Journals published by Medical University of Lublin
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Dietary intake of polyphenolic compoundsfrom major food groups: results of analytical determinations
Polyphenols are widely distributed in plants and plant-based foods. Although they are not considered essential nutrients, they exhibit a broad spectrum of biological properties, particularly antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate dietary intake of polyphenolic compounds derived from major food groups among young Polish adults. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour dietary recall method supported by dedicated computer software. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was applied to identify major polyphenolic compounds, while the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and the DPPH radical scavenging test were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity of basic food groups. The primary sources of polyphenolic compounds were fruits, vegetables, and, most notably, beverages – mainly tea – which accounted for over 65% of beverage consumption in both interviewed groups. The predominant phenolic compounds identified were gallic acid, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), quercetin, and rutin. Gallic acid was the main polyphenolic component in daily food rations, with beverages constituting its primary dietary source. Only trace amounts of polyphenols were detected in eggs, fish, oils, milk, and meat products. The antioxidant activity of female diets (682.6 mg GAEq) was slightly higher compared with male food rations (680.04 mg GAEq)
Interaction between TNF inhibitors and serum IL-17 levels and susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis
This study aimed to assess the central role of the immunological marker interleukin-17 (IL-17) and to investigate the interaction between tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors and serum IL-17 levels in relation to susceptibility in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Serum samples were collected from three groups: patients with RA receiving TNF inhibitor therapy, patients with newly diagnosed (early) RA, and healthy controls. Serum IL-17 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum IL-17 concentrations were significantly higher in RA patients treated with TNF inhibitors compared with the other groups (p < 0.001). Based on the present findings, increased serum IL-17 levels in RA patients undergoing TNF inhibitor therapy may indicate a better response to anti-TNF treatment
Investigation the autoantibodies, IL-17 and IL-22 in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains a prevalent and progressive autoimmune disease worldwide, associated with substantial medical, psychological, and economic burdens.To evaluate the role of rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA), and the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-17 (IL-17) and interleukin-22 (IL-22) in the development of RA, and to assess their association with disease activity and response to treatment.A case-control study was conducted involving 150 participants, including 120 patients with RA diagnosed by a specialist according to the 2010 ACR/EULAR criteria and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Serum levels of RF, ACPA, IL-17, and IL-22 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Significantly higher serum levels of RF and ACPA were observed in patients with RA compared with the control group. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified a cut-off value of 22.95 U/mL for RF, with 97.4% sensitivity and 90% specificity, and a cut-off value of 22.45 U/mL for ACPA, with 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Serum levels of IL-17 and IL-22 were also significantly increased in patients with RA compared with controls. ROC analysis revealed cut-off values of 26.86 pg/mL for IL-17 and 30.16 pg/mL for IL-22, both showing high statistical significance. Stratification according to disease severity and treatment type demonstrated that IL-17 and IL-22 levels were significantly higher in patients at stage 4 and in untreated patients compared with those at earlier disease stages and those receiving chemical, biological, or combination therapies.The present study demonstrates that RF and ACPA levels are significantly elevated in patients with RA and exhibit high diagnostic accuracy based on optimal cut-off values. In addition, IL-17 and IL-22 levels are markedly increased, particularly in patients with advanced disease and those who are untreated. These findings indicate a strong association between elevated autoantibody and cytokine levels, disease severity, and treatment response, supporting their potential utility as biomarkers in the clinical management of RA
Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity of blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) fruit extract against Gram-negative multidrug-resistant bacteria isolated from clinical samples
While antibiotics remain foundational in treating microbial infections, their overuse has accelerated the emergence and global spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial strains. This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical composition of a concentrated blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) extract and evaluate its antimicrobial potential against clinical MDR strains of Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterobacter cloacae. Phytochemical quantification was performed using spectrophotometric, titrimetric, and HPLC analyses, while antimicrobial activity was determined via the well diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays. The blackberry extract contained 0.54% total phenolic compounds and 4.60% organic acids; in comparison, a green tea leaf extract exhibited higher phenolic content (10.10%) but lower organic acids (1.60%). The total anthocyanin content of the blackberry extract was 159.81 mg/100 g, with cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (134.56 ± 0.10 mg/100 g) identified as the predominant constituent.In silico molecular docking studies indicated that neither individual antibiotics nor isolated anthocyanins could effectively inhibit the full array of resistance mechanisms in Gram-negative bacteria. In contrast, in vitro assays demonstrated that the whole blackberry extract significantly inhibited the growth of all tested MDR strains. These integrated findings suggest that combating complex MDR pathogens requires a multi-target strategy. The broad-spectrum efficacy of the crude extract, likely arising from synergistic interactions among its constituents, underscores the potential of complex phytochemical preparations. Such natural formulations represent a promising avenue for the development of novel antimicrobial agents and may offer a viable strategy to restore the efficacy of existing antibiotics through adjunctive therapy
