European Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine T.23, z. 1 (2025)

URI dla tej Kolekcjihttps://repozytorium.ur.edu.pl/handle/item/11439

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Spatial working memory in hypothyroidism – an observational study on different ranges of thyroid stimulating hormone
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Jhandi, Satkarjit Kaur; Shenoy, Shweta; Singh, A. P.; Singh, Ajaypal
Introduction and aim. Hypothyroidism is associated with cognitive impairments. Clinically, subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is very common and patients often experience symptoms such as forgetfulness or memory deficits. Despite achieving normal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels through levothyroxine (LT-4) treatment, patients still report persistent complaints of lack of memory. Previous imaging studies have shown abnormalities in some cognitive domains, particularly in spatial working memory (SWM), that are characteristic of SCH. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate SWM function across different ranges of TSH in patients with SCH. Material and methods. This cross-sectional study included a total of 136 participants. Group 1: 36 controls, group 2: 33 newly diagnosed patients with SCH (TSH levels ≥2.5 mIU/L), group 3: 32 patients with SCH (elevated TSH levels ≥4.0 mIU/L) having L-T4 treatment, group 4: 35 euthyroid (TSH levels <4.0 mIU/L) but ongoing LT-4 treatment. The SWM task was performed for an assessment of SWM function, using a computerized battery (Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery-CANTAB). Results. Our results report a statistically significant difference in the key parameters of SWM task among all groups. Conclusion. Our findings indicate that patients with SCH show better performance in SWM when their TSH levels decrease with LT-4 treatment, in comparison to patients who were newly diagnosed. The present study suggests a TSH level of 2.5 mIU/L may be the optimal threshold for initiating LT-4 treatment in patients with SCH.
Public knowledge of cancer in southern Poland
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Sokołowska, Aldona; Antoszewska, Adrianna; Jasiewicz, Maria; Słoma, Paweł; Skrzynecka, Sabina; Lasek, Aleksandra; Lubas, Cezary; Florek, Julia; Zacher, Klaudia; Kalinowska, Justyna; Znamirowska, Katarzyna; Michalik, Julia; Wąchała, Katarzyna; Sas-Korczyńska, Beata
Introduction and aim. Due to the constantly growing number of cancer cases in Polish society, our study aimed to check the respondents’ knowledge of the broadly understood topic of cancer. The aim was to check the knowledge of Polish society and compare it according to age, gender, level of education, place of residence, and marital status. Material and methods. Our study was held in Podkarpackie and Malopolskie voivodeiship where participants completed a questionnaire containing 31 questions on the topic of cancer. The survey was completed by 360 people, 248 women, and 112 men. The study locations were diverse and the interviewees came from different backgrounds, age groups, and education. Results. The study revealed generally high awareness of cancer among 360 respondents, with 93% of whom recognized the importance of early detection, but significant gaps were identified in knowledge about prevention methods, including vaccina tions (36%) and viral causes (50%). Older adults and those with lower educational levels showed significantly lower awareness (p<0.05), highlighting the need for targeted educational initiatives. Conclusion. The survey we conducted clearly shows that the state of knowledge about cancer in Polish society is not yet fully sat isfactory. The conclusion that arises from our survey concerns the dissemination of knowledge about primary cancer prevention.
Fall risk and avoidance behavior due to fear of falling in elderly nursing home residents
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Turen, Sevda; Ozcalik, Cennet Kara; Yildiz, Gülisan; Tekir, Meryem Irem
Introduction and aim. Falls in the elderly affect their daily activities, causing a decrease in their quality of life and may even lead to death. This study aims to examine the risk of falling and the relationship between fear of falling and avoidance behaviors in elderly nursing home residents. Material and methods. Data were obtained using the “Fall Risk Assessment Scale (FRAS)” and the “Fear of Falling Avoidance Behavior Questionnaire (FFABQ)”. Results. The average age of the participants was 70.70±5.23 years. Total mean scores of FRAS and FFABQ were significantly higher in participants who could partially meet their daily needs on their own, had chronic diseases, used continuous medication, had problems with walking or balance, had vision or hearing problems, used walking aids, had fear of falling, and had experienced falls in the last three months. It was found that their average was significantly higher. It was determined that there was a strong and significant positive relationship between the FRAS and FFABQ total score averages. Conclusion. It was determined that elderly residents of nursing homes have a high risk of falling and that increased risk is as sociated with an increase in avoidance behaviors due to fear of falling.
