Dorota Zatłoka-Mazur

Endometriosis is a leading cause of chronic pelvic pain in women of reproductive age, significantly impacting the quality of life. Numerous hypotheses regarding the etiology of endometriosis and its diverse clinical presentation limit the effectiveness of treatment to symptom management, as there is no targeted cure. This review presents the current understanding of how physical activity may contribute to the management of symptoms associated with endometriosis and summarizes the therapeutic strategies employed.

Cannabis is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances globally. In several countries, including Canada, the Netherlands, certain U.S. states, and Australia, its possession is legal. With its growing popularity in recent years, the impact of cannabis on mental health has become a focal point of numerous scientific studies. The aim of this review was to summarize the current evidence-based knowledge on the impact of cannabis on mental health. This article explores the relationship between cannabis use and specific mental disorders. The reviewed literature was sourced from PubMed and Google Scholar using the keywords "mental health", "cannabis", "psychosis" "schizophrenia" "depression" and "cognitive functions".

Bone cancers in children are uncommon, making up approximately 5,5 % of all pediatric cancers. Childhood cancers are characterized by rapid development, and any delay in diagnosis can lead to serious consequences and even be life-threatening. The most common malignant tumors in key practice are: osteosarcoma (OS) and Ewing sarcoma (EWS). OS and EWS in children and adolescents require integrated diagnostics and age-appropriate therapy to ensure the best possible treatment outcomes. In recent years, the survival rates of pediatric cancer patients have improved and, consequently, it is necessary to reduce the long-term, late effects of treatment in order to promote the reduction of the deterioration in quality of life caused by treatment and to ensure the best possible return to everyday life.

With today's technological advances, people spend more and more time using various devices that emit non-ionizing radiation (NIR), such as mobile phones, laptops or WiFi networks. Nowadays, the role of these devices in the human lifestyle seems to make exposure to NIR unavoidable. This exposure, especially when prolonged, has been reported as one of the possible lifestyle factors contributing to reduced fertility, especially in men. The aim of the study was to analyse the current state of knowledge on the impact of NIR emitted by modern devices on the functioning of the male reproductive system and to identify possible mechanisms behind it. The research method used was a literature review on the PubMed platform. A total number of 35 articles from years 2007-2024 were analysed. According to the scientific literature, exposure to NIR may affect spermatozoa through thermal and non-thermal mechanisms, the most important of which appears to be increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to oxidative stress and cellular damage in the reproductive system. NIR exposure can adversely affect semen parameters such as sperm motility, viability and concentration, alter hormonal mechanisms regulating reproduction and induce morphological changes in reproductive tissues. However, studies conducted in this context often provide inconsistent results, hence the exact effect of NIR on the male reproductive system remains unknown. Therefore, further research is needed to accurately determine the effects of NIR on male fertility and to provide appropriate health recommendations.

Fungal infections are a serious public health threat, affecting a wide variety of populations worldwide. This review presents the current state of knowledge on fungal infections, focusing on epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, and emerging trends. Findings are based on 35 peer-reviewed studies and focus on both well-known and emerging fungal pathogens, diagnostic advances, and therapeutic challenges. In addition, this review emphasizes the role of environmental and social factors in shaping the dynamics of fungal disease and highlights the importance of a global, multidisciplinary effort to combat the rise in fungal disease. The literature for this review was collected from PubMed and Google Scholar using the key words “fungal infections” combined with “epidemiology”, “etiology”, “risk factors”, “symptoms”, “complications”, “treatment”, and “trends”.

Currently, antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and the global repercussions of this resistance are emerging as one of the most significant threats to public health. The global scope of the problem is discussed, with recent data showing that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) causes over a million fatalities annually, and projections suggest that this number will rise sharply by 2050. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of this issue, focusing on the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, its impact on public health and the economy, proposed strategies for addressing the problem, and potential alternative therapeutic approaches. This review is based on a thorough examination of current publications from the World Health Organization (WHO), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), and relevant scientific literature obtained from databases such as PubMed. The primary objective of this publication is to highlight the escalating nature of this problem and to promote education and awareness in this critical area of healthcare.

