Search

Introduction Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a zoonotic infectious disease and the leading cause of viral meningitis in Poland. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in TBE cases, a trend possibly linked to global climate changes that are facilitating the spread of its primary vector, the Ixodes Ricinus tick species. Aim of the Study This paper aims to review the current understanding of tick-borne encephalitis and emphasize the importance of preventive measures. Materials and Methods This review compiles data from various sources, including recent epidemiological studies, clinical reports, and public health records. It examines the clinical progression of TBE, from the initial viremic phase to the possible development of severe neurological symptoms. Epidemiological data are analyzed to identify trends in TBE incidence, with a particular focus on how climate change affects the distribution and activity of tick populations. Conclusions The review underscores that TBE is an escalating public health issue in Poland, with incidence rates increasing alongside climate-induced changes in tick habitats. Effective prevention, particularly through vaccination, is essential for reducing the impact of TBE. However, despite the availability of effective vaccines, vaccination rates remain low in Poland. This highlights the need for improved public health efforts to promote vaccination and educate at-risk populations. Addressing the TBE threat requires a comprehensive strategy that includes better surveillance, preventive measures, and strong public health initiatives to protect against this increasingly common disease.

Introduction and objective Omega-3 fatty acids possess numerous physiological characteristics, including anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, antiarrhythmic, and antithrombotic effects. There has been an ongoing discussion about their potential positive effects on human health and the extent of their influence. In this review, we will explore the current understanding of how omega-3 fatty acids impact the development of cardiovascular diseases. Review methods A review of publications on the effects of omega 3 fatty acids was conducted using the PubMed platform. The main keywords used in the search were "omega 3 fatty acids" and "cardiovascular diseases". The search included a review of the latest scientific work on the effects of omega 3 fatty acids on the body. Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge Omega-3 fatty acids exhibit diverse molecular mechanisms that are beneficial in combating cardiovascular diseases. Reducing serum triglycerides is one of the ways in which omega 3 fatty acids have an advantageous effect on the cardiovascular system. Dietary sources and supplementation offer potential benefits. Summary Omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, exhibit various molecular mechanisms such as antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering effects, which are crucial in combating CVDs. Dietary sources of omega-3 include both animal and plant products. Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids, particularly in patients with elevated triglyceride levels, can significantly reduce CVD risk factors and mortality rates. Recommendations suggest consuming 2 servings of fish per week or supplementing with DHA + EPA to support cardiovascular health. Despite some controversies in research findings, omega-3 supplementation remains beneficial. Ongoing research continues to explore the optimal use and efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids in cardiovascular health.

Biologic agents have significantly transformed the therapeutic approach to ulcerative colitis. Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) agents were the pioneering biologic drugs introduced to induce and maintain remission in this inflammatory bowel disease. Recently, ustekinumab, another biologic option, has been approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis. Ustekinumab demonstrates a favorable clinical efficacy and safety profile for the treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. As the first biologic agent to target the IL-12/IL-23 pathways, ustekinumab represents a viable therapeutic option, particularly following the failure of other biologics such as anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) antagonists and anti-α4ß7 integrin antagonists

Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, acts as an aldosterone antagonist but also has anti-androgen properties, leading to increased estrogen levels in the body. It can cause gynecomastia in men by blocking the production of androgens, preventing androgens from binding to specific receptors, and rising levels of both total and free estrogen. Numerous scientific articles and clinical cases have been analyzed and confirmed this statement. Evidence for gynecomastia with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist usage was of high quality.Clinicians are advised to monitor patients taking these medications for developing gynecomastia and to consider this risk in the therapeutic decision-making process.

Introduction and purpose This review provides an in-depth exploration of the pharmacology of propranolol, elucidating its mechanisms of action and clinical implications beyond its conventional indications, contextualizing propranolol’s role in ASD management. State of knowledge Propranolol is a non-cardioselective β-adrenergic receptor antagonist, commonly used among the population. Propranolol's mechanisms include reducing cardiac workload, vasoconstriction, and membrane stabilizing properties, which suggest its utility in managing anxiety. ASD, characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors, affects approximately 1 in 100 children globally. Symptoms often co-occur with anxiety and hyperarousal, linked to noradrenergic system alterations. Review methods Electronic searches were conducted between 6 and 13 May 2024 and included databases: Pubmed and Google Scholar. This review focuses on 4 trials that are limited to years 2016-2024. Conclusions Overall, propranolol shows promise in managing anxiety, enhancing social communication, improving cognitive performance, and addressing severe behavioral challenges in ASD. However, variability in response highlights the need for personalized treatment approaches. Further research is warranted to optimize dosing strategies and understand propranolol's mechanisms, contributing to more effective and tailored treatment options for ASD.

Among the myriad challenges confronting contemporary medicine, the obesity epidemic stands out as one of the most critical, warranting special attention due to its association with numerous severe comorbidities and its significant consumption of both human lives and financial resource. This review presents recent clinical trials addressing the issue of the effects of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in the management of overweight and obesity in non-diabetic patients and identifies areas requiring further investigation. GLP-1 RAs, initially used in the treatment of type II diabetes, represent some of the most promising pharmacotherapeutic agents for obesity. Their mechanism of action involves lowering glucose levels by stimulating insulin secretion, inhibiting glucagon secretion, and delaying gastric emptying. They also affect the centres of hunger and satiety, contributing to a reduction in food intake, including food cravings. In clinical studies, GLP-1 RAs have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing body weight in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients with fairly good tolerance. The discussion is grounded in three clinical studies that examine the use of liraglutide and semaglutide, and the development of a novel GLP-1 RA, ecnoglutide. The use of semaglutide and liraglutide is associated with significant weight reduction and a decrease in cardiovascular risk in non-diabetic patients, while ecnoglutide represents a promising new GLP-1 RA that requires further investigation.

