseases including ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Based on published clinical studies, we suggest that the high prevalence of autoimmune diseases in our skeletal sample stems from the genetic basis of the autoimmunity, and that three individuals describe here are possibly closely related.
The Bioarchaeology of Children. Perspectives from Biological and Forensic Anthropology. Cambridge Studies in Biological and Evolutionary Anthropology. By Mary E. Lewis. Pp. 255. (Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2007.) £70.00, ISBN 0-521-83602-6, hardback
Journal of Biosocial Science, 2009
The Bioarchaeology of Children This book is the first to be devoted entirely to the study of chil... more The Bioarchaeology of Children This book is the first to be devoted entirely to the study of children's skeletons from archaeological and forensic contexts. It provides an exten-sive review of the osteological methods and theoretical concepts of their analysis. Non-adult skeletons provide a wealth ...
“We Aren’t Meant to Go Through the Hardest Parts of Our Lives Alone”: Family Experience With Restricted PICU Presence During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Critical Care Explorations
CONTEXT: PICUs across Canada restricted family presence (RFP) in response to the COVID-19 pandemi... more CONTEXT: PICUs across Canada restricted family presence (RFP) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic from allowing two or more family members to often only one family member at the bedside. The objective of this study was to describe the experiences and impact of RFP on families of critically ill children to inform future policy and practice. HYPOTHESIS: RFP policies negatively impacted families of PICU patients and caused moral distress. METHODS AND MODELS: National, cross-sectional, online, self-administered survey. Family members of children admitted to a Canadian PICU between March 2020 and February 2021 were invited to complete the survey. RFP-attributable distress was measured with a modified distress thermometer (0–10). Closed-ended questions were reported with descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression assessed factors associated with RFP-attributable distress. Open-ended questions were analyzed using inductive content analysis. RESULTS: Of 250 respondents who ...
Homo-journal of Comparative Human Biology, Sep 1, 2018
In this study, we examine the scurvy associated skeletal lesions among juveniles from the late Me... more In this study, we examine the scurvy associated skeletal lesions among juveniles from the late Medieval site Uzdolje-Grablje in Croatia. The study aims to establish a demographic pattern of scurvy using existing diagnostic criteria. The sample consists of 16 well-preserved and fairly complete juveniles, excavated from a cemetery dating to 1420-1920. Skeletal remains were analyzed macroscopically for signs of porosity and new bone formation. Scurvy is diagnosed using the "Ortner criteria" of cranial and postcranial lesions. Depending on the location of the lesions, individuals were diagnosed with either scurvy or possible scurvy. Half of the individuals in our sample are diagnosed with scurvy, with additional 25% being diagnosed with possible scurvy. Along with porotic lesions, all individuals diagnosed with scurvy/possible scurvy showed new bone formation on at least one skeletal element. The occurrence of lesions associated with scurvy in our sample is unusually high. Instead of focusing solely on diet and insufficient intake of the vitamin C, a more likely explanation lies in the synergy between diet, exposure to infections, and the environment.
Video Review of Simulated Pediatric Cardiac Arrest to Identify Errors/Latent Safety Threats: A Mixed Methods Study
Simulation in healthcare : journal of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, May 25, 2022
Juvenile elbow dislocation from the prehistoric site of Josipovac–Gravinjak, Croatia
International Journal of Paleopathology, 2012
This paper examines a rare case of juvenile elbow dislocation in the human skeletal remains from ... more This paper examines a rare case of juvenile elbow dislocation in the human skeletal remains from the Eneolithic (Copper Age) site of Josipovac-Gravinjak in Croatia, dated to 3500-2780 BC. Although dislocations from the archaeological context have been previously reported in adults, they are rarely diagnosed in juveniles. The skeletal remains of a 7.5-8.5 year old juvenile were examined using gross observation and radiography. Analyses of the skeletal remains confirm the absence of a fracture, while comparison with clinical studies suggests that the observed lesions are indicative of a radial head dislocation. The severity of the injury and bone remodelling suggest that the injury occurred more than 6 months prior to death and that it was left untreated.
