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Introduction and purpose: The purpose of this scientific paper is to review the current knowledge of the effects of red wine on human health, particularly with regard to cardiovascular disease. State of Knowledge: Since the 1990s, red wine has gained its status as a health-promoting alcohol through the French Paradox - when drunk in moderate amounts, it protects against cardiovascular disease. The authors have collected scientific papers on the health effects of alcohol, red wine and resveratrol-a polyphenol that is the main component with health-promoting effects of wine. On their basis, they analyzed the assumptions of the positive effects of wine reaching inconclusive conclusions. Summary: Despite the fact that both ethanol and resveratrol have a positive effect in in vitro studies, in population studies their effect is much less significant, either because the negative behavioral-health effects in the case of ethanol are omitted or the actual effective doses of resveratrol are omitted.

Introduction and purpose: Berberine is a plant alkaloid that naturally occurs in the fruits of common barberry (Berberis vulgaris). This alkaloid has long been used in natural medicine. It exhibits a range of bioactivities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-edema, and antimicrobial actions. Through the promising therapeutic effects of berberine in metabolic syndrome, as well as its impact on carcinogenesis, this compound is beginning to play a significant role in preventive medicine. Recently, particular attention has been paid to the anticancer properties of berberine, which are based on many biochemical pathways, particularly its pro-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory action. The study aimed to review the anticancer mechanisms of berberine and summarize them about individual cancers. State of knowledge: The article reviews the current literature on the anticancer properties of berberine for individual cancers, focusing primarily on its molecular mechanisms of action. In addition, the potential of berberine as a promising candidate forming the basis for drug production and its use in preventive medicine was analyzed. Summary: In summary, many studies have shown that berberine exhibits anticancer activity in many types of cancers, including breast, lung, stomach, liver, colorectal, ovarian, cervical, and prostate cancers. Berberine inhibits the growth of cancer cells, limits metastases, induces apoptosis, stimulates autophagy, and enhances the effectiveness of anticancer drugs. Despite its potential as a promising candidate for drug production, there are currently no approved pure berberine preparations for the treatment of specific ailments. Research on its effectiveness and safety is still ongoing.

Introduction and purpose. Preserving fertility is crucial for cancer patients, aligning with advancements in oncology. As survival rates improve, addressing treatment-related late effects gains importance. Many young patients, aware of therapy toxicity, consider future conception chances, impacting treatment decisions. With a trend toward delayed childbirth and a growing population facing unplanned family planning disruptions, the demand for fertility preservation is expected to rise. This paper provides a brief review of available methods for preserving fertility in cancer patients. State of knowledge. Freezing semen in liquid nitrogen vapor is a standard method for preserving reproductive potential in male cancer patients. Shielding during total-body radiation limits testicular volume reduction, indicating less damage to the germinal epithelium. Hormone suppression treatments are not protective in male cancer patients. Oocyte and embryo cryopreservation are considered secure methods before anticancer treatments, with oocyte cryopreservation being preferred for post-pubertal women. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation remains an alternative method without preliminary treatment, suitable when time is insufficient for ovarian stimulation. Ovarian transposition beyond the intended radiation area, performed laparoscopically, can retain ovarian function. GnRH agonist administration before and during chemotherapy aims to minimize the likelihood of premature ovarian insufficiency. Summary. Advancements in fertility preservation for cancer patients, ranging from traditional cryopreservation to innovative methods like ovarian tissue preservation, highlight a commitment to empowering individuals facing cancer diagnoses. Ongoing research expands possibilities, ensuring a diverse range of strategies that offer tangible and hopeful prospects at the intersection of cancer and reproductive health.

Introduction and purpose: Obesity is one of the most serious health challenges in modern society. Over the last 40 years, the number of obese school-age children has increased tenfold. This not only has significant consequences for physical health, but also affects psychosocial aspects and the quality of life of the young generation. The aim of this study is to conduct a comprehensive review of the literature on obesity among children and adolescents, focused on identifying the main risk factors and analyzing effective forms of prevention. Materials and methods: A review of the literature available in the "PubMed" database and books was conducted. The search was performed by using the following keywords: "childhood obesity", "childhood obesity risk factors", “childhood obesity prevention” State of knowledge: The risk factors for obesity in children and adolescents include genetic factors, endocrine diseases, improper diet, low physical activity, low socioeconomic status, stress, psychological factors, short sleep time, medications, hypothalamic obesity and H. pylori. As part of the prevention of obesity in children and adolescents, it is recommended to develop appropriate habits in children and adolescents. The influence of parents on health behaviors in children is important. Top-down activities such as health campaigns and legal regulations also have a significant impact. Summary: Due to research conducted over the years, awareness of obesity risk factors has increased. To effectively prevent this disease, an integrated approach is necessary, taking into account both education and changes in the social environment. Implementing these strategies requires cooperation at local, regional, national and international levels.