Introduction and objective: This paper provides an in-depth exploration of the pharmacology of spironolactone, elucidating its mechanisms of action and clinical implications beyond its conventional indications. Additionally, it examines the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and current treatment strategies for acne vulgaris, contextualizing spironolactone's role in acne management. Review methods: Electronic searches were conducted between 15 and 26 April 2024 and included databases: Pubmed and Google Scholar. The following trials registers were searched using the search terms “spironolactone” AND “acne”. This review focuses on 3 trials that are limited to years 2020-2024. Brief description of state of knowledge: Acne vulgaris is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by sebaceous gland hyperactivity, follicular hyperkeratinization, microbial colonization, and inflammation. Despite the availability of numerous treatment modalities, therapeutic success can be challenging, particularly in cases of hormonal or treatment-resistant acne. Spironolactone, initially developed as an aldosterone antagonist, has emerged as an off-label option for acne management, especially in individuals with hormonal influences on their condition. Summary: In light of conflicting recommendations regarding spironolactone's use in acne management, this review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence, guiding its judicious use in clinical practice. By bridging pharmacological insights with clinical data, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of spironolactone's influence in the treatment landscape of acne vulgaris.

Introduction and Purpose. Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder caused by dopamine deficiency due to neuronal degeneration, leading to motor and non-motor symptoms. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common and often precede motor symptoms. There is increasing evidence that imbalanced gut microbiota may influence the gut-brain axis and contribute to motor and non-motor PD symptoms. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) may have the potential to restore gut flora and improve PD symptoms. The study aims to explore the current knowledge on the impact of FMT on PD symptoms, acknowledging existing reviews and highlighting new studies not yet reviewed. Understanding the underlying causes of PD could lead to better treatment, diagnostics, and prevention. State of knowledge. PD patients suffer from specific gut dysbiosis which leads to imbalance in the produced pro- and anti-inflammatory substances in the intestinal lumen resulting in aggreviation of α-synuclein in gut nervous cells which may hypothetically transfer via vagal nerve to CNS causing PD. In animal research FMT showed promising results in alleviating PD symptoms. Case reports showed reduction of both motor and non-motor dysfunctions, especially in constipation. DuPont et al. showed improvements in constipation, motor deficits, overall Parkinson’s symptoms, and some non-motor disorders. Cheng et al. showed improvements in MDS-UPDRS, scores of GI tract symptoms scales, PD-related autonomic symptoms and the stool frequency. Bruggeman et al. showed better MDS-UPDRS part 3 scores and better colon transit, but no significant differencies in any other tested domains. Conclusions. As there is yet no standarized protocol for FMT, all of the past research used different techniques and showed slightly different outcomes, but all have shown that FMT have some positive effects on PD symptoms.

Introduction: Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a significant medical condition characterized by an inability to control alcohol use despite adverse consequences, ranging from occasional excessive drinking to daily dependency. Treatment for AUD involves a combination of pharmacological and behavioral approaches. Common medications include Disulfiram, Naltrexone, and Acamprosate, with newer therapies like gabapentin providing additional options. This review aims to systematically evaluate and synthesize available research concerning the use of gabapentin in the treatment of AUD. Methods: This review was created based on 4 articles found in PubMed and Pubmed database based on keywords: "alcohol use disorder", "gabapentine in alcohol use disorder" and "gabapentine". State of knowledge: Gabapentin was originally developed for its anticonvulsant properties and tts primary use was to treat epilepsy by reducing the frequency of seizures in patients with refractory epilepsy. Gabapentin’s effectiveness in treating Alcohol Use Disorder is founded on its ability to modulate neuronal excitability. Recent RCTs have demonstrated the efficacy of gabapentin in alcohol use disorder, especially for patients with a history of significant alcohol withdrawal symptoms, though the extended-release formulation of gabapentin proved ineffective. Conculsions: The overall findings suggest gabapentin holds promise as a treatment for AUD, particularly in individuals with significant withdrawal symptoms, but additional studies are required to fully establish its efficacy and optimal use.

Introduction and purpose: Circadian rhythms are internal processes that regulate the sleep-wake cycle and repeat roughly every 24 hours. These rhythms are driven by a biological clock, primarily located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the brain. Synchronized with environmental cues such as light and darkness, they play a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake patterns, hormone secretion, metabolism, and other physiological functions. Disruptions in circadian rhythms can have wide-ranging effects on health. This review aims to synthesize the current state of knowledge on how lifestyle factors affect circadian rhythms and explore the subsequent implications for both mental and physical health. Description of the state of knowledge: Modern lifestyles factors characterized by artificial lighting, shift work, noise pollution, excessive caffeine use, worldwide traveling and irregular eating habits can significantly disrupt natural circadian rhythms. Such disruptions are associated with a spectrum of pathologies, such as sleep dysregulation, mood disorders (e.g., depression and bipolar disorder), metabolic impairments, and suboptimal immune responses. Summary: This review synthesizes current research findings on the impacts of lifestyle-induced circadian misalignment, highlighting the complex interactions between modern life and circadian biology. Maintaining circadian rhythm integrity is crucial not just for enhancing overall well-being but also as a preventive strategy against a wide range of diseases. Integrating this understanding into health practices is essential for addressing the pervasive impact of circadian disruptions in modern society.