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Introduction: Mental disorders are common and still growing problem around the globe. Significantly decreasing quality of life, they are often source of true suffering for patients and their families leading to further health issues or even dramatic outcomes resulting in death. As public awareness rises, more and more people understand risks and tend to look for help as fast as possible. Currently available treatment methods are not always efficient enough to deal with more complex cases. Therefore it is important to look for new therapy options incrementing chances of fast and successful treatment. Results: Studies showed that psilocybin is not only able to lower depression and anxiety scores in patients with major depressive disorders or with serious life-threatening conditions but also proved this effect to be long-lasting. At the same time, no or little adverse side effects were noticed. Conclusions: Psilocybin is potentially a good method for depression treatment in some groups of patients. It should be considered if other, better known therapies show little or no effects.

Introduction and purpose : Type 2 diabetes is currently a serious problem worldwide. Each year, the number of individuals with carbohydrate metabolism disorders is increasing. This is due to an unhealthy lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and a diet rich in highly processed foods. Currently, the treatment of type 2 diabetes is based on the use of oral antidiabetic medications, with the first choice often being a derivative of biguanides, such as metformin. Berberine has been used in China for many years as a hypoglycemic agent, and its efficacy is compared to metformin preparations. This paper focuses on the benefits of using berberine in patients with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes and compares the effects of berberine preparations to classical medications used in diabetes treatment. Material and methods : The literaue was reviewed in PubMed and Google Scholar scientific database in 2013-2023 using the following keywords : berberine, diabetes mellitus type 2, hyperlipidemia, hyperglicemia Conclusions : The studies included in this manuscript have shown that berberine is a promising agent for adjunctive treatment in type 2 diabetes. It exhibits a range of positive effects such as lowering blood glucose levels, improving lipid profile, with no serious adverse effects reported. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and develop an effective treatment plan.

This work proposes three novel Pre-Model Interpretability metrics: HaRIA, ARIA, and GeRIA. They aim to assess the potential utilization of features in machine learning models prior to the training phase, by quantifying the Relative Information Availability. These metrics integrate Mutual Information and ANOVA F-values, scaled using Maximum Absolute Scaling. This allows to evaluate the potential of a feature being used in the learning process efficiently and effectively without the computational expense of model training. The metrics are designed to provide a holistic view of feature relevance by capturing both the non-linear dependencies and variance effects among features. Validation of these metrics across multiple datasets demonstrates their capability to approximate the importance assigned by more complex models, as evidenced by their strong correlation with traditional feature importance measures and SHAP values obtained post-model training. The consistency observed in various datasets underscores the potential of RIA metrics to facilitate early-stage model development decisions, offering a cost-effective tool for feature evaluation in scenarios where computational resources are limited or rapid prototyping is necessary. However, some discrepancies, especially with complex models like ANNs, indicate areas for future research and refinement. The introduction of these metrics marks a significant step toward enhancing the efficiency and transparency of AI development by enabling a better understanding of data characteristics and potential model behavior before actual model deployment.

The aim of this article is to shed light on Nadine Gordimer’s political convictions in the context of the decolonization processes in the Belgian Congo (later the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in the years 1960–61. The article begins with a brief overview of Gordimer’s political views. It is argued that while Gordimer’s stance in the early 1950s had been that of liberal humanism (an influence that came to her also from the reading of E. M. Forster), by the end of this decade she began to question its relevance in South Africa. As a result, she decided to redefine both her political and artistic views, trying to forge a vision that would be more attuned to her position as a white writer in postcolonial Africa. This attempt is visible in her essay “The Congo River” (1961), at whose centre lies an ambivalence: while Gordimer welcomes the political transformation in Congo with cautious optimism, she also demonstrates a tendency to de-emphasize the country’s colonial history by focusing on the natural habitat and describing it as an ahistorical space. This notion of nature is, to a large extent, a repetition of the colonial vision of the natural environment, which Gordimer unwittingly perpetuated, creating her own example of the socioecological unconscious.

