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Introduction and Purpose: Dermatomyositis (DM) is a rare autoimmune inflammatory myopathy characterized by muscle weakness and distinctive skin manifestations, impacting both children and adults. This narrative review aims to examine the latest studies assessing the impact of physical activity on the course of dermatomyositis and determine which forms of exercise are beneficial for DM patients. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases, focusing on articles published between 2018 and 2024. State of Knowledge: The review identified consistent evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of exercise in DM patients. Exercise regimens, including resistance, aerobic, and stretching exercises, were found to improve muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and metabolic functions without increasing disease activity. Novel exercise approaches, such as blood flow restriction training and aquatic plyometric exercises, also showed promising results. However, the heterogeneity of the trials and small sample sizes highlight the need for larger, more diverse cohorts and long-term studies Summary: The findings underscore the potential of structured exercise programs to enhance muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and overall physical function in DM patients. These improvements are achieved without exacerbating disease activity, highlighting the safety of exercise interventions. The review emphasizes the importance of incorporating physical activity into treatment plans for DM, advocating for personalized exercise prescriptions tailored to the unique inflammatory nature of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM).

Introduction and Purpose: This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the risks and benefits associated with downhill skiing. The article elucidates the prevalence and etiology of common injuries, while also delineating the salutary effects of engaging in the sport. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on articles from 2019 to 2024, including observational studies, clinical trials, meta-analyses and systematic reviews. State of Knowledge: Skiing is a globally popular winter sport, attracting millions of enthusiasts each year. The sport's combination of outdoor adventure, social activity, and the allure of winter landscapes contribute to its enduring global popularity. Despite its global popularity, skiing carries a significant risk of injury, with knee injuries, particularly ACL sprains, being the most common, especially among women. Despite these risks, alpine skiing offers significant physical health benefits, including improved cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength and mental health, making it a beneficial lifelong sport, particularly for older adults. Conclusion: It is notable that while injuries such as ACL sprains and fractures are prevalent, particularly among beginners and those who engage in risk-taking activities, the sport also offers significant health benefits. Alpine skiing has been demonstrated to enhance cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and mental well-being, thereby conferring significant benefits that extend throughout the lifespan, despite the potential for injury.

Introduction and purposes: Obesity is a critical global health challenge, closely linked to a range of serious conditions, including metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and an increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Affecting over two billion people worldwide, obesity necessitates a multifaceted approach to treatment, encompassing lifestyle changes, pharmaceutical interventions, and surgical procedures. Among the surgical options, bariatric surgeries such as sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are particularly prominent. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. The search employed terms such as 'glycemia', 'bariatric surgery', ‘metabolic surgery’ 'RYGB', 'diabetes type 2’, ‘Postprandial hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia’ 'hypoglycemia' ‘dumping syndrome’. Articles published between 2019 and 2024 were included in the search. Results: Bariatric surgery is well-documented for its significant impact on glycemic control and overall physical health, resulting in substantial reductions in both HbA1c levels and BMI. Remarkably, many patients with type 2 diabetes achieve remission of the disease following surgery, regardless of their pre-surgery BMI. However, the enhanced glycemic control achieved through bariatric procedures can also lead to an increased risk of developing postprandial hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (PHH). This condition arises as a complication from the surgery, where blood sugar levels drop excessively after meals due to an overproduction of insulin. Conclusion: Despite this potential risk, the overall benefits of bariatric surgery in managing and potentially reversing type 2 diabetes are profound.

Introduction and purposes: Degenerative diseases of the nervous system, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Environmental influences are significant contributors to the development of these conditions. The primary objective of this research was to examine key environmental factors that are suspected of their impact on the development of diseases, specifically lifestyle, medical conditions, diet and exposure to environmental pollution. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. The search employed terms such as 'Alzheimer's disease,' 'Parkinson disease,' 'amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,' 'environment,' 'pollution,' 'diet,' 'traumatic brain injury,' 'alcohol,' 'obesity,' 'lifestyle factors'. The search included articles published from 2014 to 2024. Results: Among environmental factors with regard to lifestyle choices, a healthy diet has a protective effect against these diseases, while alcohol consumption was not clearly categorised as harmful or protective. Among past illnesses, an increase in AD, PD after head injury was confirmed, but more research is required as to the impact on ALS incidence. Lipid metabolism disorders affect ALS morbidity, for the AD and PD, studies do not reach consensus. Similarly, with regard to body weight, studies do not clearly indicate whether it is relevant. On the contrary, when it comes to pollution, a lot of studies showed a correlation. Conclusion: In summary, research studies varied in size and quality, so caution must be exercised in drawing conclusions. This review suggests that there is a relationship with the environment, and future research may focus on exploring these connections.

