RS Global Journals
Not a member yet
3430 research outputs found
Sort by
ADVANCES IN SURGICAL RESECTION TECHNIQUES FOR GLIOBLASTOMA: IMPLICATIONS FOR SURVIVAL AND PRECISION. A REVIEW OF CURRENT LITERATURE
Get PDFIntroduction: Glioblastoma multiforme is the most common and aggressive type of primary brain tumor, often presenting with a poor prognosis and limited survival, despite available treatment options. The tumor’s inherent resistance to treatment and its heterogeneity pose significant challenges for management.
Aim: This article aims to assess the impact of various surgical resection techniques on the survival of patients with glioblastoma, focusing on the importance of maximizing tumor resection while minimizing postoperative complications.
Methods and Materials: A literature review was conducted, focusing on studies published in the past five years. The review examined factors such as the extent of surgical resection, the use of intraoperative guidance, and postoperative care, evaluating their influence on survival rates.
Discussion: Complete tumor resection is positively associated with improved survival, but the extent of resection remains a debated topic. Advanced surgical methods, including fluorescence-guided imaging, are increasingly used to improve resection accuracy and reduce harm to healthy tissue. However, the prognosis for glioblastoma patients remains poor, and new approaches are needed to address the tumor’s resistance mechanisms.
Conclusions: Surgical resection is a key component of glioblastoma treatment, with a significant impact on survival. However, there is a need for further clinical studies to refine surgical methods, optimize resection strategies, and develop new therapeutic options to improve long-term survival for patients
THE ROLE OF SQUAT EXERCISE IN MEDICAL PRACTICE: EVIDENCE AND CLINICAL APPLICATIONS
Get PDFIntroduction and Objective: The squat is a fundamental human movement and widely used exercise with recognized importance in sports, rehabilitation, and preventive medicine. This narrative review aims to summarize current evidence (2020–2025) on the medical impact of squat exercise across diverse populations, emphasizing musculoskeletal, skeletal, cardiovascular, and functional outcomes.
Review Methods: A structured search was conducted in PubMed, PLOS One, Wiley, and JSTOR for articles published between January 2020 and February 2025. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed human studies addressing health-related effects of squat exercises. Exclusion criteria included animal studies, conference abstracts, and articles focusing solely on athletic performance. Approximately 30 key studies were analyzed narratively.
State of Knowledge: Evidence indicates that squat training improves muscle strength, hypertrophy, and bone mineral density, with quadriceps showing the largest force gains (~18%). Cardiovascular and metabolic adaptations include improved oxygen consumption, blood pressure regulation, and postprandial glucose control. Functional benefits extend to older adults, where squats enhance sit-to-stand capacity and daily mobility, and to special populations such as pregnant women, where squats reduce fatigue and improve quality of life. Variations in depth, load, and technique influence outcomes and safety.
Summary: Squat exercise represents a versatile intervention with significant health benefits across age groups and clinical conditions. Incorporating squats into individualized exercise prescriptions may help prevent osteoporosis, sarcopenia, cardiovascular disease, and functional decline, reinforcing its role in evidence-based medical and rehabilitation practice
A RARE FORM OF MYOCARDIAL INFLAMMATION – COMPLICATIONS WITH A VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICE AND SUCCESSFUL TRANSPLANTATION
Get PDFGiant cell myocarditis (GCM) is a rare, often fulminant inflammatory cardiomyopathy associated with rapid progression to advanced heart failure and high mortality. We report the case of a 52-year-old male with previously undiagnosed GCM who developed post-inflammatory cardiomyopathy leading to severe left ventricular dysfunction. Despite implantation of a cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) and later a HeartMate III left ventricular assist device (LVAD) as a bridge to transplantation, the patient’s condition gradually worsened. Orthotopic heart transplantation was performed 5.5 years after diagnosis, with histopathological analysis of the explanted heart confirming GCM. Post-transplant follow-up over 16 months demonstrated preserved graft function, absence of recurrence, and stable clinical status. This case highlights the importance of histopathological evaluation of explanted hearts, the diagnostic challenges of atypical GCM, and the role of LVAD and heart transplantation in ensuring long-term survival.