The clinical use of surface imaging has increased dramatically, with demonstrated utility for initial patient positioning, real-time motion monitoring, and beam gating in a variety of anatomical sites. The Therapy Physics Subcommittee and the Imaging for Treatment Verification Working Group of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine commissioned Task Group 302 to review the current clinical uses of surface imaging and emerging clinical applications. The specific charge of this task group was to provide technical guidelines for clinical indications of use for general positioning, breast deep-inspiration breath hold treatment, and frameless stereotactic radiosurgery. Additionally, the task group was charged with providing commissioning and on-going quality assurance (QA) requirements for surface-guided radiation therapy (SGRT) as part of a comprehensive QA program including risk assessment. Workflow considerations for other anatomic sites and for computed tomography simulation, including motion management, are also discussed. Finally, developing clinical applications, such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) or proton radiotherapy, are presented. The recommendations made in this report, which are summarized at the end of the report, are applicable to all video-based SGRT systems available at the time of writing.

This article is a critical discussion of Damon Galgut’s Small Circle of Beings (1988) from the perspective of Elleke Boehmer’s postcolonial poetics. The discussion concentrates on the story “The Clay Ox” and the eponymous novella of the collection. It is argued that both the story and the novella convey a tension between the personal and the political by describing the subtleties of human relationships while at the same time showing that even this intensely private dimension of the characters’ existence is shaped by forces that affect the entire nation. As it is shown, Galgut’s collection of stories is representative of white writing in the times of the interregnum insofar as it depicts isolated, conflicted protagonists, includes the theme of physical and mental disintegration, and explores the state of personal and political precarity.

Introduction Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is gaining increasing attention due to its potential health benefits, especially in the context of its immunomodulatory and anticancer properties. Aim of the study The aim of this review was to discuss recent findings regarding the impact of curcumin on the immune system and its potential applications in anticancer therapy. Materials and methods The paper was created based on the Pubmed and Scholar database. The literature was reviewed using the keywords: „curcumin”, „immunomodulatory effects”, „cytokines”, „anticancer”, „apoptosis”, „cell proliferation”, „radiosensitizing”. Results Studies have confirmed that curcumin, especially in the form of nanocurcumin, exhibits significant immunomodulatory effects. It reduces the number of Th17 cells, increases Treg cells, and regulates the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which is crucial in controlling autoimmune reactions. Furthermore, it demonstrates anticancer activity by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, stimulating apoptosis, and enhancing the effectiveness of anticancer therapy. Conclusions Despite promising results, further research on the safety of curcumin therapy, particularly in the long term, is essential. Limitations associated with bioavailability and pharmacokinetics suggest the need for the development of formulations with increased bioavailability to maximize the potential benefits of curcumin in the treatment of various disorders.

Introduction and purpose Acute appendicitis, a common surgical abdominal ailment, mostly affects individuals in their second or third decade of life, with an annual incidence of about 100 cases per 100,000 persons. This literature review aims to synthesize evidence from diverse sources, summarizing optimal practices for clinical implementation. Surgical intervention, achieving almost 100% cure rates, remains the gold standard, emphasizing challenges in patient qualification for non-surgical approachesNon-operative treatment, considered safe for uncomplicated cases, involves antibiotic therapy, with concerns about antibiotic resistance. Summarizing the current understanding of antibiotic therapy of appendicitis seeks to enhance its effective use, decrease adverse incidents in patients, and contribute to the overall safety of both patients and healthcare providers. Material and methods The following review of studies was based on articles obtained from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Key search terms included acute appendicitis, acute appendicitis conservative treatment, appendectomy, surgical abdominal diaseases, antibiothic therapy. Conclusions The literature review highlights the existing challenges in the management of acute appendicitis, acknowledging the efficacy of both methods. While surgical intervention with high cure rates, the increasing popularity of non-operative therapy encourages optimism for comprehensive research in the future. The need for large, randomized studies comparing long-term clinical effectiveness is emphasized, aiming to inform decision-making and optimize patient outcomes.

