Bratislavske Lekarske Listy[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Quality of food intake and spontaneous clearance of Human papillomavirus in women.
Nakov I
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487842 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus is known to be the main cause of cervical cancer. Given that cervical cancer is still one of the leading causes of death in women of reproductive age, it is very important to prevent HPV...
BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus is known to be the main cause of cervical cancer. Given that cervical cancer is still one of the leading causes of death in women of reproductive age, it is very important to prevent HPV infection and its persistence. OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to explore the quality of the diet in the spontaneous clearance of cervical HPV infection and its persistence. Furthermore, we have assessed the associations of overall diet quality and dietary components with HPV occurrence and clinical resolution of HPV over time. METHODS: 200 women of age between 20 and 68 years were included in this prospective study. Patients were tested for the presence of HPV subtypes, and were given questionnaires about their dietary habits. RESULTS: 43 patients were positive for HPV virus, and 157 patients were negative. Among the positive HPV patients, the mean value (±SEM) of the score was 12.88±0.6822 (min=7, max=21) with upper CI of mean 14.26 and coefficient of variation of 34.72%. CONCLUSION: Various antioxidants have different abilities to influence the course of HPV-mediated cervical cancer. This study showed that women who did not consume fruits, and dark-green vegetables had a higher risk of HPV infection (Tab. 2, Fig. 3, Ref. 40): Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: cervical cancer, human papillomavirus, folate, vitamin D3, dietary intake.
Theophylline in the prevention of vasovagal syncope recurrences.
Mitro P, Lazurova Z, Lukacova M
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487841 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: The present work aimed to study the efficacy and patient compliance of oral theophylline treatment in the prevention of vasovagal syncope recurrences. BACKGROUND: High blood adenosine may trigger vasovagal sy...
OBJECTIVES: The present work aimed to study the efficacy and patient compliance of oral theophylline treatment in the prevention of vasovagal syncope recurrences. BACKGROUND: High blood adenosine may trigger vasovagal syncope. Theophylline is an adenosine receptor antagonist. METHODS: In 44 patients with vasovagal syncope (8 men and 34 women, age 46.4±3.2 years) with an average 4.8±0.74 syncopal episodes (range 1-20, median 4,5 episodes) oral theophylline therapy was started with dose 2x100/200 mg, which was further increased if necessary. All patients were treated by non-pharmacological measures which were not effective. Patients were followed in regular intervals on an outpatient basis in 6-month intervals. RESULTS: After the start of treatment patients were followed for the mean of 17.1±2.1 months (2-51 months, median 12 months). The total number of syncopal episodes decreased from 4.8±0.74 to 1.73±0.45 (p=0.0006). The occurrence of syncopal episodes per year decreased from 4.07±0.80/year to 1.50±0.54 /year during the treatment period (p=0.001). After a gradual increase in theophylline dosage, in 34 patients no syncopal recurrences were observed. In 10 persons syncopal recurrences persisted despite treatment. Side effects leading to discontinuation of treatment were present in 14 patients - gastrointestinal intolerance (7 patients), palpitations (6 patients) and headache (3 patients). CONCLUSION: The addition of oral theophylline preparation to non-pharmacological treatment led to a marked reduction of syncopal recurrence in patients with vasovagal syncope. About one-third of study subjects discontinued therapy because of side effects (Tab. 2, Fig. 4, Ref. 22). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: heophylline, adenosine, vasovagal syncope, treatment.
Mitochondrial oxidative stress in immunopathogenesis of diseases.
Deglovic J, Supler M, Dvorzak M … +1 more , Gazdikova K
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487840 · Publisher ↗
Mitochondria are subcellular organelles involved in many metabolic events, including oxidative phosphorylation and signaling in tissue-specific processes. They play a key role in cell proliferation, differentiation and d...