Effect of web-based pediatric pain management education on nursing student knowledge levels
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Aydın, Bahise; Bektaş, Murat
Introduction and aim. Pain is a common symptom in children. Studies indicate that nurses and student nurses lack knowledge about pediatric pain. This study was designed to determine the level of knowledge of pediatric pain management for nursing students and to evaluate the effectiveness of the web-based pediatric pain management education (PPME) program. Material and methods. This study used a pre/post-test quasi-experimental design before/after the test. It was carried out with 84 pediatric nursing internship students (39 control, 45 intervention) in a nursing school. The control group received routine training, and the intervention group received web-based modules. Data were collected using the questionnaire developed by the researchers and evaluated using the paired sample t-test, independent samples t-test, Spearman’s correlation and regression analysis. A structural equation model (SEM) was used. Results. The level of knowledge of the intervention group was significantly higher than that of the control group in terms of the total score and sub-dimension scores of awareness, physiopathology and ‘control’ (p<0.05). A moderate, positive and significant correlation was observed between PPME and knowledge levels. Web-based education accounted for 56.6% of the in crease in knowledge level, resulting in an improvement of 11.062 points. A notable positive correlation was observed between PPME and control scores in SEM. Conclusion. The conclusion drawn is that the web-based PPME effectively increased student knowledge scores.
Interleukin-13 as a potential biomarker in the management of pediatric asthma – a longitudinal study
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Raju, Prasanna; Sundar, Subash; Suresh, Preethi; Vajravelu, Leela Kakithakara; Aravindhan, Vivekanandhan
Introduction and aim. Asthma is predominantly a Th2 type hypersensitive disorder, with interleukin (IL) 4 and IL-13 playing a pivotal roles. Interleukin 13 is one of several cytokines that cause persistent inflammation associated with asthma. The aim was to examine the relationship between the response to treatment in asthma and serum IL-13. Material and methods. This study, conducted at the SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Center, in Tamil Nadu, in volved 68 children aged 6 to 12 years of age diagnosed with asthma. The study included medical history, including age of onset of wheezing, history of allergic rhinitis/atopic dermatitis, food allergies, use of inhalational corticosteroids, hospital admissions, and family history. Spirometry was performed, and treatment with inhalational corticosteroids was started according to GINA guidelines. Blood was collected prior to and after 3 months of treatment. Results. A substantial positive correlation was observed between gender and IL-13 levels. An improvement in forced expirato ry volume in the first second (FEV1) was observed after treatment [(74.72% vs 95.05%) (p<0.0001)]. A negative correlation was discovered between IL-13 and FEV1. A statistical significance between IL-13 levels before and after treatment (p=0.005). Conclusion. Inhalational corticosteroids reduced serum IL-13 levels, indicating its role as a prognostic marker in pediatric asthma.
Mapping the landscape of gynecological cancer – analyzing presenting features by social network analysis
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Sambasivam, Indra; Jennifer, H. Gladius
Introduction and aim. The term ‘gynecological cancers’ refers to a wide range of malignancies that affect the female reproduc tive system. These types of cancer include ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. This study aims to employ SNA techniques to map the landscape of gynecological cancer by systematically analyzing the presenting features associated with different types of gynecological malignancies. Material and methods. In this study, a total of 60 women diagnosed with gynecological cancer were included. An exploratory study design was used. A pre-tested questionnaire was used which includes basic demographic details, type of cancer and symptoms presented at the time of diagnosis. Results. Nearly 44% of the women diagnosed with cancer were between the age of 51 to 60 years. Symptoms such as abdom inal pain, lumps, mild and moderate symptoms that appeared to be highly connected and influential among the cancer patients. Abdominal pain, lumps, abdominal distension/bloating, and mild symptoms had a stronger connection with all other symptoms among the cancer patients. Conclusion. Educating patients about the significance of symptoms such as abdominal pain, lumps, and abdominal disten sion/bloating in the context of ovarian cancer can empower them to seek timely medical attention. Increased awareness of the potential implications of these symptoms may prompt patients to undergo screening and diagnostic tests earlier, leading to improved detection rates and treatment outcomes.