Introduction Viloxazine is an antidepressant medication classified as an SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). In April 2021, it received FDA approval in the United States for the treatment of ADHD in children aged 6 to 17. Subsequently, in May 2022, it was also approved for the treatment of adults with ADHD [1]. Viloxazine, available in extended-release capsules, represents novel non-stimulant medication option for patients with ADHD. Aim of the study Our aim was to review the viloxazine in the fields of ADHD treatment, summarize current knowledge and analyze the first treatment results. Methods and materials A review of the literature available in the PubMed database was performed, using the key words: „Viloxazine" ; „ADHD treatment" ; „ADHD”, „attention deficit hyperactivity disorder”, „attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment”; „ADHD non-stimulant treatment”; „ADHD non-stimulant”; „ADHD non-stimulant drugs”, „SPN-812” Conclusion Viloxazine presents a promising non-stimulant alternative for ADHD treatment with more favorable pharmacokinetics, new way of possible administration and fewer adverse effects, particularly within the cardiovascular system, than other available ADHD medication options. While these findings are encouraging, continual research is imperative to establish the long-term safety profile.

Introduction In contemporary medicine, increasing attention is being devoted to alternative forms of therapy. Immersing oneself in cold water, cryotherapy, or cold showers are practices that have long sparked interest due to their potential health benefits. Aim of the study The aim of this comprehensive review is to analyze the impact of cold exposure on the human body, with particular emphasis on its effects on the nervous system. Through the synthesis of available research, the paper seeks to identify health benefits and areas requiring further investigation in the context of various cold application practices. Materials and methods An analysis of scientific articles available in the Pubmed and Google Scholar databases was conducted. Publications from recent years that most relevantly addressed the discussed topic were utilized for this study. The search process involved the use of the following keywords: “cold,” “cold showering,” “cold water,” “cryotherapy.” Results The results of the literature review unequivocally indicate a positive, multifaceted impact of cold on the human body, particularly with an emphasis on the nervous system. Significant therapeutic effects observed in various fields suggest that the application of cold may be a promising alternative in promoting health and treating numerous medical conditions. Summary The focused literature review on the impact of cold on the human body, especially the nervous system, presents various therapies such as cryotherapy or cold water immersion, emphasizing their beneficial effects on the nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine, lymphatic, musculoskeletal, and joint systems. However, despite the observed benefits, further research is needed to gain a more detailed understanding of the mechanisms of action and to ensure the safety of these practices.

Introduction and purpose Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common reproductive disorder, accompanied primarily by hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. Myo-inositol (MI) and D-chiro-inositol (DCI), have emerged as potential therapeutic agents due to their role as insulin sensitizers. This article examines the effects of inositol therapy on fertility in women with PCOS and its role in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Studies suggest that inositols alleviate irregular menstruation, reduce androgen levels and positively affect ovulation rates. MI supplementation has also shown positive effects during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation and IVF procedures, reducing the required FSH dose and cycle length. However, despite positive results on ovulation and menstrual regularity, the article indicates the need for further studies to establish inositol as standard ART therapy in patients with PCOS. Material and methods The following review was based on articles from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Key search terms included polycystic ovary syndrome; assisted reproductive treatment, insulin resistance, inositols, Myo-inositol, D-chiro-inositol. Conclusions Inositols are a promising therapeutic option for women with PCOS. They have been shown to have positive effects on improving insulin sensitivity and fertility. However, despite inositol's safety and easy availability, the ideal dose and timing of use, the appropriate MI/DCI ratio, as well as the potential side effects of excess DCI and the problem of inositol resistance, require further comprehensive studies.

Introduction and purpose Migraine is a common disease mostly affecting women. It has a huge influence on patients’ life strongly decreasing its quality by cause of repetitive headache episodes and often comes with unpleasant and burdensome symptoms like photophobia, nausea or vomiting. This article focuses on migraine treatment, especially on new drugs. Primary drugs used in migraine attacks are non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAI) and triptans. Because of their side effects and impact on internal organs, these substances are often contraindicated or inefficient. The same applies to triptans, which cannot be used by patients with cardiovascular diseases. Due to the need of a new migraine treatment path development, new remedies have been found, bringing hope for patients who could not use prior options. They are divided into two groups: ditans (lasmiditan), which are 5-HT1F serotonin receptor agonists and gepants (ubrogepant, rimegepant, atogepant and zavegepant), which are CGRP receptor antagonists. A summary of the current state of knowledge is intended to increase the awareness of physicians and patients when selecting the appropriate treatment. Material and methods The following review was based on articles obtained from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Key search terms included migraine, ditans, gepants, migraine treatment. Conclusions Drugs described in this study clearly show the new pathway of migraine treatment and prevention. They are safer and show more benefits than substances currently used. They can also be used in wider range of patients with conditions marked as contraindications for current schemes. However more research is still needed to fully describe their characteristics.

