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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Clinical exome sequencing (carrier screening) identifies the gene INPPL1 in a sporadic case of opsismodysplasia
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Ashish, Ashish; Mishra, Shivani; Singh, Royana; Rai, Sangeeta
Introduction and aim. This study presents a case of opsismodysplasia in a family, characterized by skeletal dysplasia and neu rological complications in two consecutive neonates. Description of the case. Genetic analysis revealed that the father carries a likely benign/variant of uncertain significance (VUS) in exon 14 of the INPPL1 gene (c.1706C>T, p.Thr569Met), while the mother carries a pathogenic variant in exon 15 (c.1809del, p.Trp604GlyfsTer17). These variants follow an autosomal recessive inheritance, confirming carrier status. Additionally, the fa ther is a carrier of a likely pathogenic variant in the CYP17A1 gene (OMIM*609300), specifically in exon 6 (c.1040G>A, p.Ar g347His, heterozygous), affecting 17,20-lyase activity and associated with isolated 17,20-lyase deficiency. Targeted sequencing and Sanger validation elucidated the genetic basis of the condition, emphasizing the importance of genetic testing and coun selling in families with a history of genetic disorders. The detected variants in the INPPL1 gene disrupt SHIP2 protein function, contributing to the observed abnormalities. Conclusion. This study underscores the significance of early genetic diagnosis for reproductive counselling and timely inter vention. Further research into opsismodysplasia’s genetic mechanisms may lead to improved management and therapies for affected individuals. Overall, this case highlights the critical role of genetic analysis in diagnosing and managing rare genetic disorders, offering insights into personalized care and family planning.
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.
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.
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.
Probiotics for the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea – an umbrella review of meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Lee, E Lyn; Sidhick, Sulfath Thekkumcheril; Maharajan, Mari Kannan; Shanmugham, Suresh; Ingle, Pravinkumar Vishwanath; Kumar, Suresh; Ching, Siew Mooi; Lee, Yeong Yeh; Veettil, Sajesh K.
Introduction and aim. Antibiotic therapies induce diarrhea by disrupting the intestinal microbiota, prompting research into probiotics to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). The aim of this study was to systematically identify and summarize meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCT) on probiotics for AAD prevention. Material and methods. Databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Epistemonikos, and the Cochrane Database were searched up to December 11, 2023. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of RCTs on probiotics for AAD prevention in any age group were included. Meta-analyses were re-performed to calculate pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Evidence quality was assessed using GRADE criteria. Analysis of the literature. The review included 16 articles with 39 unique meta-analyses. Probiotics reduced AAD risk across various groups: adults (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.40–0.56), all ages (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.50–0.68), and outpatients (RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.36 0.66) with a moderate level of evidence. For the use of any probiotics in pediatrics, the initial high-quality evidence (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.44–0.63) was downgraded to moderate after a sensitivity analysis excluding small studies. Conclusion. Probiotics are beneficial in preventing AAD, but evidence quality varies from low to moderate. High-quality trials are needed to identify the most effective probiotic species and strains, dosages, and target patient populations.
Comparative efficacy of topical microbicides in the prevention of HIV transmission – results from a systematic review and network meta-analysis
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Lee, E Lyn; Shanmugham, Suresh; Kumar, Suresh; Smales, Frederick Charles; Noreen, Nabeela; Veettil, Sajesh K.
Introduction and aim. Preventing new HIV infections is crucial, particularly for women and girls at high risk. Vaginal microbi cides offer a female-controlled HIV prevention method. This systematic review evaluated the comparative efficacy of topical microbicides in preventing HIV transmission. Material and methods. Electronic databases were searched up to May 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing topical microbicides versus placebo/no treatment in sexually active women. The primary outcome was the incidence of HIV. A random effects network meta-analysis (NMA) was employed. Relative ranking was assessed using surface under the cumula tive ranking curve (SUCRA) probabilities. Analysis of literature. Thirteen RCTs were included in the review comparing the dapivirine ring, the tenofovir gel, BufferGel, PRO 2000, Carraguard, cellulose sulfate, or SAVVY against placebos. Compared to placebo, only dapivirine significantly reduced HIV incidence (risk ratio (RR) 0.71 [95% CI 0.56 to 0.91]). Dapivirine was superior to BufferGel (RR 0.61 [95% CI 0.39 to 0.94]) and SAVVY (RR 0.52 [95% CI 0.28 to 0.97]). Dapivirine ranked highest in efficacy (SUCRA=0.93), followed by tenofovir (SUCRA=0.76). In general, consistent network results with some small study effects. Conclusion. This study supports the use of the vaginal dapivirine ring for HIV prevention over SAVVY or BufferGel. More high-quality trials are needed to validate the efficacy of tenofovir gel.
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.
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.
Evaluation of oxidative stress level and glutathione system in patients with psoriasis in Basrah Governorate, Iraq
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Hassan, Ayat A.; Sayyah, Sahera G.
