Background: Cisatracurium is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA) with an intermediate duration of action, used both in anesthesia and in intensive care units. Its elimination primarily occurs via Hofmann elimination, making it independent of liver and kidney function. Cisatracurium has approximately three times greater neuromuscular blocking potency and a more favorable hemodynamic profile than atracurium. Despite these advantages, cisatracurium is not the first choice for procedures requiring rapid endotracheal intubation due to its relatively long onset time. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to discuss the role of cisatracurium in anesthesia, compare its properties with those of other muscle relaxants, and identify its advantages and limitations. Material and methods: A literature review was performed involving a search for original studies in PubMed and Google Scholar published between 1995 and 2024. Results: Thirteen clinical studies met the inclusion criteria. Cisatracurium demonstrated a stable hemodynamic profile, predictable neuromuscular blockade, and favorable safety characteristics. Effective intubation conditions were most commonly achieved with doses of 0.2–0.3 mg/kg. Elderly patients exhibited a prolonged onset and duration of action. Compared with rocuronium-based regimens, cisatracurium combined with neostigmine was associated with slower recovery and a higher incidence of some postoperative pulmonary complications. Conclusions: Cisatracurium is an effective and safe muscle relaxant, particularly in situations requiring hemodynamic stability. Its Hofmann elimination makes it suitable for use in patients with renal and hepatic failure. However, its delayed onset of action limits its use in procedures requiring rapid intubation. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of cisatracurium on postoperative complications and its role in specific patient groups.
Background: Antibiotics are one of the most commonly used groups of drugs worldwide. Besides their crucial role in the treatment of various infectious diseases, they may also cause adverse drug reactions. Aim of the study: In this narrative review, we aimed to present renal complications related to the use of different groups of antibiotics. Material and methods: The review was conducted by searching the PubMed and Google Scholar databases for articles published from 1981 to 2023. Original research articles, randomized controlled trials, case reports, and review articles were included in the study. The keywords used during the literature search included the following: antibiotics adverse drug reactions, nephrotoxicity and antibiotics, urinary tract complications and antibiotics, beta-lactams, penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems, sulphonamides, aminoglycosides, glycopeptides, and fluoroquinolones. Results: The results indicate various renal and urinary tract complications related to antibiotic use, and the severity of these complications may differ. Furthermore, different groups of antibiotics present different spectra of adverse drug reactions, and some side effects have been reported to be extremely rare. Urine crystallization, glomerular damage, and negative effects on the proximal and distal tubules were the most common adverse drug reactions related to the urinary tract. Acute kidney injury (AKI) was primarily observed during therapy with penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems, aminoglycosides, and glycopeptides. Conclusions: Based on the results of the reviewed studies, renal adverse drug reactions may be caused by the use of various groups of antibiotics, including beta-lactams, sulphonamides, peptide antibiotics, and fluoroquinolones.
Background: Aim of the study: The aim of this study is to answer the question of how high-intensity interval training (HIIT) affects patients with heart failure and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying HIIT. Material and Methods: A review of recent scientific studies published in the PubMed, National Library, and Cochrane Library databases was performed. This review includes information from 28 scientific articles, including 12 original papers, 11 meta-analyses, and 5 review papers. Results: HIIT has demonstrated greater efficacy than moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) in improving cardiac function, glucose uptake, and mitochondrial efficiency. Studies highlight the role of meteorin-like protein, which is upregulated during HIIT, enhancing myocardial glucose supply and improving cardiac health. Clinical trials confirm that HIIT increases peak oxygen consumption, left ventricular ejection fraction, and quality of life in patients with heart failure. Meta-analyses reveal that HIIT particularly benefits patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), improving survival rates and inhibiting cardiac remodeling. Long and high-volume HIIT intervals show superior cardiorespiratory outcomes compared to shorter, lower-volume sessions. Adding strength training to HIIT further enhances muscle endurance and anaerobic capacity. HIIT positively affects endothelial function, although its benefits vary depending on the type of heart failure. Patients with preserved ejection fraction show mixed results, with ongoing studies exploring optimal interventions. Controversies remain regarding the comparative advantages of HIIT versus MICT in improving left ventricular function, emphasizing the need for longer-duration trials. Conclusions: HIIT improves quality of life, left ventricular function, and oxygen uptake in patients with heart failure, particularly those with HFrEF. Combining HIIT with strength training provides additional benefits.
