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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: In recent years there has been an increase in scientific research regarding the body's exposure to low temperatures. The potential health benefits have captured the attention of both researchers and the general public. This article review provides an analysis of the existing literature concerning the impact of cold body exposure on health and athletic achievements. Material 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: "cold exposure", "cryotherapy", "cold shower", "cold-water immersion" and "winter swimming". State of knowledge: Encountering low temperatures can be perceived as a physiological stressor. The body responds to this situation by activating adaptive mechanisms to maintain homeostasis, such as the activation of brown adipose tissue, improved glucose control and increased immune system activity. An increasing amount of data supports the positive impact of cold exposure on athletic performance. Potential benefits are indicated such as enhancing physical endurance through increased heat production and stimulation of the circulatory system, as well as facilitating faster body recovery. Results and Conclusions: The article review indicates a growing interest in the impact of cold exposure. While there are encouraging findings of positive effects, further research is necessary for better understanding and determining the optimal conditions for achieving maximum benefits. This information could have a significant impact on the development of training strategies and health prevention.

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.

Introductions and purpose: Melanoma is a malignant skin cancer, characterized by a very high rate of increase in the number of cases. The aim of this study is to analyze the key modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors associated with the development of melanoma and to discuss existing prevention strategies. Materials and methods: A literature review was conducted using the "PubMed" database with the keywords "melanoma", "melanoma risk factors", "melanoma primary prevention" and “melanoma secondary prevention”. State of knowledge: Melanoma risk factors can be divided into two groups: modifiable and non-modifiable. The main modifiable factor is UV radiation. Non-modifiable risk factors include: genetic factors, phenotypic characteristics, age, gender, and the presence of melanocytic nevi. UV radiation is responsible for the incidence of 60-70% of melanomas. Reducing exposure to risk factors is crucial in primary prevention, while self-examination and medical examination are important in secondary prevention. Summary: Despite the very high rate of increase in the number of cases, morbidity and mortality associated with melanoma can be effectively reduced by adhering to the principles of primary and secondary prevention. Patient education is crucial to reduce exposure to modifiable factors and increase vigilance against new skin lesions.

Introduction and purpose: Prostate cancer is the second most frequent malignancy in men worldwide. The aim of this study is to analyze the key modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors associated with the development of prostate cancer and to discuss existing prevention strategies. Materials and methods: A literature review was conducted using the "PubMed" database with the keywords "prostate cancer", "prostate cancer risk factors", "prostate cancer prevention”. State of knowledge: Prostate cancer risk factors can be divided into two groups: modifiable and non-modifiable. Modifiable risk factors include: diet, infections and alcohol use. Non-modifiable risk factors include: age, race, genetic factors, and family history. Chemoprevention plays an important role in the prevention of prostate cancer. Summary: Despite the fact that prostate cancer remains a significant challenge for current medicine, the development of preventive methods in recent years gives hope for reducing mortality associated with the disease. Research is still being conducted to identify prostate cancer risk factors and to improve methods of primary and secondary prevention.

Introduction. Fatal familial insomnia (FFI) is one of the transmissible spongiform encephathalopathies characterized by neuronal loss, sleep impairment, subsequent non-specific disturbances of autonomic nervous system (e.g. tachycardia) and endocrine dysfunctions. It is fatal autosomal dominant prion disease, which is extremaly rare- FFI affects only about one person per milion annually. The aim of this study is to review the literature and systematize knowledge about fatal familial insomnia.Brief description of the state of knowledge. The causative agent of this disease is a misfolded version of the physiological prion protein called PrP(Sc) in the brain. Major vulnerable regions in FFI are mediodorsal and anterior ventral nuclei of the thalamus. Average survival time after the onset of symptoms is 18 months. Hence molecular mechanisms involved in pathogenesis are poorly understood, the disease is incureable yet. However, there are a number of therapeutic options currently under investigation, e.g. immunotherapy or doxycycline usage.Conclusions. Subsequent researches are essential to improve understending of fatal familial insomnia. The prime issue is to develop functioning therapeutic or preventive treatment. While some of presented terapeutic approches appers promising, all of them require profoud research.

