Polski Merkuriusz Lekarski[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Conflict-induced increase in viral hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus infection among internally displaced persons: a retrospective study in Volodymyr community, Ukraine.
Chervynskyy IS, Kondratiuk NY
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633082 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To study the trends in the prevalence of hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection during 2020-2024 in the rear region of Ukraine, in the city of Volodymyr, an...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To study the trends in the prevalence of hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection during 2020-2024 in the rear region of Ukraine, in the city of Volodymyr, and assess the impact of internal displacement on the spread of infectious diseases. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis in Volodymyr Hospital (Volodymyr, Ukraine) was conducted using data from the official clinical registry and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) for 2020-2024. Comparative literature and statistical data from infection prevention programmes were also analyzed. RESULTS: Results: The decline in officially reported new HIV infections (from 29 in 2020 to 7 in 2024) contrasted with a marked increase in the number of ELISA-tested cases of hepatitis B and C (7,974 and 6,705 in 2024, respectively). Internally displaced persons (IDPs) accounted for a significant proportion of new diagnoses after 2022, including 22 HBV and 17 HCV cases in 2022. The discrepancy between laboratory results and official reporting suggests underdiagnosis. Additionally, Poisson regression analysis demonstrated that IDP status was a significant factor for increased risk of blood-borne infections. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Military conflict and population displacement significantly exacerbate the problem of blood-borne infections. Countries with successful infection control systems, such as Canada and the Netherlands, have implemented universal HBV vaccination, national HCV elimination strategies, and mobile care for vulnerable populations. These examples highlight the need to replicate such models in conflict-affected regions. National plans should be based on international recommendations, such as the WHO Global Health Strategy 2022 and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's viral hepatitis elimination roadmap.
Emotional and pain experiences reported by Ukrainian healthcare workers during wartime.
Butska LV, Drevitska OO, Dybkalyuk SV … +1 more , Mialovytska OA
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633081 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To assess the emotional and pain experiences of Ukrainian healthcare workers during the war to identify key targets for multidisciplinary prevention approaches. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To assess the emotional and pain experiences of Ukrainian healthcare workers during the war to identify key targets for multidisciplinary prevention approaches. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The pilot study enrolled 99 healthcare professionals (69 women, 30 men), aged 23-65 years. Participants included doctors (n=69), nurses, and physical therapists (n=30), with experience ranging from under 10 to over 25 years. A 49-item questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms. The survey assessed demographics, workload, emotional stress, pain, and attitudes toward working under wartime conditions. The variables were ranked using categorical and numerical discrete scales, and the data were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation. RESULTS: Results: Emotional exhaustion was reported by nearly half of the healthcare professionals at least 2-3 times per week, and pain syndrome was common, particularly lower back pain. Emotional exhaustion showed positive correlations with job dissatisfaction, workload, anxiety, and apathy. Higher pain intensity was linked to decreased productivity and emotional strain, including depression. The impact of war correlated with emotional and physical disruption, yet professionals remained empathetic toward patients. War-induced insomnia was associated with a higher desire to leave the profession, highlighting the longterm risks to healthcare workforce sustainability. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: The pilot study highlights the urgent need for preventive multidisciplinary interventions to address emotional strain and pain among healthcare workers. Tailored support strategies may enhance well-being and professional sustainability in high-stress environments.