Introduction and purpose Muscle relaxants have been integral to medical practice for decades, benefiting both anesthesiologists for smooth patient intubation and surgeons requiring deep muscle relaxation. This article focuses on succinylcholine, a prominent muscle relaxant, exploring its historical context, efficacy, and the accumulated data on potential life-threatening side effects. The manuscript analyzes the available knowledge regarding the adverse effects of succinylcholine in clinical practice, presenting literature-identified methods aimed at risk mitigation. Summarizing the current understanding of succinylcholine's risks seeks to enhance its effective use, decrease adverse incidents in patients, and contribute to the overall safety of both patients and healthcare providers. Material and methods The following review of studies was based on articles obtained from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Key search terms included suxamethonium, succinylcholine, suxamethonium hyperkalemia, suxamethonium myalgia, suxamethonium anaphylaxis, suxamethonium cholinesterase deficiency, and suxamethonium malignant hyperthermia. Conclusions Suxamethonium's adverse effects range from muscle pain-related discomfort to rare, potentially lethal multi-organ complications, impacting patients' health diversely. Despite its drawbacks, succinylcholine remains crucial in anesthesiology. Ongoing research offers avenues to counteract or mitigate side effects. However, these methods necessitate further research to develop universal, widely available protocols in clinical settings.

The article concerns early medieval egg-shaped rattles from the area of Silesia. First of all, the issue of how they were made and glazed is studied. The issues of the origin of these products and their role in the culture of ancient societies, as problems repeatedly raised by other researchers, is treated marginally. Macro- and microscopic observations, experimental studies, as well as the results of analyses of the chemical composition of glazes and petrographic tests of ceramic bodies were used to study the technology of making eggs-shaped -rattles. On their basis, the probable process of their formation and glazing was reconstructed. While the making of the ceramic base did not require extraordinary skills, the glazing and decoration of the rattles took place in several stages, requiring knowledge of advanced pottery techniques. For their decoration, a specific category of glaze was used, namely high-lead non alkali glass.

The article examines the question of the concentration camp space and the figure of the “Muslim” in the novel Les Boucs (1955) by the Moroccan writer Driss Chraïbi. Published ten years after the war, the novel nevertheless uses certain motifs from the literature of the camps. Even if the geography of “Arab Paris” in North African literature has been well described and analyzed, the kinship of the Goats with concen-tration camp literature has not received sufficient attention. Therefore, in my study I will first recall the circumstances of publication of the novel and the main lines of its reception by critics to then move on to the analysis of the concentrationary space in the novel. The link with the space of the camps will finally be reinforced by the evocation of the figure of the “Muslim”, well known from the testimonies and expressly exploited by Driss Chraïbi.

In intelligent information systems data play a critical role. The issue of missing data is one of the commonplace problems occurring in data collected in the real world. The problem stems directly from the very nature of data collection. In this paper, the notion of handling missing values in a real-world application of computational intelligence is considered. Two experimental campaigns were conducted, evaluating different approaches to the missing values imputation on Random Forest-based classifiers, trained using modern cybersecurity benchmarks datasets: CICIDS2017 and IoT-23. In result of the experiments it transpired that the chosen algorithm for data imputation has a severe impact on the results of the classifier used for network intrusion detection. It also comes to light that one of the most popular approaches to handling missing data — complete case analysis — should never be used in cybersecurity.

Although the ethics of cybersecurity might seem to be simple, the matter can be surprisingly complicated. This paper discusses the results of an extensive study aimed at uncovering the anticipated, emerging ethical issues related to cybersecurity. First, it discusses the “strong signals”, i.e., the “mainstream” worries and concerns. Then, it uncovers the “weak signals” - the hidden, less-discussed concerns, which may still define the upcoming future of the ethics of cybersecurity. The results of the study are also compared to the outcomes of a similar experiment conducted two years ago, in order to see if the upcoming ethical dilemmas anticipated back then have in fact become a reality.