Neuroendocrine and metabolic predictors of the effects of balneotherapy at the Truskavets Spa on physical working capacity in men with maladaptation
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Popovych, Igor L.; Zukow, Walery; Melnyk, Oksana I.; Fil, Vitalii M.; Kovalchuk, Halyna Y.; Bryndzia, Iryna V.; Voloshyn, Olena R.; Kopko, Iryna Y.; Lupak, Oksana M.; Skrobach, Taras B.; Kravtsiv, Mariana М.; Musiyenko, Olena V.; Popovych, Dariya V. Popovych
Introduction and aim. The effect of balneotherapy in the Truskavets Spa on physical working capacity is complex and individ ualized. This study aims to identify an optimal constellation of predictors for the actotropic effects of balneotherapy. Material and methods. We observed 34 men with maladaptation against the background of chronic pyelonephritis in remis sion. We recorded physical working capacity, heart rate variability, electroencephalography, adaptation hormones, and blood and urine metabolites before and after a standardized balneotherapy regimen. Results. Standard balneotherapy resulted in various effects on physical working capacity150 : an increase in 9 patients (26.5%), no significant change in 16 patients (47.1%), and a decrease in 9 patients (26.5%). Through discriminant analysis, we identified a constellation of 25 initial parameters that could predict the nature of the actotropic effect with 100% accuracy. These parameters included measures of physical working capacity, cardiorespiratory fitness, electroencephalography, heart rate variability, hormones, and metabolism. Furthermore, multiple linear regression analysis allowed us to predict quantitative changes in physical work capacity150 with a standard error of 0.28 W/kg. This predictive model incorporated hemodynamic and Electroen cephalography parameters, achieving an adjusted R2 of 0.555. Conclusion. The directionality and magnitude of physical working capacity150 changes under the influence of balneofactors at the Truskavets Spa are determined by a complex constellation of initial physiological parameters, which forms the body’s reactivity. This finding has significant implications for personalizing balneotherapy treatments.
Impact of caloric restriction on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the hippocampus and cortex of a Kindled rat model
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Uribe, Eric; López-Landa, Alejandro; Serrano-García, Norma; Ochoa, Ernesto; Marin-Castañeda, Luis A.; Vázquez, David; Orozco, Sandra; Romo-Parra, Héctor; Gonzalez-Garibay, Guillermo; Rubio-Osornio, Moisés; Rubio, Carmen
Introduction and aim. Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder, and despite numerous treatment options, approximately 30% of patients have drug-resistant epilepsy. This situation prompts the exploration of alternative treatments such as caloric restriction (CR), whose mechanisms of antiepileptic action need to be fully elucidated. One of the key overactivated pathways in epilepsy is the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Material and methods. To explore the potential regulatory effects of CR on this pathway, we conducted a study using twen ty-eight male Wistar rats divided into four groups (7 animals each): Control, Sham (20% CR), kindling ad libitum (KAL), and kindling with CR (KCR). Caloric restriction rats received 80% of their daily food intake based on body weight, compared to those fed ad libitum. The kindling model was achieved by the introduction of an electrode in the basolateral nucleus of the amygda la. Immunofluorescence and Western blot techniques were used for the analysis of protein levels (Wnt, β-catenin, GSK3β, and cyclin D) in the frontal cortex and hippocampus. Results. Electroencephalographically and behaviorally, the KCR group exhibited a shorter duration of seizures and an increased behavioral threshold compared to the KAL group. Protein analysis revealed an increase in Wnt pathway proteins (Wnt, β-catenin, and cyclin D) in the KAL group compared to the control group. In contrast, CR reduced protein levels in animals that were induced to kindling. Conclusion. These findings suggest that CR may exert its antiepileptic effects through the regulation of the Wnt pathway by inhibiting its activity in the hippocampus and cortex of kindled rats.