American Journal of Physical Anthropology, 2008
Using Schutkowski's method for juvenile sex determination (Schutkowski H. 1993. Am J Phys Anthrop... more Using Schutkowski's method for juvenile sex determination (Schutkowski H. 1993. Am J Phys Anthropol 90:199-205), we evaluated the morphology of the greater sciatic notch of 56 ilia (23 females and 33 males) from a documented skeletal collection housed at the Bocage Museum in Lisbon (Portugal). After applying Schutkowski's original methodology and comparing the results with previous studies, we used age-adjusted metrical variables to describe greater sciatic notch depth, breadth, and angle. Although results of both morphologi
Key Considerations in Establishing a Pediatric Rescue Extracorporeal Life Support Program: A Multi Methods Review
ASAIO Journal
Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is generally limited to centers with cardiac surgery. However,... more Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is generally limited to centers with cardiac surgery. However, pediatric centers without cardiac surgery can still provide potentially lifesaving ECLS through a Rescue Program, allowing a local team to cannulate and stabilize patients before they are transported to a center with cardiac surgery support for ongoing care. This multimethod study provides an exploration of pediatric ECLS team insights regarding program implementation and offers recommendations for other centers wishing to develop a similar program. We performed surveys and semi-structured interviews to gather perspectives from ECLS team members. Demographics and preliminary perspectives were obtained from surveys. Interviews were transcribed and coded using thematic analysis to identify key considerations, facilitators, and barriers related to rescue program implementation. Our multidisciplinary ECLS team perceived great value in the rescue program and identified elements critical to successful program development and implementation, including barriers that might exist for any center wishing to set up a similar program. Participants emphasized that the initial design and continued maintenance of any Rescue ECLS Program be a comprehensive, multidisciplinary initiative. Clear communication, a mechanism for debriefing and feedback, and a strategy allowing for flexible program evolution are essential.
Setting up a Rescue Extracorporeal Life Support Program
ASAIO Journal
Sexual dimorphism (humans)
Reconstruction of breastfeeding and weaning practices in aboriginal populations from Western Cuba
Neolithic Flaked Stone Artefacts from Vela Cave Near Vranja (Istria)
U radu predstavljamo rezultate analiza izrađevina od cijepanog kamena iz postmezolitickih slojeva... more U radu predstavljamo rezultate analiza izrađevina od cijepanog kamena iz postmezolitickih slojeva Vele peci. Vecina spomenutih nalaza može se prema svojim tehnoloskim i tipoloskim obilježjima te prema kontekstima iz kojih su prikupljeni pripisati neolitiku. Usporedba sa skupom litickih nalaza iz susjedne Pupicine peci ukazuje da su oba nalazista bila koristena istovremeno, ali su se na njima odvijale ponesto razlicite aktivnosti.
In this paper we present the results of the analysis of flaked stone artefacts found in post-Meso... more In this paper we present the results of the analysis of flaked stone artefacts found in post-Mesolithic levels of Vela Cave (Vela pec) in North Istria. We directly link to our paper published in the previous issue of this journal where we described the site in detail, explained its phasing and presented the results of the analyses of the pottery assemblages. We stress that Phase 3, which in the previous paper was not dated to any particular period, is now, after the analyses oflithic artefacts, dated to the Late Neolithic period. A total of 144 flaked stone artefacts were recovered from the secure post-Mesolithic contexts of Vela Cave, mostly from Neolithic Phases 2 and 3. Twenty-eight lithic artefacts (mostly chips) from the context of the Middle/Late Bronze Age Phase 4 are considered to be residual finds from the Neolithic levels. Two main classes of raw material were used in the production of lithic artefacts in Vela Cave. The first class is made up of dark cherts of lesser quali...