Currently, one can observe the evolution of social media networks. In particular, humans are faced with the fact that, often, the opinion of an expert is as important and significant as the opinion of a non-expert. It is possible to observe changes and processes in traditional media that reduce the role of a conventional ‘editorial office’, placing gradual emphasis on the remote work of journalists and forcing increasingly frequent use of online sources rather than actual reporting work. As a result, social media has become an element of state security, as disinformation and fake news produced by malicious actors can manipulate readers, creating unnecessary debate on topics organically irrelevant to society. This causes a cascading effect, fear of citizens, and eventually threats to the state’s security. Advanced data sensors and deep machine learning methods have great potential to enable the creation of effective tools for combating the fake news problem. However, these solutions often need better model generalization in the real world due to data deficits. In this paper, we propose an innovative solution involving a committee of classifiers in order to tackle the fake news detection challenge. In that regard, we introduce a diverse set of base models, each independently trained on sub-corpora with unique characteristics. In particular, we use multi-label text category classification, which helps formulate an ensemble. The experiments were conducted on six different benchmark datasets. The results are promising and open the field for further research.

Context: Approximately 20%–30% of colon cancer cases have a hereditary basis. The genetic defect may involve mismatch repair (MMR) genes, which results in microsatellite instability (MSI). MMR-deficient colorectal cancer may occur due to germline mutation (Lynch syndrome) or be a sporadic one. A tumor's histological features, supported by a panel of immunohistochemistry stains, enables pathologists to assess the MMR status, which in turn has beneficial effects on clinical management. Aims: We aimed to show the relations between histopathological features identified during routine examinations and MMR genes' mutations. Methods and Material: We reviewed retrospectively the material of the Department of Pathology fulfilling the revised Bethesda Guidelines. Statistical Analysis Used: We used Chi-square test, Spearman test, and epidemiological analysis. Results: For the PMS2 gene, the positive predictive value (PPV) indicates that 91% of cases neither present any histological lesions nor have genetic abnormalities. The negative predictive value (NPV) indicates that only 50% of cases have both histological and genetic changes. For the MSH6 gene, the PPV indicates that 85% of tumors without specific histological features do not have genetic abnormalities. Conclusions: We advise universal staining for MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 in every newly diagnosed colon cancer, but due to costly analyses we suggest a protocol for the selection of cases for MMR examinations.

Introduction: Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a child for at least 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse and may affect up to 15% of couples of reproductive age. Reduced semen quality may be caused by trauma, inflammation, or an inappropriate lifestyle. Research suggests that diet may be a factor in influencing sperm parameters. Material and methods: The literature of the PubMed scientific base was searched in 2015-2022 using the following keywords: semen, diet, infertility. Results: Analyzes of eating patterns showed that eating a diet high in red meat, high-fat dairy, sweet energy drinks, and snacks could negatively affect semen, and a pattern based on the consumption of fish, chicken, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains was associated with with an increased concentration of sperm. A high-fat diet (HFD) leads to obesity, endocrine disorders, dysbiosis of the intestinal microflora, and may be a factor that activates autophagy, which results in reduced sperm quality. A ketogenic diet can positively affect the semen of obese, infertile men. Studies analyzing the Mediterranean diet suggest that higher compliance rates are associated with a higher percentage of mobility as well as a reduced risk of low sperm concentration. The way you prepare your meals can also play a role as glycation end products are produced when grilling, baking and frying, which can damage sperm DNA. Conclusions: Diet may be an important factor influencing the quality of sperm in men, however, there is a need for further extensive, multi-center studies that will systematize this knowledge, which will enable the creation of specific nutritional recommendations for this group of people.

Introduction: Gestational diabetes (GDM) is any hyperglycemic condition that has appeared for the first time in previously healthy pregnant women. The incidence varies from 1% to 20% and is constantly increasing. GDM results in numerous complications for both the fetus and the mother. Adipokines are a group of protein hormones and cytokines that are secreted by adipose tissue. They affect glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, appetite, and immune response. Due to their involvement in these processes, there are more and more reports that adipokines influence the pathomechanism of gestational diabetes. Material and methods, aim: The literature in the PubMed scientific database published in 2015-2022 was searched using the keywords: gestational diabetes, adipokines. The aim of this review is to present the role of adipokines in the pathomechanism of gestational diabetes as well as their potential role in the detection and treatment of this condition. Results: The pathophysiology of gestational diabetes is not fully understood. It has been noted that mothers with GDM have elevated levels of leptin. In turn, the level of adiponectin is lower in women with gestational diabetes compared to healthy women. Adipokines such as visphatin, resistin or chimerin are also suspected of a possible role in the pathomechanism of the disease. These reports could lead to the discovery of a biomarker for the rapid detection of GDM. Conclusions: Gestational diabetes is a common disease in pregnancy, the incidence of which is constantly increasing. Its complications are dangerous for both the mother and her baby. That is why research is important that will allow us to learn about its pathomechanism, to detect it faster, and to prevent it. Studies using adipokines show promising results, hence the urgent need for more randomized, multicentre studies to better understand their role in gestational diabetes.