A comparative study of pharmacological, nonpharmacological, and combined methods of induction of labor
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Unmesh, Puri Sudha; Murlidhar, Bharati Vinod; Vikram, Latpate Raosaheb
Introduction and aim. Induction of labor (IOL), a common obstetric procedure, aims to induce labor. The study defined labor induction success as true uterine contractions and classified delivery outcomes as vaginal, instrumental, and cesarean. A higher Bishop score predicts a vaginal delivery. The objective was to compare cervical status, induction success, cesarean section rates, and normal delivery rates of pharmacological and non-pharmacological IOL methods. Material and methods. In this study, 296 pregnant women admitted to the labor room were divided into three groups: those who received pharmacological agents (25 μg/50 μg misoprostol or dinoprostone 5 g gel to start labor), those who were giv en non-pharmacological agents (Foley’s catheter and membrane stripping to start labor), and those who were given both non-pharmacological and pharmacological agents (Foley’s catheter and membrane stripping followed by oxytocin to start labor). Results. Although a 92.5% induction success rate, the use of non-pharmacological methods alone led to a rate of 49.06% cesar ean section rate. Combined with a pharmacological agent such as oxytocin, it achieved almost the same success rate (91.43%) as a pharmacological method of inducing labor (18.57%). This resulted in a lower rate of cesarean section than pharmacological and nonpharmacological methods (p=0.002). Conclusion. Nonpharmacological IOL methods alone led to higher cesarean rates despite improved cervical status. Combining them with pharmacological agents such as oxytocin resulted in higher normal delivery rates and fewer cesarean sections, indicating a more effective approach for improving delivery outcomes.
Identification of bacterial isolates in urinary tract infections patients of Basrah province
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Eidan, Zainab Ali; Shani, Wafaa S.; Almazini, Muna Abdul-Imam
Introduction and aim. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial diseases worldwide that are caused primarily by members of the Enterobacteriaceae family. This study aimed to identify the most frequent bacterial agents associated with UTIs and analyze their patterns of antibiotic resistance using the Vitek®2 system. Material and methods. The study included 200 urine samples collected from adult UTI patients of both sexes. Results. The characterization of bacterial isolates revealed the following distribution: Escherichia coli (35 isolates, 50%), Staphylococcus aureus (18 isolates, 25.7%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (5 isolates, 7.14%), Staphylococcus spp. (4 isolates, 5.7%), Streptococcus spp. (3 isolates, 4.2%), Pseudomonas spp. (3 isolates, 4.2%), and Proteus mirabilis (2 isolates, 2.86%). Antibiotic resistance testing showed that ceftazidime had the highest resistance rate (88.57%), while amikacin had the lowest (17.14%). Additionally, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production was detected in 35 E. coli isolates. Of these, 22 isolates (62.86%) tested positive for ESBL production, while 13 isolates (37.14%) were negative. Conclusion. This study concluded that E. coli is the most prevalent bacterial species causing UTIs. Furthermore, the E. coli isolates demonstrated a high capacity for ESBL production, highlighting the need for effective antimicrobial management and monitoring.