Hepcidin as a marker of iron status in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Bardash VO, Maksymets TA, Bondarenko OO … +4 more , Kovalchuk HI, Kit ZM, Karpyshyn NV, Sklyarov EY
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633080 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To investigate hepcidin as a marker of iron status in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients (stage 5 vs. stage 3), and to assess its association with iron injection status within the maintenance hemodialy...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To investigate hepcidin as a marker of iron status in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients (stage 5 vs. stage 3), and to assess its association with iron injection status within the maintenance hemodialysis group. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study compared 69 hemodialysis (stage 5 CKD [G1]) and 19 non-dialysis (stage 3 CKD [G2]) patients, assessing hepcidin, ferritin and hemoglobin. As a part of their standard anemia management, patients requiring iron administration received scheduled injections of ferric carboxymaltose. RESULTS: Results: Hemodialysis patients (G1) had significantly lower hemoglobin and higher anemia prevalence than non-dialysis patients (G2), while baseline hepcidin and ferritin levels were comparable. Importantly, hepcidin levels were above the normal range in 85,5% and 84,2% of G1 and G2 patients, respectively. Hepcidin correlated positively with ferritin in both groups (G1: ρ=0,66, p<0,001; G2: ρ=0,87, p<0,001). Within G1, recent iron injections, administered in 24 patients, were significantly associated with higher hepcidin and ferritin, but not hemoglobin, as compared to patients without additional ferric therapy (n=45) (effect size: r=0,09 [by hemoglobin], r=0,80 [by hepcidin] and r=0,58 [by ferritin]). CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Significant iron metabolism impairment, marked by high hepcidin and ferritin prevalence, exists in both CKD stages studied. Although hemodialysis patients had lower hemoglobin, baseline hepcidin/ferritin levels were similar between groups. Within the hemodialysis group, recent iron injections were associated with increased hepcidin/ferritin but not hemoglobin. Findings suggest hepcidin may be a crucial indicator of functional iron availability in CKD, potentially offering more insight than ferritin, particularly reflecting acute changes following iron administration in hemodialysis patients.
Genotypes of Candida albicans and its cooperative interaction with Streptococci isolated from throat infections.
Al-Akeedi JM, Khudiar HH, Al Muhtaser STM … +1 more , Al-Fahham AA
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633079 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: This study was aimed to detect and determine genotypes of Candida albicans and its cooperative interaction with streptococci isolated from throat infections. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: T...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: This study was aimed to detect and determine genotypes of Candida albicans and its cooperative interaction with streptococci isolated from throat infections. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: This survey was carried out during November 2023 and March 2024 to collect a total of 80 throat swab samples from patients in in Al-Sadr Medical City in Najaf during. Candida was isolated from culturing throat swab samples on Sabouraud agar, and Blood agar. Each isolate (Candida & Streptococci) enhanced in monoculture using enrichment media; Potato Dextrose broth. Molecular assay included detecting three of biofilm forming genes; Als1, Als2, Als3. RESULTS: Results: Twelve out of fifteen Candida isolates showed increase in number after mixing with Streptococci and incubation. In contrast, three isolates showed no change or decrease after mixing in co-culture media. Five Candida isolates (out of 15 isolates) were positive in gel electrophoresis to three biofilm genes classified as first genotype (CALSG1). Four Candida isolates were negative in gel electrophoresis to three biofilm genes, classified as second genotype (CALSG2). Other Candida isolates were positive to one or two of three biofilm genes, classified with genotypes (CALSG3, CALSG4, CALSG5 and CALSG6). CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Candida albicans has biofilm formation genes (Als), which attract other organisms, like streptococci resulting in synergistic interaction. Despite the presence of some Als genes, it's not necessary to found strong biofilm results as Als genes may not be translated to form biofilm.
The impact of colectomy on the quality of life in patients with chronic slow-transit constipation according to the pac-qol scale, depending on the histological subtype of the colonic wall.
Leshchyshyn IM, Markulan LY, Okhotska OI … +1 more , Byk PL
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633078 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To assess the quality of life using the PAC-QOL scale in patients with chronic slow-transit constipation depending on the histological subtypes of the colonic wall after colectomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: M...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To assess the quality of life using the PAC-QOL scale in patients with chronic slow-transit constipation depending on the histological subtypes of the colonic wall after colectomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The dynamics of quality-of-life scores were studied in 107 patients with slow-transit constipation resistant to conservative treatment after colectomy using PAC-QOL questionnaire. RESULTS: Results: Significant improvement in quality of life was observed for all PAC-QOL subscales one year after surgery: physical discomfort improved by 58.7% to 67.7%, psychological discomfort - by 50.5%-67.2%, worries and concerns - by 53.3%- 67.6%, satisfaction with treatment - by 80.7%-82.6%, the PACQOL score - by 54-67.9%. The best outcomes for the PAC-QOL scale were demonstrated in patients with cajal subtype - 67,9% compared to the neuropathic (54,0%), myopathic inflammatory (56,1%), histologically intact (61,2%). Cajal histological subtype showed a greater improvement in the physical discomfort score - 67,7%, compared to the histologically intact subtype (58,7%), and the neuropathic subtype (58,9%); for Psychosocial discomfort - 67,2% compared to the dystrophic myopathic (55,5%), the neuropathic (50,7%), and the myopathic inflammatory subtype (50,5%); for the worries and concerns - 67,6% compared to the neuropathic subtype (53,3%). CONCLUSION: Conclusions: In patients with STC resistant to conservative treatment, colectomy leads to significant improvement in quality of life according to the Pac-Qol questionnaire, one year after surgery with the best improvement for the Cajal subtype.
