THE IMPACT OF THE DASH AND MEDITERRANEAN DIETS ON BLOOD PRESSURE AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS: A REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Introduction: Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for premature mortality and cardiovascular diseases. Lifestyle modifications, including diet, play a crucial role in its prevention and treatment. The aim of this review was to assess the impact of the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) on blood pressure values. Materials and methods: Data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses examining the effects of the DASH and MedDiet on systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were analyzed. The review included key studies such as PREMIER, DASH-Sodium, ENCORE, PREDIMED, as well as meta-analyses published up to 2021. Results: The DASH diet was associated with significant reductions in SBP and DBP, particularly when combined with sodium reduction, weight loss, and increased physical activity. The MedDiet also contributed to blood pressure lowering, although the effect was smaller (average reduction in SBP by 1.5 mmHg and in DBP by 0.9 mmHg compared to other diets) and depended on the study population and control group. Conclusions: Both the DASH and Mediterranean diets are effective non-pharmacological strategies for managing hypertension. Their implementation should be supported through counseling, mobile technology, and systemic actions. Further RCTs with sodium intake monitoring are needed to more fully assess the impact of the MedDiet on blood pressure

NOT JUST DRYNESS: A REVIEW OF PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY IN PRIMARY SJÖGREN’S SYNDROME

Introduction: Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease primarily affecting exocrine glands, but it can also involve the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a diverse extraglandular manifestation of pSS, with distal axonal polyneuropathy and sensory neuronopathy (ganglionopathy) being the most prevalent subtypes. PN symptoms often precede the diagnosis of pSS, posing a diagnostic challenge. Materials and methods: An electronic literature search was performed using PubMed. Search terms included ‘primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS)’, ‘peripheral neuropathy’, ‘neurological involvement’, ‘Neuro-Sjogren’, ‘polyneuropathy’, ‘small fibre neuropathy’ as keywords. This review focused on articles published in English from their inception until 2025. Conclusions: Diagnostic approaches combine clinical evaluation, electrophysiological testing, and other procedures such as nerve and skin biopsies. Treatment remains challenging due to the heterogeneity of neuropathic presentations and limited evidence guiding clinical decisions. Corticosteroids are primarily effective in neuropathies associated with vasculitis. Immunosuppressive agents and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) are also commonly used. In addition, effective symptomatic management of neuropathic pain plays an important role in the overall care of the patient. As evidence on the treatment of PN in pSS is limited further research is needed. Early detection and individualized treatment are essential to improve patients’ quality of life

THE USE OF STEM CELLS IN THE TREATMENT OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES - CURRENT STATE OF RESEARCH AND CLINICAL PERSPECTIVES

Introduction and aim: Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, remain highly challenging due to their progressive course and lack of disease-modifying therapies. Stem cell-based strategies are increasingly investigated for their potential in neuroregeneration, immunomodulation and functional recovery. This study aims to summarize current evidence on stem cell applications in neurodegenerative diseases based on recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Material and methods: A structured literature search was performed in PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar using the terms “stem cells,” “neurodegenerative diseases,” “clinical trials,” “systematic review,” and “meta-analysis.” Eligible publications included English-language systematic reviews and human studies from 2015–2025. Over 30 relevant sources were analyzed by disease type and stem cell modality. Results: Most studies report a favorable safety profile, particularly with mesenchymal (MSC), neural (NSC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). Clinical trials in Parkinson’s disease demonstrated measurable motor improvements, while applications in multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries showed immunomodulatory and functional benefits. Evidence in Alzheimer’s disease and ALS remains limited and preliminary. Across conditions, heterogeneity of methods and small sample sizes reduce generalizability. Conclusions: Stem cell therapy shows promise as an innovative approach in neurodegenerative disorders, though it remains experimental. Encouraging early outcomes highlight the need for large-scale, standardized and long-term trials to confirm efficacy, optimize protocols and ensure safety. Stem cells may become central to neuroregenerative medicine, but they are not yet ready for routine clinical use

DIGITALIZATION AS A NEW ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE FACTOR: THE IMPACT OF INFORMATION OVERLOAD ON HUMAN NERVOUS AND IMMUNE SYSTEM FUNCTIONS

