Male hormonal contraception has been the focus of extensive research efforts aimed at identifying effective and reversible methods for male fertility control. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge, key achievements, and future directions in the development of male hormonal contraception. A review was conducted using the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. The search strategy included terms such as “male hormonal contraception”, “Nestorone”, “7α,11β-Dimethyl-19-nortestosterone 17β-undecanoate (DMAU)” and “11β-methyl-19-nortestosterone 17β-dodecylcarbonate (11β-MNTDC)”. A total of 107 references were analyzed to synthesize the most relevant findings regarding the hormonal contraceptive agents under investigation. The review outlines historical and recent advancements in male hormonal contraception, highlighting compounds that have demonstrated limitations in effectiveness, side effects, or inconvenient administration. Notable candidates under study include 7α-methyl-19-nortestosterone (MENT), DMAU, 11β-MNTDC, and the combination of segesterone acetate with testosterone in gel form. These agents show promise due to their ability to suppress follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), leading to effective spermatogenesis inhibition with minimal side effects. Additionally, the phenomenon of spermatogenic rebound is considered. Among the investigated agents, oral DMAU, 11β-MNTDC, and the Nestorone–testosterone gel appear to be the most promising candidates for male hormonal contraception due to their high efficacy, user-friendly administration, and favorable safety profiles. However, further large-scale clinical trials are necessary to confirm their long-term effects on human health and fertility, ensuring their viability as future contraceptive options.

Introduction Athletes commonly use ergogenic substances, ranging from natural to pharmacological agents, aiming to enhance their performance. This review analyses their risks in terms of hepatotoxicity and liver health. Materials and Methods A thorough research was conducted using the following databases: Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The keyword choice was decided based on the subject of the review beforehand. The Stage of Knowledge The review subsumes anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs), creatine, caffeine and herbal supplements. Despite strict bans, AAS and SARMs are widely abused, also among youth. Many of them display serious adverse effects, including consecutive signs of liver damage culminating in drug-induced liver injury (DILI). Moreover, SARMs present severe testosterone suppression. Overall, the safety profile of exogenous creatine is good and non-hepatoxic. The reports of serious side effects remain anecdotal. Additionally, there is a rising number of reports on the therapeutic application of creatine, also in terms of the liver. Caffeine effectively enhances endurance and glycogen recovery. Green tea, rich in catechins, minimises exercise induced muscle-damage and, by lowering AST levels and reducing oxidative stress, actively protects the liver. Both maintain a favourable safety profile. Summary Ultimately, the impact of ergogenic substances on liver health ranges from highly toxic to safe, even beneficial, within a broad spectrum. This contrast highlights the critical need for athletes to consider the severe adverse effects of any illicit and harmful substances against those proven to be both safe and effective. It is all in terms of their own well-being and the trends that later spread among people they are being looked up to.

Introduction The geriatric population is prone to micronutrient deficiencies, including vitamin C. It is found in plant food, and deficiencies can be treated with over-the-counter supplements. This work aims to expand knowledge about the beneficial effects of vitamin C on diseases in the elderly. Materials and Methods A thorough analysis has been conducted following PRISMA recommendations. The research data have been derived from scientific databases of Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. Key word choice was based on their relevance to the review subject beforehand. The Stage of Knowledge Modern science has confirmed that vitamin C is essential for health. Through advanced technology, we clearly understand how it supports collagen synthesis, reduces oxidative stress, and helps maintain strong organs and blood vessels. These properties are important for keeping organs functioning properly as the body ages. However, modern medicine does not rely on biological theory alone. We now use Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) to prove if a treatment works in real-world scenarios. Clinical trials are the most important tool we have because they separate theoretical benefits from proven results. Summary The wide range of effects of vitamin C, from supporting immunity and collagen synthesis to protecting the nervous system, is very important for maintaining the health of seniors. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, ascorbic acid delays the ageing process and supports cognitive function. Ensuring an adequate supply of this vitamin is an essential part of maintaining a good quality of life for the elderly. Regular intake of vitamin C should therefore be standard practice in the daily health care of seniors.