Introduction and purpose of work: Over the past few years, the topic of gluten-free diets has become very popular. In the past, it was understood only in the context of a specific medical indication, implemented in the event of a disease, e.g. celiac disease, as part of the patient's treatment. Today, the concept has changed a bit. The abatement of the concept of a gluten-free diet is attributed to social media, which, in a way, suggests recipients to use it on a daily basis, clearly emphasizing the harmful effects of gluten on the human body. better mood".The aim of the study is to analyze the awareness of the society on the use of a gluten-free diet.Material and method: The results of the study were obtained on the basis of an online survey.Results: 213 respondents took part in the survey, 36.2% of the respondents were women and 63.8% men, 88.7% of the surveyed respondents correctly answered the question what gluten is, but 65.7% are associated with the presence of gluten in products food industry with the development of this industry, 42.3% of respondents believe that consumption of gluten should be avoided. Only 8.9% of people on a gluten-free diet heard from a doctor for the first time, over 36% from the media. As many as 78.4% of respondents are not aware of about the need to balance this diet, but still uses it.Conclusions: The study shows that the society is not fully educated on the use of a gluten-free diet. It can be concluded that the approval of the society is not based on the merits, but rather an expression of a trend. The dissemination of this concept is due to the media.

Introduction and purpose of work: For years, scientific bodies have emphasized the essential role of proper hygiene in preventing infectious diseases. However, as is well known, many do not follow basic hygiene rules. Only in the face of spreading epidemics does the society understand the need to take care of it. Such simple actions are crucial in limiting and inhibiting the effects of an epidemic.Material and method: The results of the study were obtained on the basis of an online survey.Results: Before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the respondents washed their hands 4 to 7 times a day, which took them mainly 10-25 seconds. 91% of adolescents used soap and water to wash their hands. Almost every respondent (96.4%) washed their hands after using the toilet, about 78% after returning home, and every 5th person after contact with money. The vast majority of respondents did not use disinfectants when washing their hands was impossible. As many as 60% of teenagers covered their face with their hands while sneezing and coughing. During the coronavirus pandemic, still the most respondents (37.5%) wash their hands 4 to 7 times a day, but as many as 32.1% do it more than 10 times a day. Almost 37% of people take about 30 seconds to do so, compared to less than 10% before the pandemic. In addition, 66.7% use hand disinfectants.Conclusions: In the situation related to the coronavirus pandemic, an increase in hygiene has been noted in each of the categories. The current situation has prompted young people to change their habits and keep them in the future.

Introduction and purpose of work: In recent years, drinking energy drinks has gained popularity among young people. High school students as a group of people entering adulthood, shape their habits and behaviors for the future. Therefore, their abuse of energy drinks at such a young age can lead to addiction and consequently, result in health problems. The aim of the work is to examine the drinking habit and awareness of high school students about energy drinksMaterial and method: The results of the survey were obtained on the basis of an online survey.Results: 812 respondents, aged 15-19, took part in the survey. 32.8% of high school students drink energy drinks occasionally, 16.4% of respondents reach for them several times a week, while 27.1% do not consume them. Only 30.2% of respondents correctly indicated the main ingredients of energy drinks. 87.9% of respondents say that you can get addicted to energy drinks. 40.5% of high school students reached for energy drinks for the first time at the age of 11-13, while 7.4% have not yet tried them. The vast majority of respondents (65.1%) choose energy drinks because of their taste. The promotion of energy drinks by celebrities encouraged only 7% of high school students to choose this type of drink.Conclusions: High school students are not aware of the composition of energy drinks. The main reason for reaching for these types of drinks are their taste, and the effects resulting from the action of caffeine and taurine go down the line. Both advertising and current trends in drinking energy drinks do not prove to be decisive when reaching for this type of stimulant. Teenagers are aware of the possibility of becoming addicted to energy drinks.

Volleyball is one of the most popular sports around the world. Due to its non-contact nature, it is considered as one of the safer team sports. The specificity of contusions in volleyball players is related to the type of performed and repeated movement patterns. The aim of the study was to describe the issue of injuries among volleyball players - most common anatomical locations, mechanisms, risk factors, methods of prevention. The article was created on the basis of a literature review. The most common type of injury found in volleyball players is ankle sprain. Overuse injuries most often affect the knees and shoulders. Blocking and spiking are elements of the volleyball game most closely related to contusions. Risk factors include position / role on the court, history of previous injuries and adaptive changes in the musculoskeletal system. The basic form of prevention is education regarding the development of an appropriate game technique and correct movement patterns. An important part of the training of volleyball players should be adequate warm-up, mobilization exercises and stretching. Further research should focus on understanding more precisely and describing the etiology of injuries. This could translate into the development of specific prophylaxis in the future, especially in relation to the areas of the body of volleyball players most affected by contusions. The effectiveness of injury prevention methods should be tested by carrying out large and well-designed scientific studies to provide data with high evidence strength.

