The gut microbiota has acquired significant attention in recent years for its potential as a diagnostic biomarker for colorectal cancer (CRC). In this literature review, we looked at the studies exploring alterations in gut microbiota composition associated with CRC, the potential mechanisms linking gut dysbiosis to CRC development, and the diagnostic approaches utilizing gut microbiota analysis. Our research has led to the conclusion that individuals with CRC often display alterations in their gut microbiota composition compared to healthy individuals. These alterations can include changes in the diversity, abundance, and type of bacteria present in the gut. While the use of gut microbiota as a diagnostic biomarker for CRC holds promise, further research is needed to validate its effectiveness and standardize testing protocols. Additionally, considerations such as variability in the microbiota composition among individuals and potential factors must be addressed before microbiota-based tests can be widely implemented in clinical practice.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a growing prevalence in recent years. Its association with cardiovascular disease has been intensively studied, and certain correlations have been identified. The connection between these two entities has lately aroused interest regarding therapeutic management. In order to find the best therapeutic options, a detailed understanding of the pathophysiology that links (NAFLD) to cardiovascular comorbidities is needed. This review focuses on the pathogenic mechanisms that are behind these two diseases and on the therapeutic management available at this time.

Repurposing existing drugs for new therapeutic applications offers significant advantages over conventional drug development. Since these drugs have already passed safety evaluations, their failure rate is significantly reduced. In addition, leveraging pre-existing clinical data and established manufacturing methods accelerates the development process and reduces costs. While bringing a new drug to market typically requires 10-17 years and $2-3 billion, repurposed drugs can become available in 3-12 years at an estimated cost of $300 million. Colon cancer treatment remains a challenge due to the lengthy and costly nature of traditional drug discovery. This review highlights drug repurposing as a viable alternative to address these obstacles. Various computational and network-driven strategies are examined, including network models (establishing relationships between drugs and diseases); computer-aided techniques (predicting drug-target interactions); machine learning algorithms (identifying hidden patterns in large datasets); and molecular docking simulations (analyzing how drugs bind to specific molecular targets). Aspirin has emerged as a promising candidate for repurposing in the treatment of colon cancer due to its potential to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Furthermore, this review highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence and network modeling in advancing drug repurposing efforts. By utilizing state-of-the-art computational tools and personalized medicine approaches, repurposing existing drugs offers an efficient and cost-effective strategy for improving colon cancer treatment options.

Background and Objectives: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent disorder associated with increased cardiovascular (CV) risk. Materials and Methods: We conducted a PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies assessing OSA and incident CV outcomes. Results: From 2463 records, 18 studies (>25,000 participants; median follow-up 9 years) were included. OSA was associated with increased CV risk (pooled HR 1.82, 95% CI 1.45–2.28). Dose–response analysis showed a progressive risk increase: mild OSA (HR 1.21, 95% CI 0.98–1.50), moderate (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.20–2.03), and severe (HR 2.45, 95% CI 1.85–3.25). Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) adherence (≥4 h/night) reduced risk (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.60–0.96). Conclusions: OSA confers a severity-dependent CV risk, which is mitigated by adequate CPAP adherence. Systematic screening and adherence support may reduce CV morbidity and mortality. PROSPERO: CRD420251168363.

Background and Objectives: Pelvic floor dysfunction and sexual health issues are common postpartum due to weakened pelvic muscles, significantly impacting women’s quality of life (QoL). Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is a widely used approach to address these issues. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two rehabilitation methods—vibrating vaginal cones (VCG) and PFMT exercises (CG)—in improving pelvic floor muscle strength, reducing dyspareunia, and enhancing sexual function in postpartum women. Materials and Methods: This 1-year retrospective observational analysis evaluated 57 postpartum women presenting with perineal muscle relaxation and sexual dysfunction. Participants were assessed 3 months postpartum (T0) and after 3 months of therapy (T1) at the Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Clinic of Santa Chiara Hospital, Pisa. Outcomes were measured using the pubococcygeus (PC) test for pelvic floor strength and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for sexual function. Results: The results revealed significant improvements in pelvic floor muscle strength and sexual function across both groups. While both interventions effectively reduced dyspareunia, the VCG group demonstrated superior outcomes, with 96.67% of participants reporting no pain compared to 80.95% in the CG. FSFI scores improved significantly in both groups, with greater enhancements in arousal, desire, and pain domains observed in the VCG group (p < 0.01). Vaginal cone therapy also resulted in slightly higher gains in overall pelvic floor strength. Conclusions: These findings suggest that vibrating vaginal cones may be a promising option for postpartum pelvic floor rehabilitation, with potential benefits for improving sexual satisfaction and reducing pain.

This review aims to summarize the global prevalence of healthcare-associated infections in patients with acute heart failure who have been admitted to coronary care units, highlighting the underrepresented burden of infection in this high-risk population. Coronary care units (CCUs) play a pivotal role in the care of patients experiencing acute or decompensated heart failure, offering a highly monitored environment with immediate access to advanced cardiac interventions. The management of heart failure in CCUs involves a multidisciplinary approach that includes hemodynamic monitoring, pharmacologic therapy, respiratory support, and, in selected cases, mechanical circulatory assistance. The early identification of deterioration, rapid therapeutic escalation, and close monitoring of cardiac function are hallmarks of CCU care. However, the complexity and severity of illness in this population are compounded by a high risk of infections, including hospital-acquired pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and device-related infections. These infections not only increase morbidity and prolong hospitalization but also significantly impact mortality and healthcare costs. The immunocompromised state of many heart failure patients—due to poor perfusion, malnutrition, and the use of invasive devices—further elevates their vulnerability. Effective infection prevention, early diagnosis, and targeted antimicrobial therapy are, therefore, critical components of heart failure management within CCUs. This intersection of advanced cardiac care and infection control highlights the need for integrated, multidisciplinary strategies to improve outcomes in this high-risk population.