Background: Rho kinase (ROCK) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that plays a key role in regulating smooth muscle contraction by inhibiting myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP), thereby maintaining contraction regardless of intracellular calcium levels. In the urinary bladder, the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway contributes to detrusor muscle contraction and is associated with the pathogenesis of overactive bladder (OAB) and detrusor muscle hypertrophy. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to review and summarize the current evidence regarding the role of the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway in the physiology and pathophysiology of the urinary bladder. Material and methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted using the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases up to June 2025. Original research articles, experimental studies, clinical studies, and relevant review articles published in English were analyzed, with a particular focus on ROCK signaling, bladder physiology, OAB pathophysiology, and the therapeutic applications of ROCK inhibitors. Conclusions: The RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway represents a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of OAB. Although the results of preclinical studies are encouraging, further clinical trials are needed to determine the efficacy and long-term safety of ROCK inhibitors in patients with OAB.
Background: Occupational burnout is a common phenomenon among healthcare professionals exposed to prolonged psychological and emotional stress. Long-term exposure to stress related to professional responsibilities, patient contact, and organizational pressures can lead to a gradual depletion of mental and physical resources. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to assess and compare the level of occupational burnout among physiotherapists and nurses. Material and methods: The study was conducted in February 2026 and included 32 healthcare professionals (16 physiotherapists and 16 nurses). Data were collected using an online questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. Occupational burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), which evaluates emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. Sociodemographic data were also collected. The respondents also provided information about their gender, age, and work experience. Results: Nurses demonstrated significantly higher levels of occupational burnout than physiotherapists in all subscales: emotional exhaustion (p = 0.009), reduced personal accomplishment (p = 0.019), and depersonalization (p = 0.002). Physiotherapists presented low levels of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, whereas nurses showed moderate levels in these domains. A weak positive correlation was found between work experience and reduced personal accomplishment, and a weak negative correlation was found between work experience and depersonalization. Conclusions: Occupational burnout was more pronounced among nurses than among physiotherapists. Greater work experience was associated with greater burnout in the area of reduced personal accomplishment and with lower burnout in the area of depersonalization. Further research on larger populations is required.
Background: Dental anxiety is a common phenomenon among children and frequently leads to avoidance of dental visits, reduced cooperation during procedures, and deterioration of oral health. A lack of cooperation poses significant challenges for clinicians, affecting the course, duration, and overall effectiveness of treatment. Early identification and appropriate management of anxiety and pain are therefore essential to ensure successful dental care and to promote positive oral health behaviors later in life.Aim of the study: The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the available methods for reducing anxiety and pain in pediatric dentistry.Material and methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The review protocol was developed a priori and defined the research question, eligibility criteria, data sources, search strategy, record management procedures, and methods of data synthesis.Results: Over the years, numerous strategies have been developed in pediatric dentistry to address these concerns, including both non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches. Behavioral and communicative techniques, as well as various distraction methods such as audiovisual aids, virtual reality, and music therapy, are widely used to support anxious children and improve their experience in the dental setting. Relaxation strategies and parental involvement further contribute to enhancing patient comfort and reducing procedural distress.When behavioral approaches are insufficient, sedation or general anesthesia may be employed to facilitate safe and effective treatment, ensuring that necessary procedures can be completed without compromising the quality of care. Recent advances also include the introduction of modern digital tools and child-friendly technologies designed to create a supportive and engaging dental environment.Conclusions: This review summarizes current methods for reducing anxiety and pain in children undergoing dental treatment and highlights emerging developments aimed at improving patient experience and overall clinical outcomes.