Cervical carcinoma remains a significant health problem, despite the progressive fall in the mortality rate during the past 60 years. However, cervical carcinoma is still the most common cancer among women worldwide and the leading cancer cause of death in many countries. The primary strategy to reduce the incidence and death rate from cervical carcinoma is screening by cervical cytology. The knowledge that persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the main cause of cervical cancer has resulted in the development of prophylactic vaccines to prevent HPV infection and HPV assays that detect nucleic acids of the virus. This study is a review of currently available methods of prevention and early detection of cervical cancer.

Vegetarian and vegan diets are becoming more and more popular. Vegetarianism is a diet that eliminates all kinds of meat from the diet, including poultry, fish and seafood. Vegans give up on eating not only meat, but also other products of animal origin, the production of which is associated with the exploitation of animals, such as: dairy products (including eggs) and honey. It is not only a diet, but above all a lifestyle that includes many aspects such as not using cosmetics or buying clothes made of animal raw materials, not participating in entertainment in which animals are used. A vegan diet should be properly balanced, because people using it are more likely to be deficient in vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. The effect of a vegan diet on the growth of muscle mass in athletes, including bodybuilders, has also been observed. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of a vegan diet on the results achieved in body sports and to compare this information with non-vegan diets. The work is illustrative. The article is based on a review of the current literature available in the PubMed database, information and research from the Internet and documentary programs.

Introduction: Electric smoking devices called e-cigarettes are gaining more and more popularity nowadays and vaping is becoming more and more fashionable. However their use contributes to the emergence of new health problems like lipoid pneumonia associated with vaporization.Purpose: The purpose of the work is to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of e-cigarettes and to assess the risk of their use compared to traditional forms of smoking.Method: The article is a review of recent publicatopns available in the PubMed database. It was searched on January 20th 2020 with key words ‘e-cigarettes’, ‘vaping’, ‘health problems’. After analyzing several dozen abstracts, 18 full-text publications were selected for review.Summary: In conclusion: vaping carries the risk of thermal injury and chemical burns caused by damage of the device, it leads to an increase in the number of vaping- addicted youth, and can also cause shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, hemoptysis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, chills, weight loss, fatigue , malaise, headache, fever, tachycardia, tachypnoe, hypoxemia, low white blood cel count, lipoid pneumonia and pneumothorax in users.

Introduction and purpose: The purpose od this study is to describe influence of participating in sporting activities on health of the bones. Osteoporosis is a disease of elderly people in which bone mineral density lowers. Physical activity was reported to increase bone mineral density. A brief description of the state of knowledge: Better physical performance is a positive factor that lowers the possibility of fracturing the bones of the elderly. Another factor that plays protective role is lean body mass and development of muscles. Training in young age can help to increase the bone mineral density, but the effect ceases with the passing of time, being much lower after decades. Multiple genes have impact on bone mineral density of the individual. Professional athletes have usually higher bone mineral density, but accumulation of microdamage in their bones can result in stress fractures. Training in elderly age is proven to increase bone mineral density of an individual, especially performing weight-bearing sports. Conclusions: Physical activity has been proven to positively affect health in many ways. One of them is strengthening the bones by increasing bone mineral density. As it increases, the possibility to break the bone lowers, which makes it an effective way to support the fight against the osteoporosis. It is especially important for women, who are more susceptible to osteoporotic fractures in post-menopausal age.