Mitochondria are subcellular organelles involved in many metabolic events, including oxidative phosphorylation and signaling in tissue-specific processes. They play a key role in cell proliferation, differentiation and death.Diseases in the pathogenesis of which mitochondrial oxidative stress and immunity play a significant role include cancer, cardiovascular, nervous and rheumatic diseases as well as liver, lung and kidney diseases. In addition, mitochondria participate in the pathogenesis of infections and autoimmunity.Mitochondrial dysfunction can be positively influenced by administration of antioxidants, including coenzyme Q10 (Tab. 1, Fig. 5, Ref. 20). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: mitochondria, immunopathogenesis, bronchial asthma, chronic hepatitis C, reactive oxidative species, antioxidants, coenzyme Q10.
Perspective on the role of pharmacogenetic testing in mental health care in Slovakia.
Krivosova M, Hutka P, Kusnierova S … +5 more , Macekova Z, Maggioni L, Marcatili M, Clerici M, Mokry J
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487839 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The pathophysiology of mental illnesses is not fully understood, leading to insufficient remission, frequent adverse drug reactions, and treatment resistance. Pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing, a personalized app...
BACKGROUND: The pathophysiology of mental illnesses is not fully understood, leading to insufficient remission, frequent adverse drug reactions, and treatment resistance. Pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing, a personalized approach recently adopted also in psychiatry, can guide effective drug therapy and minimize side effects. The objective of this study was to determine the perspective of Slovak clinicians regarding the integration of PGx testing in psychiatric clinical practice. METHODS: Questionnaires covering various aspects such as prior experience with PGx testing, self-perceived competence, perceived utility, potential risks and challenges were distributed directly to attendees at two psychiatric conferences held in Slovakia in 2023 and their responses were statistically analysed. RESULTS: Out of 54 respondents, only 7.4% had previous experience with PGx in clinical practice. The most clinicians felt that they should possess the skills to apply PGx testing in psychiatric clinical practice and were enthusiastic about increasing their expertise. They found PGx useful in medication selection, adverse effect management, and treatment-resistant depression. The primary concerns centered around the lack of well-defined guidelines and the financial considerations linked to the testing. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the participants' interest in PGx and its integration into clinical practice, educational programmes based on recommendations, guidelines, and convincing evidence could be organized (Tab. 4, Ref. 30). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: pharmacogenetics, pharmacogenomics, psychiatry, personalized treatment, Slovakia, perspective.
Perspective targeted diagnosis and therapy of mitochondrial bioenergetics across different diagnoses.
Glevicka M, Komlosi M, Szantova M … +3 more , Gvozdjakova A, Kucharska J, Sumbalova Z
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487838 · Publisher ↗
Important metabolic variables that lead to the development of many diseases, including "mitochondrial diseases," include increased oxidative stress and mitochondrial malfunction. Given that the clinical picture and metab...
Important metabolic variables that lead to the development of many diseases, including "mitochondrial diseases," include increased oxidative stress and mitochondrial malfunction. Given that the clinical picture and metabolic alterations in individuals suspected of having mitochondrial illnesses lack distinct characteristics, the development of sensitive and specific diagnostic techniques to detect alterations in mitochondrial bioenergetics is imperative. High-resolution respirometry (HRR), is a minimally invasive technique that enables the analysis of mitochondrial function in platelets taken from peripheral blood. This method allows for the detection of even the most subtle changes prior to disease development. HRR can identify minute variations in mitochondrial bioenergetics. Determining mitochondrial function and endogenous levels of CoQ10 in platelets can aid in the early detection of pathobiochemical changes in mitochondria and assessment of treatment efficacy. When combined with the measurement of endogenous coenzyme Q10 levels, HRR may be an effective approach for early identification of compromised mitochondrial function along with monitoring the therapeutic outcomes. Supplementing with coenzyme Q10, applying molecular hydrogen, transplanting mitochondria, and applying platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are some of the therapeutic strategies utilized to enhance mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress (Tab. 1, Fig. 1, Ref. 62). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, mitochondrial bioenergetics, high-resolution respirometry, therapeutic approaches.
Clinical manifestation variability of bullous pemphigoid.