Introduction and purpose: Apples are a widely consumed fruit globally and are known to be a great source of nutrition. Studies have shown that apples contain high levels of antioxidants, dietary fiber, and vitamins that contribute to numerous health benefits. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the impact of apples on human health. State of knowledge: The paper reviews the current literature on the health benefits of apples, focusing on their impact on various health conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. Additionally, it examines the role of apples in improving intestinal, immune, and cognitive function. The paper also discusses the potential mechanisms by which apples exert their health benefits, such as high levels of flavonoids, polyphenols, and dietary fiber. Summary: In conclusion, the vast body of evidence reviewed in this paper supports the notion that consuming apples regularly can contribute to better health outcomes. They may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, as well as promote healthy gut microbiota and immune function. Despite the controversy surrounding the use of pesticides in apple cultivation, the benefits of consuming apples outweigh the risks. Therefore, it is highly recommended to include apples as part of a balanced and nutritious diet to promote optimal health and wellbeing. As the saying goes, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away".

Introduction and purpose: The human body hosts a diverse ecosystem of commensal microbes, known as the human microbiome. This review aims to asses the current state of knowledge regarding the effectiveness, mechanisms of action, and potential benefits of probiotic supplementation in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. Materials and methods: A literature review was conducted using the “PubMed” and “Google Scholar” databases with the keywords “Probiotics”, “Gut Microbiome”, “Probiotics and the treatment of Crohns Disease”, “Probiotics and the treatment of Colitis Ulcerosa”. State of knowledge: Dysbiosis is known to disrupt the function of the intestinal mucosis and has been associated with chronic tissue inflammation. The use of probiotics is a promising method to improve the state of gut microbiota. It is known that the gut microbiome is disrupted in inflammatory bowel diseases. Summary: The use of probiotics in Ulcerative Colitis is supported by a significant amount of evidence supporting its effectiveness. In the case of Crohn’s Disease there is a lack of evidence to definitively determine whether the use of probiotics yields therapeutic benefits. Therefore there is a need for further research in this area.

Introduction: The benefits of patient’s specific cell/gene therapy have been reported in relation to numerous genetic related disorders including osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). In osteogenesis imperfecta particularly also a drug therapy based on the administration of bisphosphonates partially helped to ease the symptoms.Methods: In this controlled trial, fibroblasts derived from patient diagnosed with OI type II have been successfully reprogrammed into induced Pluripotent Stem cells (iPSCs) using Yamanaka factors. Those cells were subjected to repair mutations found in the COL1A1 gene using homologous recombination (HR) approach facilitated with star polymer (STAR) as a carrier of the genetic material.Results: Delivery of the correct linear DNA fragment to the osteogenesis imperfecta patient’s cells resulted in the repair of the DNA mutation with an 84% success rate. IPSCs showed 87% viability after STAR treatment and 82% with its polyplex.Discussion: The use of novel polymer Poly[N,N-Dimethylaminoethyl Methacrylate-co-Hydroxyl-Bearing Oligo(Ethylene Glycol) Methacrylate] Arms (P(DMAEMA-co-OEGMA-OH) with star-like structure has been shown as an efficient tool for nucleic acids delivery into cells (Funded by National Science Centre, Contract No. UMO-2020/37/N/NZ2/01125).

The occurrence of secondary neoplasms in adult patients treated with chemotherapy in childhood is not uncommon. Prior chemotherapy is found to be an independent risk factor for the development of secondary malignancies, which are usually associated with a worse prognosis. The presented case is a 35-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in her late adolescence. The tumor was successfully treated with chemotherapy, but 3 years later she was diagnosed with T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma. The patient received allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) from human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matched related donor. The procedure was complicated by grade 2 acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) which resolved after implementation of immunosuppressive treatment. However, a year later, the patient developed extensive chronic GvHD (cGvHD) and required reintroduction of immunosuppressants. Prolonged immunosuppressive treatment with tacrolimus led to irreversible kidney failure. After a 2-year period of regular peritoneal dialysis, she was found to be eligible for a kidney transplant from a deceased donor. Now, 15 years after stem cell transplantation and 8 years after kidney transplantation, the patient remains in good condition overall, presenting with symptoms of limited cGvHD. The case described here presents a unique clinical scenario of a female patient who was successfully treated for her double malignancy. Moreover, she underwent effective double transplantations and was eventually found to be cured despite accompanying complications.

CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) is a developmental encephalopathy caused by pathogenic variants in the X-linked cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDKL5) gene. This rare disorder occurs more frequently in females than in males. The incidence is estimated to be approximately 1: 40,000–60,000 live births. So far, 50 cases have been described in boys. The clinical course in males tends to be more severe and is often associated with death in the first or second decade of life. The authors present an unreported 2.5-year-old male patient with drug-resistant epilepsy who was diagnosed with a de novo mutation in the CDKL5 gene. First seizures developed in the fifth week of life and have progressed steadily since then. The child’s psychomotor development was strongly delayed, and generalized hypotonia was noticed since birth. Brain MRI showed areas of incomplete myelination, posterior narrowing of the corpus callosum, a pineal cyst of up to 3 mm, and open islet lids. Intensive antiseizure medications (ASMs), a ketogenic diet, and steroid therapy were not successful. Short-term improvement was achieved with the implantation of a vagal nerve stimulator (VNS). Due to the progressive course of the disease, the boy requires frequent modification of ASMs.