Introduction The autoimmune / inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA) has been described by Shoenfeld and Agon-Levin (in 2011). It is an autoimmune / auto-inflammatory disease caused by adjuvants. Adjuvants are substances able to induce autoimmunity via various mechanisms such as a change in the host immune system, polyclonal activation of B cells, effects on cellular immunity, immunoregulatory cells, antibodies induced by viruses or acceleration of molecular mimicry. The aim The purpose of the work was to congregate information about ASIA useful in medical practice. State of knowledge The ASIA syndrome can be diagnosed when two main or one main and two smaller criteria are fulfil. The main criteria: External stimulus exposure Muscle pains, muscle inflammation or muscle weakness Arthralgia and / or arthritis Chronic fatigue, sleep without rest or sleep disorder Neurological symptoms Impaired cognitive function, memory loss Fever, dry mouth Removal of the inducing factor induces an improvement Result of organ biopsy Smaller criteria: Other clinical signs (irritable bowel syndrome) Presence of HLA antigens (ie HLA DRB1, HLA DQB1) Development of autoimmune disease (multiple sclerosis, systemic sclerosis). Asia syndrome may occur after implantation of silicone breast implants and cause various complications of other pain, fever and skin changes. Conclusion Autoimmune / auto-inflammatory disorders can be caused by silicone implants and vaccine adjuvants: they include the presence of autoantibodies, muscle and joint pain, lupus-like symptoms and hardened-like symptoms.

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the mammary gland in males. Nowadays it is a common disorder of all ages, including newborns, adolescents and adults. It may be bilateral or unilateral enlargement of the breast. Gynecomastia may be a severe problem in adolescents resulting in development of psychological disorders. Evolution of surgical treatment options, depending on the degree of breast hypertrophy advancement, brought significant improvement in aesthetic effect and patient’s quality of life. This paper presents the development of pharmaceutical and surgical treatment technics. The manuscript proposes the optimal methods of clinical approach to the patients with an enlargement of the breast.

Introduction The autoimmune / inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA) has been described by Shoenfeld and Agon-Levin (in 2011). It is an autoimmune / auto-inflammatory disease caused by adjuvants. Adjuvants are substances able to induce autoimmunity via various mechanisms such as a change in the host immune system, polyclonal activation of B cells, effects on cellular immunity, immunoregulatory cells, antibodies induced by viruses or acceleration of molecular mimicry. The aim The purpose of the work was to congregate information about ASIA useful in medical practice. State of knowledge The ASIA syndrome can be diagnosed when two main or one main and two smaller criteria are fulfil. The main criteria: External stimulus exposure Muscle pains, muscle inflammation or muscle weakness Arthralgia and / or arthritis Chronic fatigue, sleep without rest or sleep disorder Neurological symptoms Impaired cognitive function, memory loss Fever, dry mouth Removal of the inducing factor induces an improvement Result of organ biopsy Smaller criteria: Other clinical signs (irritable bowel syndrome) Presence of HLA antigens (ie HLA DRB1, HLA DQB1) Development of autoimmune disease (multiple sclerosis, systemic sclerosis). Asia syndrome may occur after implantation of silicone breast implants and cause various complications of other pain, fever and skin changes. Conclusion Autoimmune / auto-inflammatory disorders can be caused by silicone implants and vaccine adjuvants: they include the presence of autoantibodies, muscle and joint pain, lupus-like symptoms and hardened-like symptoms.

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the mammary gland in males. Nowadays it is a common disorder of all ages, including newborns, adolescents and adults. It may be bilateral or unilateral enlargement of the breast. Gynecomastia may be a severe problem in adolescents resulting in development of psychological disorders. Evolution of surgical treatment options, depending on the degree of breast hypertrophy advancement, brought significant improvement in aesthetic effect and patient’s quality of life. This paper presents the development of pharmaceutical and surgical treatment technics. The manuscript proposes the optimal methods of clinical approach to the patients with an enlargement of the breast.

Analysis of Semantic Changes on the Example of the Word kwiat [‘flower’] The article is mainly concerned with issues related to semantic changes in the Polish language. The lexeme kwiat (eng. flower) have been described based on material from historical and modern Polish dictionaries. The word kwiat has been in the Polish language since the 15th century, initially meaning ‘colored stain’. The first definition transformed into a botanical meaning (kwiat as a plant or part of a plant). The pre-Slavic botanical meaning of the word *cvětъ gave rise to the next definitions, which have formed over the years. Kwiat means among others: ‘best thing’, ‘best part of something’, ‘youth’, ‘purity, innocence’, ‘menstruation’, ‘pustules’. However, not all of these meanings have endured to the present time. Nowadays, the potted plant is called kwiat. Key words: semantics, semantics transformations, historical dictionaries, the history of Polish language