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CLUSTER ANALYSIS OF COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD BY COMPETITIVENESS OF TOURIST DESTINATIONS
No full textThis study provides a comprehensive analysis of the global tourism services market by clustering countries according to the Tourism Destination Competitiveness Index. The research examines four key indicators - international tourist arrivals, the Network Readiness Index, the Sustainable Development Index, and the Quality of Life Index - which together capture the essential aspects of tourism industry development and allow for an objective assessment of each country’s attractiveness for tourists. Using both hierarchical clustering and k-means clustering methods on the statistical dataset, the study identifies four distinct groups of countries with varying characteristics. A discriminant analysis is additionally employed to quantify the impact of each factor on the probability that a country belongs to a specific cluster. The empirical results highlight the substantial unevenness in the global distribution of tourist flows and the significant disparities in digital infrastructure development, sustainability, and living standards. Notably, the third cluster emerges as the most competitive, comprising countries that combine high volumes of tourist arrivals with advanced infrastructure and robust sustainability standards. Based on these findings, the study underscores the importance of an integrated approach that simultaneously strengthens digital readiness, sustainability, and quality of life to enhance tourism competitiveness in the global market
SLEEP QUALITY (PSQI) AND SUMMATIVE EXAM PERFORMANCE IN MEDICAL STUDENTS
No full textPurpose of the research: This study aimed to review the relationship between sleep quality, as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and academic performance among medical students, highlighting neurocognitive consequences and effective interventions.
Materials and methods: The review of research literature was conducted through databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, including studies from 2007 to 2025.
Results: Multiple studies show that poor sleep quality (PSQI >5) is highly prevalent among medical students and often correlates with reduced GPA, impaired memory, and diminished executive function. Acute sleep deprivation before exams significantly worsens performance. However, inconsistent methodologies, self-reported data, and cross-sectional designs limit causal interpretation. Despite this, evidence supports implementing sleep hygiene education, CBT-I, mindfulness training, and institutional changes to promote better sleep and academic outcomes.
Conclusions: A multifaceted approach is needed to improve medical students’ sleep. Combining behavioural interventions and structural academic reforms may reduce stress, enhance cognitive performance, and support long-term academic success. Further longitudinal research using objective measures is recommended to strengthen these findings
POLISH DOCTOR WŁADYSŁAW JABŁONOWSKI AND HIS MEDICAL OBSERVATIONS IN TURKEY: CONTRIBUTION TO THE UNDERSTANDING OF DERMATOLOGY AND PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE NINETEENTH-CENTURY OTTOMAN EMPIRE
No full textMedicine in the Polish lands in the nineteenth century developed through both the reception of western achievements and the creation of its original approaches adapted to local conditions. Political repression under the partitions forced many Polish physicians into exile where they continued their professional and scientific work contributing to the development of other countries’ medicine. One of them was Władysław Jabłonowski who after the January Uprising (1863-1864) emigrated to the Ottoman Empire and served as a military doctor in Baghdad.
His series.“ Pol. Kazuistyka lekarska w Turcyi – Eng. Medical Casuistry from Turkey” published in Przegląd Lekarski (Cracow medical journal) between years: 1882 and 1886 offered a unique perspective on nineteenth-century medical practice in the Ottoman Empire and the Middle East. The writings provided valuable descriptions of dermatological diseases such as scabies, herpes zoster and leprosy. Jabłonowski also emphasized the role of cultural habits, hygiene and therapeutic limitations in those countries. Authors’ observations bridged Eastern and Western medical traditions, contributing not only to Polish medical literature but also to the broader history of medicine in a global context
CURRENT CONCEPTS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: BIO-LOGIC THERAPIES IN FOCUS — A NARRATIVE REVIEW
No full textKnee osteoarthritis (KOA) is the most common form of degenerative joint disease and a lead-ing cause of disability worldwide. It is characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, sub-chondral bone remodeling, synovial inflammation, and chronic pain, which together lead to significant functional impairment and reduced quality of life. The global prevalence of KOA is rising in parallel with aging populations and increasing obesity rates, posing a substantial soci-oeconomic burden.
In recent years, growing attention has been directed toward biological therapies, which aim to modify disease progression rather than only alleviate symptoms. This narrative review summa-rizes current evidence on the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), hyaluronic acid (HA), and mes-enchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) for KOA, as well as emerging combination strategies. Literature was identified through PubMed and Scopus searches focusing on randomized trials, systematic reviews, and guideline statements.