Background: The escalating global burden of Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) and comorbid anxiety necessitates a fundamental shift in psychiatric therapeutic strategies. Traditional monoaminergic hypotheses often fail to account for the systemic inflammatory nature of affective disorders. Recent evidence identifies chronic, low-grade neuroinflammation - driven by the Microbiota-Gut-Brain (MGB) axis - as a primary mediator of treatment failure and neuronal atrophy. Postbiotics, specifically the short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate, offer a stable, standardized, and bioavailable alternative to live probiotics. Aim of the study: This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the molecular mechanisms by which butyrate modulates neuroinflammatory pathways, stabilizes biological barriers, and acts as a potent epigenetic regulator to improve clinical outcomes in TRD. Material and methods: A comprehensive narrative review of 49 high-impact studies published between 2010 and 2025 was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Results: Preclinical data demonstrate that butyrate serves as a potent Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, promoting the expression of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). Furthermore, butyrate mitigates "leaky gut" by upregulating Tight Junction (TJ) proteins (ZO-1, occludin) via the AMPK/Akt pathways and shifts microglial polarization from a pro-inflammatory (M1) to a neuroprotective (M2) phenotype through FFAR2 signaling. Conclusions: Butyrate represents a cornerstone for the future of precision psychiatry. Integrating metabolic profiling (e.g., CRP, IL-6, and fecal SCFA levels) into clinical protocols may enable targeted postbiotic interventions in patients refractory to conventional pharmacotherapy.
Background: The occurrence of stretch marks (striae distensae) represents a common and widely recognized dermatological condition, affecting approximately 50–90% of the population. These lesions develop as a result of dermal stretching and typically present as linear, spindle-shaped markings. The affected skin exhibits thinning and resembles scar tissue in both appearance and structure. Various therapeutic interventions have been proposed to improve the cosmetic appearance of the skin and to minimize differences between affected and unaffected areas.Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to assess the level of public awareness and knowledge concerning stretch marks.Material and methods: An author-designed questionnaire was employed to address the research problem of the study. The survey was directed at adult men and women and was administered online. Data collection took place between February 7 and February 26, 2025, during which a total of 150 individuals completed the questionnaire.Results: The majority of survey participants were familiar with the concept of stretch marks. They generally demonstrated awareness of their appearance and the features distinguishing them from unaffected skin. Participants also showed a good understanding of the role of skin stretching in the development of these lesions. Respondents demonstrated limited knowledge regarding the typical anatomical distribution of stretch marks in adolescents and individuals engaged in bodybuilding.Conclusions: Considering the study as a whole, the respondents’ knowledge is at a fairly good level. Nevertheless, there is a continuing need to expand public awareness in this area. We believe that education from an early age would be an effective approach, potentially contributing to the prevention of stretch marks.
Background: Creatine plays a key role in cellular energy metabolism via the phosphocreatine–creine kinase system, enabling rapid ATP regeneration to support brain function. Evidence suggests that creatine supplementation may enhance cognition, improve brain bioenergetics, and provide neuroprotection in conditions associated with energy deficits, including sleep deprivation, hypoxia, depression, neurodegenerative diseases, and traumatic brain injury. However, findings remain inconsistent, and the optimal strategies for increasing brain creatine levels are still unclear. Aim of the study: To summarize the current evidence on the effects of creatine supplementation on brain creatine levels, cognitive function, and neuroprotection, particularly in stress-related and neurological conditions. Materials and methods: A narrative review of human and animal studies was conducted, including NMR spectroscopy research on brain creatine, randomized trials investigating cognition, and studies on depression, neurodegeneration, and brain injury. Research on guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) supplementation was also included. Results: Creatine supplementation increased brain creatine levels by 3–10% in most studies, with effects varying according to dose, duration, and brain region. GAA demonstrated greater efficacy, increasing brain creatine levels by up to 16%. Cognitive outcomes were mixed but generally showed improvement under conditions of high energy demand (e.g., sleep deprivation and hypoxia). Benefits were observed in memory performance among older adults and individuals with low baseline creatine levels. Preliminary evidence also suggests potential benefits in depression (especially in combination with SSRIs), neuroprotection following traumatic brain injury, and possible therapeutic effects in Alzheimer’s disease, although human data remain limited. Conclusions: Creatine is a safe and accessible supplement with the potential to support brain metabolism, enhance cognition under stress, and provide neuroprotection. GAA may be more effective than creatine in increasing brain creatine levels. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and optimize supplementation strategies.