Assessment of the complex-forming capacity of pectins obtained from various vegetable and fruit raw materials as a basis for creating special food products.
Kurdil NV, Khudaikulova OO, Krapyvnytska IO … +4 more , Omelchuk YO, Shchutska TO, Kostyuchenko TP, Palamar BI
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633077 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To study the complexing ability of pectins obtained from various vegetable and fruit raw materials with metal ions. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The content of metals was determined by the...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To study the complexing ability of pectins obtained from various vegetable and fruit raw materials with metal ions. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The content of metals was determined by the atomic emission method (SHIMADZU ICPE-9820 spectrometer); heavy metal measurement methods used were MІ.С3.7.2.01-017 and MІ.С3.7.2.01-018. Statistical analysis of the obtained data was performed using the IBM SPSS Statistics version 29.0.0.0 program; correlation analysis was conducted using the Kendall Tau-b method. RESULTS: Results: It was found that the highest complexing ability towards the mixture of Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+ ions was demonstrated by low-esterified sugar beet pectin (r=0,600; p<0.01). Citrus (r=0,312; p<0.01), quince (r=0,292; p<0.01), and apple (r=0,271; p<0.01) pectins also exhibited high complexing rates, while pumpkin (r=0,214; p<0.01) and carrot (r=0,156; p<0.01) pectins had slightly lower rates. In addition, pectin is found in smaller quantities in carrots and pumpkins than in sugar beet, citrus fruits, quince, and apples. To improve nutritional characteristics, reduce allergenicity, and maintain high complexing ability of the final product, the authors proposed a combination of raw materials from sugar beet and pumpkin, enriched with apple pectin and/or pectincontaining products and juices of pumpkin and apples. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: It was established that the highest complexing ability in relation to a mixture of lead, cadmium, mercury, zinc, and copper ions is possessed by low-esterified sugar beet pectin. The addition of this pectin to apple pectin and/or pectin-containing apple products and juices increases the potential nonspecific detoxification properties of the final food product.
Sex features of chewing pressure in youth of the Ukrainian ethnic group.
Ivanov RO, Sarafyniuk LA, Sarafyniuk PV … +2 more , Bandurka NM, Nesterova SY
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633076 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: Determin the magnitude of chewing pressure between different teeth on the right and left parts of the dental arches between young people of different sex of general groups and individual craniotypes. PATI...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: Determin the magnitude of chewing pressure between different teeth on the right and left parts of the dental arches between young people of different sex of general groups and individual craniotypes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The study used a quantitative approach, in particular, Fuji technology, Prescale MS. The system consists of a film, a scanner and special software, which allows you to obtain data on the distribution of pressure and its exact values. The participants were divided by gender - 118 girls and 104 boys, in whom one of the physiological bite types was detected. The determination of craniotypes was carried out using a cranial index. The following distribution of craniotypes among adolescents was established: dolichocephalyc, mesocephalyc, brachycephalyc. RESULTS: Results: We found a significant difference between youth in chewing efficiency, there were sex differences in the values of occlusal load between the first, second, third, fourth and fifth teeth of the left and right parts of the dental arches. We analyzed the value of chewing pressure in boys and girls belonging to different craniotypes, but significant sex differences were not found in all craniometric groups. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Gender differences were established in the magnitude of chewing pressure of incisors, canines, and premolars of the left and right parts of the dental arches when comparing groups of girls aged 16-20 and boys aged 17-21. The most significant sex differences were found in individuals with mesocephaly, the smallest in dolichocephaly.
Respiratory dysfunction in patients with irritable bowel syndrome.