Outcome prediction criteria for multiple trauma patients with combined cranio-thoracic injuries
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Stupnytskyi, Myroslav; Biletskyi, Oleksii
Introduction and aim. Blunt chest trauma and traumatic brain injury are considered two of the most significant injury entities with a high potential for complications. In the early post-traumatic period, trauma care frequently encounters limitations in diagnostic capabilities within trauma centers. The objective of this study was to develop simple signs to predict outcomes at three time points during the early post-traumatic period for patients with multiple blunt trauma with combined cranio-tho racic injuries. Material and methods. This retrospective cohort study was conducted on 51 polytraumatized male patients. Examinations of the patients were performed on the 1st–2nd, 3rd–4th,and 5th–6th day after trauma. Mortality was set as the primary outcome. Re ceiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to investigate the predictive capacity of the estimated markers for each time period. Results. The most significant differences between survivors and non-survivors on the 1st to 2nd day after trauma were ob served in terms of SpO2 /FiO2 index, hemoglobin and red blood cell count. On the 3rd–4th day – SpO2 /FiO2 index. The oxygen content, SpO2 /FiO2 index and hemoglobin exhibited the greatest disparity between patients groups on the 5th–6th day. Conclusion. A set of criteria can be employed to monitor the clinical course of multiple trauma patients with combined cra nio-thoracic injuries. The predictive value of special markers varies depending on the time period. Each of the investigated time periods is characterized by its own specific predictive signs. The predictive capacity of the estimated markers varies depending on the time period under consideration. It is not an accurate approach to employ the same predictive markers throughout the entire posttraumatic period.
Psychological consequences of war as a real threat to young people with post-traumatic stress disorder
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Chorna, Valentyna; Antomonov, Mykhailo; Syrota, Hanna; Syrota, Mariia; Kolomiets, Viktoria; Pavlenko, Nataliia
Introduction and aim. The consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have led to a violation of the mental health of youth, children, and adults in Ukraine. Increased cases of mental disorders related to war trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to violence, loss of family and friends, loss of normal life, fear, uncertainty, and constant stress, are leading to long-term PTSD, which can negatively affect their quality of life, such as physical, mental, and social well-being. Determination of symptoms of PTSD in students (men and women) of medical and technical higher education institutions during the war in Ukraine. Material and methods. At the beginning of 2024, the survey was attended by 452 students of Ukrainian higher education in stitutions (medical and technical), of which 24.6% were male and 75.4% were female, aged 15–19 (65.8%), aged 20–28 (21.1%), and over 29 (13.1%). The methodology ‘Identification of potentially traumatic events in life among applicants’ was used to iden tify students with signs of PTSD out of a total of 452 surveyed students. The next step was to assess the degree of PTSD symp toms in 121 students of the total number of students who were identified as having PTSD symptoms using the ‘PTSD symptoms list’. Research was conducted with the help of the STATISTICS program, by the Pearson’s Chi-square method, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (rS ). Results. The severity of the consequences of the war was assessed based on the results of a survey among students of high er education institutions during the hostilities in Ukraine. Students who participated in hostilities or were in the war zone represented 45.9% of respondents from technical universities (TU) and 24.8% of the respondents from medical universities (MU). Students who experienced sexual violence (rape, attempted rape, coercion to perform any type of sexual act by force or threats) made up 18.9% of the students in the TU and 16.9% in the MU. Conclusion. Sexual violence (rape, attempted rape, coercion to perform any type of sexual act by force or threats) among students in higher education institutions was experienced by 18.9% of respondents of technical specialization and 16.9% of respondents of medical specialization. The identified unfavorable features of students’ mental health during hostilities may lead to long-term negative consequences in the future. Particular attention should be paid to risk groups, including female students.