Video 1. Transthoracic echocardiography showing severely impaired left ventricular contractility with a left ventricular ejection fraction. Watch vide
SPICES AS ERGOGENIC AIDS: IMPACT ON EXERCISE PERFORMANCE, MUSCLE RECOVERY, AND INFLAMMATION IN ATHLETES – A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Get PDFBackground: Spices like capsaicin, turmeric, ginger, piperine, garlic, and cinnamon have been used in cooking and folk medicine for centuries. Modern research shows their ergogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, aiding athletic performance, muscle recovery, and overall health.
Aim: This review analyzes effects of these spices on physically active individuals (mechanisms, benefits, limitations).
Materials and methods: Studies from PubMed, MDPI, Quality in Sport, and Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International on ergogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects of capsaicin, turmeric, ginger, piperine, garlic, and cinnamon in physically active people.
Results: Capsaicin shows thermogenic effects and supports fat metabolism, boosting exercise performance, but GI effects need study. Turmeric, via curcumin, offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, reducing muscle damage and speeding recovery despite low bioavailability. Ginger modulates cellular metabolism to aid muscle recovery and ease post-exercise pain. Piperine enhances nutrient bioavailability, improves muscle strength, and optimizes energy metabolism with low-risk toxicity. Garlic reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, strengthens immunity, and relieves muscle fatigue. Cinnamon provides hypoglycemic and antioxidant properties, improving glucose/lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health in athletes.
Conclusions: These spices show promise as phytonutrients in sports medicine. Their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic effects enhance performance and recovery by increasing muscle strength, reducing DOMS, shortening recovery, and lowering inflammation. Synergies like piperine-curcumin amplify efficacy. Challenges like poor bioavailability (e.g., curcumin) and inconsistent evidence require rigorous studies for optimal dosages, formulations, and protocols
THE ROLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS, LIFESTYLE, AND SUPPLEMENTATION IN REGULATING ENDOGENOUS TESTOSTERONE LEVELS IN MEN
No full textIntroduction: Testosterone is a crucial hormone for men's health, regulating metabolic, cardiovascular, and psychological functions. In recent decades, a global trend of declining levels has been observed, carrying serious health implications, including an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and reduced quality of life. Although pharmacological treatment for hypogonadism is available, the importance of non-pharmacological interventions is growing. Modifiable factors such as lifestyle (diet, sleep, stress, physical activity), exposure to environmental pollutants (endocrine disruptors), and supplementation (including vitamin D, zinc, adaptogens) are recognized as key regulators of endogenous testosterone production. A systematic analysis of these elements is fundamental for developing effective preventive strategies.
Objective: The aim of this review is to review and synthesize current scientific knowledge regarding the impact of environmental factors, lifestyle, and supplementation on endogenous testosterone levels in men.
Methods: A review of the available scientific literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases published within the last 20 years was conducted, using keywords related to testosterone, lifestyle, environmental factors, and supplementation.
Results: The review indicates that lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor sleep quality, and chronic stress are strongly associated with lower testosterone levels, while resistance training shows a positive effect. Environmental exposures to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (e.g., BPA, phthalates) and heavy metals (e.g., lead, cadmium) are also linked to hormonal disruption. Supplementation with vitamin D and zinc appears effective primarily in correcting deficiencies, while evidence for adaptogens like Ashwagandha is promising but requires further investigation. The impact of diet composition (e.g., fat intake) is significant, whereas the link between smoking and testosterone remains paradoxical.
Conclusions: Endogenous testosterone levels are influenced by a complex interplay of modifiable lifestyle and environmental factors. Obesity, sleep deprivation, and stress emerge as major negative regulators. While environmental toxins pose a risk, targeted supplementation can be beneficial, particularly for deficiencies. A holistic approach emphasizing lifestyle modifications should be considered the first-line strategy for optimizing male hormonal health
TAKOTSUBO SYNDROME – CURRENT KNOWLEDGE AND CLINICAL CHALLENGES
No full text"Broken heart syndrome" is one of several terms used to describe Takotsubo syndrome. This name refers to the fact that severe emotional or physical stress is considered to be a triggering factor for the disease. Takotsubo syndrome is an acute cardiac condition characterized by reversible ventricular dysfunction and various cardiac wall-motion abnormalities. It presents with a symptom profile that closely resembles acute coronary syndrome. Therefore, it is usually underdiagnosed, especially in patients who have co-existing coronary artery disease. Despite its transient nature, the condition may be associated with various life-threatening complications including arrhythmias, acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, ventricular thrombus and risk for cerebrovascular events.
