Adjuvant radiotherapy in laryngeal cancer over the last few decades: the evolution of treatment policy in the great poland cancer centre

Aimto evaluate changes in the treatment trends of the larynx cancer over the last few decades concerning the time factor in postoperative radiotherapy (OTT) after total laryngectomy and defining the target in adjuvant radiotherapy after partial laryngectomy with the reconstruction of the larynx.Material and methodsThe first part of the analysis was based on the comparison of OTT in two groups of patients (group A and B) irradiated postoperatively after total laryngectomy. Group A consisted of 311 patients who were treated between 1986 and 1990. The postoperative radiotherapy (RT) was given 5 times a week at the daily dose of 2 Gy per fraction to the mean total dose of 61.2 Gy (range: 57–66 Gy), the mean time of the RT course was 47 days (range: 40–74 days). Group B encompassed 270 patients treated with a similar technique in the years 2000–2002 with the same fraction and total dose.The second part of the analysis concerning the change of strategy in relation to the indication for adjuvant radiotherapy after partial laryngectomy (supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidopexy, cricohyoidoepiglottopexy, horizontal laryngectomy, and fronto-lateral laryngectomy) during the last decade. The analysis was based on the review of patients who were treated between 1996 and 2002 at our department. One of the main aims of radiotherapy technique was to avoid the irradiation of a newly reconstructed larynx. All patients were irradiated postoperatively in a conventional way to the elective dose of 50 Gy to the neck with a boost dose from 10 to 16 Gy to the bed of the removed lymph nodes. Acute and late morbidities were evaluated according to the RTOG/EORTC morbidity scoring system.Results and conclusionIn group A gaps were observed in 52% of all the treated patients and their mean time was 8.2 days (range: 1–16 days). In group B gaps occurred in 26% of all treated patients with the mean gaps duration of 4.2 days (range: 1–15 days). The first part of the analysis revealed a significant time reduction in gap duration (4.2 days) and their frequency (26%) in the last decade (p=0.002).The second part of the analysis showed that the protection of the newly reconstructed larynx led to the avoidance of significant side effects. Combined treatment, which consisted of partial laryngectomy and adjuvant RT of the neck with the protection of larynx, plays an important role in the decrease of treatment morbidity and makes it possible to preserve laryngeal function

The association between body posture and malocclusion - a literature review

Effective body posture entails the correct alignment of body parts in relation to each other and is crucial for preserving balance, stability, and the efficient operation of muscles and joints. The major types of posture abnormalities such as lordosis, kyphosis and scoliosis can lead to alterations in various areas of the body, such as stomatognatic system. The potential correlation between malocclusion and body posture remains a subject of controversy. The aim of this review is to investigate and evaluate the association between posture defects and malocclusion on the basis of literature. This literature review has analyzed 18 studies. Inclusion criteria: clinical researches published after 2010, regarding children and adults. PubMed and Google Scholar has been searched to identify the papers. In 18 analyzed  studies, 2133 patients were enrolled (including 979 children aged 4-18). A positive correlation between scoliosis and different types of malocclusion has been proven by six papers. There are also other noteworthy dependencies,  such as overjet and pelvic torsion, kyphosis and sagittal position of mandible, skeletal Class III and torticollis, cross bite and scapula plane.  Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis significantly affects the stomatognathic system, leading to issues like crossbite, crowding, increased overjet, overbite, partial open bite, and midline deviation. Orthopedists should collaborate with orthodontists for comprehensive treatment, particularly during developmental stages

Beyond conventional therapies: exploring the role of Pilates in neurological physical therapy – a review of the latest research

Pilates exercise method, characterized by its holistic approach, underscores core stability, strength, and flexibility, coupled with meticulous muscle control, optimal posture, and focused attention on breathing. Widely embraced in both general and clinical fitness realms, this study aims to evaluate the integration of Pilates into physical therapy practices for patients with neurological disorders. Existing studies indicate the potential efficacy of Pilates in diverse rehabilitation contexts. However, neurological disorders, specifically multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson's disease (PD), have been the primary focus. While systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest Pilates as a plausible option in physiotherapy for PD and MS patients, a paucity of research on this subject necessitates a comprehensive review of recent original studies. Analysis of gathered data suggests that Pilates, when incorporated, may yield benefits for patients with various neurological disorders. Consideration of Pilates as a supplementary element to physical activity for those with PD and MS emerges as a reasonable proposition. The study also encourages contemplation of Pilates in rehabilitation research across a broader spectrum of neurological disorders. Subsequent investigations, incorporating relevant considerations, will contribute to a nuanced understanding of Pilates' potential benefits and its comparative advantages over traditional interventions for neurological disorders