Pre-clinical evidence-based insights into the therapeutic potential of Murraya koenigii (curry patta) with a focus on its future application as an anti-inflammatory drug
In recent years, there has been unprecedented growth in the use of plant-based herbal therapeutics for the management of various disease conditions. Murraya koenigii has a long history of use in India as a food enhancer and for its numerous therapeutic benefits. Various parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, and bark, are traditionally used to treat disorders such as dysentery, renal pain, gastrointestinal disturbances, and morning sickness. Leaf extracts of M. koenigii have been reported to possess cooling, anthelmintic, analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antipruritic properties. In addition, the leaves are used in the management of leukoderma and as blood-purifying agents. Toasted leaves infused in water are traditionally used as a household remedy to control vomiting, while crushed leaves are applied topically to treat skin eruptions and soothe burns. The present review aims to provide an updated overview of the therapeutic potential of M. koenigii, with a particular emphasis on pre-clinical evidence supporting its anti-inflammatory activity
Versatile applicability of a new reagent for iron(II) determination in pharmaceutical products, foodstuffs, soil, and water samples
The present study aimed to develop a simple, sensitive, and versatile spectrophotometric method for the determination of Fe(II) in pharmaceutical formulations, foodstuffs, water, and soil samples. The synthesis and analytical performance of the proposed method were evaluated. A new organic compound, 4-(2,3,4-trihydroxyphenylazo)antipyrine (4-THPA), was employed as the chromogenic reagent. Among more than 20 investigated metal ions, 4-THPA selectively reacted with iron(II) to form a violet-colored complex. Under optimized experimental conditions, the method exhibited linearity over the concentration range of 0.15-25 μg·mL-1 for Fe(II). The molar absorptivity was calculated to be 9.9 × 10³ L·mol-1·cm-1, and Sandell’s sensitivity was 0.0015 μg·cm-2. The limits of detection and quantification for Fe(II) were 0.021 μg·mL-1 and 0.069 μg·mL-1, respectively. The accuracy, validity, and efficiency of the proposed method were evaluated by analyzing various samples, and the results were compared with those obtained using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. A good agreement between the two methods was observed, confirming that the proposed spectrophotometric method is a reliable and efficient approach for iron determination in diverse sample matrices
Topical medicinesin chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy
Oncology patients face numerous challenges resulting both from their underlying disease and from the adverse effects of anticancer treatment. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is among the most serious complications associated with chemotherapy. The sensory and motor disturbances observed in the course of CIPN are often progressive and may be irreversible, while severe and chronic pain leads to a substantial reduction in patients’ quality of life (QoL).This narrative review summarizes currently available topical treatment options for CIPN, focusing on substances that have shown potential clinical benefit. The pathogenesis of CIPN remains incompletely understood, and existing treatment strategies are frequently insufficient or associated with significant adverse effects. Consequently, both the prevention and management of CIPN remain important challenges in contemporary medicine.Recently, increasing attention has been directed toward topically administered agents, including formulations based on phenytoin, lidocaine, amitriptyline, capsaicin, cannabinoids, duloxetine, ketamine, and baclofen. These therapies may alleviate neuropathic symptoms and improve QoL without the systemic complications commonly associated with oral or intravenous pharmacotherapy. The use of topical medications may also allow for a reduction in systemic analgesic doses and is often favored due to their more favorable safety profile. Therefore, topical agents should be considered promising therapeutic options aimed at minimizing systemic side effects and optimizing the current pharmacological management of patients with CIPN
Management of hepatic echinococcosis: Should surgical intervention be the first-line therapeutic option?
Introduction. Echinococcosis is a serious zoonotic disease, especially in endemic regions. Its treatment remainsthe subject of debate,, including pharmacotherapy, percutaneous techniques, and surgery. Without intervention, mortality can reach 90%. Common symptoms include weight loss, right upper quadrant discomfort, and, less frequently, jaundice with cholangitis.
Materials and methods. This unsystematic literature review covers studies from PubMed and Google Scholar (2020-2025) focused on echinococcosis treatment. Keywords included: echinococcosis, treatment outcomes, diagnostic methods, surgery, cystic echinococcosis (CE).
Results. Thechoice of therapy depends of thedisease stage. The most effective strategy is radical surgical resection combined with benzimidazole-based therapy, which has a low recurrence rate. However, surgery carries risks such as bleeding, bile leakage, infections, and bowel obstruction. Despite these complications, it remains the gold standard, offering favorable long-term results. In cases with hydatid cyst abscess, non-radical surgery is preferred to reduce postoperative complications. Albendazole monotherapy is suitable only for lesions under 5 cm, extending 10-year survival in 80% of cases. Due to the long latency and nonspecific early symptoms, surgery is required in most cases.
