We aimed to comparatively assess the prognostic preoperative value of the main peripheral blood components and their ratios-the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR)-to the use of artificial-neural-network analysis in determining undesired postoperative outcomes in colorectal cancer patients. Our retrospective study included 281 patients undergoing elective radical surgery for colorectal cancer in the last seven years. The preoperative values of SII, NLR, LMR, and PLR were analyzed in relation to postoperative complications, with a special emphasis on their ability to accurately predict the occurrence of anastomotic leak.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe continuous variability of SARS-CoV-2 and the rapid waning of specific antibodies threatens the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. We aimed to evaluate antibody kinetics one year after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination with an mRNA vaccine in healthcare workers (HCW), with or without a booster. A marked decline in anti-Spike(S)/Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) antibody levels was registered during the first eight months post-vaccination, followed by a transitory increase after the booster.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Starting in December 2019, the current pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) confronts the world with an unprecedented challenge. With no vaccine or drug being currently available to control the pandemic spread, prevention and PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) testing becomes a crucial pillar of medical systems. Aim of the present study was to report on the first results of the measures taken in a large German Department of Radiation Oncology, including PCR testing of asymptomatic cancer patients.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Cumulative epidemiological evidence suggests that shift work exerts harmful effects on human health. However, the physiological mechanisms are not well understood. This study aimed to examine the impact of shift work on the dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, i.
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