Low back pain (LBP) is a common condition affecting many individuals worldwide. Furthermore, it represents a significant economic challenge for healthcare systems due to its substantial associated costs. The etiology of LBP is complex but, in most cases, is not caused by serious underlying diseases. Physical examination remains the cornerstone of diagnosis, while additional tests, including imaging, are determined based on the clinical context. Treatment involves a combination of non-pharmacological, pharmacological, and invasive interventions. Despite numerous attempts to prevent LBP, only a few methods have been scientifically proven to be effective. The aim of this review was to provide a comprehensive summary of evidence-based information and approaches regarding the pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention of LBP. The literature reviewed was sourced from PubMed and Google Scholar Rusing the key words "low back pain" combined with terms such as "pathogenesis," "diagnostics," "imaging diagnostics," "treatment," and "prevention."

On a daily basis, everyone is exposed to many chemical compounds that have been classified as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These are natural and artificially produced substances that are widely available in the environment today. The aim of the study is to determine the effect of endocrine disrupting chemicals on hormonal processes occurring in the human body and to determine their mechanisms of action. The research method used was a literature review on the Pubmed platform. Studies show that EDCs affect prenatal growth, thyroid function, glucose metabolism, obesity development, and puberty and fertility processes by mimicking hormones naturally occurring in the human body, which very often leads to disorders in the hormonal axis at various levels. Recent research reports say that EDCs interact through epigenetic mechanisms. These substances are considered safe individually, but the subject of research remains the "cocktail effect", which consists in exposing several EDCs to the body at the same time. The key here is to limit human contact with these substances as much as possible. Studies have so far proven the negativin effects of many of them on our body, but many of the long-term effects have yet to be studied. Fortunately, more and more countries are introducing restrictions on the use of these substances and are looking for methods to replace them with less harmful substitutes. Further research is needed to understand the effects of these substances on humans, which will further enable the development of appropriate regulation of EDCs.

BackgroundStrength training during pregnancy has historically been approached with caution, but recent evidence suggests it can be safe and beneficial when properly supervised. This review examines its impact on maternal and fetal health, addressing both advantages and potential risks. Purpose of ResearchThe study aims to evaluate the benefits and risks of strength training during pregnancy, focusing on maternal and fetal outcomes. Research Materials and MethodsData were collected from PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science using keywords like "strength training," "pregnancy," and "maternal health." Guidelines from ACOG and RCOG were analyzed to provide evidence-based recommendations.Basic ResultsStrength training, when properly supervised, improves musculoskeletal health, reduces gestational diabetes risk, enhances cardiovascular fitness, and supports mental well-being. It may also promote healthier fetal outcomes by regulating maternal blood sugar levels. Risks include overheating, injury, and strain, particularly in cases of pre-existing conditions or improper exercise execution.ConclusionsIndividualized assessment and tailored programs are essential to maximize benefits and minimize risks. Safe practices, including professional consultation, appropriate exercise selection, and monitoring of intensity, are crucial. Further research is needed to refine guidelines and explore long-term effects. Strength training is a valuable component of prenatal care when conducted safely.

Introduction: To reduce the incidence of influenza, healthcare workers and medical students are recommended to receive annual seasonal vaccination. This study aimed to investigate the behavior of students regarding their willingness to be vaccinated against influenza and the attitudes influencing their approval or disapproval of influenza vaccination. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was designed as an online survey among students of the Medical University of Silesia (MUS) of all years and specialties, as MUS is the largest medical college in Poland. A total of 302 students participated in the study and completed an online questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics. The significance of the differences was tested using the chi-square test. Results: The percentage of students who received influenza vaccinations in the past was 42.1%, and in the current influenza season (Autumn 2022) was 33.4%. The level of vaccination differed significantly depending on the study program (p < 0.001). An important variable affecting the decision to vaccinate was participation in clinical classes. Among the students taking practical classes, 59.4% were vaccinated. Most respondents had a positive opinion about influenza vaccination (98%). Belief in the effectiveness of vaccination (35.6%) was the main reason for vaccination against influenza, as indicated by the respondents. The main reason for not being vaccinated was a lack of fear of influenza infection (22.9%). Conclusions: The results obtained in this study indicate the need to introduce changes in the field of broader education regarding the effectiveness of vaccinations in reducing the number of influenza virus infections among medical students.