Introduction: Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is a pelvic pain during menstruation in the absence of any pelvic pathologies. This disease mainly affects young women in reproductive age. In addition to pain, patients may experience many other symptoms including: gastrointestinal symptoms, sleep disorders. This contributes to reduction in their mental and physical quality of life. Purpose: the purpose of this review is to draw attention to a problem that affects a large number of society, is often underestimated and largely affects the quality of women's life, as well as to present the latest discoveries and reports on this issue. Material and methods: the scientific literature published in the years 2017-2022 was reviewed in the PubMed scientific database using the following keywords: primary dysmenorrhea, dysmenorrhea. Results: Increased prostaglanding levels, abnormalities in the reward system, oxidative stress, ischemia, and eotaxin may contribute to the development of pain in PD. These findings could open up new diagnostic or therapeutic targets. The first choice in the treatment of PD are NSAIDs, which are taken regularly for many years, so they must be as safe and effective as possible. Research suggests that thiaprofenic acid and ibuprofen are suitable. For alternative treatments TENS, heat, and acupuncture can be effective. Propolis, ginger, valeric acid, hops and exercise are also promising. Conclusions: PD is a varied disease that affects a large number of women. It leads to a reduction in the quality of life, hence it is necessary to conduct further research on a diverse, large group of respondents, in many centers, with the use of systematized pain scales, and lasting for a certain period of time.

Introduction: Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a polysaccharide classified in the group of glycosaminoglycans. Naturally it occurs in the dermis and is responsible for the elasticity of the skin. In medicine, it can be found cross-linked, partially cross-linked or non-cross-linked, which is associated with different densities and the ability to bind water molecules. It (HA) is used in many areas, including ophthalmology, rheumatology, and dermatology. There are many studies and reports, that it can be used in gynecology and obstetrics in various diseases. Material and methods: The PubMed scientific base was reviewed in 2015-2022 using the keywords hyaluronic acid, gynecology, obstetrics. Results: Intrauterine adhesions are a complication of various procedures performed in the uterine cavity, from curettage to removal of the septum or uterine fibroids. Numerous studies suggest, that hyaluronic acid may be an effective agent in preventing formation of adhesions. For menopausal women, it may relieve symptoms associated with vaginal atrophy. Indocyanine green is used for intraoperative visualization of neoplastic tissues and used in case of cervical cancer. There are reports, that stating hyaluronic acid can increase stability of this substance, which can improve imaging. In the case of hyaluronic acid in the form of vaginal gel, a beneficial effect on hydration and sexual function of women both after childbirth and after menopause was noticed. There are reports of its use in prevention of ovarian failure after chemotherapy and its positive aspects in assisted reproductive techniques. Conclusions: Hyaluronic acid can be used in many gynecological and obstetric diseases, positively influencing the life of women in both fertility and sexual areas and also in the group of cancer patients. Therefore, further large, randomized, multicentre studies confirming action of this substance, determining its dose, method and schedule of administration are important.

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder most common in women in reproductive age. The global incidence varies from 6% to 20% depending on the diagnostic criteria used, and is also the most common cause of infertility. This disease is related to insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia. Berberine is a compound that affects the cardiovascular system and carbohydrate metabolism, which is why there are attempts to introduce it into the therapy of patients with PCOS. Material and methods: The literature was reviewed in the PubMed scientific base in the years 2012-2022 using the following keywords: berberine, polycystic ovary syndrome. Results: Research show that the use of berberine may have a positive effect on the waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio, improve lipid parameters, lower the concentration of androgens, and reduce insulin resistance. In addition, a promising effect is the stabilization of the menstrual cycle and improvement of ovulation. There are reports that this drug may also restore the normal composition of the intestinal microflora disrupted in PCOS. Side effects are rare and mild, which confirms the safety of this substance. Conclusions: Polycystic ovary syndrome affects many women, leading to numerous and serious side effects, so it is important to develop an effective treatment with as few side effects as possible. Berberine is a promising prospect, but more studies are needed on larger groups of patients to confirm these reports and develop an effective treatment regimen. Keywords: berberine, polycystic ovary syndrome.