Svecova D, Nemsovska J, Babal P
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487837 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is a rare autoimmune blistering disease predominantly affecting the elderly population. OBJECTIVES: The present study aims to identify clinical factors that may influence outcomes of B...
BACKGROUND: Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is a rare autoimmune blistering disease predominantly affecting the elderly population. OBJECTIVES: The present study aims to identify clinical factors that may influence outcomes of BP, including skin phenotype, serology, mucosal involvement, pruritus, and triggers. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 70 cases with BP registered from January 2019 to December 2022. The Bullous Pemphigoid Disease Activity Index (BPDAI) score was used to assess disease intensity. The BPDAI-Pruritus score and a modified Brest questionnaire were used to document pruritus. Anti-BP180 and anti-BP230 autoantibodies were regularly recorded. Peripheral blood eosinophil counts were documented during flare-up and remission phases of BP. RESULTS: Of the cases, 81.4% were identified with bullous BP, 12.9% with nonbullous BP and 5.7% with localized BP. Oral involvement was documented in 17.1% of cases. Increased peripheral eosinophilia was prominent in the nonbullous phenotype and returned to normal level during remission in both phenotypes. CONCLUSION: The outcomes of BP depended on the disease phenotype and trigger types. Bullous BP showed more intense disease activity, while nonbullous BP demonstrated more intense pruritus. BP associated with diabetes mellitus (DM) or psoriasis manifested as a more severe disease, predominantly with the bullous phenotype and pruritus, compared to cases without comorbidities. New triggers, including SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination, were documented (Tab. 6, Ref. 43). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: bullous pemphigoid, nonbullous pemphigoid, pruritus, comorbidity, eosinophilia, new triggers.
COVID-19 pandemic as a huge stressor of the 21st century.
Ferencova N, Visnovcova Z, Ondrejka I … +1 more , Tonhajzerova I
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487836 · Publisher ↗
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a significant impact on the somatic and psychological state of the population worldwide, leading to a wide range of health complications. Most of the studies on the CO...
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a significant impact on the somatic and psychological state of the population worldwide, leading to a wide range of health complications. Most of the studies on the COVID-19 pandemic have focused on the direct psychological and somatic aspects of the disease. However, the negative consequences of the indirect aspect of the pandemic (i.e., stay-at-home orders leading to social isolation) represent a major stressor on psychosomatic health and warrant greater interest. This study examines the COVID-19 pandemic as a significant stressor of the 21st century through the lens of the "allostatic" stress response concept and highlights the stress-related psychosomatic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. A better understanding of the pathomechanisms underlying indirect impacts of the pandemic on psychosomatic health can contribute to the implementation of personalized interventions for managing stress responses, thereby reducing the pandemic-linked stress burden and preventing stress-associated disease emergence (Tab. 1, Fig. 1, Ref. 67). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic, social isolation, stress response, allostasis, allostatic load, psychosomatic symptoms.
Reconstructive techniques for lower eyelid and canthal defects after tumor resection.
Romzova B, Matuskova D, Palencar D … +2 more , Belak J, Knazovicky M
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487835 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: This prospective study aims to evaluate the demographic and histopathological characteristics of patients who underwent resection of malignant skin tumors of the lower eyelid. It also seeks to assess the size...
