High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has become a prominent exercise modality known for its efficiency and effectiveness in improving various health outcomes. This review critically examines the positive and negative health aspects of HIIT, focusing on its impact on cardiovascular health, metabolic function, weight management, psychological well-being, and life expectancy. Evidence suggests that HIIT significantly enhances cardiovascular health by improving VO2 max, reducing blood pressure, and enhancing endothelial function. Metabolically, HIIT improves insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and lipid profiles, while effectively reducing visceral fat and enhancing mitochondrial function. In terms of weight management, HIIT promotes fat loss and muscle maintenance, contributing to favorable body composition. Psychologically, HIIT has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall mental health. It has also a positive effect on chronic pain conditions. Emerging studies indicate that HIIT may reduce mortality risk and extend life expectancy by improving cardiovascular and metabolic health. Despite these benefits, HIIT also presents risks such as a higher incidence of musculoskeletal injuries, potential adverse cardiac events in high-risk individuals, and the risk of overtraining and burnout. Special populations, including older adults, children, adolescents, and individuals with chronic conditions, can benefit from HIIT, but modifications and precautions are necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness. The review underscores the importance of individualized HIIT program design, thorough assessment, and continuous monitoring to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. Future research should focus on long-term effects, optimal protocols for diverse populations, and personalized HIIT approaches to enhance safety and efficacy.

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the difference in usefulness of the coronary artery calcium score (CACS) and the full assessment of the severity of coronary artery disease in coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) studies. The difference between the population risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) assessed by the CACS and the severity of CAD was demonstrated in images from two CCTA studies. The first image is from a patient with a CACS of 0 and significant coronary artery stenosis. In the native phase of CCTA examination, no calcified changes were detected in the topography of the coronary arteries. In the middle section of the left descending artery (LAD), at the level of the second diagonal branch (Dg2), a large non-calcified atherosclerotic plaque was visible. Mid-LAD stenosis was estimated to be approximately 70%. The second image features a patient with a high CACS but no significant coronary artery stenosis. The calcium score of individual coronary arteries calculated using the Agatston method was as follows: left main (LM) 0, LAD 403, left circumflex (LCx) 207.7, right coronary artery (RCA) 12. CACS was 622.7, representing a significant population risk of significant CAD. In the proximal and middle sections of the LAD, numerous calcified and mixed atherosclerotic plaques with positive remodeling were visible, causing stenosis of 25–50%. Similarly, in the proximal and middle sections of the LCx, numerous calcified and mixed atherosclerotic plaques with positive remodeling were visualized, causing stenoses of 25–50%. Calcified atherosclerotic plaques were found in the RCA, causing stenosis <25%. The entire CCTA image met CAD-RADS 2 (coronary artery disease reporting and data system) criteria. In summary, CACS may be applicable in population-based studies to assess the risk of significant CAD. In the evaluation of individual patients, a comprehensive assessment of CAD severity based on the angiographic phase of the CCTA examination should be used.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) introduces substantial difficulties in the management of anesthesia, largely due to its implications for airway management, sensitivity to sedative agents, and an elevated risk of complications during the perioperative period. This narrative review seeks to offer an in-depth exploration of the contemporary approaches to anesthesia management in patients diagnosed with OSA. It covers the entire continuum of care, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases. The review underscores the critical importance of an accurate and thorough diagnosis of OSA, which is essential for formulating effective anesthetic strategies. Risk stratification is emphasized as a key element in identifying the specific challenges posed by each patient’s condition and tailoring the anesthesia plan accordingly. By examining current practices and recommendations, the review aims to provide insights into how individualized anesthetic plans can be designed to reduce the risk of perioperative complications and enhance patient safety

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial disease characterized by insulin resistance, beta-cell dysfunction, and chronic hyperglycemia. Despite the availability of conventional therapies, significant unmet needs persist in achieving optimal glycemic control and reducing long-term complications. GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and SGLT2 inhibitors represent two novel classes of antidiabetic agents that have transformed the therapeutic landscape. This paper explores their mechanisms of action, clinical benefits, and potential synergistic effects, emphasizing their impact on cardiovascular and renal outcomes. Challenges and future directions for these agents in personalized diabetes care are also discussed.

Purpose of Research: This study aims to evaluate the impact of various artificial sweeteners on gut microbiota and their potential health implications. Research Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, focusing on keywords such as gut microbiota, artificial sweeteners, non-nutritive sweeteners, and intestinal microbiota. The review includes descriptions of sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, acesulfame K, and stevia, as well as their metabolism and effects on the human body. Primary Results: Artificial sweeteners can disrupt gut microbiota balance, reducing beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus while increasing pathogenic bacteria such as Clostridium difficile and E. coli. Clinical trials show mixed results, with some studies indicating significant changes in microbiota composition and diversity, while others show no substantial effects. Differences influence the variability in study outcomes in participants' initial microbiota composition, lifestyle, and dietary habits. Conclusions: Artificial sweeteners impact gut microbiota, but the extent and nature of these effects still need to be fully understood. Further standardized, long-term research is required to clarify these effects and determine whether the benefits of artificial sweeteners outweigh potential risks to gut health. Advanced research methods like metagenomics and next-generation sequencing will enhance our understanding of artificial sweeteners' interaction with gut microbiota, aiding in comprehensive health assessments.

Surgeries and procedures in otolaryngology require close collaboration between anesthesiologists and ENT specialists, especially for operations involving the larynx and airways, which pose challenges for maintaining airway patency and visibility. Choosing the type of anesthesia, whether general or local, is crucial. This study examines the benefits and drawbacks of both types of anesthesia in tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, tympanostomy and myringotomy, and flexible endoscopic biopsy of the pharynx and larynx. A review of current guidelines, systematic reviews and relevant clinical cohort studies was conducted. The findings highlight several advantages of local anesthesia, including shorter operation times, reduced hospital stays, lower costs, decreased use of analgesics, and improved patient comfort.