Overall, PRP injections demonstrate superior short- to mid-term outcomes compared with HA in pain relief and functional scores, though results vary with preparation methods. HA remains widely used, particularly in early disease, but provides modest benefits. MSC therapies show promise in structural modification and long-term symptom improvement, though heterogeneity of protocols and limited high-quality trials restrict definitive conclusions. Combination and next-generation biologic approaches are under active investigation.
In conclusion, biological therapies represent a rapidly evolving frontier in KOA management. While evidence supports meaningful clinical benefit of PRP and potentially MSCs, lack of standardized protocols and robust long-term trials remain major limitations. Future research should focus on optimization, safety, cost-effectiveness, and integration into clinical guide-lines
THE IMPACT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON METABOLIC SYNDROME AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK
No full textBackground: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is one of the most serious public-health challenges, affecting approximately 25 % of the adult population worldwide and more than doubling the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is characterised by the coexistence of abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and arterial hypertension, which translates into markedly increased mortality risk. Physical activity (PA) has been identified as a key modifiable factor in the prevention and treatment of this cluster of disorders. The aim of this review is to discuss in detail the impact of various forms of PA on the components of MetS and on CVD risk.
Methods and Materials: A systematic review of the scientific literature was carried out, analysing randomised trials, meta-analyses and observational studies that assessed the effectiveness of aerobic, resistance and high-intensity interval training.
Conclusions: Regular PA exerts a multidirectional influence on all components of MetS, effectively reducing abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and hypertension. Aerobic training shows the greatest efficacy in improving metabolic parameters, whereas the combination of aerobic and resistance modalities provides the most favourable therapeutic outcomes. In secondary prevention of CVD, PA achieves effectiveness comparable to pharmacotherapy and significantly surpasses it in post-stroke patients. The underlying mechanisms include improvements in insulin sensitivity, enhanced glucose uptake by skeletal muscle, and beneficial modulation of adipokine and cytokine profiles. The review underlines the importance of regular PA as a public-health strategy and highlights the need for further research aimed at optimising intervention programs
THE IMPACT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON THE HEALTH OF PREGNANT WOMEN AND FETAL AND NEONATAL DEVELOPMENT - A LITERATURE REVIEW
No full textIntroduction: Physical activity during pregnancy is attracting increasing interest among women, doctors and researchers. In recent years, there has been a growing body of research highlighting the positive effects of physical activity during this period. Contrary to earlier beliefs, physical activity is not only safe, but also recommended. The aim of this review is to analyse the current scientific evidence on the safety and benefits of exercise during pregnancy and to provide recommendations on the type and intensity of activity.
Methods: A comprehensive search of the scientific literature was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, taking into account publications published since 2017. Keywords included: "physical activity", "pregnancy", "healthy pregnant woman", "exercise" and "pregnant exercises".
Conclusions: A review of the scientific literature from the last eight years shows that regular, moderate physical activity has a number of health benefits for mother and baby, provided there are no medical contraindications. Promoting individualized, supervised exercise and education for both expectant mothers and healthcare providers should be a key element of prenatal care
LATEST ADVANCES IN INJECTABLE AND ORAL MEDICATIONS FOR TYPE 2 DIABETES TREATMENT
No full textIntroduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a progressive metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and impaired beta-cell function. Effective management extends beyond glycemic control and includes weight reduction and cardiovascular risk mitigation. In recent years, injectable therapies such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and the novel dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist tirzepatide have shown promising results. These agents offer significant improvements in blood glucose levels, body weight, and cardiometabolic outcomes, positioning them as essential components of modern T2DM treatment strategies.
Materials and Methods: This article presents a comprehensive review of literature derived from the PubMed database, encompassing studies published between 2015 and 2025.
Results: Recent clinical studies confirm the effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and the dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist tirzepatide in managing type 2 diabetes. Long-acting GLP-1RAs, especially semaglutide, show superior HbA1c and weight reduction compared to other agents. Tirzepatide demonstrated even greater efficacy than semaglutide in reducing blood glucose and body weight, along with benefits for blood pressure and lipid levels. Both drugs have similar safety profiles, with mild gastrointestinal side effects. The development of oral semaglutide further enhances treatment options, particularly for patients avoiding injections.
Conclusions: Advances in injectable therapies for type 2 diabetes, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists and the dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist tirzepatide, have significantly improved glycemic control, weight management, and cardiovascular outcomes. Tirzepatide shows greater efficacy than semaglutide in reducing HbA1c and body weight. While safety profiles are favorable, long-term data are still needed. These therapies offer personalized treatment options, supporting better long-term health for people with type 2 diabetes
THE COSTS OF DEMOCRACY – HOW ELECTION-RELATED STRESS AFFECTS HEALTH
No full textIntroduction: Electoral campaigns represent significant sociopolitical stressors that may have notable implications for public health. The aim of this article is to present an in-depth overview of the documented health effects associated with election-related stress.