Purpose: The aim of this review is to present the current state of knowledge about Takotsubo syndrome and to highlight aspects that require further investigation and systematization.
Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted from the PubMed database, covering studies from 2015-2025. Key phrases such as “Takotsubo Syndrome”, “Broken Heart Syndrome”, “Stress Cardiomyopathy” were used. Selected papers were analyzed and evaluated for conclusions.
Conclusions: Takotsubo syndrome remains incompletely understood, with significant gaps in its diagnostic criteria, therapeutic management, and strategies for preventing recurrence. Further research, including large-scale clinical trials and comprehensive meta-analyses, is essential to establish evidence-based guidelines and improve patient outcomes
MEDULLARY THYROID CARCINOMA (MTC): A CURRENT REVIEW OF EPIDEMIOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS, AND THERAPY
No full textBackground: Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor (1–5% of all thyroid cancers) characterized by disproportionately high mortality (13%), often complicated by advanced-stage diagnosis and early metastasis. This malignancy is uniquely driven by RET proto-oncogene mutations.
Aim: This review aims to comprehensively analyze contemporary MTC management strategies, focusing on advancements in precision diagnostics, targeted therapies, and identifying critical challenges related to therapeutic resistance and clinical guideline standardization.
Materials and Methods: An extensive synthesis of the current literature, prioritizing comprehensive review articles and meta-analyses published within the last five years, was conducted using multiple electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus).
Results: Recent breakthroughs include the highly effective and well-tolerated selective RET inhibitors (selpercatinib, pralsetinib), which offer improved outcomes compared to older multikinase inhibitors (MKIs). Diagnostic modalities are enhanced by advanced functional imaging (e.g. [18F]F-DOPA-PET/CT). Despite improved overall survival, the major clinical hurdle remains acquired drug resistance, mediated by RET kinase domain mutations and activation of bypass signaling pathways (MET, EGFR). Furthermore, substantial variability persists across international guidelines regarding optimal prophylactic surgery timing and criteria for initiating systemic treatment.
Conclusion: Future efforts must concentrate on establishing unified, dynamic risk stratification protocols, standardizing advanced imaging utilization, and implementing liquid biopsy (ctDNA) guided sequential therapy to effectively overcome acquired resistance and ensure durable long-term disease control
BLOOD DONATION AS A HEALTH INTERVENTION: BENEFITS, RISKS AND PHYSIOLOGICAL ADAPTATIONS
No full textBackground: Blood donation, traditionally regarded as a „priceless gift of life” and altruistic act of supporting healthcare systems, has increasingly been examined as a potential health - modifying intervention for donors themselves. This review synthesizes current evidence on the physiological benefits, potential risks and adaptive responses associated with regular blood donation. Health benefits of blood donation include reductions in body iron stores, which can transform into decreased oxidative stress, improved metabolic profiles and lower long - term cardiovascular risk in selected populations. Clinical trials suggests potential modulations in inflammatory markers and improved vascular function following regular donation. However, blood donation is not procedure without risk. There are some acute side effects such as for example vasovagal reactions, temporary weakness and reduced exercise tolerance, while long - term concerns include iron - deficiency anemia, impaired physical performance in high - demand athletes and possible cumulative effects of frequent phlebotomy. Physiological adaptations to recurrent blood loss are for example enhanced erythropoiesis, plasma volume expansion, and changes in iron - regulatory pathways which play a central role in shaping donors’ responses and may differ according to sex, age, nutritional status and donation frequency. By integrating data from clinical trials, epidemiological studies and research this review highlights the complex interplay between the therapeutic potential and physiological cost of blood donation. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for optimizing donor safety, refining eligibility and recovery guidelines and exploring whether periodic blood removal could serve as a targeted intervention in specific clinical or metabolic contexts.
Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the physiological, metabolic and cardiovascular effects of regular blood donation, in particular donor safety, risk factors and potential health benefits associated with regular blood donation.
Methods: A review of scientific articles published on ResearchGate and PubMed from 1998 to 2025.
Results: Regular blood donation leads to many physiological adaptations, including reduced iron stores, improved lipid profiles, decreased oxidative stress and lower inflammation. Cardiovascular benefits such as for example reduced risk of myocardial infarction have been reported too. Common side effects include vasovagal reactions, temporary hypotension, and, rarely, iron - deficiency anemia in frequent donors. Overall, blood donation can provide health benefits when monitored appropriately.
Conclusion: Blood donation is not only a altruistic act but also a physiological and metabolic intervention. Regular donations are associated with improved cardiovascular and metabolic benefits, reduced oxidative stress and enhanced iron regulation, while side effects remain generally smooth and manageable. With adequate donor screening and monitoring, blood donation can provide significant health benefits, supporting both individual well - being and societal needs for blood supply
THE IMPACT OF PRENATAL EXPOSURE TO PARACETAMOL ON THE OCCURRENCE OF NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS IN CHILDHOOD: A LITERATURE REVIEW
No full textBackground: In recent years, several large cohort studies have drawn attention to a possible association between maternal paracetamol use during pregnancy and the occurrence of neurodevelopmental disorders. Given the complex etiology of these conditions and the fact that acetaminophen is considered the only safe analgesic and antipyretic during pregnancy, these publications have generated both concern and controversy.
Methods: This paper is based on studies published in PubMed. The reviewed literature includes publications from 2000 to 2025, primarily involving large cohorts (typically at least 100 participants) and accounting for potential confounding factors. The search terms used were “paracetamol,” “acetaminophen,” “neurodevelopmental disorders,” “autism,” and “ADHD.” Based on these criteria, 41 articles were selected for analysis.
Results: Cohort studies demonstrated a slight increase in the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders associated with prenatal acetaminophen exposure. However, a causal relationship has not been established.
Conclusions: Paracetamol may have an adverse effect on fetal nervous system development; therefore, its use during pregnancy should be limited to cases with clear medical indication and in accordance with the product’s prescribing information
TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE: TREATMENT STRATEGIES FOR THE MOST PREVALENT PRIMARY HEADACHE DISORDER
No full textIntroduction and Purpose: Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most common primary headache disorder that affects the majority of people during their lifetime. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on its epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, and treatment, highlighting implications for everyday clinical practice.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE (January 2016-November 2025). Eligible articles addressed the definition and diagnosis of TTH, epidemiology, risk factors, pain mechanisms, acute and preventive pharmacotherapy, or non-pharmacological interventions; randomized trials, trial protocols, observational studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and narrative reviews were included, while non-peer-reviewed publications, animal-only studies, and reports without a clearly defined TTH subgroup were excluded.
Results: Tension-type headache (TTH) is characterized by bilateral, pressing pain of mild to moderate intensity, which is derived from interactions between pericranial myofascial nociception, central sensitization, psychological comorbidity, and lifestyle-related factors. For acute attacks, simple analgesics, such as NSAIDs and paracetamol, are usually effective, whereas triptans, ergots, and opioids are not recommended. In frequent or chronic TTH, a low dose of tricyclic antidepressants remains the first-line prophylaxis. Non-pharmacological methods, including exercise therapy, yoga, acupuncture, TENS, lifestyle modification, and psychotherapy, should be considered as part of an individualized, multimodal treatment strategy.
Conclusions: Tension-type headache (TTH) requires personalized care that combines careful use of medications and non-pharmacological treatment. Simple analgesics bring substantial relief in most episodic headaches, while preventive (prophylactic) treatment is needed for ongoing or recurring cases. Education on trigger management and medication overuse is required to ensure patient safety and optimal therapy pathways