Advances in osteosynthesis - a basic overview of modern fixation materials

The dynamic development of trauma-orthopedic surgery and accompanying material technology has led in recent years to the need for close cooperation between researchers in these fields. In a short time, thanks to the cooperation of engineers and doctors, the general approach to the method of bone anastomosis has changed significantly. The need to optimize the effects of treatment, i.e. to quickly recovery, reduce the number of postoperative complications, reduce the number of reoperations, and reduce the costs of procedures and treatment used has resulted in the development of many new technologies that have set trends in modern traumatology. The widespread use of LCP (Locking compression plate) and locking screws, the development of polymers and biopolymers with a modified chemical structure, a significant improvement in the biocompatibility and cytocompatibility of the materials used, and the implementation of products with significant micro-roughness that improve osseointegration are the well-known and commonly used effects of this cooperation today . Materials science related to orthopedics is an extremely complex and multi-threaded field. Its continuous development requires a periodic summary of the results and development directions provided, which allows faster evaluation and interpretation by researchers. The purpose of the following work is to summarize the latest research on materials and methods used in osteosynthesis in a legible way for potential recipients of this information from various fields

The latest applications of photoplethysmography

The development of medicine and the ability to conduct effective therapy in increasingly severe cases createthe need to develop new methods of continuous and non-invasive monitoring of the patient’s condition. One ofthe techniques that is widely used in many fields of medicine is photoplethysmography (PPG). The analysis ofthe latest research indicates that PPG can have much more applications than the measurement of heart rateand arterial saturation of the patient — as shown by the latest research, it can be used in the measurementof many other key parameters.The optimism is the multitude of areas in which PPG monitoring is attempted. There are more and more attemptsto use photoplethysmography in diagnosis and evaluation of peripheral vascular diseases, assessment ofcirculation in diabetic patients and assessment of endothelial function. Authors are focusing on new applicationsof PPG, its advantages and limitations. Most of them agree that PPG can provide useful knowledge about thepatient’s condition while being a quick, easy-to-use and cost-effective technique.The following review was created to critically analyze the latest technical developments and uses of PPG inclinical practice. Sources for the following article were found using the PubMed database using keywords suchas “photoplethysmography”, “oxygen saturation” and “pulse oximeter”

The influence of thickness of ACL tendon graft on long-term results of treatment

1. INTRODUCTION: Operative treatment is the treatment of choice for the most severe, third-degree ACL sprain. Many operational techniques exist, including technique using a quadruple-folded semitendinosus tendon and the technique of double-folded semitendinosus and gracilis tendons. Depending on the technique chosen, we can obtain different thicknesses of the grafts used. 2. AIM OF THE STUDY: To find a relationship between the type of surgical technique used and the thickness of the graft, as well as to assess the effect of the thickness of the applied autograft on the long-term outcome of the treatment. 3. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study included a group of 43 patients operated on due to ACL injury. In 21 patients, the procedure was performed using the quadruple-folded semitendinosus tendon, whereas in 22 patients the procedure was performed using double-folded semitendinosus and gracilis tendons. The patients were divided into groups based on the thickness of the transplant. A special questionnaire prepared on the basis of the KOOS scale was used to assess the subjective performance of the knee. The type and thickness of the graft was determined based on the analysis of operational protocols. The statistical analysis of the results of the study was performed. The Chi-square compatibility test or chi-square compatibility test in the Yates modification were used to assess the relationship. 4. RESULTS: A relationship was found between the parameters: "general quality of life" (p = 0.01), "pain" (p = 0.005), "sports activity" (p = 0.05), "everyday activities" (p = 0, 01). There is no dependence for the "other symptoms" parameter (p = 0.1). There is no relationship between the technique used and the graft thickness (p = 0.2).  5. CONCLUSIONS: The choice of the surgical technique does not affect the final thickness of the autograft. Overall quality of life, pain, sports activity; everyday activities are the parameters of the KOOS scale, which are affected by the thickness of the transplant

