Cardiovascular diseases stand as the predominant global cause of mortality, exerting a profound impact on both life expectancy and its quality. Given their immense public health burden, extensive efforts have been dedicated to comprehending the underlying mechanisms and developing strategies for prevention and treatment. Selenium, a crucial participant in redox reactions, emerges as a notable factor in maintaining myocardial cell homeostasis and influencing the progression of cardiovascular disorders. Some disorders, such as Keshan disease, are directly linked with its environmental deficiency. Nevertheless, the precise extent of its impact on the cardiovascular system remains unclear, marked by contradictory findings in the existing literature. High selenium levels have been associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension, while lower concentrations have been linked to heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Although some trials have shown its potential effectiveness in specific groups of patients, large cohort supplementation attempts have generally yielded unsatisfactory outcomes. Consequently, there persists a significant need for further research aimed at delineating specific patient cohorts and groups of diseases that would benefit from selenium supplementation.

Cardiovascular aging is a multifactorial and systemic process that contributes significantly to the global burden of cardiovascular disease, particularly in older populations. This review explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular remodeling in age-related conditions such as hypertension, atrial fibrillation, atherosclerosis, and heart failure. Central to this process are chronic low-grade inflammation (inflammaging), oxidative stress, cellular senescence, and maladaptive extracellular matrix remodeling. These hallmarks of aging interact to impair endothelial function, promote fibrosis, and compromise cardiac and vascular integrity. Key molecular pathways—including the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system, NF-κB, NLRP3 inflammasome, IL-6, and TGF-β signaling—contribute to the transdifferentiation of vascular cells, immune dysregulation, and progressive tissue stiffening. We also highlight the role of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype and mitochondrial dysfunction in perpetuating inflammatory and fibrotic cascades. Emerging molecular therapies offer promising strategies to reverse or halt maladaptive remodeling. These include senescence-targeting agents (senolytics), Nrf2 activators, RNA-based drugs, and ECM-modulating compounds such as MMP inhibitors. Additionally, statins and anti-inflammatory biologics (e.g., IL-1β inhibitors) exhibit pleiotropic effects that extend beyond traditional risk factor control. Understanding the molecular basis of remodeling is essential for guiding future research and improving outcomes in older adults at risk of CVD.

The incidence of malignancies diagnosed during pregnancy is estimated at 1 in 1000 pregnancies, with cervical cancer being the most common gynecological malignancy in this population. The increasing maternal age and widespread use of prenatal screening contribute to the rising detection rates. Early symptoms of cervical cancer, such as vaginal bleeding or discharge, often mimic normal pregnancy changes, leading to potential delays in diagnosis. Cervical dysplasia, a known precursor of cervical cancer, is closely associated with high-risk HPV infection, which affects approximately 25% of women of reproductive age. Screening using cytology and HPV testing is considered safe and effective during pregnancy in early detection. Colposcopy remains the gold standard in further diagnostics, with targeted biopsy indicated in selected cases. In cases of high-grade lesions (CIN II/III), conservative management is often preferred, as more than 60% of lesions regress postpartum. Invasive cervical cancer diagnosed during pregnancy is rare, with an estimated incidence of 1.4–4.6 per 100,000 pregnancies. Management decisions depend on gestational age, cancer stage, and the patient’s reproductive preference. Chemotherapy can be administered after the first trimester with acceptable maternal and fetal safety profiles. This review presents current evidence on screening, diagnostic pathways, and treatment strategies. It emphasizes the importance of individualized care, multidisciplinary collaboration, and shared decision-making to optimize outcomes for both mother and fetus.

The sural nerve provides sensory innervation to the skin on the distal posterolateral third of the lower extremity. The morphological variants are characterized by high variability. However, it most commonly arises from a union of the medial sural cutaneous nerve and the peroneal communicating branch of the common fibular nerve. This article overviews the anatomical and clinical significance of the sural nerve. Despite the remarkable development of genetic diagnostics, sural nerve biopsy is still a very important tool to diagnose peripheral neuropathies such as diabetic, vascular and inflammatory neuropathies. Furthermore, the sural nerve is also commonly transplanted due to its characteristics. Such a procedure is applicable in cases of segmental nerve loss, but it is also used to restore potency in patients after radical prostatectomy. The knowledge of anatomical variants of the sural nerve is also crucial as it allows to minimize its damage during surgical procedures. Furthermore, during an ankle surgery, a nerve block can be used to complement anesthesia. The major aim of this work is to review contributions of the sural nerve to physiological and pathophysiological processes.

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of mortality, and its global reach places it as an object of interest for many researchers worldwide. Steps are being actively taken to combat this disease. Current trends focus on non-invasive prevention, specifically dietary interventions of a relatively easily accessible, modifiable therapeutic option. The most promising seems to be the MD, used in both primary and secondary prevention, as reflected in current research. The bioactive components and mechanisms of this dietary pattern confirm its validity. For now, it is at the forefront of other diets available but needs to be improved in terms of precise guidelines for its application to the individual patient.

Background and Clinical Significance: Twin pregnancies are associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations. One of them is rare but lethal—acrania—which belongs to the group of neural tube defects. The pathogenesis of acrania is not fully understood. It is presumed that the underlying mechanism of its development is a disorder of migration of mesenchymal tissue. The presence of an acrania in one of the twins may lead to complications such as polyhydramnios, preterm labor, or, in severe cases, an intrauterine death in one or both twins. Case Presentation: A 30-year-old woman (G4P4) was admitted to the Labor Department of a tertiary hospital in 30+3 weeks due to preterm labor. The patient was in a dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy with a single lethal fetal anomaly and severe polyhydramnios of a second twin. Hence, the caesarean section was immediately performed. Both twins were admitted to the Neonatology Department. The healthy neonate was hospitalized and discharged after 42 days in good condition. Palliative care for the twin with acrania was provided. Conclusions: Early detection of acrania in twin pregnancies is critical. It allows the implementation of appropriate management and targeted counseling, thereby minimizing the risk of complications both for unaffected twins and the mothers. Our case is a good model of action where a twin pregnancy with a diagnosed lethal defect in an ambulatory setting was managed, providing holistic specialized care.