Methods: PubMed was searched using keywords such as “sociopolitical stress” and “presidential election AND health”, applying a time filter 2016-2025. After removing duplicates, titles and abstracts were screened for relevance, and the most pertinent articles were included in this review.
Results: Election periods were associated with increased psychological distress. Sociopolitical stress was related to higher incidence of depression, generalized anxiety disorder, sleep disturbances, cardiovascular and arrythmic events, elevated blood pressure, preterm births, heightened interest in long-acting reversible contraceptives, and altered birth sex ratio. These effects were particularly pronounced among supporters of the losing candidate, women, ethnic and racial minorities, and younger populations.
Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for enhanced mental health support and public health preparedness during major political events
TREATMENT OF MINIMAL CHANGE DISEASE IN ADULTS: CURRENT PRACTICE AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS – A NARRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW
No full textResearch Objectives: This review aims to summarize the current therapeutic strategies for adults with MCD and to discuss future treatment directions in light of emerging immunological and molecular findings.
Methods: Literature was searched using PubMed and Google Scholar, with a focus on studies from the past five years. Keywords used in the search included: „minimal change disease”, „nephrotic syndrome”, „glucocorticoids”, „rituximab”, „TRPC6”, and „adults”.
Key Findings: Minimal change disease (MCD) is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children and a significant contributor in adults. Although its clinical course in adults is often mild and steroid-responsive, many patients experience relapses, steroid resistance, or develop adverse effects related to prolonged glucocorticoid use.
Glucocorticoids remain the first-line therapy for MCD, achieving remission in approximately 90% of adults, but relapses affect more than half of these patients. Alternative immunosuppressive therapies have shown comparable efficacy in inducing remission and may lower the relapse rate. Rituximab has shown significant therapeutic efficacy in steroid-dependent and frequently relapsing cases. Several new pharmacological agents - including TRPC6 inhibitors and ManNAc - are under investigation. Immunomodulatory therapies targeting B and T cells also show promise and are being explored in early-phase studies.
Conclusions: MCD presents ongoing therapeutic challenges due to steroid-related toxicity, and heterogeneous treatment responses. A deeper understanding of the disease’s immunopathogenesis is opening new avenues for targeted and safer therapies. Further studies are needed to optimize treatment protocols and improve long-term prognosis and quality of life
RHODIOLA ROSEA AS A NATURAL ADAPTOGEN: A REVIEW OF ITS EFFECTS ON STRESS REDUCTION, MOOD ENHANCEMENT, AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION
No full textIntroduction: Rhodiola rosea is a widely used adaptogenic herb known for its potential to enhance the body’s resistance to physical and psychological stress. Traditionally employed in various medical systems, it has recently gained scientific attention for its beneficial effects on mood regulation, stress reduction, and cognitive performance. The complex phytochemical composition of Rhodiola rosea underpins these effects, yet the precise mechanisms and clinical efficacy remain to be fully elucidated. This review aims to comprehensively summarize current knowledge regarding the phytochemistry, mechanisms of action, preclinical and clinical evidence of Rhodiola rosea’s adaptogenic properties, focusing on its impact on stress reduction, mood enhancement, and cognitive function. Mechanisms of action involving modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, neurotransmitter systems, and antioxidant pathways are discussed. Despite promising results, further high-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to establish standardized protocols for clinical use.
Material and methods: A systematic literature analysis was conducted, including in vitro, animal, and human studies investigating Rhodiola rosea extracts. Emphasis was placed on studies examining biochemical pathways, neurobehavioral outcomes, and clinical trials assessing stress-related parameters, mood states, and cognitive metrics.
Results: Rhodiola rosea exhibits modulatory effects on monoaminergic neurotransmission, enhances antioxidant defenses by upregulating enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, and improves mitochondrial function, leading to increased cellular energy production. Clinical studies demonstrate significant reductions in perceived stress and fatigue, improvements in mood disorders including mild to moderate depression, and enhanced psychomotor performance and cognitive processing speed. However, variability in extract standardization and study design influences the consistency of findings.
Conclusions: Rhodiola rosea represents a promising natural adaptogen with multifaceted actions supporting stress resilience, mood stabilization, and cognitive enhancement. Standardized extracts with defined phytochemical profiles are essential to ensure reproducible therapeutic effects. Further rigorous clinical investigations are warranted to clarify optimal dosing regimens and long-term safety