Background: Dance is both a form of physical activity and an art form. It combines physical and psychological aspects and has multifaceted effects on the entire body. The COVID-19 pandemic, along with the restrictions it brought about, made practicing dance significantly more difficult, as it did for other forms of sport and art.Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the lifestyle and psychophysical condition of male and female dancers working in musical theaters during the COVID-19 pandemic.Materials and methods: The study included 25 female and 25 male dancers aged 23–33 years. The primary research tool was a proprietary questionnaire designed in Google Forms and distributed electronically. The questionnaire included questions on education, work limitations in the profession, retraining, career discontinuation, and general lifestyle, as well as anthropometric measurements used to calculate body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). The results were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and Statistica 13.13.Results: Statistically significant differences were found for smoking, number of hours of sleep, and use of relaxation techniques, as well as the WHR index. It was concluded that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly caused limitations within the dancers’ profession.Conclusions: The pandemic affected the psychophysical condition and lifestyle of male and female dancers differently, with female dancers experiencing the pandemic period to a lesser extent.
Background: Ovarian cancer remains one of the most lethal gynecologic malignancies, ranking eighth in both incidence and mortality among women. Its asymptomatic early course and nonspecific symptoms often lead to late-stage diagnosis and a poor prognosis. Aim of the study: The aim of this article is to present the current status of immunotherapy in the treatment of ovarian cancer. Material and methods: A narrative review of the available literature was conducted, focusing on recent trials and studies evaluating immunotherapeutic approaches in ovarian cancer. Results: Standard treatment for ovarian cancer includes cytoreductive surgery followed by platinum-based chemotherapy; however, recurrence and platinum resistance remain major clinical challenges. In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as an actively investigated treatment strategy, particularly in platinum-resistant disease. Various strategies are under investigation, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapies, and oncolytic viruses. PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors have shown potential efficacy, especially in tumors expressing PD-L1, which may serve as a predictive biomarker for treatment response. Conclusions: Despite promising research results, the clinical benefits of immunotherapy in ovarian cancer remain limited. Future studies should focus on identifying reliable predictive biomarkers, optimizing combination therapies, and improving treatment efficacy while maintaining an acceptable safety profile.
Introduction: Medical staff knowledge of the indications for ECMO, the criteria cardiopulmonary resuscitation should meet, and the appropriate center and procedure for referring potential candidates for this procedure is crucial. There are reports in the literature of ECMO use in hospital emergency departments (EDs) in cases of cardiac arrest, including those resulting from hypothermia, genital bleeding complicated by hemorrhagic shock and cardiac arrest, and respiratory failure caused by alveolar hemorrhage due to viral infection. There are also a few cases of patients being connected to ECMO in the prehospital setting at the scene. Material and methods: The study was prepared using the STROBE checklist and conducted using a survey method. The study was conducted among nurses, paramedics, and physicians – separately for emergency department (ED) staff and ambulance service personnel from the Opole Voivodeship (n=59). Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica version 13.3. Contingency tables, Pearson's chi-square test, and Fisher's exact test were used. The threshold for statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the level of knowledge of medical personnel in hospital emergency departments and emergency medical teams regarding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Results: A survey was conducted among 59 medical professionals working in emergency medical services (EMS) and the hospital emergency department. The question "What is ECMO?" received 77% correct answers, with no statistically significant correlations observed for all assessed factors. The question "What is eCPR?" was answered correctly by 59.3% of respondents. 75.9% of correct answers to question about types of ECMO were provided by those with a second-cycle degree, 61.9% by bachelor's degree graduates, and 33.3% by high school/medical college graduates. Overall the general level of knowledge of the respondents can be considered sufficient. Conclusions: In their daily work, EMS personnel encounter patients with conditions that warrant treatment with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). However, knowledge about this type of treatment requires further development. Training and the development of recommendations are recommended, which can increase access to this type of therapy and, consequently, improve patient outcomes.