Hadi HS, Ali Hadi M, Aljuranii LA … +1 more , Al-Fahham AA
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633075 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To study the respiratory symptoms and respiratory functions markers in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The study included 40 patients with IBS, a...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To study the respiratory symptoms and respiratory functions markers in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The study included 40 patients with IBS, and 30 apparently healthy subjects. Pulmonary functions are performed using spirometry, including forced expiratory volume, forced vital capacity, Forced Expiratory Volume/Forced Vital Capacity, peak expiratory flow rate. Classification of Irritable Bowel Syndrome subtypes performed according to the Rome III criteria. RESULTS: Results: Respiratory symptom among patients with IBS was sputum in the most common 67.5%, cough 50%, and wheeze 30% and dyspnea 37.5%. The results of the current study also revealed a significant decrease in most markers of respiratory functions markers, these include: Forced Vital Capacity which was (2.59±0.12 L) in Irritable Bowel Syndrome patients as compared to healthy control group (2.82±0.06 L). A significant decrease in Forced Expiratory Volume was also recorded in patients (2.18±0.12 L) comparing to control subjects (2.42±0.73 L). Accordingly, the Forced Expiratory Volume/Forced Vital Capacity was also significantly decreased in patients 83.98%±1.21% in comparison to healthy individuals 85.85%±1.35%. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: It was concluded that patients with irritable bowel syndrome exhibited a marked decreased in respiratory functions. It also seems that constipation is one of the underlining mechanisms for deterioration in the pulmonary functions and appearance of respiratory symptoms.
The thymus structural organization in severe extracellular dehydration and during readaptation.
Prykhodko O, Avilova O, Dmytruk S … +2 more , Yarmolenko O, Ponyrko A
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633074 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To investigate the changes of the thymus structure under extracellular dehydration and after rehydration in model experiment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 40 whi...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To investigate the changes of the thymus structure under extracellular dehydration and after rehydration in model experiment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 40 white male rats, divided into 4 groups of 10 animals each. 2 experimental groups were subjected to extracellular dehydration during 90 days. Following this period, one group was removed from the experiment and other one was switched to the vivarium's standard ration for 30 days (rehydration). The control groups of animals received the vivarium's standard ration throughout the 90 days and the 120 days respectively. The morphometric analysis, histological examination, immunohistochemical analysis were used. RESULTS: Results: 90 days extracellular dehydration leads to deformation of the thymocytes nuclei of rats, vacuolation or organelle destruction in cytoplasm, apoptosis and necrosis activation. The signs of stasis and thrombosis are present in thymic vessels. Functional thymus tissues replaced with connective and adipose tissues almost completely. After 30 days of rehydration reveals partial thymus restoration with lymphoid cell density increasing, with preserved morphological signs of cellular stress and structural remodelling, vascular abnormalities and incomplete restoration of thymus mass. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: In the context of severe extracellular dehydration, profound the depletion of functional thymus tissue, its substitution with connective and adipose tissue, and the occlusion of blood vessels. The morphological structure of the thymus doesn't complete recover during 30 days readaptation period. This suggest the need for prolonged rehydration periods or more effective interventions to fully restore thymic structure and function.
Clinically significant and insignificant prostate cancer following prostate intraepithelial neoplasia.
Melnychuk M, Zhuravchak A, Diachuk M
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633073
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To investigate the rate of clinical significant and insignificant Prostate Cancer (PC) in patients with initial high grade and low grade Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PIN). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Ma...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To investigate the rate of clinical significant and insignificant Prostate Cancer (PC) in patients with initial high grade and low grade Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PIN). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The study included 286 patients with PIN, 152 patients with HGPIN and 134 patients with LGPIN. During 3 year follow-up prostate rebiopsies with 6 months interval were performed. Each PC case was assessed in relation to its clinical significance according to such Epstein criteria as PSA density < 0,15, Gleason score < 7, number of cores positive for tumour < 3, no more than 50% involvement by tumour in every single core. RESULTS: Results: During 3-year follow-up in 75 (26,2%) of 286 patients with PIN was detected PC (64 (42,1%) patients with HGPIN and in 11 (8,2%) patients with LGPIN). General estimation of clinical insignificant PC cases that were detected in patients with prior PIN amounted 12 (16%) patients. The majority of patients, namely 63 (84%) had clinical significant PC. Among 11 PC cases in patients with LGPIN 4 (36,4%) cases were insignificant. The rate of insignificant PC in HGPIN was 8 (12,5%). Statistically valid difference between HGPIN and LGPIN in rate of insignificant PC, that was 23,9% was determined. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: PIN is a cancer precursor that progresses into PC in 26,2% of cases during 3-year follow-up. The rate of clinically insignificant PC in patients with PIN was in 23,9% more in patients witn LGPIN than in patients with HGPIN.