Comparison of falls and non-fall admissions to the emergency department in older adults and evaluation of the Barthel index and the Falls Efficacy Scale International scores
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Keskin, Sevgi; Altunci, Yusuf Ali; Kodik, Meltem Songür; Akarca, Funda Karbek
Introduction and aim. The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of patients aged 65 years and older who expe rienced falls and to examine the distribution of the Barthel index (BI) and Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) scores. Material and methods. Participants over 65 years of age who were admitted to the emergency department (ED) between 31.07.2019 and 31.01.2020 and who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Characteristics, BI, and FES-I scores of patients admitted to the emergency department for falls and nontraumatic reasons were compared. Results. The study was carried out with 259 participants, 133 in the fall group and 126 in the control group. The mean age was 79±8.3 years in the fall group and 76.3±7.9 years in the control group (p=0.011). In the fall group, 61 (46.2%) were male and 71 (53.8%) were females. The most common trauma after a fall was soft tissue trauma. The FES-I and BI scores were found to be at higher risk in the fall group aged 75-84 years compared to the control group and there was a statistically significant difference between them (p=0.009; p=0.030, respectively). Conclusion. FES-I and BI did not show significant differences between fall and control groups in all age groups. In the 75-84 age group, both scales showed higher values in the fall group. We believe these scales can be used as follow-up tools in screening and preventing fall risks, especially in this age group.
Analysis of cervical mucosal epithelium proliferation during the postmenopausal period
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Shcheglov, Bogdan О.; Reva, Ivan V.; Shcheglova, Svetlana N.; Puga, Dmitry P.; Khamoshina, Marina B.; Koval, Irina P.; Usov, Viktor V.; Stegniy, Kirill V.; Reva, Galina V.
Introduction and aim. This study explores the proliferative growth of cervical mucosal epithelial cells during the postmeno pausal period, offering new insights on age-related changes in cervical tissues, a topic previously under-examined in post menopausal health research. By employing histologic analysis, immunostaining techniques, and Ki-67 mitotic index assess ment, this research provides novel data on the alterations in cervical epithelial cells during and after menopause. The findings enhance our understanding of the biological processes affecting cervical health in the postmenopausal phase, which is increas ingly significant as the global population ages and emphasizes the need for tailored healthcare approaches. The primary goal was to investigate the proliferative growth of cervical mucosal epithelial cells in postmenopausal women by assessment of Ki 67 gene activity in progesterone-positive cells in normal and pathological postmenopausal periods (PMPs) in the presence or absence of autonomic symptoms, manifested by mood instability, headaches and dizziness. Material and methods. This research involved analyzing tissue samples from 149 postmenopausal women with suspicion of malignancy using histologic and immunostaining methods to evaluate epithelial cell proliferation markers, with the Ki-67 mi totic index as a key measure. The average activity of the Ki-67 gene was evaluated using the global scoring method, with Ki-67 percentages below 2.5% considered low. Statistical analysis included both parametric and non-parametric methods, specifi cally Student’s t and Wilcoxon’s tests. Results. The study found a reduction in the proliferative activity of cervical mucosal epithelial cells during the normal post menopausal period, indicated by a significant decrease in Ki-67 expression in the exocervical zone and during the first year in the transformation zone and the endocervix (p<0.01). Conclusion. Understanding the proliferative growth of cervical mucosal epithelial cells during the postmenopausal period helps to understand the dynamics of age-related cervical tissue. These results can lead to better prevention and monitoring strategies for cervical health in postmenopausal women.
Hepatoprotective effect of Costus afer (Lin) on toxic metal mixture treated rats mediated by regulation of oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines and bio-metal chelation
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Anyanwu, Brilliance O.; Ezejiofor, Anthonet N.; Ajibo, Doris N.; Orisakwe, Orish E.
Introduction and aim. Cadmium, lead, and mercury have been considered to exhibit their hepatotoxic effects by oxida tive induction damage and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The current work evaluated the protective activ ity of aqueous leaf extracts of Costus afer (ALECA) on liver damage arising from exposure to toxic metal mixture (TMM): 1.61 mg/kg cadmium chloride (CdCl2), 20 mg/kg lead chloride (PbCl2), and 0.40 mg/kg mercury chloride (HgCl2). Material and methods. Five groups of weight-matched Sprague Dawley rats were treated for 90 days. Metal mixtures and deionized water were used to treat the 2 groups of rats whereas the other 3 groups were treated with various doses of the ALECA through oral gavage with TMM. Hepatic function parameters, oxidative biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines, mor phological changes, and metal levels in the liver were monitored. Results. Treatment with TMM resulted in significant increases in alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phos phatase, bilirubin, interleukin 6, malondialdehyde, but decreased albumin, total protein, interleukin 10, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione levels. TMM also caused some morphological changes and increased the concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, and Hg) in the liver. Conclusion. ALECA showed beneficial effects against TMM-induced hepatotoxicity via metal chelation, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant mechanism. ALECA may be beneficial in the management of liver toxicity.