Introduction Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is a transient lower airway narrowing occurring during or post-vigorous physical activity. Unlike exercise-induced asthma (EIA), characterized by chronic inflammation, EIB affects both asthmatic and non-asthmatic individuals. It is the primary chronic condition in elite athletes, with prevalence reaching 70% in endurance disciplines. Untreated EIB impairs respiratory health, mental well-being, and sports performance. Materials and Methods A systematic literature search was conducted, based on the following databases: Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, in reference to PRISMA guidelines. The keyword choice was decided beforehand in relation to the subject of the review. The Stage of Knowledge EIB pathophysiology centers on the hyperosmolar theory. Intense hyperventilation causes evaporative water loss and airway cooling. This osmotic shift and rapid rewarming trigger mast cell degranulation, releasing inflammatory mediators like cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs) that cause smooth muscle contraction. Environmental factors heavily exacerbate this: cold air, low humidity, pollution, toxins, causing the disruption of epithelial barriers Summary EIB is a major health burden for athletes. Accurate diagnosis is vital to differentiate isolated EIB from chronic asthma. Effective management uses pharmacological treatments, like CysLT receptor antagonists, alongside dietary interventions, including Vitamin C, Omega-3, and gut microbiota modulation. These interventions mitigate inflammation, prevent irreversible remodeling, and optimize athletic performance.

Background Overtraining syndrome (OTS) is a multifactorial clinical condition resulting from an imbalance between training load and recovery. It affects up to 64% of male and 60% of female athletes at least once during their career and carries significant consequences for physical performance, hormonal balance, immune function, and mental health. Despite its prevalence, OTS remains poorly defined and difficult to diagnose due to the absence of a single validated biomarker and substantial overlap with other conditions common in athletic populations. Aim To review the current evidence on the pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, biomarkers, and prevention strategies related to overtraining syndrome, and to evaluate the utility of existing and emerging diagnostic frameworks. Material and methods A thorough analysis has been conducted following PRISMA recommendations. The research data have been derived from scientific databases of Embase, PubMed and Google Scholar. Key word choice was based on their relevance to the review subject beforehand. Results OTS arises from the interaction of metabolic, immunological, neuroendocrine, and autonomic dysregulation. The EROS study identified over 45 candidate biomarkers, yet none proved universally diagnostic. Multidomain assessment combining hormonal, immunological, and autonomic markers demonstrated superior diagnostic value over any single parameter. Prevention relies on integrated monitoring of training load, recovery, nutrition, sleep, and psychological well-being. Summary OTS diagnosis requires comprehensive clinical evaluation and systematic exclusion of alternative aetiologies. No pathognomonic marker exists; therefore, multiparametric frameworks remain the most reliable diagnostic approach. Early detection and prevention through multidimensional athlete monitoring constitute the most effective clinical strategy.

Sauna bathing is becoming increasingly popular nowadays. This activity is traditional to Finnish culture, as well as being widely used in other countries, especially Scandinavian ones. Today, there are different types of sauna, including, for example, the traditional Finnish sauna, Turkish Hammam and the Russian Banya. The aim of this review is to analyse the impact of sauna bathing on various health-related aspects of human life. Many studies show the positive effects of saunas on human health. Regarding the cardiovascular system, sauna bathing causes a decrease in: the risk of death from cardiovascular diseases, the risk of sudden cardiac death, blood pressure, among others. In addition, it has a beneficial effect on arterial stiffness, causes changes in cardiovascular biomarkers, and may reduce the risk of thromboembolic disease and stroke. The positive effect of sauna bathing on the respiratory system is due to the fact that sauna can reduce the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, pneumonia. In addition, sauna has a beneficial effect on the immune system through makers of inflammation. Moreover, sauna has a positive effect on the nervous system, as it reduces the risk of dementia, Alzheimer's disease and psychosis. Recent studies from 2017 indicate that sauna bathing has many health benefits and has positive effects on the cardiovascular, respiratory, immune, nervous systems. However, despite the many benefits of sauna use, one must exercise caution and follow safety precautions. More research is needed to confirm all these relationships.