LENA MERCHEL

Ms. LENA MERCHEL

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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Verified
Journal Article
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JSJanusz Sielski
Janusz Sielski
KKKarol Kaziród-Wolski
Karol Kaziród-Wolski
APAleksandra Maria Piotrowska
Aleksandra Maria Piotrowska
BJBartłomiej Michał Jurczak
Bartłomiej Michał Jurczak
AKAnna Klasa
Anna Klasa
Zbigniew SiudakZbigniew Siudak
Zbigniew Siudak
Background/Objectives: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a well-documented complication following coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study aims to evaluate the predictors of CIN and its effect on outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: A retrospective study included 1579 patients who underwent coronary angiography or PCI. Results: The overall incidence of in-hospital CIN was 6.8%, with the highest incidence in the group with eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 at 21.6%. Non-radial vascular access was an independent predictor of CIN occurrence (OR = 2.06 [1.37–3.08]; p < 0.001). The risk of death within 30 days was influenced by history of stroke (OR = 4.94 [1.58–15.51]; p = 0.006), glucose level on admission (per 10-unit increase) (OR = 1.07 [1.04–1.1]; p < 0.001), occurrence of CIN (OR = 5.64 [2.49–12.79]; p < 0.001), and hemoglobin level (OR = 0.77 [0.65–0.92]; p = 0.003). The risk of death within 365 days was increased by age (OR = 1.05 [1.02–1.07]; p < 0.001), history of stroke (OR = 2.45 [1.02–5.89]; p = 0.046), glucose levels on admission (per 10-unit increase) (OR = 1.05 [1.03–1.08]; p < 0.001), occurrence of CIN (OR = 2.62 [1.42–4.84]; p = 0.002), and hemoglobin concentration (OR = 0.78 [0.7–0.88]; p = 0.003). An independent predictor of hospitalization for acute or exacerbation of chronic renal failure was baseline creatinine concentration (OR = 3.44 [2.4–4.93]; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The incidence of CIN is significant, particularly in patients with severe pre-existing renal impairment. Non-radial vascular access is an independent predictor of CIN. The occurrence of CIN is a strong independent predictor of both short-term and long-term mortality.

30 June 2025 in Archiv Euromedica
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Journal Article
Closed access
JNJulia Nowakowska
Julia Nowakowska
PKPiotr Komasara
Piotr Komasara
ASAleksandra Sędek
Aleksandra Sędek
SLSylwia Lach
Sylwia Lach
IBIlona Bednarek
Ilona Bednarek
AŚAleksandra Świerczewska
Aleksandra Świerczewska
Introduction: Adolescence is a critical developmental stage in which sports participation fosters physical, emotional, and social growth. However, sports injuries in this age group not only impair performance but also contribute to psychological disturbances. The relationship is bidirectional: psychological distress increases injury risk, and injuries can disrupt mental well-being. Methods: This narrative review analyzed 25 peer-reviewed articles published within the past five years, selected from PubMed and Web of Science using Boolean search combinations related to sports injuries, mental health, and adolescence. Inclusion criteria involved full-text access, English language, and adolescent relevance. Additionally, 6 further articles were included after reviewing the bibliographies of the initially selected studies. Results: The reviewed studies confirm that sports injuries in adolescents are linked to both short- and long-term psychological effects, including depression, anxiety, reduced self-esteem, and loss of identity. Psychological vulnerability such as high stress or poor coping also elevates injury risk. Factors like age, gender, sport type, specialization level, and social support moderate these effects. Interventions integrating psychological support within physical rehabilitation show promising results, though evidence remains limited. Conclusions: Despite growing interest, current literature lacks longitudinal research, standardized assessment tools, and integrative approaches. This review highlights the need for interdisciplinary mental health screening, gender- and sport-specific support models, and further research into adolescent athletes’ psychological resilience.