Conclusions. Pharmacotherapy alone is rarely sufficient. Surgery remains the most effective approach, ensuring parasite removal and lowering recurrence risk. The best outcomes are achieved with a combined approach: initial albendazole therapy, followed by surgery after cyst shrinkage, and continued albendazole use postoperatively
The impact of passive tobacco smoke exposure on the disease course and frequency of exacerbations in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, are an increasing health problem in the pediatric population, with rising incidence globally. Environmental factors are crucial in the etiology and progression of these disorders. A key modifiable risk factor is exposure to tobacco smoke, both active and passive. This study aimed to analyse current knowledge on the impact of passive smoking on the risk and course of IBD in children.The literature review shows that although a direct link between passive smoking and pediatric IBD etiology is not conclusively proven, there is strong evidence suggesting its negative effect on disease activity and prognosis. Prenatal and early childhood exposure, in particular, may influence immune mechanisms and predispose children to disease development and exacerbations. Children with IBD exposed to secondhand smoke have more frequent flare-ups, require more hospitalizations, and often need intensified immunosuppressive treatment.The importance of preventive actions is also emphasised, especially education of parents and caregivers to limit children’s exposure to tobacco smoke. Effective strategies to reduce passive smoking at home and at the legislative level are necessary. A comprehensive interdisciplinary approach covering medical, social, and legal aspects is essential to improve the quality of life among children with IBD and reduce related health and economic burdens.This analysis highlights the need for further research and preventive measures to minimise the harmful impact of passive smoking on the course of IBD in the pediatric population.Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, are an increasing health problem in the pediatric population, with rising incidence globally. Environmental factors are crucial in the etiology and progression of these disorders. A key modifiable risk factor is exposure to tobacco smoke, both active and passive. This study aimed to analyse current knowledge on the impact of passive smoking on the risk and course of IBD in children.The literature review shows that although a direct link between passive smoking and pediatric IBD etiology is not conclusively proven, there is strong evidence suggesting its negative effect on disease activity and prognosis. Prenatal and early childhood exposure, in particular, may influence immune mechanisms and predispose children to disease development and exacerbations. Children with IBD exposed to secondhand smoke have more frequent flare-ups, require more hospitalizations, and often need intensified immunosuppressive treatment.The importance of preventive actions is also emphasised, especially education of parents and caregivers to limit children’s exposure to tobacco smoke. Effective strategies to reduce passive smoking at home and at the legislative level are necessary. A comprehensive interdisciplinary approach covering medical, social, and legal aspects is essential to improve the quality of life among children with IBD and reduce related health and economic burdens.This analysis highlights the need for further research and preventive measures to minimise the harmful impact of passive smoking on the course of IBD in the pediatric population
Występowanie zaburzeń psychicznych w nieswoistych chorobach zapalnych jelit: problempierwotny czy wtórny do zastosowanej terapii biologicznej?
Introduction: Nonspecific inflammatory bowel diseases include Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (CU – colitis ulcerosa), which are chronic diseases characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission. Extraintestinal complications caused by the disease and the applied treatment, mainly steroid therapy, constitute a predisposition to infections and mental disorders such as depressive disorders with apathy, slowness of movement or agitation, and even manic syndromes.
Aim and method: The aim of this study was to review the literature on the occurrence of primary and secondary mental disorders in the course of inflammatory bowel diseases. The literature in the Google Scholar database was reviewed using the following keywords: colitis ulcerosa, Crohn disease, depression, mental disorders, inflammatory bowel disease. The time descriptors 2011-2021 were also used.
Conclusions: The review of epidemiological studies shows that the most common mental disorders in nonspecific inflammatory bowel diseases are anxiety and depression disorders. The effect of steroid therapy on the development of mental disorders is equally significant. Most of the available empirical data relating to corticosteroids confirm the correlation between the drugs and depressive symptoms, and other psychiatric effects, including mania and psychosis.
Summary: As with most chronic diseases, the prevalence of anxiety and depression disorders is higher in nonspecific inflammatory bowel diseases than in the general population.Wstęp: Do grupy nieswoistych chorób zapalnych jelit zaliczamy chorobę Leśniowskiego-Crohna (CD-Crohn disease) oraz wrzodziejące zapalenie jelita grubego (CU-colitis ulcerosa), które są chorobami przewlekłymi i charakteryzują się okresami zaostrzeń i remisji. Powikłania pozajelitowe, wywołane samą chorobą, a także stosowanym leczeniem, głównie steroidoterapią stanowią predyspozycję do infekcji oraz zaburzeń natury psychicznej- zaburzeń depresyjnych z apatią, spowolnieniem lub pobudzeniem psychoruchowym,a nawet zespołów maniakalnych.
Cel i metoda: Celem pracy było dokonanie przeglądu narracyjnego literatury dotyczącej występowania pierwotnych oraz wtórnych zaburzeń psychicznych w przebiegu chorób zapalnych jelit. Dokonano przeglądu literatury w bazie Google Scholar, używając słów kluczy : colitis ulcerosa, Crohn disease, depression, mental disorders, inflammatory bowel disease oraz dyskryptorów czasowych 2011-2021.
Wnioski: Z przeglądu prac epidemiologicznych wynika, że najczęstszymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi w nieswoistych chorobach zapalnych jelit są zaburzena lękowe i depresja. Równie istotny jest wpływ sterydoterapii na rozwój zaburzeń psychicznych. Większość dostępnych danych empirycznych dotyczących kortykosteroidów potwierdza związek z objawami depresji lub innymi skutkami psychiatrycznymi, w tym manią i psychozą.
Podsumowanie: Podobnie jak w przypadku większości chorób przewlekłych, w nieswoistych chorobach zapalnych jelit, występuje wyższy odsetek zaburzeń lękowych i depresyjnych niż w całej populacji