The Impact of E-Cigarettes on Oral Injuries and Bone Fractures

Introduction The rising prevalence of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use has prompted concerns regarding its potential health implications. While much attention has focused on respiratory and cardiovascular effects, injuries, oral trauma, and bone fractures linked to e-cigarette use have received less scrutiny. This paper aims to comprehensively review the landscape of injuries, oral trauma, and bone fractures induced by e-cigarettes, shedding light on this underexplored facet of e-cigarette-related harm. Material and Methods This literature review has analyzed 16 papers. Inclusion criteria: researches and case reports published after 2015. PubMed and Google Scholar has been searched to identify the papers.  Analysis of the Literature Existing literature suggests a growing incidence of injuries, oral trauma, and bone fractures associated with e-cigarette use, albeit with limited systematic investigation. Mechanisms underlying these injuries range from device malfunctions to inadvertent impacts during use. Case reports highlight a spectrum of injuries, including oral burns, dental trauma, and skeletal fractures, often involving the face and mouth regions. Conclusions Despite the lack of comprehensive epidemiological data emerging evidence underscores the need for heightened awareness and preventive measures to mitigate e-cigarette-related injuries. Enhanced education, regulation of e-cigarette devices, and promotion of safer usage practices are crucial steps towards reducing the burden of e-cigarette-related harm on oral and skeletal health

Association between deficient levels of vitamin D and the occurrence of selected retinal diseases

Introduction and Purpose: Vision originates in the eye's retina, a complex structure essential for processing visual information. The connection between nutritional inadequacy, particularly vitamin deficiencies, and overall health, including ocular health, has long been acknowledged. Recent studies highlight the potential impact of vitamin D, a crucial nutrient, on retinal health. The aim is to investigate the association between low levels of vitamin D and retinal diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR), and to evaluate the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation or lifestyle changes for at-risk patients. Description of the State of Knowledge: AMD, a significant cause of blindness in the elderly, involves factors like oxidative stress and inflammation. Various stages of AMD require different treatments, with limited options for advanced stages. DR, a complication of diabetes, leads to conditions such as retinal ischemia and neovascularization. Both conditions are potentially influenced by vitamin D levels. Studies show mixed results regarding the impact of vitamin D on these diseases. Some suggest lower levels may increase risk, while others report no significant effect or even contradictory findings. Conclusions: While some studies indicate a potential association between low vitamin D levels and the occurrence of retinal diseases, discrepancies exist in the findings. Lower vitamin D concentrations may be linked to a higher frequency of AMD and DR, but the evidence is not consistent across all studies. Therefore, a more in-depth exploration of this subject is warranted to draw conclusive insights. It is crucial to consider supplementation or dietary changes in cases of vitamin D deficiency, given its potential impact on systemic health

The Association Between Heart Rate Variability and Sleep Quality - a Narrative Review

Introduction Heart rate variability (HRV) serves as a non-invasive marker to assess autonomic nervous system (ANS) modulation on cardiac rhythm. Its link with sleep quality, particularly in the context of insomnia, posits HRV as a potential indicator of autonomic state variations during sleep disturbances. The prevalence of insomnia, affecting up to 20% of the general population, emphasizes the need to understand its extensive impact. Material and Methods For this review - 41 relevant titles from 1985 to 2024 were selected Analysis of the Literature: Recent studies highlight a bidirectional relationship between insomnia and ANS function, with increased sympathetic activity indicated by physiological and subjective measures in individuals with insomnia. The role of medications like beta-blockers in disrupting ANS and leading to sleep deprivation further connects measurable and perceived aspects of sleep quality, impacting health negatively. Moreover, HRV's application has expanded beyond professional athletics to daily activity and sleep quality monitoring by the general population, emphasizing its potential in evaluating stress and training intensity. Conclusion: The complex interplay between HRV, insomnia, and health outcomes necessitates further research. However, integrating HRV measurements into clinical and everyday monitoring may offer a promising avenue for improving sleep disorder management and enhancing quality of life

Association between deficient levels of vitamin D and the occurrence of selected retinal diseases

Introduction and Purpose: Vision originates in the eye's retina, a complex structure essential for processing visual information. The connection between nutritional inadequacy, particularly vitamin deficiencies, and overall health, including ocular health, has long been acknowledged. Recent studies highlight the potential impact of vitamin D, a crucial nutrient, on retinal health. The aim is to investigate the association between low levels of vitamin D and retinal diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR), and to evaluate the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation or lifestyle changes for at-risk patients. Description of the State of Knowledge: AMD, a significant cause of blindness in the elderly, involves factors like oxidative stress and inflammation. Various stages of AMD require different treatments, with limited options for advanced stages. DR, a complication of diabetes, leads to conditions such as retinal ischemia and neovascularization. Both conditions are potentially influenced by vitamin D levels. Studies show mixed results regarding the impact of vitamin D on these diseases. Some suggest lower levels may increase risk, while others report no significant effect or even contradictory findings. Conclusions: While some studies indicate a potential association between low vitamin D levels and the occurrence of retinal diseases, discrepancies exist in the findings. Lower vitamin D concentrations may be linked to a higher frequency of AMD and DR, but the evidence is not consistent across all studies. Therefore, a more in-depth exploration of this subject is warranted to draw conclusive insights. It is crucial to consider supplementation or dietary changes in cases of vitamin D deficiency, given its potential impact on systemic health