Introduction and purposes: Alport syndrome (AS) is a common hereditary kidney disorder for which there is currently no curative treatment. The current standard of care for AS involves therapeutic blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This review explores the potential of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (SGLT2i) as a treatment option that may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and prevent the advancement to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, employing the following search terms: 'Alport syndrome,' 'SGLT2' 'inhibitors,' ‘sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitors’, 'proteinuria,' 'albuminuria,' 'empagliflozin,' 'dapagliflozin.' Articles published between 2019 and 2024 were included in the search. Results: Recent randomized clinical trials have shown that SGLT2i have nephroprotective effects in CKD. SGLT2i may effectively address the hemodynamic overload in addition to RAAS-blockade in AS patients, potentially delaying end-stage renal failure (ESRF) by several years. Studies indicate that empagliflozin and dapagliflozin are well tolerated and significantly reduce proteinuria in patients with AS. However, they may also cause an initial decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), raising some safety concerns. This highlights the importance of monitoring and evaluating the treatment course in every AS patient starting SGLT2i therapy. Conclusion: Our findings contribute to the growing evidence that SGLT2i reduce proteinuria and may slow disease progression. They could become a future standard of care for patients with glomerular kidney diseases like AS. Future research should investigate the earlier use of SGLT2i in treatment and monitor long-term outcomes in treated patients.

Introduction and Purpose: Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly for postpartum women to enhance cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, weight management, and mental health, particularly in alleviating postpartum depression (PPD). This review aimed to overview physical activity (PA) in postpartum women and identify key aspects to improve their health and quality of life. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on articles from 2015 to 2024, including observational studies, clinical trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. Non-English articles and book chapters were excluded. State of Knowledge: Studies highlighted the effectiveness of various exercise regimens for postpartum conditions. Trunk stabilization exercises significantly reduced lumbopelvic pain and disability. Exercise training impacted maternal vascular health and blood pressure, with regular exercise reducing blood pressure, preventing long-term cardiovascular diseases. Innovative approaches, such as progressive muscle relaxation exercises (PMRE) combined with online health counseling, reduced PPD and enhanced maternal attachment. Smartphone app-based pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) reminders increased adherence and improved short-term pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function, showing potential long-term benefits. Summary: This review provides strong evidence for structured PA programs in postpartum care, offering benefits from pain reduction and improved cardiovascular health to enhanced mental well-being. Future research should identify barriers to PA adherence and develop tailored interventions for postpartum women.

Introduction and purposes: Severe injuries are a documented consequence of horse riding accidents. This study aims to explore the prevalence of spine injuries associated with horse riding, identify the most common types of injuries, examine mechanistic underpinnings, analyze typological manifestations, assess implicated spinal regions, investigate demographic risk factors, and examine ensuing neurological sequelae and back pain. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. The search employed terms such as 'horse riding,' 'injuries,' 'spine,' 'vertebral,' 'horse-related,' 'equestrian injuries,' 'spinal fractures,' and 'back injuries.' Articles published between 2014 and 2024 were included in the search. Results: The primary injury mechanism for horse riders is falling from a moving horse. Studies present conflicting findings on which parts of the spine are most commonly injured. Equestrian activities contribute significantly to sports-related spinal injuries, with spinal injuries ranking as the second most affected body region after head injuries among equestrians. Experienced riders tend to have fewer injuries compared to amateurs. Spine fractures are more prevalent in riders aged over 40 years, and a substantial majority (over 80%) of riders have experienced back pain at some point in their lives. Conclusion: In summary, horseback riding poses a substantial risk of spine injuries or pain. A thorough understanding of horse-related spine injury epidemiology is crucial for specific subgroups, enabling the development of preventive strategies across all levels of responsibility.