Telocytes (TCs) are a new type of mesenchymal cells that have been discovered recently in many organs and tissues. However, studies of TCs in the avian reproductive system are still at the beginning. Chickens are one of the world's most popular domesticated animals, providing inexpensive but valuable proteins and nutrients from chickens and eggs to nourish the human bodies. Chickens have important scientific value; thus, understanding the reproductive system regulations seems to be important. The utero-vaginal junction is involved in the regulation of sperm storage. The sperm storage tube (SST) in the utero-vaginal junction stores sperm. The purpose of this study was to investigate the existence of TCs in the utero-vaginal junction of the chicken, and their structural relationships with the sperm storage tube and surrounding cell types. We studied the morphology, ultrastructure, and immune characterization of TCs.MethodsThe utero-vaginal junction of 4-month-old healthy adult chickens (n = 10) were used for Masson's staining, fluorescent in situ hybridization technique (FISH), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. The results showed that TCs were present in the utero-vaginal junction. TCs appear as CD34 immunopositive and C-kit immunopositive. They were identified especially via small-body and long-protrusion telopodes (Tps) containing Podomers (Pm) and Podoms (Pd). The Tps were bent, folded, and intertwined with each other, sometimes in the shape of a labyrinth. The Tps were embedded between collagen fiber bundles, smooth muscle bundles, and around blood vessels and releasing vesicles. TCs surround these glands, forming heteromorphic cell connections with surrounding lymphocytes and plasma cells, smooth muscle cells, blood vessels, collagen fibers, and fibroblast-formed homotypic or allotypic connections in a complex three-dimensional network structure. This study provides a morphological basis for the possible role of TCs in regulating the utero-vaginal junction physiological role and in intercellular communication.

This paper proposes an idea of Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs) based on Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) standards to recognize and alarm a gesture of touching the face, and in effect, to prevent self-inoculation of respiratory viral diseases, such as COVID-19 or influenza A, B, or C. The proposed network comprises wireless modules placed in bracelets and a necklace. It relies on the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) measurements between the bracelet and necklace modules. The measured signal is cleared of noise using the exponential moving average (EMA). Next, we use a classification algorithm based on a Least-Squares Support Vector Machine (LSSVM) in order to detect facial touches. When the results of the classification indicate that the hand is moving toward the face, an alarm is sent through the neck module and the vibrator embedded in the wrist module is switched on. Based on the performed tests, it can be concluded that the proposed solution is characterized by high accuracy and reliability. It should be useful, especially for individuals who are regularly exposed to the risk of respiratory infections.

Network flow-based cyber anomaly detection is a difficult and complex task. Although several approaches to tackling this problem have been suggested, many research topics remain open. One of these concerns the problem of model transferability. There is a limited number of papers which tackle transfer learning in the context of flow-based network anomaly detection, and the proposed approaches are mostly evaluated on outdated datasets. The majority of solutions employ various sophisticated approaches, where different architectures of shallow and deep machine learning are leveraged. Analysis and experimentation show that different solutions achieve remarkable performance in a single domain, but transferring the performance to another domain is tedious and results in serious deterioration in prediction quality. In this paper, an innovative approach is proposed which adapts sketchy data structures to extract generic and universal features and leverages the principles of domain adaptation to improve classification quality in zero- and few-shot scenarios. The proposed approach achieves an F1 score of 0.99 compared to an F1 score of 0.97 achieved by the best-performing related methods.

Contemporary cyberthreats continue to evolve, powering the neverending development arms race [...]