Screened potential risk factors for autism and autistic behaviour in children. Literature review

Introduction and purpose: This publication is a review of research on potential risk factors for the development of autism and autistic behaviour in children. The purpose of this review is to spread knowledge and awareness of autism syndrome disorder. Brief description of the state of knowledge: Autism syndrome disorder is a neurological and developmental brain disorder. It is characterized by problems with social relationships and communication as well as narrow and repetitive behaviours and interests. The causes of autism spectrum disorder are still not fully understood and pose a challenge to modern medicine. Numerous studies find causes in fetal life and the course of pregnancy, genetic conditions and mutations, environmental risk factors or vaccination. Many theories about the causes of autism require more extensive and thorough research, for which some beliefs have been overturned, such as the search for links between autism spectrum disorder and childhood vaccination. At this point, the role of genetic mutations in the occurrence of autism in children can be confirmed with certainty. Causes are particularly looked for in fetal life and prenatal factors. One theory relates to the activation of the mother's immune system, her production of cytokine and pro-inflammatory factors that affect the development of the fetal nervous system. Results and conclusions: In our review, we aim to present the risk factors that can most significantly influence the development of ASD. These factors include genetics, prenatal diet, smoking during pregnancy, maternal intake of antidepressants, infections during pregnancy, other pregnancy and maternal factors, parental age, various paternal risk factors, lack of breastfeeding, and environmental factors. Some factors need more research for a comprehensive understanding, while others, like breastfeeding and non-smoking during pregnancy, are well-studied and require promotion to reduce the risk of the disorder

The Impact of E-Cigarettes on Oral Injuries and Bone Fractures

Introduction The rising prevalence of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use has prompted concerns regarding its potential health implications. While much attention has focused on respiratory and cardiovascular effects, injuries, oral trauma, and bone fractures linked to e-cigarette use have received less scrutiny. This paper aims to comprehensively review the landscape of injuries, oral trauma, and bone fractures induced by e-cigarettes, shedding light on this underexplored facet of e-cigarette-related harm. Material and Methods This literature review has analyzed 16 papers. Inclusion criteria: researches and case reports published after 2015. PubMed and Google Scholar has been searched to identify the papers.  Analysis of the Literature Existing literature suggests a growing incidence of injuries, oral trauma, and bone fractures associated with e-cigarette use, albeit with limited systematic investigation. Mechanisms underlying these injuries range from device malfunctions to inadvertent impacts during use. Case reports highlight a spectrum of injuries, including oral burns, dental trauma, and skeletal fractures, often involving the face and mouth regions. Conclusions Despite the lack of comprehensive epidemiological data emerging evidence underscores the need for heightened awareness and preventive measures to mitigate e-cigarette-related injuries. Enhanced education, regulation of e-cigarette devices, and promotion of safer usage practices are crucial steps towards reducing the burden of e-cigarette-related harm on oral and skeletal health

Beyond conventional therapies: exploring the role of Pilates in neurological physical therapy – a review of the latest research

Pilates exercise method, characterized by its holistic approach, underscores core stability, strength, and flexibility, coupled with meticulous muscle control, optimal posture, and focused attention on breathing. Widely embraced in both general and clinical fitness realms, this study aims to evaluate the integration of Pilates into physical therapy practices for patients with neurological disorders. Existing studies indicate the potential efficacy of Pilates in diverse rehabilitation contexts. However, neurological disorders, specifically multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson's disease (PD), have been the primary focus. While systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest Pilates as a plausible option in physiotherapy for PD and MS patients, a paucity of research on this subject necessitates a comprehensive review of recent original studies. Analysis of gathered data suggests that Pilates, when incorporated, may yield benefits for patients with various neurological disorders. Consideration of Pilates as a supplementary element to physical activity for those with PD and MS emerges as a reasonable proposition. The study also encourages contemplation of Pilates in rehabilitation research across a broader spectrum of neurological disorders. Subsequent investigations, incorporating relevant considerations, will contribute to a nuanced understanding of Pilates' potential benefits and its comparative advantages over traditional interventions for neurological disorders