The increasing digitization of everyday life is associated with the increasing exposure of the population to informational, sensory, and social stimuli originating from screen devices and digital media. The digital environment is not a classically understood environmental factor; its impact on the body exhibits characteristics of a chronic stressor, affecting the functions of the neuroimmunoendocrine axis, neuroplasticity processes, and the regulation of the immune response. The aim of this study was to review current data on the impact of information overload and digital overstimulation on the human nervous and immune systems, as well as to assess the validity of considering the digital environment as a new form of environmental exposure in the context of public health. Research published between 2018 and 2025 in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was analyzed. This included: population based correlation studies between screen time and markers of stress and inflammation, fMRI studies illustrating changes in brain structure and function during digital overload, animal models examining the effects of sensory overstimulation on the HPA axis and immunity, and randomized intervention trials on reducing screen time. The review found consistent evidence of chronic activation of the HPA axis under digital stress, leading to elevated cortisol levels, impaired neurogenesis, and decreased parasympathetic activity. Brain changes are also observed that correlate with symptoms of depression, insomnia, and attention deficits. Reduced immunity and increased inflammatory markers were demonstrated. Interventions limiting digital exposure resulted in significant reductions in cortisol and CRP levels. The digital environment meets the criteria for an environmental stressor with a real impact on the nervous and immune systems. Digital hygiene should become an integral component of public health strategies, prevention, and the design of work and learning environments

THE ROLE OF NASAL FIBEROSCOPY IN OTORHYNOLARYNGOLOGICAL PRACTICE FOR THE EARLY DETECTION OF UPPER AIRWAY CANCERS

Introduction and Purpose: Nasopharyngeal fiberoscopy is a modern, minimally invasive diagnostic technique that allows for direct, dynamic, and high-resolution visualization of the upper respiratory tract, including the nasal cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, and larynx. By using a thin, flexible fiber-optic endoscope, clinicians are able to assess the mucosal surfaces in great detail, identify potential pathological changes, and collect targeted biopsy specimens in a safe and precise manner. Compared to traditional examination methods such as indirect laryngoscopy or mirror examination, fiberoscopy offers significantly improved diagnostic accuracy, greater patient comfort, and the advantage of being performed in outpatient settings without the need for hospitalization. In the field of otolaryngology, early detection of malignancies of the upper aerodigestive tract—such as laryngeal, nasopharyngeal, nasal, and base-of-tongue cancers—remains one of the most important clinical challenges. Detecting neoplastic changes at an early stage dramatically increases the likelihood of effective treatment, reduces the extent of surgical intervention required, and improves long-term prognosis. Consequently, the development and implementation of accurate, accessible, and non-invasive diagnostic tools such as fiberoscopy are of particular importance—not only in clinical practice but also in population-based screening and prevention strategies targeting high-risk groups. This article provides a comprehensive review of current literature concerning the application of nasal fiberoscopy in the early diagnosis of upper airway cancers. It discusses the clinical advantages and limitations of the method, details of the examination procedure, and its role in the differential diagnosis of non-specific symptoms such as chronic hoarseness, globus sensation, or unilateral otalgia. Special attention is given to the integration of fiberoscopy with advanced imaging techniques (e.g., Narrow Band Imaging, autofluorescence, CT, and MRI), as well as the implementation of artificial intelligence and machine learning in real-time diagnostic support systems. Selected clinical cases and PubMed-sourced studies are presented to illustrate the growing clinical relevance and diagnostic effectiveness of this technique. The article also outlines future directions for the development of fiberoscopy and highlights its potential to become a key pillar in personalized head and neck cancer diagnostics in the 21st century. Materials and Methods: This narrative review was based on a comprehensive search of scientific literature in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases using the following keywords: nasal fiberoscopy, upper airway cancers, early diagnosis, endoscopic screening, otorhinolaryngology, and laryngological fiberoscopy. The analysis included original research articles, review papers, meta-analyses, case reports, and clinical guidelines from scientific societies that addressed the use of nasal fiberoscopy in the diagnosis of upper airway malignancies. The selected publications provided data on diagnostic effectiveness, screening potential, technical capabilities, and integration with imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), narrow band imaging (NBI), autofluorescence, and artificial intelligence–assisted analysis. The aim was to synthesize current knowledge regarding the clinical value and evolving role of nasal fiberoscopy in the early detection and evaluation of upper aerodigestive tract cancers within otorhinolaryngological practice. Results: The literature analysis revealed that nasal fiberoscopy demonstrates high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in detecting both precancerous and cancerous lesions within the upper aerodigestive tract. This technique allows for real-time, dynamic assessment of anatomical structures, as well as the performance of targeted biopsies under direct visualization, which significantly enhances diagnostic accuracy. Compared to static imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), fiberoscopy offers superior evaluation of mucosal surfaces and phonatory function. Numerous studies have confirmed that the use of fiberoscopy in patients presenting with non-specific symptoms - such as hoarseness, dysphagia, or epistaxis - led to early detection of laryngeal, nasopharyngeal, and base-of-tongue cancers. Furthermore, in high-risk populations, including tobacco users, individuals with occupational exposure to carcinogens, or those with a positive oncological family history, nasal fiberoscopy proved more effective in identifying subclinical lesions than clinical observation alone. Several case reports describe instances where routine fiberoscopic examination enabled the identification of early-stage malignancies in asymptomatic patients, which was critical for initiating radical yet function-preserving treatment. These findings highlight the growing importance of nasal fiberoscopy as both a diagnostic and screening tool in contemporary otorhinolaryngological practice. Conclusions: Nasal fiberoscopy is becoming an increasingly important tool in otorhinolaryngological diagnostics. Its advantages - real-time assessment of mucosal structures, the ability to perform targeted biopsies, wide availability in outpatient settings, and low cost—make it applicable both in differential diagnosis and in screening high-risk populations. The literature clearly indicates that nasal fiberoscopy holds significant value as a first-line diagnostic method for patients with suspected neoplastic changes in the upper aerodigestive tract. Integration with modern imaging technologies and artificial intelligence systems may further enhance its diagnostic effectiveness. However, additional large-scale clinical studies are necessary to validate its efficacy and to develop standardized screening protocols. In light of the rising incidence of head and neck cancers and the increasing emphasis on early detection, nasal fiberoscopy has the potential to play a pivotal role in improving treatment outcomes and overall patient survival