Background: Adolescent anemia is a global public health concern, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries. Despite this burden, Türkiye lacks a national screening or supplementation program targeting this age group. Aim of the study: The aim of the study is investigating the etiological spectrum and clinical characteristics of anemia in adolescents aged 10–18 years referred to a tertiary pediatric hematology clinic in Türkiye. Material and methods: This retrospective study evaluated 356 adolescents diagnosed with anemia at Bursa City Hospital between August 2020 and September 2023. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data—including serum iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, and folate levels—were analyzed. Anemia was defined per WHO thresholds. Results: The mean age was 14.07 1.96 years, with 81.5% being female. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) was the most prevalent etiology (74.4%). Borderline or overt vitamin B12 deficiency was detected in 27.8%, and folate deficiency in 8.7%. Combined nutritional deficiencies were present in 24% of patients. Genetic anemias, particularly beta-thalassemia trait (14.9%), were also observed. Approximately 23.6% were asymptomatic at diagnosis, and excessive menstrual bleeding was a common contributor among girls. IDA was significantly associated with older age and female gender (p<0.001). Conclusions: Nutritional deficiencies—especially iron, vitamin B12, and folate—remain the leading causes of adolescent anemia in Türkiye. The high rate of asymptomatic cases and coexisting micronutrient deficits underscore the need for national, age- and gender-sensitive screening and supplementation strategies. These findings may support the development of targeted, age- and sex-sensitive screening and nutritional assessment strategies for adolescents, particularly in high-risk clinical populations. Background: Adolescent anemia is a global public health concern, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries. Despite this burden, Türkiye lacks a national screening or supplementation program targeting this age group. Aim of the study: The aim of the study is investigating the etiological spectrum and clinical characteristics of anemia in adolescents aged 10–18 years referred to a tertiary pediatric hematology clinic in Türkiye. Material and methods: This retrospective study evaluated 356 adolescents diagnosed with anemia at Bursa City Hospital between August 2020 and September 2023. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data—including serum iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, and folate levels—were analyzed. Anemia was defined per WHO thresholds. Results: The mean age was 14.07 1.96 years, with 81.5% being female. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) was the most prevalent etiology (74.4%). Borderline or overt vitamin B12 deficiency was detected in 27.8%, and folate deficiency in 8.7%. Combined nutritional deficiencies were present in 24% of patients. Genetic anemias, particularly beta-thalassemia trait (14.9%), were also observed. Approximately 23.6% were asymptomatic at diagnosis, and excessive menstrual bleeding was a common contributor among girls. IDA was significantly associated with older age and female gender (p<0.001). Conclusions: Nutritional deficiencies—especially iron, vitamin B12, and folate—remain the leading causes of adolescent anemia in Türkiye. The high rate of asymptomatic cases and coexisting micronutrient deficits underscore the need for national, age- and gender-sensitive screening and supplementation strategies. These findings may support the development of targeted, age- and sex-sensitive screening and nutritional assessment strategies for adolescents, particularly in high-risk clinical populations.
Melanoma ranks among the most aggressive cutaneous malignancies, distinguished by its high metastatic potential and rapidly evolving clinical course. Early detection remains a major challenge, as differentiating pigmented lesions demands substantial clinical expertise, often in combination with advanced imaging modalities. Over the past decade, therapeutic progress has been remarkable, particularly with the advent of molecularly targeted agents and immunotherapy, which have markedly improved survival outcomes in patients with advanced-stage disease. Nevertheless, significant obstacles persist, including the emergence of treatment resistance, therapy-associated toxicities, and the limited availability of modern diagnostic and therapeutic options in many centers. This narrative review provides an up-to-date synthesis of diagnostic pathways and systemic treatment strategies in melanoma, highlighting areas that remain underexplored in the literature, including challenges in early detection, therapeutic selection, and real-world limitations of current interventions. By examining these specific challenges, the review provides actionable insights for clinicians and informs strategies to optimize melanoma management.
