COVID-19 has affected the entire world and has had a great impact on healthcare, influencing the treatment of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The aim of this study was to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the care of patients with AIS. We performed a retrospective analysis of 1599 patients diagnosed with AIS and hospitalized in the authors’ institution from January 2018 to December 2021. The final sample consisted of 265 patients treated with thrombolysis without a diagnosis of COVID-19. The initiation of thrombolytic treatment during the pandemic was delayed (2:42 ± 0:51 vs. 2:25 ± 0:53; p = 0.0006). The delay was mainly related to the pre-hospital phase (1:41 ± 0:48 vs. 1:26 ± 0:49; p = 0.0014), and the door-to-needle time was not affected. There were no differences in stroke severity and patients’ outcomes. Patients with AIS were less likely to have previously been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (16.9% vs. 26.7%; p = 0.0383), ischemic heart disease (25.3% vs. 46.5%; p = 0.0003) and hyperlipidemia (31.2% vs. 46.5%; p = 0.0264). Patients treated during the pandemic had higher glycemia (149.45 ± 54. vs. 143.25 ± 60.71 mg/dL; p= 0.0012), while no significant differences in their lipid profiles were found. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic affected the treatment of AIS patients locally at our stroke center. It caused treatment delay and hindered the recognition of risk factors prior to the occurrence of AIS.

Introduction and purpose: Bouldering is a type of rock climbing activity, which can be practiced on objects usually no higher than 6 meters. It does not require any equipment besides a pair of climbing shoes and chalk, used to enhance the grip quality and to dry up the climber’s hands. Due to its approachability, great availability of indoor climbing centres, as well as no need for special equipment, it is becoming an increasingly popular sport among people in various age groups in recent years. The purpose of our article was to gather information on potential health benefits from bouldering and most common injuries associated with it. A brief description of the state of knowledge: During a bouldering session, a sport of rapidly increasing popularity, participants are faced with a variety of mental and physical challenges to overcome, which can lead to health benefits, as well as an increased risk of injury. The most common injuries affect athlete’s fingers and shoulders, due to dominant use of upper extremities in the sport. Health benefits are plentiful, ranging from physical, in the means of increased cardiovascular and muscular strength, to psychological, with bouldering being part of depression therapy, not inferior to standard methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. Conclusions: Incidence of injuries is relatively low in bouldering, and undeniable health benefits are present – both mental and physical. Furthermore, bouldering is a solid choice for those planning to develop core muscular strength.

Introduction and purpose: The common cold is a collection of illnesses caused by various pathogens. It has no definite treatment, therefore common cold prevention should be of utmost importance. Regular, moderate physical activity has been linked with lower incidence of common colds. The aim of this review is to summarize all available knowledge on the influence of regular exercise on the incidence of common cold in human adults. State of knowledge: Randomized controlled trials and epidemiological studies suggest that subjects adhering to WHO’s guidelines for physical activity (MVPA), show significantly reduced susceptibility to common cold infection, and possibly, lower number of sick days compared to sedentary counterparts. There is insufficient data to determine a cause of this phenomenon, however prevailing theories include: increased mucosal immunity, increased NK-cells activity, and hormonal adaptations. High intensity and frequency of the exercise may cause transient suppression of the immune system and leaving an “open window” for opportunistic pathogens. Recent studies suggest that for optimal reduction of common cold infections, low intensity activity for over 358 min/week or moderate intensity activity for over 120 min/ week are recommended. This finding however requires reproduction and validation on more diverse populations. Conclusions: Exercise following the WHO MVPA guidelines reduces incidence of common cold and may reduce the number of sick days. High intensity exercise regimes may lead to temporary suppression of the immune system and increase risk of infection. The relationship between exercise duration, intensity and frequency on occurrence of common cold in adults is significant but requires further study to establish clear recommendations.