BACKGROUND: This prospective study aims to evaluate the demographic and histopathological characteristics of patients who underwent resection of malignant skin tumors of the lower eyelid. It also seeks to assess the size of the defect and outline the management strategies for reconstructing anterior and posterior lamellae. METHODS: The study enrolled 87 patients treated between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022. The article outlines a reconstructive strategy based on the defect characteristics. RESULTS: The most prevalent type of tumor was basal cell carcinoma (86%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (8%), malignant melanoma (5%), and Merkel cell carcinoma (1%). There was a slight male preponderance (52%). No significant difference was found in the incidence of lower eyelid malignant tumor between the sex subgroups (p=0.97). The mean age of the patients was 73.52 years (SD=10.582; range 37-92 years). No statistically significant difference in laterality (p=0.108) was observed. A larger tumor size was significantly associated with a higher tumor grade (p=0.008; r=0.926). A significant correlation was identified between the tumor location and the size of the excision (p<0.001). Furthermore, a significant correlation was identified between the histopathological types of tumors and the excision area (p=0.016). Reconstruction of the anterior lamella in small- and medium-sized defects was achieved by using local randomized flaps (61%), primary closure (29%), and skin grafts (10%). For large-sized defects, the anterior lamella was reconstructed by flap (88%) or skin graft (22%). Altogether, posterior lamella was replaced in 25 cases (29%) of all defects using nasal chondromucosa (40%), conchal cartilage (28%), buccal mucosa (8%), periosteal flap (12%), Hewes flap (8%) and Hughes flap (4%). CONCLUSION: Advanced techniques are necessary when reconstructing a larger lower lid area. In such cases, various subunits must be reconstructed separately to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes. However, the choice of reconstructive technique mainly depends on the extent of the lid resection (Fig. 9, Ref. 44). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: defects, eyelid, malignant neoplasms, reconstructive surgical procedures, resection.
Risk factors for self-reported alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Zahumensky J, Boda M, Serator V … +7 more , Psenkova P, Ostatnikova M, Gajdosova M, Peskovicova P, Dandarova S, Sirotna M, Papcun P
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487834 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most common preventable cause of impaired fetal development. The amount of alcohol consumed by expectant mothers varies by country. Studies on the prevalence of alcohol use...
BACKGROUND: Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most common preventable cause of impaired fetal development. The amount of alcohol consumed by expectant mothers varies by country. Studies on the prevalence of alcohol use among pregnant women in Slovakia and the risk factors linked to alcohol consumption during pregnancy are scarce. Similarly lacking are the data regarding pregnant women's awareness of the negative consequences of alcohol use during pregnancy. METHODS: The study comprised women who gave birth at the 2nd Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics between July 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023. All respondents received an anonymous retrospective questionnaire following childbirth. The questionnaire investigated alcohol consumption throughout the year preceding conception as well as during each of the trimesters. The questionnaire also included questions on the woman's plans to become pregnant, her demographics, and her awareness of the hazards associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy. RESULTS: A filled-out questionnaire was obtained from 402 women. Of these, 51 women (12.8%) reported being completely abstinent before becoming pregnant. Complete abstinence before pregnancy was the greatest strongest protection against drinking during pregnancy (RR: 0.03). Among the 351 women who drank before pregnancy, 108 women (30.8%) continued to drink while pregnant, which constitutes 26.9% of all pregnant women. Risk factors of alcohol use during pregnancy included unplanned pregnancy (RR: 1.32), inadequate knowledge of the negative consequences of alcohol intake during pregnancy (71.9% vs 75.4%), and heavy drinking prior to pregnancy (RR: 2.55). CONCLUSIONS: In accordance with certain European data, the best means of protection against alcohol consumption during pregnancy include complete abstinence prior to conception, pregnancy planning, and high-quality education regarding the negative effects of alcohol during pregnancy (Tab. 4, Ref. 19). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: fetal alcohol syndrome spectrum, alcohol drinking in pregnancy, pregnancy planning, prenatal alcohol exposure, pregnancy.
The emergence of artificial intelligence in publishing activities.
Bernadic M, Hulin I, Hatala R … +1 more , Bernadic M
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39487833 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
The ratio of brain natriuretic peptide level and computed tomography pulmonary angiography parameters in pulmonary embolism in relation to sex.
Sekulic JB, Sekulic I, Dzudovic B … +9 more , Subotic B, Jovanovic L, Salinger S, Matijasevic J, Kovacevic T, Mitevska I, Miloradovic V, Neskovic A, Obradovic S
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344769 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to investigate whether there are differences between brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels and computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) parameters, in patients with ac...
OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to investigate whether there are differences between brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels and computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) parameters, in patients with acute PE, with respect of sex. BACKGROUND: Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) may provoke sudden right ventricle overload and stretching of their thin walls, causing significant raise of BNP blood levels, which correlates to acute PE severity. The properties of RV are different between sexes. METHODS: This retrospective analysis was gained from the data of 1612 PE patients from the regional PE register. The patients have had CTPA verification of PE, with described localization of thrombus masses, as well as the ratio between RV and left ventricle (RV/LV), and BNP as biomarker, measured during the first 24 hours upon admission. RESULTS: Out of 96 male patients with detected central thrombus, 75.0% patients had an increase in BNP level compared to 25.0% patients with normal BNP value (p<0.001). Of the 94 female patients with central thrombus, 85.1% patients had an elevated BNP level, compared to 14.9% patients, with BNP normal values (p<0.001). Of the 135 male patients with RV/LV˃1, 79.3% of them, had elevated BNP, compared to 20.7% patients whose BNP level was normal (p<0.001). Out of 123 female patients with RV/LV˃1, 91.1% patients had elevated BNP compared to 8.9%, whose BNP was normal (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Elevated BNP blood level correlates with CTPA parameters, such as the presence of central thrombus and the ratio between right and left ventricles greater than 1, in patients with acute PE, regardless of sex (Tab. 2, Fig. 2, Ref. 23). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: acute pulmonary embolism, computed tomography pulmonary angiography, brain natriuretic peptide, right ventricle.
A genome-wide association study of longitudinal change in CSF tau among non-demented elderly.
Liu Y, Zhang N, Liu S … +2 more , Zhong X, Wang L
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344768 · Publisher ↗
METHODS: This study conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on longitudinal CSF t-tau and genotype data from 319 non-Hispanic Caucasians within the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort. The...
METHODS: This study conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on longitudinal CSF t-tau and genotype data from 319 non-Hispanic Caucasians within the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort. The aim was to identify genetic determinants influencing the rate of change in CSF t-tau, a key biomarker in AD. RESULTS: The GWAS identified a significant single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs17149074, within the C9orf171 (CFAP77) gene region that showed significant association with changes in CSF t-tau over time. Additionally, five other SNPs-rs10916844, rs10916846, rs9425869, rs3744474, and rs8078303-were found to potentially influence CSF t-tau variability. CONCLUSIONS: These findings not only enhance our understanding of t-tau's progression in AD but also suggest that these identified SNPs could serve as novel genetic biomarkers, potentially providing novel insights in the prognostic landscape of AD by refining the predictive value of CSF-tau measurements (Tab. 2, Fig. 2, Ref. 31). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: cerebrospinal fluid, t-tau, genome-wide association study, single nucleotide polymorphism, genetic factors.
Genetic factors affecting susceptibility to dental caries.
Slobodnikova L, Halasa AI, Kalmanova S … +6 more , Calkovsky B, Juricek R, Malachovsky I, Repiska V, Skerenova M, Janickova M
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344767 · Publisher ↗
Dental caries remains the most prevalent chronic, oral biofilm-associated disease affecting majority of the globe's population in all age categories. Despite enormous and revolutionary progress in omics technologies, it´...
Dental caries remains the most prevalent chronic, oral biofilm-associated disease affecting majority of the globe's population in all age categories. Despite enormous and revolutionary progress in omics technologies, it´s aetiology is not fully understood. The interest of current research is primarily focused on the identification and understanding of the crosstalk between main players such as host cell genome, oral microbiome´s genome, factors of immune response, saliva content and nutrition. For accurate, multi-omix analyses, it is essential to know which patient´s genes enter into crucial interactions. Identifying genes and understanding the mechanism of their action is the key for deeper understanding of their involvement in the pathogenesis of this disease. Serious alterations of these genes should be consequently used as markers to determine the extent of genetic predisposition to dental caries and identify susceptible patients. That should significantly improve the prevention, diagnostic and therapy of the disease with an individual approach and provide more efficient and effective implementation of newer preventive measures and novel therapeutic approaches in the management of the disease. This review focuses on contemporary evidence on genetics factors affecting dental caries and to provide an up-to-date comprehensive description and classification of the genes and their alterations influencing the disease. It also aims to delineate and discuss evidence gaps and potential novel applications of genetics in the context of recent advances (Tab. 2, Ref. 113). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: dental caries, candidate gene, genetic variation, multifactorial disease.