Background: Insomnia is a significant public health concern associated with reduced quality of life and persistent symptoms in many individuals. While cognitive behavioral therapy is the first-line treatment, its high cost limits accessibility, and there is growing interest in non-pharmacological approaches such as physical activity.Material and methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library using predefined keywords to identify observational studies, clinical trials, reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses on physical activity and pharmacotherapy for insomnia. Of the 384 records initially identified, 38 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis.Results: Physical activity emerges as a promising adjunctive treatment for chronic insomnia, offering moderate improvements in subjective sleep quality without the adverse effects and dependency risks associated with pharmacotherapy.Conclusions: While pharmacological treatments provide rapid symptom relief and improve objective sleep parameters, physical activity offers broader health benefits and may serve as a complementary strategy for long-term insomnia management. Future research directly comparing these approaches should clarify their roles in optimizing treatment strategies for insomnia.
Background: Clinical trials are a fundamental component of medical progress; however, they require strict adherence to ethical and legal standards. In Poland, these responsibilities are regulated by national legislation, the Declaration of Helsinki, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. Nevertheless, organizational fragmentation and variability in research quality across institutions have limited the efficiency and ethical coherence of clinical studies. To address these challenges, the Medical Research Agency (ABM) established the Polish Clinical Trials Network (PCTN), which includes the development of Clinical Research Support Centers (CWBK) and, more recently, Regional Centers for Digital Medicine (RCMC).Aim of the study: This review aims to analyze the role of CWBK in ensuring compliance with ethical standards in clinical trials conducted in Poland, with particular attention to their organizational structure, quality management systems, and the implementation of the ABM Model Standard CWBK 3.0.Materials and methods: A narrative review was conducted based on publicly available sources, including official ABM documentation, national legal acts, and information published on CWBK and RCMC websites. Additional literature addressing the ethical, regulatory, and operational aspects of clinical trial management in Poland was analyzed to identify key determinants of ethical compliance.Results: The review and state-of-the-art analysis revealed that CWBK play a pivotal role in maintaining ethical integrity through standardized procedures, centralized quality management, and comprehensive investigator support. The Model Standard CWBK 3.0 defines the minimum organizational and staffing requirements, ensuring transparency, participant safety, and harmonization of documentation across centers. Furthermore, RCMC complement this system by introducing secure digital infrastructure, thereby enhancing data quality, interoperability, and compliance with data protection regulations.Conclusions: The integration of CWBK and RCMC within the PSBK network represents a milestone in the ethical governance of clinical research in Poland. This model enhances transparency, strengthens researcher accountability, and ensures participant safety while aligning national practice with European standards of responsible research conduct.
Background: In recent years, the incidence of thyroid cancer has increased, while mortality remains low. The current WHO classification emphasizes the importance of molecular and biological features in differentiating thyroid cancers. The widespread use of ultrasound and molecular techniques has significantly improved the diagnosis of thyroid lesions, including low-risk lesions such as papillary carcinoma, which is the most frequently diagnosed type of thyroid cancer.Aim of the study: The aim of this review was to present current knowledge on molecular diagnostic methods in thyroid cancer and on gene expression profiles used to differentiate malignant and benign tumors, which may serve as a reference point for further research.Material and methods: The analysis was conducted on the basis of 60 publications (18 reviews, 35 original research articles, and 7 guidelines) available in the PubMed, Google Scholar, and WHO databases. The literature search was performed using phrases related to the molecular diagnosis of thyroid cancer.Results: Potential biomarkers with diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic significance for specific types of thyroid cancer were identified. These included TROP-2 and HBME-1 in follicular thyroid cancer; ITGA3, cyclin D1, and claudin-1 in papillary thyroid cancer; and the oncogenes CCNB1, CDK1, and TOP2A in anaplastic thyroid cancer. Molecular analysis of medullary thyroid cancer revealed a unique expression profile of 81 genes, as well as 15 genes specific for distinguishing this cancer type from other thyroid cancer subtypes.Conclusions: Further research on the described biomarkers may contribute to improved personalization of thyroid cancer diagnosis and treatment, reducing overtreatment in low-risk patients and improving the prognosis of patients with aggressive tumors.