This updated report on stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is part of a series of consensus-based white papers previously published addressing patient safety. Since the first white papers were published, SRS and SBRT technology and procedures have progressed significantly such that these procedures are now more commonly used. The complexity and submillimeter accuracy, and delivery of a higher dose per fraction requires an emphasis on best practices for technical, dosimetric, and quality assurance. Therefore, quality and patient safety considerations for these techniques remain an important area of focus. The American Society for Radiation Oncology convened a task force to assess the original SRS/SBRT white paper and update content where appropriate. Recommendations were created using a consensus-building methodology and task force members indicated their level of agreement based on a 5-point Likert scale, from "strongly agree" to "strongly disagree." A prespecified threshold of ≥75% of raters who select "strongly agree" or "agree" indicated consensus. This white paper builds on the previous version and uses of other guidance documents to broadly address SRS and SBRT delivery, primarily focusing on processes related to quality and safety. SRS and SBRT require a team-based approach, staffed by appropriately trained and credentialed specialists as well as significant personnel resources, specialized technology, and implementation time. A thorough feasibility analysis of resources is required to achieve the clinical and technical goals and thoroughly discussed with all personnel before undertaking new disease sites. A comprehensive quality assurance program must be developed, using established treatment guidelines, to ensure SRS and SBRT are performed in a safe and effective manner. Patient safety in SRS/SBRT is everyone's responsibility and professional organizations, regulators, vendors, and end-users must demonstrate a clear commitment to working together to ensure the highest levels of safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visfatin is an adipokine involved in energy metabolism, insulin resistance, inflammation, and female reproduction. Due to limited data about its action in the human placenta, the aims of our studies included the analysis of visfatin expression and immunolocalization in trophoblast cell lines JEG-3 and BeWo as well as in human placentas from normal and pathological pregnancies. Moreover, we also checked the hormonal regulation of visfatin levels and the molecular mechanism of observed changes in JEG-3 cells. Cell culture and placental fragments collection along with statistical analysis were performed using standard laboratory procedures also described in our previous papers. We demonstrated an increased gene and protein expression of visfatin in JEG-3, BeWo cells, while variable expression in maternal and fetal parts of normal/ pathological pregnancy placentas. In addition, the immunolocalization of visfatin was observed in the cytoplasm of both cell lines, the capillary epithelium of the maternal part and syncytiotrophoblasts of the placental fetal part; in all tested pathologies, the signal was also detected in decidual cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that hormones: progesterone, estradiol, human chorionic gonadotropin, and insulin increased the visfatin levels in JEG-3 cells with the involvement of specific signaling pathways. Taken together, differences in the expression and localization of visfatin between normal and pathological placentas suggested that visfatin may be a potential marker for the diagnosis of pregnancy disorders. In addition, we found that placental levels of visfatin can be regulated by hormones known to modulate the function of placental cells., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Dawid et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

The importance and regulation of adrenal androgen production and signaling are not completely understood and are scarcely studied. In addition, there is still a search for appropriate animal models and experimental systems for the investigation of adrenal physiology and disease. Therefore, the main objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of luteinizing hormone (LH) signaling and selenium (Se2+) exposure on androgen adrenal signaling via canonical androgen receptor (AR), and membrane androgen receptor acting as zinc transporter (zinc- and iron-like protein 9; ZIP9). For herein evaluations, adrenals isolated from transgenic mice with elevated LH receptor signaling (KiLHRD 582G ) and adrenals obtained from rabbits used for ex vivo adenal cortex culture and exposure to Se2+ were utilized. Tissues were assessed for morphological, morphometric, and Western blot analyses and testosterone and zinc level measurements.Comparison of adrenal cortex histology and morphometric analysis in KiLHRD 582G mice and Se2+-treated rabbits revealed cell hypertrophy. No changes in the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were found. In addition, AR expression was decreased (p < 0.001) in both KiLHRD 582G mouse and Se2+-treated rabbit adrenal cortex while expression of ZIP9 showed diverse changes. Its expression was increased (P < 0.001) in KiLHRD 582G mice and decreased (P < 0.001) in Se2+-treated rabbits but only at the dose 10 ug/100 mg/ tissue. Moreover, increased testosterone levels (P < 0.05) and zinc levels were detected in the adrenal cortex of KiLHRD 582G mice whereas in rabbit adrenal cortex treated with Se2+, the effect was the opposite (P < 0.001)., (© 2023. The Author(s).)