Advantages of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) model in solving contemporary problems of neurotoxicity, teratotoxicity and genotoxicity of xenobiotics

The zebrafish (Danio rerio), a small fish belonging to the Cyprinidae family, is one of the most popular animal models used in laboratory studies, including toxicology. It has many beneficial features, such as transparent body structure, easy and economical breeding, a large number of offspring and a short life cycle. In addition, the genome of the zebrafish shows a high homology to the human genome, which makes this fish an attractive research model. The article points to the contemporary challenges of toxicology in terms of neurotoxicity, teratotoxicity and genotoxicity, which can be analysed based on the results of studies carried out on the zebrafish model. The dynamic implementation of new factors, such as nanoparticles, e-cigarettes, new generations of cosmetics or a wide range of chemical enhancers into human living and working environments, can have serious consequences for the health of the general population and the ecosystem as a whole. The work presents the latest research results regarding, among others, neurotoxic effects of ethanol, teratotoxic and neurotoxic effects of e-cigarettes, teratotoxic, neurotoxic and genotoxic effects of selected nanoparticles and microplastics assessed in experiments using the zebrafish model. The characteristics of the micronucleus test and the comet test are also presented as the most frequently chosen methods for assessing the genotoxic effect of xenobiotics in studies on the Danio rerio model.The results of the studies underline the need for further analysis and monitoring of the effects of these substances, in particular harmful effects on living organisms, and for remedial measures to protect the environment. As we have tried to demonstrate in this article, one of the very convenient possibilities in this respect is the use of the striped zebrafish model. A particularly valuable premise in assessing the genotoxic effects of xenobiotics in this case is the above-mentioned high homology of the Danio rerio and human genomes

Sauna in patients with hypertension

Saunas are very popular around the world, especially in some specific regions like Finland. Sitting in a temperature of 45-110°C with intervals often including cold baths influence our bodies in different aspects. Apart from being an addition to asthma or depression treatment, it works well as prevention of heart diseases and hypertension. Sauna is also believed to be able to reduce increased blood pressure values. Because of its safety it can be easily prescribed for all patients without few contraindications

Diagnosis of cervical cancer by a urine test

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignant tumor among women in the world. However, 90% of deaths occur in developing countries. Tumor pathogenesis is associated with exposure to high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV), most often 16 and 18 strains. The sooner precancerous lesions or cancer are detected, the higher the chance of survival is. That is why prophylaxis is so important in this case. Due to the low turnout of women in cytology, new, alternative methods of prevention are needed. According to the research, women prefer tests in which samples are taken by themselves. Hence, more and more studies on the use of urine in the prevention of cervical cancer. Urine is a material that is easy to pick up. Patients feel comfortable because they can do it by themselves. Still, more research is needed to optimize its collection, transport, or tests used on samples

Effect of vitamin d on treatment of malignant tumor

Vitamin D is a group of steroid organic chemicals that are fat-soluble. The most important are two forms of vitamin D, which are ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) occurring naturally in plant organisms as well as yeast and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) found naturally in animal organisms. This vitamin is known primarily for its effects on the skeletal system, where it affects the calcium-phosphate economy, and also constitutes a bone component. As a result, it is mainly used in the prevention and treatment of rickets or osteoporosis. Recent clinical and epidemiological studies suggest that vitamin D has other uses as well. More and more research confirms that its deficiency increases the risk of malignant tumor and is associated with worse prognosis. Therefore, vitamin D supplementation may have an impact on reducing the number of cases and may increase the chances of recovery. It has been found that vitamin D inhibits the proliferation and formation of malignant tumor cells, can induce their apoptosis and has an effect on angiogenesis and metastasis. WHO estimates that in 2018 around 9.6 million people have died of malignant tumors and the number of patients in the world is constantly increasing. Therefore, the use of vitamin D in their treatment can be a breakthrough solution. Its low price, availability, or known and low toxicity speak for its use in the discussed purposes. Still, more research is needed to develop an effective anticancer drug with its participation