DIGITAL HEALTH SOLUTIONS IN ATRIAL FIBRILLATION MANAGEMENT: ENHANCING DETECTION, MONITORING, AND PATIENT OUTCOMES

Introduction and Objective: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI), wearable devices, and mobile health (mHealth) technologies hold promise to improve AF risk prediction, diagnosis, and patient management. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the integration of these innovative tools in AF care, with a focus on technological capabilities, patient engagement, and public health implications. Review Methods: A narrative review was conducted, analyzing peer-reviewed articles, clinical trials, and authoritative reports published between 2014 and 2023. Sources were identified through comprehensive database searches using keywords related to AF, AI, digital health, and health equity. The review integrates interdisciplinary insights from cardiology, digital technology, and public health literature. State of Knowledge: Recent studies demonstrate that AI algorithms applied to electrocardiograms (ECGs) and wearable sensor data can enhance early detection and risk stratification of AF. Mobile health tools foster patient engagement and improve self-management through real-time monitoring and education. However, challenges remain related to data privacy, algorithmic bias, and equitable access to these technologies. Public health strategies must consider social determinants of health to maximize benefits and reduce disparities in AF outcomes. Conclusion: Innovative digital technologies offer transformative potential in AF management and public health. Future research should address existing gaps, focusing on validation in diverse populations, ethical implementation, and strategies to ensure health equity. Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential to harness these tools effectively and improve cardiovascular health outcomes globally

ADMINISTRATIVE AND TECHNICAL CONSTRAINTS OF ELECTRONIC ADMINISTRATION AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF SPORTS ADMINISTRATION IN ALGERIA

Change has become a characteristic feature of the civilisational dimension of the developed world, necessitating the monitoring of all transformations occurring within the environment surrounding both individuals and organisations to confront the consequences of such change and keep pace with new developments. In this context, organisations must adopt and utilise the most advanced administrative methods, in line with technological advancements and in response to the digital age and information technology. Among these methods is electronic administration (E-Management), a contemporary concept that has emerged in recent years as a result of the increasing use of computers and networks and the information revolution in general. Electronic administration represents a strong response to the challenges of the twenty-first century, an era defined by globalisation, knowledge, and the dynamics of the internet revolution. Most administrations worldwide, in general, and sports administrations in particular, have responded to this transformation according to their specific conditions, capacities, and circumstances. In recent years, there has been rapid and significant development in information and communication technology across multiple levels, with a profound impact on human behaviour, methods, and approaches to administration. Consequently, many organisations, including those in both developed and developing countries, such as Algeria, have begun to adopt the concept of electronic administration. This transition has been made evident through the dissemination of information via the internet, as well as the conduct of numerous internal transactions through the internet and intranet. These networks have provided sports organisations and their clients with opportunities for communication beyond intricate bureaucratic procedures. Notably, the application of electronic administration in the sports field has achieved remarkable success across various organisations worldwide. However, the situation in China is distinct. Despite the rapid progress in information technology, many challenges and obstacles persist, hindering its application as a means to facilitate management processes and enhance effectiveness. Within this framework, our study addresses the following topic: "Administrative and Technical Constraints of Electronic Administration and Their Impact on the Effective Management of Sports Administration in Algeria." The study aimed to identify the most significant administrative constraints that hinder the effective management of electronic administration within Algerian sports organisations and to highlight the technical and human obstacles impeding its application in these organisations. Among the key findings of the study are that the reliance of the Algerian sports administration on traditional management methods has delayed the transformation towards a smooth and efficient application of electronic administration. The technical constraints identified include the limited development of the infrastructure required to implement electronic administration in sports management; the difficulty experienced by sports organisations' administrators in Algeria in keeping pace with the rapid global changes and advancements in information technology; and the absence of security systems to safeguard databases related to management processes within sports organisations. The study also revealed several human constraints, including the lack of specialised training and development programmes dedicated to enhancing the capacities of human resources in Algerian sports administration, to master modern electronic technologies necessary for the successful implementation of electronic administration. Additional constraints included the absence of a culture of change among those responsible for managing Algerian sports organisations, as well as the shortage of qualified personnel specialising in maintaining electronic equipment, devices, and management-related software at various administrative levels

PRACTICAL ASPECTS OF THE USE OF FLY ASH DURING COLD RECYCLING OF ROAD CLOTHING

The article examines the use of fly ash in materials produced by cold recycling technology. The ecological problem that arises during the storage of ash and slag materials has been studied. The question of the use of fly ash in road construction was considered. The composition of the mixture was selected, the consumption of materials was determined, samples were formed, which were then tested for compliance of their physical and mechanical characteristics with the requirements of national standards. After the arrangement of the experimental site, a number of field tests were conducted. Based on the results of research, it was established that fly ash mixtures meet the requirements of current regulatory documents in terms of their physical and mechanical properties and have characteristics no worse than mixtures made using the classic cold recycling technology

SEMAGLUTIDE- REVOLUTIONARY DRUG IN OBESITY MANAGEMENT

Semaglutide is one of the most widely used glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and now increasingly utilized for obesity treatment. Its efficacy in weight reduction has led to a surge in popularity; however, concerns regarding its safety profile and potential side effects have emerged. This review aims to analyze the mechanism of action, therapeutic efficacy, and potential risks associated with semaglutide use

THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE DEVELOPMENT AND COURSE OF AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Background: There is growing evidence to support an association between the SARS-CoV-2 infection and the onset or flare of ADs (autoimmune diseases) in pediatric and adult patients. Immunological factors in these processes include molecular mimicry, hyperactivation of the immune system, and others. Moreover, a new clinical entity (Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)) is an example of a severe immunologic mediated pattern after COVID-19. Objective: This review describes available evidence regarding the impact of COVID-19 infection on the occurrence and course of autoimmune diseases in children as well as in adults. Significant emphasis is placed on population studies regarding the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases and their natural history, the immunological mechanisms, and the impact of COVID-19 vaccination in the setting of autoimmunity. Methods: This review was conducted using findings of scientific search databases PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus with words: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, autoimmunity, autoimmune diseases, rheumatic diseases, COVID-19 vaccination, MIS-C, molecular mimicry. Articles were selected based on relevance, methodological quality, and adherence to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Results: The immune dysregulation of SARS-CoV-2 infection might induce the onset of autoimmune diseases. Increased rates of newly diagnosed autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), have been reported in both adult and pediatric populations following COVID-19. While autoimmune phenomena may rarely occur with COVID-19 vaccines, the risk is much higher with natural infection. Conclusion: Further studies and systematic immunological follow-up of patients after COVID-19 are essential for the early detection and effective management of autoimmune complication