Effects of Mdm2 Inhibitors on Cellular Viability of Breast Cancer Cell Lines HP100, MCF7.
Al-Hussaniy HA, J Al-Zobaidy M
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344766 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is one of the main Cancers affecting patients all over the world; however, till now, there has been no successful treatment without any side effects on patient health, but there are groups of me...
BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is one of the main Cancers affecting patients all over the world; however, till now, there has been no successful treatment without any side effects on patient health, but there are groups of medications similar to MDM2 inhibitors that have promising effects. The aim of this study was to find out whether the use of mdm2 inhibitors can help treat breast cancer using three cell lines. The use of treatments belonging to the MDM2 inhibitor alone or with the use of doxorubicin together with a combination of Nutlin-3, Miladometan, Yh239-EE, and doxorubicin in breast cancer cell lines HP100, MCF7. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cell lines were treated with different concentrations of MDM2 inhibitors 1,5,10, and 20 micromolar alone or in combinations with doxorubicin. After that, cell viability was estimated by the MTT assay method. Then, we have assessed the expression of caspase as an indicator of cell apoptosis after treatment, and the expression of P53 and MDM2 after and before treatment. RESULTS: The IC50 of Doxorubicin in the MCf7 cell line was about 1.12 µM. The best IC50% in MDM2 inhibitors was for Nutlin, about 5.9 µM, then for Yh239-EE about 8.45 µM, and Milademetan about 11.07 µM the high IC50% values in normal epithelial cell HBl100. Also, the MDM2 inhibitor increased P53 levels, as did doxorubicin. CONCLUSION: Our research concluded that Nutlin 3 has a superior effect over Yh239-EE and Miladometan in treating Breast cancer; moreover, the combination group has shown to be more effective than treatment with Doxorubicin or MDM2 inhibitors alone. Interesting information is that Doxorubicin also causes an increase in P53 levels. This result provided us with a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of breast cancer. However, more research is required to be conducted on more types of cell lines and in human or animal models (Tab. 4, Fig. 8, Ref. 33). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: breast cancer, Miladometan, cell viability, proliferation, therapeutic strategy.
Armeo®Spring therapy improves movement efficiency and contributes to a better quality of life.
Cechova SA, Pastucha D, Tomaskova H … +3 more , Banikova S, Dabrowska M, Fiedorova I
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344765 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: The main objective was to explore the effect of exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation on quality of life in the subacute state of ischemic stroke. BACKGROUND: Central upper extremity hemiparesis affects self-ca...
OBJECTIVES: The main objective was to explore the effect of exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation on quality of life in the subacute state of ischemic stroke. BACKGROUND: Central upper extremity hemiparesis affects self-care, social participation, and quality of life. Exoskeleton devices serve as a therapeutic tool and an assessment tool that offers precise tracking of patient progress and evaluation of impairment. METHODS: The trial was carried out from April 2022 to September 2023. Twenty-seven patients were randomly assigned to the intervention (14 participants; mean age 64.71 years; 5 women, 9 men) and control group (13 participants; mean age 64.69 years; 6 women, 7 men). Both groups received equal total therapy (10 to 12 sessions, 5 times a week). The intervention group received 30 minutes of Armea®Spring training combined with conventional rehabilitation. The control group was subjected to conventional rehabilitation. RESULTS: In the comparison between groups, the experimental group achieved significant changes in quality of life, movement efficiency, and functional performance of the upper extremities. CONCLUSIONS: Armeo®Spring therapy combined with usual care led to significantly larger changes in health-related quality of life and upper extremity movement efficiency compared to conventional rehabilitation (Tab. 4, Fig. 3, Ref. 64.) Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: stroke, hemiparesis, health-related quality of life, Armeo®Spring, movement efficiency, activities of daily living.
COVID-19 incentive payments for long-term care workers.
