Arch Med Sci
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Recipients of corneal transplants are at risk of healthcare-associated infections, which, apart from other causes of surgical site infections, may also occur as a result of the transfer of infected corneal tissue. In this study we assessed the risk of bacterial and fungal infections based on the results of routine microbiological testing of cornea preservation fluid samples. ⋯ We postulate that perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis in cornea transplant recipients is important in preventing bacterial infections derived from the donor cornea. We believe that the addition of an antifungal agent to commercially available cornea preservation fluids should also be considered.
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The aim of our study was to determine the risk factors for electrical storm (ES) and to assess the impact of ES on the long-term prognosis in patients after myocardial infarction (MI) with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) for secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD). ⋯ Electrical storm in patients after MI with ICD for secondary prevention is a relatively common phenomenon and has a negative prognostic significance. Myocardial infarction of the inferior wall and the absence of coronary revascularization are predisposing factors for the occurrence of an ES.
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With increased use of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in HIV uninfected persons, proper reporting on suspected unexpected serious adverse reactions (SUSARs) and continued insight into adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are needed for adequate information on safety of ARVs in such populations. ⋯ In our observations ADRs in reaction to nPEP were frequent yet usually mild events, mostly occurring in the first 2 weeks and rarely causing discontinuation. The only significant factor increasing the risk of ADR was age. SUSARs were rare, transient and clinically insignificant.
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Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory disorder associated with oxidative stress and apoptosis leading to cartilage destruction and impairment of cartilage formation. In the present study, we studied the protective effect of lutein against monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis in primary chondrocyte cells. ⋯ The present study shows significant cytoprotection offered by lutein against MIA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis by the modulatory effect of NF-κB and Nrf2 activation.
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Approximately 1% of the population suffers from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) worldwide (0.45% in Poland). The therapy consists of the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Biologics are used in the form of the drug programme. ⋯ The following percentages maintained the same treatment in the last 6 years: infliximab 4%; adalimumab 15%; etanercept 21%; leflunomide on prescription was continued by 70%. Patients remain too long on the same therapy when it is inefficient. Achieving remission or low disease activity (DAS28 < 2.6) should take place within 6 months of starting therapy.