Introduction and purpose Acute bacterial prostatitis (ABP) is a troublesome prostate infection that manifests with a range of irritative urinary symptoms, pelvic discomfort, potentially progressing to urinary retention. ABP can cause severe complications, including prostatic abscess and sepsis. Hence the need to collect and share current knowledge on risk factors, diagnosis and treatment. A brief description of the state of knowledge ABP is in most cases caused by E. Coli. Symptoms are non-specific and many patients lack identifiable risk factors. It is important to perform cautious digital rectal examination, urine analysis and culture when diagnosing acute bacterial prostatitis. Oral fluoroqinolones are the first-line outpatient treatment for non-complicated cases. Patients presenting symptoms indicative of urosepsis should be hospitalized and treated with intravenous antibiotics. Increasing antimicrobial resistance observed among Enterobacterales necessitates the search for new therapeutic agents. Lack of clinical improvement after initial treatment may indicate resistant pathogens or the development of prostatic abscess (PA). PA can be diagnosed with transrectal ultrasound and may require surgical intervention. Without proper treatment ABP can transform to chronic bacterial prostatitis. Transrectal prostate biopsy is associated with higher risk of ABP therefore antibiotical prophylaxis should be used. Conclusions ABP is not the most common type of prostatitis, but it should not be overlooked. Better knowledge about risks associated with ABP and available treatment leads to more accurate therapy choices. Awareness of the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance leads to the development of new, more effective treatments.

Introduction and purpose Bruxism, characterized by involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, affects individuals across all age groups, often leading to significant oral health complications and diminished quality of life. While its etiology is multifactorial, involving genetic, psychological, and physiological factors, the management of bruxism remains challenging due to the variability in its presentation. This study aims to characterize bruxism and evaluate various therapeutic interventions, including pharmacological treatments, botulinum toxin injections, occlusal splints, and non-invasive methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), biofeedback therapy (BFT), and physiotherapy. Materials and methods A comprehensive review of recent clinical trials and studies was conducted, focusing on the efficacy, safety, and limitations of both invasive and non-invasive interventions. State of knowledge Botulinum toxin injections and dry needling demonstrated significant efficacy, though their effects were temporary. Non-invasive therapies, including CBT and BFT, were noted for their safety but showed limited effectiveness. Combining sleep hygiene with mindfulness practices produced promising results, particularly in children. Physiotherapeutic methods, such as manual therapy and home exercises, helped alleviate muscle tension and pain. Conclusions While bruxism management has advanced with diverse treatment options, challenges persist, particularly concerning the durability of effects and patient compliance. A multidisciplinary approach integrating psychological, physical, and pharmacological strategies appears essential for optimal outcomes. Further research is needed to refine therapies and establish long-term efficacy.

Introduction and purpose Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, immune-mediated disorder causing esophageal dysfunction in children and adults. Characterized by eosinophilic inflammation, EoE leads to dysphagia, food impaction, and esophageal remodeling. Since its classification in the 1990s, research has expanded, yet aspects of its pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management remain under investigation. This review compiles current knowledge on EoE, covering its pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. By integrating recent findings and guidelines, it aims to enhance understanding and optimize care. Description of the state of knowledge EoE is defined by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophageal mucosa, leading to dysfunction. Diagnosis relies on histologic criteria, with ≥15 eosinophils per high-power field in biopsies. Endoscopic tools like the EoE Endoscopic Reference Score (EREFS) aid evaluation, though differentiation from GERD remains challenging. Treatment includes dietary modifications, pharmacologic therapy, and endoscopic interventions. First-line options are dietary elimination, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and topical corticosteroids, while emerging biologics target inflammatory pathways. Endoscopic dilation is reserved for fibrostenotic cases. Despite therapeutic advancements, EoE is a chronic condition requiring long-term management. Continued research is needed to refine treatment strategies and improve outcomes. Conclusions EoE requires lifelong management. While dietary, pharmacologic, and endoscopic treatments control symptoms, they do not halt disease progression. Biologic therapies offer promising advances, but further studies are needed to optimize long-term strategies and patient care.