Combined COVID-19-related chronic hypoxemia and lack of screening as a double challenge for the management of asymptomatic invasive lung adenocarcinoma
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Bouchelaghem, Rim; Djedi, Ahmed Amine; Djedi, Hanène; Boumendjel, Amel; Chouabi, Amel; Hellal, Nadia; Djendi, Nadia
Introduction and aim. Lung adenocarcinoma (LADC) is the most diagnosed histological subtype of lung cancer and the lead ing cause of cancer death in men in Algeria. Defining the circumstances that preceded the diagnosis improves the manage ment options and reduces its incidence. However, data for this critical period are lacking. We report the case of a patient whose onset of severe COVID-19 and the incidental finding of an undefined LADC overlapped and delayed care of the malignancy. Case description. We present the case of a 65-year-old man, with invasive LADC discovered during a chest CT scan performed for suspected severe COVID-19. We describe the diagnostic methods and the patient. Histological examination by biopsy re quired to confirm diagnosis could not be performed due to chronic hypoxemia in the patient, which prevented the complete pathological diagnosis and staging of the disease. Conclusion. Given the prevalence and aggressiveness of LADC in men in Algeria, our study underscores the critical need to develop screening programs, aimed at identifying the disease in asymptomatic patients, in asymptomatic patients that could significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. This is particularly important because LADC patients often develop serious pathologies that can limit their treatment options. COVID-19 serves as a stark example of such limiting interference, further highlighting the importance of early detection in the management of LADC.
The X-ray repair cross-completing gene 1 (XRCC1) polymorphisms and lung cancer incidence – a confirmatory umbrella review of observational evidence
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Velmurugan, Saranya; Ganesan, Karthikeyan; Rajendran, Ramya; Subbaraj, Gowtham Kumar
Introduction and aim. Lung cancer (LC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with X-ray repair cross-comple menting gene 1 (XRCC1) playing a crucial role in DNA repair and influencing LC risk through genetic mutations. Despite nu merous meta-analyses, results have been inconsistent. This study systematically evaluated existing meta-analyses to clarify the association between XRCC1 gene variations and LC. Material and methods. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Co chrane databases. The present Umbrella review followed PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. The AMSTAR tool assessed the meth odological quality of the included studies. Analysis of the literature. A total of 28 data sets were analyzed: 9 for the rs25487 (codon 399), 11 for the rs1799782 (codon 194), and 8 for the rs25489 (codon 280) polymorphisms. Significant associations were found with odds ratios ranging from 0.93 to 1.92 (p<0.05) in 16 data sets. XRCC1 rs25487/codon 399 and rs1799782/codon 194 were strongly linked to LC risk, while rs25489 (codon 280) was not. Twelve datasets showed significant heterogeneity, and publication bias was not detected in 24 datasets. Most meta-analyses demonstrated high methodological quality. Conclusion. These findings suggest that XRCC1 (rs25487/codon 399 and rs1799782/codon 194) gene polymorphisms have the potential to serve as biomarkers for the early identification and management of LC risk.