24 September 2025 in International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
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AŚAleksandra Świerczewska
Aleksandra Świerczewska
SLSylwia Lach
Sylwia Lach
IBIlona Bednarek
Ilona Bednarek
KKKinga Kałuża
Kinga Kałuża
LMLENA MERCHEL
LENA MERCHEL
OJOlaf Jadanowski
Olaf Jadanowski
Introduction: Chronic pancreatitis is a growing health concern with an incidence of about 10 cases per 100,000 people per year. Alcohol-related CP is more common in men, typically appearing in their 40s or 50s, while idiopathic CP affects both sexes equally. CP is a persistent inflammatory condition of the pancreas, leading to irreversible structural damage, pain, and gradual loss of both exo- and endocrine function. Symptoms include epigastric pain, bloating, digestive issues, glucose intolerance or diabetes, and physical signs like epigastric tenderness, and abdominal mass and jaundice. Materials and methods: A review of 47 sources from publicly available databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted. Cited publications were published mainly in English. The main topic of these publications was focused on risk factors of CP. State of knowledge: In the following article we discuss the risk factors of CP which are described in acronym TIGAR-O. The main etiology factor of CP is alcohol consumption which is responsible for over a half the cases. Negative effect of ethanol is particularly significant in smokers. Tobacco is an inependent risk factor of CP but combined with alcohol use, risk of chronic pancreatitis is increasing. In the development of pancreatitis gene mutations play a significant role. Autoimmune pancreatitis has two subtypes and its patomechanism is complex. Acute pancreatitis and its recurrences may lead to repetitive inflammation of pancreas and its chronicisation. Obstructive chronic pancreatitis develops due to a mechanical blockage that hinders the flow of pancreatic juice. Conclusions: Expanding access to genetic and immunological testing will help identify groups especially vulnerable to CP, potentially leading to fewer complications, lower treatment costs, and improved treatment outcomes. Understanding how modifiable risk factors affect CP can enhance both primary and secondary prevention efforts.

8 July 2025 in Journal of Education, Health and Sport
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
KCKatarzyna Czechowska
Katarzyna Czechowska
AŚAleksandra Świerczewska
Aleksandra Świerczewska
PKPiotr Komasara
Piotr Komasara
JNJulia Nowakowska
Julia Nowakowska
ASAleksandra Sędek
Aleksandra Sędek
KKKinga Kałuża
Kinga Kałuża
Introduction and purpose Diabetes mellitus as one of the most pressing global health challenges of the 21st century, affects millions worldwide and contributes significantly to mortality by damaging multiple organs and burdens healthcare systems. The global rise in diabetes, especially Type 2 is driven by lifestyle changes and aging populations. Diabetes impacts more than just blood sugar levels, leading to numerous complications that reduce quality of life. The review aims to explore the latest studies, innovations, and emerging possibilities in diabetes treatment. Material and methods The review was based on research of articles published from 2019 to 2025 on the PubMed database. The analysis summarizes recent trials, updated guidelines, and expert insights to highlight current trends and future directions in diabetes care. Results SGLT2 inhibitors help control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes and offer added benefits like weight loss, heart and kidney protection, and potential in treating NAFLD/NASH. GLP-1 receptor agonists also improve blood sugar, reduce cardiovascular risk, and slow kidney disease, with tirzepatide showing the greatest HbA1c and weight reductions. DPP-4 inhibitors, especially sitagliptin and vildagliptin, lower heart failure and stroke risk, though saxagliptin may raise heart failure risk. Pioglitazone improves PCOS outcomes and IVF success, and may help manage MASH when combined with SGLT2 inhibitors. Teplizumab, the first FDA-approved immunotherapy for type 1 diabetes, preserves insulin production by protecting β-cells. Conclusions Recent advances in diabetes treatment include updated guidelines promoting personalized care, new dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists, and expanded use of SGLT2 inhibitors for heart and kidney protection. Research is also progressing in GLP-1 RAs for type 1 diabetes, immunotherapies like Teplizumab, and stem cell therapies aiming for a cure.