Introduction and aim. Psoriasis is a persistent chronic disease with no known cause or cure. This study aimed to estimate oxi dative stress and glutathione systems, and their association with factors (age, gender, disease severity, and geographical location) in psoriasis patients. Material and methods. The study was carried out in the Al-Fayhaa and the Basrah Teaching Hospitals. The number of patients was 45 with 45 in the control group. We quantified the amounts of malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC), 8-hydrox yguanosine, glutathione, glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and selenium. Results. The results showed significant differences in all variables at multiple statistical levels (p<0.05, p<0.01, p<0.001). The study found significant differences between two groups within the allowed concentration range. Some inter-factor fluctuations were found, and these fluctuations were noticeable in age and sex, and not significant in disease severity or location. The pa tients did not experience oxidative stress due to the oxidation of lipids and proteins, but rather DNA oxidation. Conclusion. Lipid peroxidation or protein oxidation do not correlate with psoriasis. While a marker for DNA oxidation exists, it yields different results in psoriasis patients compared to healthy individuals. We observed a correlation between MDA, GR and PC, GPx, PC, and selenium, which serves as the cofactor of the GPx enzyme.
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.
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.
Efficacy of furosemide in patients with chronic kidney disease with residual renal functions in hemodialysis and non-hemodialysis patients
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Khan, Pathan Amanulla; Sana; Begum, Maimoona; Tabassum, Subiya; Fathima, Ayesha Farhath; Nagapurkar, Swati; Fatima, Naureen
Introduction and aim. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects kidney function, characterized by albuminuria or reduced estimat ed glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and is influenced by factors such as etiology, pathogenesis, intensity, and progression. Ac cording to data from the literature, the efficacy of furosemide has not been much researched much in CKD patients. The study evaluates the efficacy in chronic kidney disease patients, regardless of hemodialysis, and compares its diuretic effect based on the administration route. Material and methods. A prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary healthcare facility for 6 months (October 2021 to March 2022). 100 CKD patients who met the criteria were enrolled in the study. Data on study-relevant parameters, such as route of administration (ROA), hemodialysis frequency, hospital stay, blood urea, serum creatinine, sodium, and potas sium, were collected. Pearson’s chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between parameters. One-way ANOVA was applied to analyze the significant association between ROA and urine output. Results. Of all the study samples, 72% received intravenous furosemide and 28% received furosemide orally. There was a sig nificant difference in eGFR and urine output on admission and discharge days. There was an increase in urine output when the patient received furosemide and improvement in eGFR was found. A significant association was also observed between systolic blood pressure, sodium, and potassium. Conclusion. The study found no significant differences in furosemide efficacy in CKD patients, regardless of ROA, hospital stay, or frequency of hemodialysis, indicating similar effectiveness.
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.
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.
Wound healing potential of Apamarga Ksharodaka (herbal alkaline water made from Achyranthus aspera Linn.) in excision rodent wound model
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Garg, Ayush Kumar; Rai, Sachchida Nand; Prajapati, Chandrabhan; Mishra, Shashank Shekhar; Singh, Santosh Kumar; Sen, Binay
Introduction and aim. Wound healing is a biological process that aims to restore tissue integrity and function. Despite medical advances, wound management remains challenging. Traditional medicinal preparations, like Apamarga ksharodaka (AK), offer promising therapeutic potential due to their phytochemical richness. This study evaluated wound healing and antimicrobial activity of AK. This study aimed to validate the traditional claim of AK’s wound healing potential using an excision wound model. Material and methods. An excision wound model was created using 24 male Wistar rats. A positive control group applied 5% w/w povidone-iodine (PI) ointment. Wound contraction (WC), epithelialization period (ET), wound closure day, and histopathology were assessed. Antibacterial activity was evaluated against Escherichia coli, Streptococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. Results. AK showed slightly better wound healing than PI ointment, with significant results in WC rate, wound closure, and ET. Histopathology revealed normal skin and organ architecture. The minimum MIC was 6.25 mg/ml against Pseudomonas aeruginosa with a maximum inhibition zone of 15 mm. Conclusion. AK is safe and effective for wound healing.
Overuse of ionizing radiation imaging by skull X-ray scans for minor pediatric head trauma
(Rzeszów University Press, 2025-03) Gharaibeh, Ahmad; Lackova, Antonia; Gharaibeh, Mahmoud M.; Alwadiya, Ahmed; Cellar, Robert; Mitro, Istvan; Filip, Vladimir; Lacko, Marek
Introduction and aim. The assessment of light head trauma in pediatric patients (GCS 14-15) often involves the use of skull X-rays for forensic reasons. This study aims to evaluate the necessity of radiographic imaging and reducing the overuse of X-rays, and developing Slovak guidelines for the appropriate use of X-rays and computed tomography (CT) in pediatric head trauma cases. Material and methods. This retrospective descriptive study analyzed records from children with head trauma seen at trauma clinics over a period of one year. The study focused on the number of radiographic images (CT and X-rays) performed on pedi atric patients and assessed the appropriateness of these imaging techniques. Results. Out of 1168 pediatric patients with head trauma, 831 (71%) had simple head injuries, 295 (25.26%) had wounds in the head area, 17 (1.45%) had fractures, 23 (1.97%) had concussions, and 2 (0.17%) had intracranial hematomas. A total of 1097 (93.9%) children with head trauma underwent imaging: 1032 had X-rays and 65 had CT scans. The study found that only 3.42% of patients actually needed radiation. Conclusion. The majority of pediatric head trauma cases were minor and not associated with brain injury, highlighting the overuse of radiographic imaging in these cases.
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.
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.
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.

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