Background: The Support Benefit System in Poland, introduced in 2023, provides financial assistance to people with disabilities to support their daily living needs. This system allows individuals to independently manage the allocated resources based on their level of disability, assessed through a standardized questionnaire. The system includes various types of disabilities, and physiotherapists now play a key role in the assessment process. This initiative aims to empower people with disabilities to make decisions about their care.Aim of the study: This study aims to analyze applications and decisions related to the support benefit, taking demographic data into account, and to examine how the type and severity of disability affect the assigned scores.Material and methods: The data for this analysis were sourced from reports by the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy and the Provincial Disability Assessment Teams. As applications are still being submitted and assessed, the number of applications and decisions may change.Results: In the first year, 208.1 thousand decisions were issued out of 349.9 thousand applications. The 71–80 age group submitted the largest number of applications (23.64%). A significant correlation was found between age and support points—older individuals received higher scores. No major gender-based differences were observed, although women appeared more frequently in higher score brackets. Greater disability severity was clearly associated with a higher number of points. The most common types of disability were musculoskeletal and neurological disorders.Conclusions: The analysis indicates that older individuals, especially those over 80 years of age, tend to receive higher scores. Although greater disability severity correlates with a higher number of points, some individuals with milder conditions also achieve high scores, underscoring the importance of functional assessment. Women more often fall into higher score ranges, possibly due to greater longevity. Musculoskeletal and neurological disorders predominate among older adults, highlighting ongoing demographic shifts.
Background: Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent mental health disorders globally; however, access to traditional therapy remains limited due to barriers such as cost, geographic constraints, and stigma. Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs), including internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT), mobile applications, chatbots, and virtual reality (VR), have emerged as promising alternatives or complements to conventional care.Aim of the study: This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness, advantages, limitations, and future prospects of various digital interventions for depression and anxiety, as well as to discuss their integration into healthcare systems.Material and methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews addressing digital interventions for depression and anxiety. The analysis included the efficacy of iCBT, mobile health applications, AI-based chatbots, and VR-based therapies, along with challenges such as adherence, data quality, and personalization.Results: iCBT consistently demonstrates clinical outcomes comparable to those of traditional face-to-face therapy, particularly when guided by a clinician. Mobile applications and chatbots show potential for short-term symptom reduction, especially among younger populations; however, they suffer from variable quality and high dropout rates. VR interventions are effective in exposure therapy, particularly for anxiety disorders, but face barriers including cost and limited accessibility. Hybrid models combining digital tools with professional support enhance adherence and treatment outcomes. Key challenges include user engagement, privacy concerns, and the need for standardization and cultural adaptation.Conclusions: Digital mental health interventions represent valuable complementary tools to traditional therapy, offering increased accessibility and flexibility. Future efforts should focus on improving personalization, regulatory oversight, and integration within healthcare systems to optimize their clinical impact.
Background: Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of rare inherited lysosomal storage disorders caused by a deficiency or absence of specific lysosomal enzymes responsible for degrading glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). The accumulation of GAGs in cells and tissues leads to progressive multi-organ dysfunction, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life and lifespan. Due to the initially asymptomatic presentation and the rarity of the disease, diagnosis is often significantly delayed.Aim of the study: This review aims to summarize and evaluate current and emerging diagnostic methods for MPS, with particular emphasis on their potential to enable early detection and timely therapeutic intervention.Material and methods: A literature review was conducted based on scientific publications from the last two decades. The analysis focused on traditional diagnostic methods—such as urinary GAG analysis, enzymatic assays, and molecular genetic testing—as well as novel screening tools and biomarkers, including tandem mass spectrometry and next-generation sequencing.Results: Traditional methods remain the gold standard for confirming MPS diagnosis but are often preceded by a long diagnostic delay. Recent advances, such as newborn screening protocols using dried blood spot tests and expanded genetic panels, promise much earlier detection of MPS. These newer methods demonstrate higher sensitivity and specificity and, when implemented in screening programs, may significantly shorten the so-called “diagnostic odyssey.”Conclusions: Early and accurate diagnosis of MPS is essential for initiating effective treatments such as enzyme replacement therapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. New diagnostic technologies offer hope for earlier detection and better clinical outcomes and may facilitate access to experimental therapies, including gene therapy. Widespread implementation of these techniques could transform the diagnostic landscape for MPS and improve patient prognosis.
