Therapeutic Role of Animals: A Comprehensive Literature Review on the Prevalent Forms and Species in Animal-Assisted Interventions

Animals have been valued and used to improve human physical and mental health since ancient times. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a complementary approach to traditional medicine, involving trained animals. AAT can enhance cognition, commitment, character growth, and the learning process. Commonly used species in animal-assisted therapy include cats, dogs, horses, dolphins, and others. Feline-assisted therapy alleviates loneliness and stress, whereas canine-assisted therapy positively impacts emotions and overall well-being. Equine-assisted interventions benefit individuals with cognitive and motor disabilities. Dolphin-assisted therapy shows promise for conditions like autism and cerebral palsy. However, ethical concerns have arisen, particularly in children with behavioral disorders. Safety measures, adult supervision, and proper screening and hygiene practices are crucial in AAT programs. In conclusion, AAIs have a significant potential to enhance well-being and mental health across various contexts, but more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and safety in different settings and age groups. The existing literature consists of subjective accounts and inadequate methodologies

Influence of sport activity on hypertension - literature review

One of the most widespread illnesses, hypertension can cause other cardiovascular conditions that shorten life expectancy and lower quality of life. Primary hypertension is the most typical type, and while there are some risk factors, we cannot determine what is the primary cause. We should first change our lifestyles before using medications. Sport activity is the strategy that has the most potential. Numerous researchers have attempted to evaluate its impact on hypertension control. They all concurred that engaging in almost any sport can aid in the management of hypertension. Other studies looked at the best sports to keep hypertension under control. They experimented with isometric exercises, tai chi, brisk walking, and aerobic exercise. Matching the appropriate sport to the level of hypertension can be important too.Athletes experience hypertension as well, despite the fact that exercise is beneficial for the condition. Because of anti-doping regulations, there are some restrictions on how they can be treated.In addition to exercise, other lifestyle changes are crucial in the treatment of hypertension. It involves changing one's diet, attempting to lose weight, and avoiding stressful situations

Cardiovascular manifestations of Lyme disease - a literature review

Lyme disease is an infectious zoonosis transmitted by ticks infected with Borrelia spirochetes. Condition affects multiple organ systems and typically has a protracted course. Although Lyme carditis is a comparatively rare symptom of Lyme borreliosis, it can cause major cardiac conditions, including death, if left untreated. Atrioventricular block of various degrees is the hallmark of cardiac involvement, although other manifestations of the disease are increasingly describe such as ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias, pericarditis, acute coronary syndrome, mild heart failure, cardiac tamponade or individual cases of cardiomyopathy, degenerative valvular lesions and vasculitis. Cardiovascular conduction disorders have a good prognosis despite their abrupt onset and completely resolve after a few days of antibiotic therapy. Therefore, a wait-and-see attitude should be maintained. However, a temporary or permanent pacemaker may be required if the patient's clinical condition necessitates prompt intervention. Nevertheless, current recommendations suggest avoiding temporary stimulation wherever possible and limiting its use to the shortest treatment time possible

Insulin resistance, does it exist? The current state of knowledge

Insulin resistance is a growing concern worldwide, affecting millions of people and increasing the risk of various metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and fatty liver disease. This paper aims to display the symptoms of insulin resistance and the importance of early detection through various diagnostic tests such as fasting insulin levels, oral glucose tolerance tests, and HOMA-IR scores. Despite the high prevalence of insulin resistance, there is currently no known cure for this condition as it is not a disease in itself. However, lifestyle modifications, including exercise and dietary changes, can effectively manage and prevent the progression of insulin resistance and its associated complications. This study emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about insulin resistance and its adverse effects on individuals' health and the healthcare system's burden. Early detection and management of insulin resistance can significantly reduce the risk of developing metabolic disorders and prevent serious health complications

Long-gap esophageal atresia: management, most frequent complications, and expert recommendations – review of literature

Introduction and aim of the study. Long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) is a congenital anomaly in which the gap between both ends of the esophagus exceeds three intervertebral spaces and is an esophageal atresia without air in the abdomen. The defect is both therapeutic and surgical challenge. This review aims at providing an overview of the most recent literature on the effective methods for treatment of LGEA, and the most frequent complications and experts’ recommendations on this subject. Material and methods. The systematic review was based on available data collected using PubMed database and the Google Scholar web search engine. Analysis of the literature. There is no consensus on the ideal technique for surgical treatment of LGEA. There are two possible approaches for opening the thorax – thoracotomy and thoracoscopy. The techniques stimulating esophageal elongation include external and internal traction techniques, magnetic compression anastomosis and intramural botulinum type A toxin injection. Replacement methods are a viable option when it is impossible to preserve the native esophagus. Decellularized matrices seem to be promising in developing an esophageal substitute. Regardless of the surgical approach a common complication of surgical treatment is anastomotic stenosis which requires further surgical interventions. Conclusion. Elongation techniques are effective in approximation of the proximal and distal esophagus. The future lies with tissue engineering and inventing an off-the-shelf esophageal substitute. The centralization of treatment is recommended. After discharge from hospital interdisciplinary outpatient assessment and care is required. Further prospective studies are needed to determine the optimal mode of treatment and prevent complications associated with LGEA

Depression - the first symptom of a brain tumor or a consequence of the process neoplastic process - a review of the literature

Introduction and objective CNS malignancies account for about 1.6% of all diseases today. In people diagnosed with abrain tumor with a poor prognosis, we often see disorders from the psychiatric spectrum,most often depressive disorders. In this paper, we want to focus on whether depression occursas a sequel to cancer or perhaps is the first of the symptoms of a CNS tumor. Review methods For the analysis, the PubMed medical database was searched, and articles containing studiesand case reports of people with CNS tumor and depressive disorders that occurred eitherbefore diagnosis or at any time during the course of the disease were selected Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge CNS tumors produce symptoms such as epilepsy, visual disturbances, paresis, but alsobehavioral disorders. This is determined by the location of the tumor. Depression is a mentaldisorder manifested mainly by lowered mood. This disorder can coexist with tumorsoccurring in the frontal lobe or be present regardless of the location of the tumor, in peoplediagnosed with a tumor with a poor prognosis. Summary Analyzing the selected articles, we see that in people who were diagnosed with a tumorlocated in the frontal lobe, often the first symptom was depressive disorders, which evenpreceded neurological symptoms. When depression is diagnosed, appearing suddenly andrefractory to treatment, one should consider whether there is an underlying pathologicallesion in the CNS. Unfortunately, there are no specific guidelines for imaging studies indepressive disorders. People who suffer from malignant tumors with a poor prognosis shouldbe cared for by a psychologist, because as the disease progresses, the symptoms worsen,affecting the prognosis

Does a gluten-free diet result in nutritional deficiencies? – a review of literature

Introduction and purpose: Gluten-free diet have gained immense popularity in recent years, both as a treatment for coeliac disease and as a lifestyle choice for those who believe it is healthier. However, concerns have been raised about potential nutrient inadequacies resulting from the elimination of gluten-containing grains. The purpose of this review is to assess the state of knowledge regarding the impact of a gluten-free diet on nutritional status. Materials and methods: A comprehensive search was conducted using electronic database PubMed to identify relevant studies published between 1999 and 2022. Keywords such as "gluten-free diet" and "nutritional deficiencies" were used in combination with Boolean operators to refine the search. A brief description of the state of knowledge: Analysis of studies revealed that individuals adhering to a gluten-free diet may be at risk of nutritional deficiencies including micronutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B complex along with minerals, in particular iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium as well as fibre. Furthermore, higher levels of fat and sugar were observed in the composition of gluten-free products. Conclusions: Based on the current body of literature, it is evident that a gluten-free diet results in certain nutritional deficiencies. Individuals following gluten-free diet should be aware of potential risks and take appropriate measures to ensure a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Nutritional guidance should be provided to individuals to address specific nutrient deficiencies associated with a gluten-free diet

Nutrients deficiencies in patients with autism spectrum disorder, role of folic acid and vitamin D3 - review of literature

Introduction and purpose: This article will discuss the relationship between nutrition deficiency, focusing on folic acid and vitamin D3 and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research suggests that nutrient deficiencies play a role in the development and progression of autism. This article will investigate causes of nutrient deficiencies in ASD, like dietary constraints, food choice, and environment exposure, and their impact on ASD and related symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the research examining the relationship between folic acid and vitamin d3 supplementation and autism. Materials and methods: A broad search was conducted using the PubMed database in order to identify relevant studies published between 2010-2020 using keywords such as “folic acid”, “folinic acid”, "vitamin d3", "autism spectrum disorder". A brief description of the current state of knowledge: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that in recent years has been increasingly diagnosed among children. Only between 2016 and 2014 measured prevalence in the United States has increased by 10%. [1] The exact etiology of ASD in not known. In this review we will examine a role of folic acid and vitamin D3. Research suggests that folic acid supplements can help improve verbal skills in people with ASD. Research also shows decreased levels of vitamin d3 in ASD patients. Clinical trials involving vitamin d3 present inconclusive data but lean towards positive impact of supplementation. Both folic acid and vitamin d3 supplementation is safe. Dietary changes and oral supplementation may be beneficial for patients. Conclusions: Studies with larger participant numbers should be done to prove the significance of folic acid and vitamin D3 supplementation as it shows potential in being a safe and not expensive complementary therapeutic option

The role of exosomes in ischemic stroke

Introduction and purpose: Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. There is an urgent need to develop new treatments and diagnosis. The aim of this review is to gather current knowledge on the potential use of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke. This review was based on available data collected in the Pub Med database and Google Scholar web search engine, using the key words: „Exosomes”, „ischemic stroke”     Description of the state of knowledge: Currently, thanks to the development of knowledge about molecular processes, many studies are conducted on drugs that could limit neurodegenerative processes and support repair processes. Many of the drugs that could be used in treatment show poor penetration through the blood-brain barrier. In studies, exosomes show good penetration through the blood-brain barrier, limit neurodegenerative processes and show neuroregenerative effects. Exosomes are characterized by low immunogenicity and toxicity, and the proteins contained in them are involved in neurogenesis, anti-apoptotic processes and synaptic transmission. In addition, studies have shown exosomes inhibit autophagocytosis and reduce neuronal damage. ​ Summary: Studies performed on animal models have shown the effectiveness of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke. Further studies are needed to determine the efficacy and safety profile of exosomes in humans

Depression development in patients with OA, and its impact on treatment outcome - a literature review

Introduction and aim of the study: Osteoarthritis (OA) and depression are leading causes of disease burden worldwide and important public health problems. A number of recent studies reported depression as a comorbidity of OA and its impact on reduced quality of life and worse treatment outcome of OA patients. The clinical management strategies of those patients still haven’t been developed, which is a challenge of future research on this topic. The aim of this review is to shed a light on important aspects of depression relationship with OA including its prevalence among OA patients and its influence on course and treatment of OA with a purpose of increasing awareness of this problem among physicians which may subsequently lead to a better overall medical care of patients with OA and depression. Methods and materials: This literature review is based on articles published in the PubMed database, GoogleScholar, ScienceDirect, and available medical textbooks. Conclusions: Recent literature reports a higher prevalence of depression among OA patients when compared to general population and its impact on osteoarthritis course, both on psychological and biomolecular level. Future research may lead to a better understanding of molecular background of depression and OA interrelation and to more complex and individualized management strategies which may result in a better outcome of treatment and improved life quality of osteoarthritis patients. Therefore, in order to optimize management of OA patients, physicians should pay more attention to depression and use multidisciplinary approach including assessment of mental health status to develop a more effective strategies of medical care in osteoarthritis