Bocharova I, Rymanov A
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344764 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Amid the COVID-19 pandemic in the Russian Federation, social care providers received incentives such as bonuses and welfare payments. The study examines the association between COVID-19 pandemic indicators and...
OBJECTIVE: Amid the COVID-19 pandemic in the Russian Federation, social care providers received incentives such as bonuses and welfare payments. The study examines the association between COVID-19 pandemic indicators and distribution of incentives to care providers in Russia. METHODS: To test the hypotheses, regression analysis is employed. RESULTS: Hypothesis H1, regarding the correlation between the COVID-19 case rate in a specific region of the Russian Federation and the actual monetary amount of bonus payments compensating for challenging working conditions of care workers in that region is supported. Hypotheses H2-H3, regarding the relationship between the COVID-19 cases/recovery rate and the monetary amount of special welfare payments to care workers distributed across the country during a given calendar month are also supported. Hypothesis H4, pertaining to the relationship between the Fiscal Year End and the monetary amount of special welfare payments distributed throughout the country to care providers during a given calendar month, is likewise supported. CONCLUSION: There is a correlation between payments to social care providers and coronavirus pandemic indicators (Tab. 5, Ref. 31). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: welfare payment, bonus, care providers.
Human milk oligosaccharide associated with the firmicutes-to-bacteroidetes ratio among stunted infants in Malang, Indonesia.
Annisa A, Santoso S, Zuhriyah L … +1 more , Handayani D
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344763 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) is a unique component of breastmilk. To date, no study has investigated the correlation between HMO and infant nutritional status particularly through the lens of gut microbio...
BACKGROUND: Human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) is a unique component of breastmilk. To date, no study has investigated the correlation between HMO and infant nutritional status particularly through the lens of gut microbiota. Therefore, our study aims to investigate the relationships between 2'-Fucosyllactose (2'-FL) in HMO and Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio among stunted infants. METHODS: A case-control study was conducted among 103 mother-infant pairs in Malang City, Indonesia. The quantification of 2'-FL HMO was assessed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The F/B ratio was analyzed with real-time poly-chain reaction (RT-PCR). For bivariate analysis, we employed the Spearman correlation and Mann‒Whitney tests, while for multivariate analysis, we utilized multiple linear regression. RESULTS: The findings showed that the stunted nutritional status was detected in 49 out of 103 infants. In this group, 40.81% of mothers of infants with a stunted nutritional status had a secretor-positive status, while all mothers of infants with appropriate nutritional status tested positive for the secretor status (100%). However, the association between maternal secretor status and infant nutritional status was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The average levels of 2'-FL HMO in breast milk were lower in the group with stunted infants compared to non-stunted infants (1.21 mg/L vs 1.40 mg/L). The regression analysis revealed a significant association of 2'-FL HMO levels with the presence of Bacteroidetes and value of the F/B ratio (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The breast milk component 2'-FL HMO significantly influences the gut microbiota of stunted infants. Future research aimed at elucidating the mechanisms by which 2'-FL HMO modulates infant gut microbiota should consider not only concentration and specific bacterial taxa but also intake levels (Tab. 2, Fig. 1, Ref. 37). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: 2'-fucosyllactose, human milk, oligosaccharide, firmicutes, bacteroidetes, stunting, infant.
In silico and in vitro studies of Tyr-Lys-Thr tripeptide against human lung cancer cell line (A549).
Bicak B, Akman G
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344762 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: The main purpose of this study is to predict the effect of Tyr-Lys-Thr (YKT) tripeptide, recognized for its anticancer properties, on lung cancer through theoretical and experimental analyzes. BACKGROUND: Pep...