Single and combined effects of lead and piroxicam on the structural and functional profiles of the liver and kidney.
Ai-Rufaei IA, Ali SA, Kareem DA … +1 more , Majeed MF
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633072 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: Our study investigated the harmful synergistic effect of lead and piroxicam treatment on liver and kidney tissue functions and morphology. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: 24 male Wister rats...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: Our study investigated the harmful synergistic effect of lead and piroxicam treatment on liver and kidney tissue functions and morphology. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: 24 male Wister rats were allocated randomly in equal numbers n=6 into four groups: (Group1): was used as the control animal group. In the control group, 0.5 mL of distilled water was given by an orogastric tube. (Group2): for 21 days, lead acetate was administered via an orogastric tube at a dose of 4 mg/kg/day according to body weight. (Group3): is given peroxicam (0.3 mg/kg/day) by the same route and dose for 21 days. Group 4: (Group4), a synergistic mixture of piroxicam (1 mg/kg/day) and lead acetate (4 mg/kg/day) was given by an orogastric tube. Liver functions were evaluated by measuring activity of alanine aminotransferase aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase. Kidney functions were represented by assays of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and urea, while antioxidant status determined by malondialdehyde catalase activity and reduced-glutathione level. RESULTS: Results: Liver and renal function data were estimated in serum and organs. Group2 and Group3 caused elevated serum levels of MDA, BUN, and Cre while decreasing levels of SOD and GSH in serum and liver and kidney tissue. Group4: Administration of a synergistic mixture of lead and piroxicam caused severe elevated serum levels of MDA, BUN, and Cre, while acutely decreasing levels of SOD and GSH were found in serum and liver and kidney tissue. Generally, data supported by histological examination indicated severe damage following induced oxidative stress by a synergistic mixture of piroxicam and lead compared with other groups. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: The synergistic treatment (group 4) resulted in the most significant effects compared to the control group, as evidenced by both biochemical and histopathological measurements. Additionally, groups 2 and 3 showed negative changes in these measurements relative to the control group, but these changes were less pronounced than those observed in group 4.
Comparative assessment of the risks of soil and groundwater pollution by triazine herbicides in Ukraine and European Union countries.
Syrota AI, Vavrinevych O, Blagaia AV … +2 more , Stavnichenko PV, Omelchuk ST
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633071
OBJECTIVE: Aim: Assessment of the risk of soil and groundwater contamination by triazine herbicides to reduce anthropogenic environment pollution and decrease the potential negative impact on public health in Ukraine and...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: Assessment of the risk of soil and groundwater contamination by triazine herbicides to reduce anthropogenic environment pollution and decrease the potential negative impact on public health in Ukraine and the EU. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: 14 preparations containing 5 active substances of the triazine class and its environmental fate in soil and water considering Ukraine and EU climatic conditions. Methods of in-field hygienic experiment, gas-liquid chromatography, analytical and statistical methods, hygienic modelling using Experimental Leaching Index (ELI), (GUS), (RLPI), (LIX), (DT50) and (KOC), SCI-GROW, LEACHmod. RESULTS: Results: Analysis of the physicochemical properties of studied substances showed that they were classified as mobile or moderately mobile by migration ability. Calculated T50 for studied substances allowed us to determine the hazard classes for them. Substances pertain to 2-3 classes (promethrin and terbuthylazine - class 2, moderately persistent (30-100 days), tribenuron-methyl, thifensulfuron-methyl and metribuzin - class 3, weak persistency (less than 30 days)). The determination coefficient (R2) values ranged from 0.704 to 0.995. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: According to the GUS, most of the studied substances have a moderate possibility of leaching into groundwater, except for thifensulfuron-methyl. While in EU soils the index for promethrin is very low, tribenuron-methyl is low, terbuthylazine and metribuzin are moderate, and thifensulfuron-methyl is high. The SCI-GROW assessment showed that most of them have significantly lower values in Ukraine than international values (except for promethrin), which can be explained by significant dissimilarities in maximum application rates, number of treatments, and in some cases - different resistance of substances in Ukrainian and EU soils.
Investigation of stress levels based on the type of behaviour in stressful situation among internally displaced persons after relocation from areas of active hostilities.