The role of calcium score in evaluation of the advancing of ischemic heart disease

Introduction:  Thanks to development of technology, new noninvasive techniques of coronary arteries evaluation, such as Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT) were introduced. Nowadays tomographs are characterized by spatial and time resolution sufficient for reliable assessment of coronary arteries. Moreover, the dose of radiation taken  by patient was substantially decreased. Two main methods of evaluation were introduced. Examination performed without contrast agent enables quantitive assessment of coronary arteries calcification by so called Agatston score. Another method performed after contrast injection is Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)Goal: This studies purpose was to determine the role of Calcium Score in assessment of Coronary Arteries Disease (CAD) advancementMaterials and methods: In this studythe results of 100 consecutive patients (45% men, mean age 55 ± 8.9 years) were analyzed. All patients had a positive ECG stress test score. With a 64-row CT scan, coronary artery imaging of all patients was performed. The descriptive analysis of the group was based on information obtained from referrals issued by cardiologists to the MSCT. Analyzed parameters were: age, gender, indication for referral, Calcium Score and final diagnosis.Results: In most cases (84%) of patients with positive ECG stress test score, MSCT excluded significant changes in coronary arteries. Also, the correlation between Calcium Score and sex and diagnosis was proven.Conclusions: MSCT and Calcium Score enables to find patients without significant changes in coronary arteries and positive ECG stress test and to reduce the number of referrals to coronarography

Botulinum toxin in bruxism treatment

Introduction: Bruxism is defined as abnormal, fixed, unconscious chewing organ function, deviating qualitatively and quantitatively from normal function. Another definition speaks of motor dysfunction in the mouth, characterized by grinding and clenching of the teeth, occurring during sleep. The etiology of this disorder has not been explained until now, but it is believed to be related to localized, mental, nervous and neurotransmitter disorders. Purpose: The aim of the study is to review literature and knowledge about the use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of bruxism.Methods of treatment: The patient reports to the physician usually after a distressing, difficult to locate pain. The basis for proper treatment is to detect parafunctions and to make the patient aware of their existence. Diagnostic symptoms include dentinal lesions, recesses, enamel cracks and abfractive cavities, as well as changes in the mucosal area of the cheeks. Treatment begins with the use of an occlusive therapy to relax muscles, reduce parafunction and relieve pain. In the form of severe pain, NSAIDs are introduced and, if necessary, anxiolytics, sedatives and antidepressants. In the absence of response to the treatment used, botulinum toxin type A injections are used. The dose of the agent depends on the initial muscle tone and the effect of decrease in its activity is maintained for 4 to 6 months. Conclusions: The use of botulinum toxin makes it possible to selectively exclude overactive muscles, which is a great advantage over other techniques. An additional benefit of this therapy is achieved good cosmetic effect, reversible effect and minimal amount of side effects

Non-surgical methods for the correction of the hump and the tip of the nose

Introduction: It can be said that the nose is the most characteristic element of every face. It occupies one third of the middle part of the face. For this reason, it is very important in creating face profile. In addition, its distortions are important due to the aesthetic appearance of the face, which in turn can significantly affect the personal and professional life of a person. In aesthetic medicine, mainly non-surgical methods of correction of the hump and the tip of the nose are preferred. For this purpose, special substances called hyaluronic acid and botulinum toxin are used. Aim of the study: The aim of this study is to present non-surgical methods of correction of the hump and the tip of the nose. Materials and methods: The research method is an analysis of the literature on the subject of contemporary trends in aesthetic medicine. Conclusions: In conclusion, it should be stated that the use of hyaluronic acid or botulinum toxin allows you to quickly achieve the effect without having to undergo a complicated surgery. In addition, these are solutions with a much lower risk than in the case of surgical methods. Key words: nose, hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxi