Garlic (Allium sativum L.): A review of varied health benefits

Introduction:   Garlic (Allium sativum L.), has been cultivated in various countries and is valued for its medicinal and culinary properties. It contains bioactive compounds such as phenolic compounds, organic sulfides, polysaccharides, and saponins, with allicin being a particularly studied compound. These compounds have been shown to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic and antihypertensive effects. Garlic has been used for over 5000 years as a curative plant and has potential applications in food science, medicine, and nutraceuticals.  Aim of the Study:   The aim of the study is to provide a comprehensive review of the overall impact of Allium sativum L. on human health and in order to draw attention to the benefits of regular consumption.  Materials and methods:  A comprehensive review of scientific and medical literature was conducted utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Searching terms were: garlic, Allium sativum L., garlic anti-inflammatory, garlic anticancer, garlic health effects.   Conclusion:   Allium sativum L. is associated with a comprehensive range of beneficial effects on the human body. These include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, positive influence on lipid profile, cardiovascular system, and the anticancer activity among others by stimulation of tumor apoptosis. As a result, garlic and its bioactive compounds hold promise as functional foods or nutraceuticals for the prevention and treatment of various diseases.&nbsp

Psoriatic arthritis - Tofacitinib as a new treatment

Introduction: JAK inhibitors are used in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis when there is a lack of effective response or intolerance to first-line drugs or their use must be discontinued due to the presence of side effects. JAK inhibitors inhibit the JAK-STAT signaling pathway which plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. This mechanism leads to a reduction in the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines which causes rapid improvement in the patient's clinical condition. Tofacitinib is the best-known drug in this group; its use carries an increased risk of cardiovascular events and reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. Regular monitoring of patients results in faster detection of the first signs of undesirable effects and the cessation of their progression. The drug's safety profile is acceptable and the benefits outweigh possible complications.   Aim of  the study:   The aim of the study is to summarize the available knowledge about tofacitinib treatment in psoriatic arthritis. The way of work, effectiveness of treatment and potential side effects were summarized and described.   Materials and methods:   The literature available in PubMed database was reviewed using the following keywords: “Psoriatic arthritis”, “Tofacitinib”, “JAK inhibitors”, “JAK-STAT”   Conclusion:   Tofacitinib treatment in rheumatology is used in psoriatic arthritis. The rapid improvement in the clinical condition of patients treated with JAK inhibitors is due to their direct impact on the modulation of the pathogenesis of the disease. The predictable benefits of therapy outweigh the side effects which can be detected at an early stage with regular monitoring of the patient

Finger Injury Related to Climbing: Anatomy, Function, Mechanism of Injury, Diagnosis, Treatment

Introduction  Rock climbing has surged in popularity over the past few decades, attracting a diverse range of participants from recreational enthusiasts to professional athletes. While climbing offers numerous physical and mental benefits, it also presents significant injury risks. Rock climbing is a sport that imposes extreme stress on the fingers, particularly on the flexor pulley system. Injuries to these structures can severely impact a climber's ability to perform and progress in the sport. Understanding the anatomy, injury mechanisms, and treatment modalities is essential for effective management and prevention.  Aim of the study  The purpose of this narrative review is to comprehensively describe information on the anatomy, function, mechanism of injury, diagnosis, and treatment modalities of the finger flexor pulley system (FFPS).  Materials and methods   The methodology for the literature search involved using the keyword "pulley" and adding terms such as "treatment", "mechanism", "function", "anatomy", "diagnosis", and "symptoms". The search terms were entered into the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The review works and clinical trials were taken into account.  Conclusion   Finger flexor pulley system (FFPS) strain is a common overuse injury in climbers, often caused by the crimp grip used in rock climbing. Pulleys A2 and A4 are particularly vulnerable. Diagnosis involves physical examination and imaging tests, such as ultrasonography and, if necessary, magnetic resonance imaging. Grade I to III injuries are typically treated conservatively, while surgical treatment may be necessary for grade IVb injuries. Using a splint or H-taping the fingers after an injury can help prevent further damage and provide support for the affected pulleys.