Stepanenko VV, Romanets LM, Petryshyn LY … +4 more , Stepanenko VІ, Kulchytskyi TR, Fedchyshyn NO, Fedoniuk LY
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633070 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To compare indicators of the level of stress and the tendency to be exposed to stressogenic factors in internally displaced persons who moved from regions of active hostilities in the first three months a...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To compare indicators of the level of stress and the tendency to be exposed to stressogenic factors in internally displaced persons who moved from regions of active hostilities in the first three months after the full-scale Russian invasion. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The following diagnostic tools were used in the study: 1. "Test for determining the level of stress" (according to V. Shcherbatykh, adapted by H. Kharko ), the essence of which is to determine the level of stress of a person. The test contains several sections that are responsible for a certain sign of stress - intellectual, behavioral signs, emotional and physiological symptoms. 2. "Questionnaire for self-diagnosis of the type of behavior in a stressful situation" (according to V. Boyko), which allows you to identify reactions to stress and the tendency to be influenced by stressogenic factors depending on the type of behavior in a stressful situation. Analysis, synthesis, generalization, concretization, systematization, comparison, forecasting, and mathematical statistics were used to process, compare, evaluate, and interpret the obtained research results. Data processing was carried out using Jamovi 2.2.5 and RStudio 2024.04.1. RESULTS: Results: The relevance of the topic deals with the importance of the need to preserve, develop and strengthen the health of the individual, in particular in the conditions of war, which appears as a serious stress factor that tests a person. A special category that requires research on the level of stress and the tendency to be influenced by stress factors are internally displaced persons who have moved from regions of active hostilities and have a whole set of problems related to the lack of housing, work, adaptation in a new place, establishing communication, finding new resources of existence, etc. Long-term stress has a negative effect on the human body, in particular on intellectual, behavioral, emotional, and physiological manifestations. Among 134 respondents, 92 women, 29 men and 13 respondents did not indicate their gender participated in the study. The average age of the respondents was: Me=36, Q 1=32, Q 3=44 (N =118); 16 respondents did not indicate their age. The distribution of respondents' age indicators was not subject to a normal distribution according to the Gaussian curve. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: During the study of groups of internally displaced persons (hereinafter IDPs), which were formed according to time, gender and age criteria, moderate direct correlations were found between indicators of the level of stress and indicators of the tendency to be influenced by stressogenic factors, depending on the type of behavior in a stressful situation. Correlation is observed both for general indicators and component blocks of stress manifestations (intellectual, behavioral, emotional and physiological), which confirms the relationship between psychophysiological indicators of stress and the type of stress behavior. Our study among internally displaced persons aged 18-81 years who moved from regions of active hostilities proved the absence of a difference between women and men in the level of stress, and differences in the manifestations of intellectual, behavioral signs, emotional and physiological symptoms.
Interactions between Covid-19 and chronic disease: A multilevel analysis of treatment strategies and outcomes.
Zhunussov Y, Li Y, Kosherova B … +2 more , Placinta G, Mkhitaryan X
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633069 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: The purpose of study was to analyse the interaction between COVID-19 and chronic diseases, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of treatment strategies. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: The purpose of study was to analyse the interaction between COVID-19 and chronic diseases, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of treatment strategies. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The study, conducted at the Infectious Disease Centre of the Regional Clinical Hospital of Karaganda, aimed to determine factors influencing therapy effectiveness in 236 COVID-19 patients. It assessed the dynamics of laboratory indicators and their relationship with chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular conditions, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancer. Demographic data, including age and gender, were also considered. RESULTS: Results: The study revealed no significant age difference between patients with moderate and severe COVID-19 courses, with both groups averaging a similar age of 66 years. The duration of hospitalization was significantly longer for patients with severe disease, who required an average of 15 days, compared to 11 days for patients with moderate disease (p<0.001). Comorbidities, especially arterial hypertension and coronary artery disease, were common in patients with moderate disease but had less impact on outcomes compared to severe cases, where multiple chronic conditions were linked to higher mortality. Some treatments had a more pronounced effect in this group of patients, while others may have been less effective or had negative effects. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: The study highlights the critical impact of chronic diseases on the severity and outcomes of COVID-19, emphasizing the need for personalized, multidisciplinary treatment strategies that consider comorbidities to optimize patient outcomes.
Statin use and muscle strength in older patients with heart failure.