OBJECTIVES: The main purpose of this study is to predict the effect of Tyr-Lys-Thr (YKT) tripeptide, recognized for its anticancer properties, on lung cancer through theoretical and experimental analyzes. BACKGROUND: Peptides are important therapeutic compounds that have been studied for many years. Among these, YKT tripeptide emerges as a significant therapeutic peptide, exhibiting cytotoxic effects on various cancer cell lines. METHODS: The study investigated the involvement of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, commonly activated in human cancer, and the pivotal role of caspases in apoptosis. The interactions of YKT tripeptide with mTOR, Akt, PI3K, caspase-3, and caspase-8 were investigated through the molecular docking method. Additionally, MTT test was used to determine the cytotoxic activity of YKT against the A549 cell line across concentrations set at 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2.5 and 5 mg/mL for 24 and 48 h. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: In silico docking studies were conducted with PI3K, Akt1, and mTOR, known to be active in human cancer, as well as caspase-3 and caspase-8, key enzymes in apoptosis. It was determined that YKT exhibited a robust binding tendency with each receptor. YKT tripeptide was also found to have a cytotoxic effect on human lung carcinoma cell line A549 (Tab. 5, Fig. 11, Ref. 28).
Investigation of the relationship between anxiety-depression, systemic immune-inflammation index and clinical progression in COVID-19.
Gumus BA, Sevik AE, Alkan S
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344761 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Given the multisystem nature of COVID-19 and its potential neuro-psychiatric effects along with the recognized role of systemic inflammation in the prognosis of both COVID-19 and psychiatric disorders, it is i...
OBJECTIVE: Given the multisystem nature of COVID-19 and its potential neuro-psychiatric effects along with the recognized role of systemic inflammation in the prognosis of both COVID-19 and psychiatric disorders, it is imperative to assess psychiatric symptoms in COVID-19 patients. This study sought to investigate the value of systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) scores, levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms assessed within the initial 24 hours following COVID-19 diagnosis as potential predictors of the clinical trajectory of COVID-19. METHODS: This study involved 64 patients admitted to our COVID-19 ward with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 pneumonia, all of whom underwent a psychiatric evaluation within 24 hours of admission. Upon admission, levels of c-reactive protein and inflammatory markers including leukocyte, neutrophil, thrombocyte, and lymphocyte counts were measured to calculate individual SII scores. Psychiatric evaluations were conducted using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and Standardized Mini-Mental Test (SMMT). RESULTS: The patients with clinical deterioration of COVID-19 exhibited higher STAI-Trait and STAI-State subscale scores measured upon admission compared to those without clinical deterioration. HDRS scores showed no significant correlation with clinical deterioration. STAI-State subscale scores correlated with SII scores and the duration of hospital stay. High baseline STAI scores and SII scores predicted COVID-19 clinical deterioration. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that the initial SII and STAI scores assessed within the initial 24 hours of hospitalization for COVID-19 significantly predicted the clinical progression of the disease during the hospital stay (Tab. 5, Ref. 37). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: COVID-19, systemic inflammatory response index, disease severity, inflammation.
Porphyria cutanea tarda triggered by hepatitis-E virus.
Hrabak P, Benesova K, Zahorakova D … +1 more , Bruha R
Bratisl Lek Listy · 2024 · PMID 39344760 · Publisher ↗
Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is the most common chronic porphyria, with approximate prevalence of 1:10,000. PCT is frequently associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV), malignant lymphoma and iron overload. Here, we prese...
Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is the most common chronic porphyria, with approximate prevalence of 1:10,000. PCT is frequently associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV), malignant lymphoma and iron overload. Here, we present a case of PCT onset subsequent to hepatitis E virus infection (HEV), characterised by symptoms including skin fragility, haemorrhagic bullous skin exanthema, and onycholysis. The patient was successfully treated by erythrocytapheresis and hydroxychloroquine. After exclusion of other possible causes of PCT, HEV infection was identified as the likely trigger of the disease in this genetically predisposed individual, representing the first reported instance of such an association. Erythrocytapheresis emerged as a viable alternative to phlebotomy for PCT treatment. This case underscores the significance of considering HEV infection in the aetiology of PCT and highlights erythrocytapheresis as a promising therapeutic approach (Ref. 8). Text in PDF www.elis.sk Keywords: hepatitis E, porphyria cutanea tarda, erythrocytapheresis, hydroxychloroquine.
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