Design and testing of breathing retraining device a multiphasic exploratory study in healthy subjects
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Devmurari, Parthkumar; Rathod, Priyanshu; Patel, Chetan; Parmar, Khushboo
Introduction and aim. Traditional spirometers are limited by bulkiness and lack of biofeedback, which can hinder their effec tiveness in pulmonary rehabilitation. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of an innovative breathing retraining device in measuring inhaled volume and assess user satisfaction compared to standard spirometers. Material and methods. A multiphasic exploratory study was conducted with 102 healthy adults (aged 18–60 years). The study included three phases: need analysis through focus group discussions, prototype development using polycarbonate materials and 3D printing, and effectiveness testing. Inhalation exercises were performed with both the new device and a standard spi rometer. Primary outcomes were inhaled volume and marker displacement, with user satisfaction assessed via the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST 2.0) questionnaire. Results. The new device showed a strong correlation between inhaled volume and marker displacement (r=0.842, p<0.001). The mean inhaled volume was 2.07±0.61 liters, with a mean marker displacement of 5.19±0.59 cm. The mean QUEST 2.0 satis faction score was 3.54, indicating high user satisfaction. Conclusion. The redesigned breathing retraining device not only addresses critical gaps in existing technologies but also offers a practical, user-friendly solution for pulmonary rehabilitation. By combining accuracy, real-time feedback, and portability, this innovation has the potential to redefine respiratory therapy standards in both clinical and home-based settings, paving the way for broader applications and improved patient outcomes.
A systemic review and meta-analysis of the effect of virtual reality training on balance in the elderly to prevent falls
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Bhise, Swati; Rathi, Manisha; Shiralkar, Madhura; Dabadghav, Rachana; Bagade, Tanmay
Introduction and aim. Virtual reality (VR) is used in various healthcare treatments. This review evaluates virtual reality therapy (VRT) for balance rehabilitation to prevent falls in older adults. Material and methods. Randomised control trials from January 2013 to May 2024 were searched in databases like PubMed and Web of Science. Data were extracted and analysed using RevMan 5.4 software. Analysis of the literature. The review included 12 studies with an average of 56 participants aged 50-80 years. Treatments last ed 4–10 weeks with 2-5 sessions per week, each 30-60 minutes. Meta-analyses of five studies using the berg balance scale (BBS) showed a weak impact on balance (Z=2.07, p=0.04; SMD=1.05, 95% CI [0.06, 2.05], p<0.0001). Conversely, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test showed a more positive impact (Z=2.25, p=0.02; SMD=-0.74, 95% CI [-1.39, -0.09], p<0.001), with a difference of 4.4 higher in the experimental group than the control group. Conclusion. VRT shows promising effects in balance and gait training for older adults, but further clinical trials are needed to compare its impact with other therapies.
Protective and ameliorative effects of Picrorhiza kurroa rhizome extract against drug-induced liver injury in rats model
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Kumar, Manish; Raj, Varsha; Kumar, Sokindra; Mishra, Arun Kumar Mishra
Introduction and aim. The study evaluated the hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties of Picrorhiza kurroa rhizome ex tracts in rats, assessing their ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against liver damage. Material and methods. Liver damage was observed in Wistar rats after seven days of oral paracetamol (PCM) and azithromycin (AZM) combination therapy, with serum biomarkers evaluated for effect. Results. During the DPPH experiment, the antioxidant DPPH assay on rats’ livers revealed that the ethanol extract of P. kurroa demonstrated free radical scavenging activity. The crude ethanol extract of P. kurroa showed a 15.62% yield and 48.62 IC50 values in an antioxidant DPPH experiment. Long-term treatment reduces liver toxicity by balancing biochemical factors. When compared to the group that received only PCM and AZM, the rats treated with P. kurroa crude extract showed a significant decrease in alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, glutamate pyruvic transaminase, and bilirubin (p<0.001) while showing an increase in protein and albumin at all doses (p<0.05). In addition, it was reproved by in vivo antioxidant parameters such as superoxide dismutase, lactate dehydrogenase, catalase, and glutathione, which were also examined to verify its strong hepatoprotective effect. Conclusion. The study found that the ethanolic extract of P. kurroa rhizome has the potential to protect against liver damage caused by PCM and AZM due to its complementary anti-oxidant properties.

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Przeglądanie European Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine T.23, z. 1 (2025) według Data wydania