Czapski P, Niegowska W, Domański J … +7 more , Witkowska A, Wirkijowski J, Woźniak P, Januszewska K, Kupisz-Urbańska M, Sawicka A, Jankowski P
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40633068 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To evaluate the association between statin use and muscle strength in older adults with heart failure (HF). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: Hospitalized, older adults with HF were divided int...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: To evaluate the association between statin use and muscle strength in older adults with heart failure (HF). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: Hospitalized, older adults with HF were divided into two subgroups: use statin (US) and not use statin (N-US). Muscle strength was measured using a hand-held dynamometer and HF was assessed based on the New York Heart Association NYHA functional classification. RESULTS: Results: 194 patients (median age 82 [78-86] years), 90 patients in US and 104 in N-US group. Muscle strength didn't differ significantly in US vs N-US group, 19.74kg (15.48-27.18) vs 17.58kg (12.73-25.66), p=0.098. In a multivariate analysis age, sex, NYHA class, hemoglobin concentration, presence of atrial fibrillation, and hypothyroidism were found to be independent factors of muscle strength (p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.01, p<0.001, p=0.02, p=0.04 respectively). CONCLUSION: Conclusions: statin use is not related to decreased muscle strength in older adults with HF.
Painful swelling of the skull as the first symptom of multiple myeloma - a case report.
Sadowski J, Roszak M, Kipiński L … +4 more , Kandziora K, Szczerbaniewicz A, Żabicka I, Łabuz-Roszak B
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40322814 · Publisher ↗
This article presents the case of a 53-year-old patient who reported to the neurology emergency room because of painful swelling of the left side of the forehead, temple and parietal region that had been persisting for 4...
This article presents the case of a 53-year-old patient who reported to the neurology emergency room because of painful swelling of the left side of the forehead, temple and parietal region that had been persisting for 4 days. In the interview, the patient is under constant cardiology care due to pharmacologically treated hypertension, additionally diagnosed with nephrolithiasis and left intercostal neuralgia as a result of chronic cough that had been persisting for 2 months. Neurological physical examination revealed slight facial asymmetry, with the left eyeball set deeper and the zygomatic bone less prominent on the left side. Noteworthy was the swelling of the soft tissues of the left side of the head, covering half of the forehead, temple and parietal region, without involvement of the back of the head or the right side. The patient underwent an imaging examination of the head using computed tomography (CT). Due to ambiguous changes in the bones of the skull cap, an extension of the diagnostics was ordered with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Very numerous osteolytic foci were found, which enhanced after contrast administration, scattered throughout the skull bone, and at least one foci in the spine - in the apex of the dentary tooth. The most probable origin of the changes was indicated as multiple myeloma, for differential diagnosis with other metastatic changes. The patient underwent a hematological consultation, during which a bone marrow aspirate and protein tests were taken. The histopathological result revealed numerous plasma cells and a monoclonal protein peak (M). A date was set for the patient to be admitted to the Hematology Department for further treatment.
Special pedagogy of people with intellectual disability and contemporary psychiatry in poland - mutual complementarity or lack of understanding?
Pietras T, Sipowicz K, Witusik A … +3 more , Mosiołek A, Batko K, Stefanik A
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40322813 · Publisher ↗
Intellectual disability is the subject of interest of psychiatry and special education. Both sciences in Poland adopt an inclusive model of care for people with disabilities. The path of each of them from a directive mod...
Intellectual disability is the subject of interest of psychiatry and special education. Both sciences in Poland adopt an inclusive model of care for people with disabilities. The path of each of them from a directive model to an inclusive model has been different. The aim of the study is to compare the attitude towards people with intellectual disabilities and the evolution of changes that have taken place in Polish special education and in Polish psychiatry in the last few decades. The comparison was carried out using the narrative method through a review of key publications on the understanding of the intellectual disability phenomenon by special education in Poland and by psychiatry. In 1989, Polish special education departed from dialectical materialism as a binding doctrine in the social sciences. A postmodern understanding of the phenomenon of disability, culminating in the formulation of a humanistic paradigm of special education consisting of four microparadigms, developed instead. Special education moved away from quantitative research in favor of qualitative research, negating the biomedical aspects of disability. Qualitative and conceptual research studies carried out in Poland have not entered the global circulation of scientific information and are known locally in Poland. Polish psychiatry has undergone a less revolutionary path of change than special education. The development of community psychiatry in Western Europe slowly began to be implemented in Poland. It has been implemented in recent years in the form of mental health centers. Since the beginning of the political transformation, Polish psychiatry has been present in international journals in published English with the Impact Factor. Despite the postmodern, inclusive understanding of mental disorders, but in contrast to Polish special education, Polish psychiatry is based on quantitative research studies. Their results are published in international journals. Polish special pedagogy of people with intellectual disabilities, as well as Polish psychiatry, have undergone a significant paradigmatic reconstruction in the last few decades. Both sciences adopted an inclusive model of understanding intellectual disability. The different ways of development of the two sciences are reflected in publications and scientific research, as well as in certain terminological differences.
