Scoliosis occurs in about 0.2–0.6% of the general population. In the majority of cases the cause of this entity remains mostly unidentified. The search for the causes covers almost all aspects of its possible origin. We collected and systematised the contemporary theories and concepts concerning the aetiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Genetic and hereditary factors are commonly accepted as possible causes; however, the identification of the single gene responsible for the development of this condition seems impossible, which suggests multifactorial mechanism of its formation. Dysfunctions of the nervous system are recognised risks related to the development of scoliosis, but they are classified as belonging to a separate aetiological category. Scoliosis develops at the quickest rate during the child’s growth spurt, which prompted the research on the role of the growth hormone in scoliosis aetiology. Melatonin is another hormone that is studied as a possible factor involved in development of this entity. In cases of progressive scoliosis, increased activity of calmodulin—a protein that regulates the levels of calcium ions—has been observed. The scientists have characterised numerous qualitative and quantitative changes in the composition of the tissue of intervertebral discs, spinal ligaments and paraspinal muscles. Some of the theories, explaining the nature of this entity, presented in this review seem to have only a purely theoretical value; their proliferation only confirms the fact that the actual nature of this condition has not been unveiled yet, and suggests its multifactorial aetiology.

Isoflavones are found in numerous plant species within the Leguminosae family; however, soy isoflavones are particularly significant in practice and have been extensively studied in recent years. The health-promoting potential of orally administered soy isoflavones is widely documented in the scientific literature, and many review articles have been developed to highlight their significance. However, it should be noted that soy-isoflavone-rich extracts and isolated soy isoflavones, such as genistein and daidzein, are also often applied topically as ingredients in many formulations, including face creams, tonics, and emulsions. New delivery systems are continuously being developed to enhance the skin permeability of isoflavones, thus improving their efficacy. In this context, their direct activity on skin cells is an important aspect of scientific research. The anti-inflammatory, protective, and antioxidant properties of isoflavones and soy extracts make them promising cosmetic ingredients with anti-aging potential because inflammation and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can lead to structural and functional changes in skin cells, accelerating the aging process. This review provides an overview of research on the impact of the application of soy isoflavone extract and soy-derived isoflavones on skin cells, with a focus on the documented molecular mechanisms underlying their effects. This study aims to offer essential insights to aid in the development of functional cosmetics and future clinical applications.

This comprehensive review focuses on Eleutherococcus senticosus (ES), examining the phytochemical composition, traditional medicinal roles, ecological traits, and pharmacological effects. Native to Northeast Asia, ES is used in traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese medicine. The rhizomes and bark are utilized medicinally and valued for their adaptogenic properties that enhance stress resistance, boost mental and physical endurance, and exhibit immunostimulatory effects that strengthen the immune system. Its pharmacological potential stems from a variety of bioactive compounds, including eleutherosides, lignans, saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to health benefits such as neuroprotective, antidiabetic, anticancer, and antioxidative activities. Neuroprotective properties may aid in the management of neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, while antidiabetic effects support glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity. With increasing demands and conservation concerns, sustainable cultivation practices are essential, as ES is endangered in some areas. Plant biotechnology techniques offer solutions to enhance secondary metabolite yields while ensuring genetic stability and minimizing environmental impacts. ES is a promising natural resource for various industries because of its extensive benefits. Still, its conservation and sustainable production are critical and require ongoing research and innovative cultivation strategies.

[b]Abstract [/b] [b]Objectiv[/b]. To evaluate the efficacy of subthreshold micropulse yellow (577 nm) laser photocoagulation in diffuse macular edema (DME) in rural and urban patients of south-eastern Poland.[b] Materials and method[/b]. Seventy-five eyes of 75 patients with diffuse DME were...

SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2) is a coronavirus that causes COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) with mild to severe respiratory illness. It is a highly contagious disease transmitted through direct or indirect contact with infected people or contaminated surfaces, mainly through respiratory droplets, but other routes are being investigated. It is known that coronaviruses (CoVs) can cause a variety of ocular pathologies in animals, including conjunctivitis, anterior uveitis, retinitis, and optic neuritis, many of which are severe. However, there is no evidence of the SARS-CoV-2 presence in the eye tissue of asymptomatic patients, even if the symptomatic incidence is low. This systematic review presents updated literature on this issue. COVID-19 has now spread throughout the continents and poses a global threat to public health. The risk of rapidly overloading health care systems and causing substantial mortality worldwide is real. On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced coronavirus as a global pandemic. Several studies described a few cases with initial ocular symptoms followed by systemic symptoms of the disease. Although the frequency of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection through the eye is low, ocular symptoms are not uncommon in COVID-19. In some cases, eye symptoms may be the first signs of illness. This implies the need for hygienic recommendations and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical staff and other services to minimize COVID-19 infection of both health-care workers and patients. A triage for ophthalmic outpatient clinic is mandatory.

(1) Background: Myopia is one of the leading causes of visual impairment. Visual work and usage of electronic devices are known risk factors of myopia. Many education systems were forced to apply online and hybrid teaching methods, to reduce the number of new cases of COVID-19. Medical students are a population well-known for intense visual work in the form of learning; (2) Methods: Visual acuity and refractive error were measured in the population of medical students. Participants also filled out the survey that included their population characteristic and their habits related to the hygiene of vision; (3) Results: We found a correlation between the age of the first diagnosis of myopia and current values of refractive error. The majority of participants believe that the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the health of their vision. Among methods of studying, usage of the computer screen was less preferred by myopic students; (4) Conclusions: In the population of medical school students in Eastern Poland, visual acuity was lower than 1.0 in 232 (52.97%) in the right eye and 234 (53.42%) in the left eye. Early recognition of refractive error has influenced its current values. Among methods of studying, usage of the computer screen was less preferred by myopic students. More population-based studies should focus on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health of vision.