Embodiment of Puebloan Childhoods: Towards a Bioarchaeology of Childhood
Journal of anatomy, Feb 28, 2017
Variation in the shape of the human face and in stature is determined by complex interactions bet... more Variation in the shape of the human face and in stature is determined by complex interactions between genetic and environmental influences. One such environmental influence is malnourishment, which can result in growth faltering, usually diagnosed by means of comparing an individual's stature with a set of age-appropriate standards. These standards for stature, however, are typically ascertained in groups where people are at low risk for growth faltering. Moreover, genetic differences among populations with respect to stature are well established, further complicating the generalizability of stature-based diagnostic tools. In a large sample of children aged 5-19 years, we obtained high-resolution genomic data, anthropometric measures and 3D facial images from individuals within and around the city of Mwanza, Tanzania. With genome-wide complex trait analysis, we partitioned genetic and environmental variance for growth outcomes and facial shape. We found that children with growth...
Histria Archaeologica, Dec 15, 2009
Neoliticke Izrađevine Od Cijepanog Kamena Iz Vele Peći Kod Vranje (Istria)
Histria Archaeologica, 2007
... However, a careful survey of quantitative analyses results shows that there are a number of d... more ... However, a careful survey of quantitative analyses results shows that there are a number of differences in representation of raw material classes and technological categories of artefacts, as well as different diachronic trends. ...
Elongated styloid process in late medieval skeletons from Uzdolje-Grablje, Croatia
International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, 2008
Abstract Analysis of skeletons from Uzdolje-Grablje cemetery near Knin, Croatia, reveals three ca... more Abstract Analysis of skeletons from Uzdolje-Grablje cemetery near Knin, Croatia, reveals three cases of an elongated styloid process. Elongation is a condition of unknown aetiology characterised by a styloid process that exceeds 30 mm. Although the prevalence of this condition has been reported in modern populations, we document for the first time elongated styloid processes in human skeletal material from an archaeological population. Copyright© 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identifying the descendents of the Chaco Anasazi
Death in the line of duty: late medieval burials at the site of Lepenski Vir, Serbia
International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, 2007
... Rogers T. 2004. Recognizing inter-personal violence: a forensic perspective. ... In Violent I... more ... Rogers T. 2004. Recognizing inter-personal violence: a forensic perspective. ... In Violent Interactions in the Mesolithic: Evidence and Meaning, Roksandic M (ed.). Archaeopress: Oxford; 1 17. Srejovic D. 1969. ... Anatomical interpretations of Anglo-Saxon weapon injuries. ...
Autoimmune joint diseases in Late Medieval skeletal sample from Croatia
Rheumatology International, 2010
Analysis of 25 skeletons from Late Medieval cemetery Uzdolje-Grablje near Knin, Croatia, revealed... more Analysis of 25 skeletons from Late Medieval cemetery Uzdolje-Grablje near Knin, Croatia, revealed three cases of systematic pathological changes to joints. Observed pathological lesions were examined macroscopically and radiologically and compared to the available paleopathological standards in order to formulate a differential diagnosis. In all three cases observed changes were most consistent with autoimmune joint diseases including ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Based on published clinical studies, we suggest that the high prevalence of autoimmune diseases in our skeletal sample stems from the genetic basis of the autoimmunity, and that three individuals describe here are possibly closely related.
The Bioarchaeology of Children. Perspectives from Biological and Forensic Anthropology. Cambridge Studies in Biological and Evolutionary Anthropology. By Mary E. Lewis. Pp. 255. (Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2007.) £70.00, ISBN 0-521-83602-6, hardback
Journal of Biosocial Science, 2009
The Bioarchaeology of Children This book is the first to be devoted entirely to the study of chil... more The Bioarchaeology of Children This book is the first to be devoted entirely to the study of children's skeletons from archaeological and forensic contexts. It provides an exten-sive review of the osteological methods and theoretical concepts of their analysis. Non-adult skeletons provide a wealth ...