Applications of magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder.
Paraniak-Gieszczyk B
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40322812 · Publisher ↗
The application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques in diagnosing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) represents a significant research focus, providing deeper insights into trauma-related psychological disor...
The application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques in diagnosing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) represents a significant research focus, providing deeper insights into trauma-related psychological disorders. PTSD often arises from chronic stress, a state in which the body struggles to adapt to overwhelming stimuli. Patients frequently experience persistent flashbacks (intrusive memories or sensory recollections of the traumatic event) and nightmares, which evoke intense emotional responses and disrupt daily life. These recurring episodes of stress and anxiety severely impact behavior and functioning. Understanding the brain changes associated with PTSD has become possible through advancements in MRI studies. This article aims to review the scientific literature on the use of magnetic resonance imaging techniques in diagnosing posttraumatic stress disorder. The review is based on scientific literature from medical databases, including Web of Science and Scopus, covering publications up to October 30, 2024. The findings from this analysis may contribute to a better understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying PTSD.
Overcoming the consequences of psychological trauma with the help of "The Murray Method" and becoming a healthy balanced personality.
Murray ML, Іlchenko RM, Zaika VM … +1 more , Morgun VF
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40322811 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Aim: The aim of the study is to analysis of "The Murray Method", which is aimed at overcoming the consequences of adverse childhood experiences, the consequences of various psychological traumas of the individ...
OBJECTIVE: Aim: The aim of the study is to analysis of "The Murray Method", which is aimed at overcoming the consequences of adverse childhood experiences, the consequences of various psychological traumas of the individual during life and is aimed at the formation of a healthy balanced personality, the study of the fundamentals of the emergence of the method, the disclosure of the psychological mechanisms of how a person experiences a traumatic event, consideration of the main basic concepts of the concepts of "The Murray Method". PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: To solve the tasks and achieve the goal of the article, we used general scientific methods of the theoretical level (analysis, synthesis, comparison, systematization, generalization of scientific and theoretical data), in relation to the psychotherapeutic method of becoming a healthy balanced personality through overcoming trauma, violence and deprivation according to "The Murray Method". CONCLUSION: Conclusions: "The Murray Method" is based on sufficiently strong immersion in the ≪Pool of Pain≫ and its ≪devastation≫ in an atmosphere of support and love, reducing the role of the protective mechanism as a result of working with images, manifesting, talking about painful emotions, analyzing traumatic experiences, as well as searching and the formation of personal talents, the formation of a healthy, balanced person, capable of sympathizing, showing empathy, protecting oneself without harming others, enjoying life.
Schistosomiasis in urology. Outline of the problem.
Kuzaka P, Sumit S, Kuzaka B … +1 more , Radziszewski P
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40322810 · Publisher ↗
Schistosomiasis very often illness in endemic countries caused by schistosoma haematobium and very rare disease, in Poland caused especially by birds flukes, and in travellers and refugees from endemic countries. It is i...
Schistosomiasis very often illness in endemic countries caused by schistosoma haematobium and very rare disease, in Poland caused especially by birds flukes, and in travellers and refugees from endemic countries. It is important for urologist to keep in mind in differential diagnosis also this disease. Symptoms of the disease are primarily due to the body's reaction to the parasite's eggs and dead flukes forms, which cause inflammatory infiltrates. In the early stages, these are reversible and curable, but in later stages, they lead to recidivans haematurie, fibrosis and calcification of the affected organ, resulting in subsequent changes, bladder neck strictures, ureteral strictures, vesico-ureteral reflux, calculi in the urinary tract, squamous cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder, renal failure, and others. In neglected cases, bilharziasis manifestations are fistulas on the scrotum with pseudo-elephantiasis changes.
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