29 August 2025 in Archiv Euromedica
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
ASAleksandra Sędek
Aleksandra Sędek
AŚAleksandra Świerczewska
Aleksandra Świerczewska
SLSylwia Lach
Sylwia Lach
IBIlona Bednarek
Ilona Bednarek
KKKinga Kałuża
Kinga Kałuża
KCKatarzyna Czechowska
Katarzyna Czechowska
Background: Arterial hypertension and atrial fibrillation (AF) are among the most significant modifiable risk factors for stroke. Their coexistence markedly increases the risk of cerebrovascular events and cognitive decline. Even high-normal blood pressure is associated with a higher likelihood of developing AF, and optimal control of blood pressure can reduce this risk, particularly in high-risk patients. Objective: To summarize and critically analyze the relationship between arterial hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and stroke risk, with particular focus on prevention, early detection, and management strategies. Methods: A narrative literature review was performed using PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, along with the latest European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines on hypertension and AF. The search covered publications from the last 10 years, using terms including “hypertension”, “atrial fibrillation”, “stroke risk”, and “prevention”. Inclusion criteria comprised clinical trials, population-based studies, systematic reviews, and major guidelines concerning adult populations. Studies with insufficient methodological data or involving non-human subjects were excluded. Results: Population-based studies indicate that high-normal blood pressure increases the risk of developing AF by up to 60%, while the coexistence of hypertension and AF increases stroke risk more than fivefold compared to individuals without either factor [8]. Effective AF management should be comprehensive, such as the CARE model, and include early initiation of anticoagulation guided by the CHA₂DS₂-VASc score rather than arrhythmia type alone. Evidence supports the role of NOACs and catheter ablation in selected patients, although comparative advantages over pharmacological therapy are inconsistent. Early detection of silent AF in hypertensive patients and those with cryptogenic stroke is a key element of secondary prevention. Multi-domain lifestyle interventions, including dietary modification and physical activity, further reduce cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risk. Conclusions: Current evidence supports ESC guidelines emphasizing strict blood pressure control and comprehensive AF management as central components of stroke prevention. Identified knowledge gaps include insufficient data on optimal BP targets for AF prevention, limited evidence on the combined effect of intensive BP control and anticoagulation, and a lack of large-scale trials assessing early detection strategies for silent AF in hypertensive patients. Addressing these gaps could improve prevention strategies and reduce stroke incidence.Keywords: hypertension, atrial fibrillation, stroke risk, stroke prevention.

16 September 2025 in Archiv Euromedica
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
SLSylwia Lach
Sylwia Lach
AŚAleksandra Świerczewska
Aleksandra Świerczewska
PKPiotr Komasara
Piotr Komasara
JNJulia Nowakowska
Julia Nowakowska
ASAleksandra Sędek
Aleksandra Sędek
KCKatarzyna Czechowska
Katarzyna Czechowska
Background: Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder with increasing global prevalence, including in Poland. Advances in pharmacology and biologic therapies, along with nutritional and surgical strategies, have significantly changed its management, yet no curative treatment exists. Objectives: The aim of this review was to systematize current therapeutic strategies for Crohn’s disease, with emphasis on pharmacological agents, dietary interventions, and surgical approaches, and to highlight recent developments and regional perspectives. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted based on 51 full-text articles published in English and Polish between 2010 and 2025, retrieved from PubMed and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed studies and reviews addressing Crohn’s disease therapy. Conference abstracts, non-peer-reviewed sources, and experimental animal studies were excluded. Results: The review identified three major groups of pharmacological agents: anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologic therapies, including recent data on JAK inhibitors and interleukin-23 antagonists. Nutritional strategies, particularly exclusive enteral nutrition, were shown to support induction of remission and reduce relapse rates. Surgical intervention remains necessary in complicated cases, though recurrence is common. Differences between international guidelines were noted, particularly regarding the role of mesalazine, enteral nutrition, and sequencing of biologic therapies. Conclusions: Effective management of Crohn’s disease requires an individualized and multidisciplinary approach. Pharmacological treatment remains the cornerstone, complemented by nutritional interventions and surgical therapy when indicated. Future progress depends on the integration of novel biologics and small molecules, identification of predictive biomarkers, and broader access to advanced therapies.