Dysbiosis has been identified in many dermatological conditions (e.g., psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, systemic lupus erythematosus). One of the ways by which the microbiota affect homeostasis is through microbiota-derived molecules (metabolites). There are three main groups of metabolites: short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), tryptophan metabolites, and amine derivatives including trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). Each group has its own uptake and specific receptors through which these metabolites can exert their systemic function. This review provides up-to-date knowledge about the impact that these groups of gut microbiota metabolites may have in dermatological conditions. Special attention is paid to the effect of microbial metabolites on the immune system, including changes in the profile of the immune cells and cytokine disbalance, which are characteristic of several dermatological diseases, especially psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Targeting the production of microbiota metabolites may serve as a novel therapeutic approach in several immune-mediated dermatological diseases.

Animals have been valued and used to improve human physical and mental health since ancient times. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a complementary approach to traditional medicine, involving trained animals. AAT can enhance cognition, commitment, character growth, and the learning process. Commonly used species in animal-assisted therapy include cats, dogs, horses, dolphins, and others. Feline-assisted therapy alleviates loneliness and stress, whereas canine-assisted therapy positively impacts emotions and overall well-being. Equine-assisted interventions benefit individuals with cognitive and motor disabilities. Dolphin-assisted therapy shows promise for conditions like autism and cerebral palsy. However, ethical concerns have arisen, particularly in children with behavioral disorders. Safety measures, adult supervision, and proper screening and hygiene practices are crucial in AAT programs. In conclusion, AAIs have a significant potential to enhance well-being and mental health across various contexts, but more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and safety in different settings and age groups. The existing literature consists of subjective accounts and inadequate methodologies.

Physiological adaptation of the eye to the visual perception of near objects consists of the “near triad”: convergence, accommodation, and pupil miosis. Normally, these tend to revert when one stops fixating on a near object. Spasm of the near reflex (SNR) is a pathological phenomenon, which manifests itself by the persistence of the above-mentioned adjustments, which prevents the eye from returning to its relaxed state. In this narrative review, we aim to summarize the etiology, diagnostics, treatment, and prevention of SNR. The literature review was performed by searching online databases. The clinical presentation of SNR is diverse; it presents as isolated accommodative spasm more frequently than impairment of all three components of the near triad. Patients usually present with fluctuations in visual acuity, blurred vision, diplopia, and asthenopia. The etiology is not fully understood. Potential causes include neuroanatomic, organic, and psychogenic disorders. The diagnosis is clinical, based on the constellation of symptoms and assessment of the near triad. The diagnostic golden standard is a cycloplegic examination of refraction, preferably using cyclopentolate hydrochloride (1%, 0.5%, or 0.1% solution). The first-line treatment requires the administration of a cycloplegic drug in combination with plus lenses, flipper lenses, optical fogging, or miotics. For secondary cases, causal treatment should be implemented. Prevention of SNR should be based on eliminating modifiable risk factors. We propose including screening for SNR symptoms in every ophthalmic examination, especially among patients with psychogenic or neural disorders, after brain trauma, or young adults spending much time in front of computer screens.

Introduction and aim. Recently, an increased use of video display terminals has been observed in workplace environments, as a result of the evolution of communication technologies and new information-sharing strategies. It has led to an increased prevalence of computer-related ocular disorders, such as computer vision syndrome, dry eye disease, refractive errors and con vergence insufficiency. In this review we describe problems associated with these disorders and propose preventive methods. Material and methods. With the use of specific keywords, the databases of the PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant original papers. Analysis of the literature. The listed disorders might have similar symptoms, such as eye burning, itching, blurred vision, and tearing, and their severity correlates with the time of exposure to video display units. However, there are preventive measures, which can help in decreasing the negative effects of computers on our vision, such as adequate viewing distance, proper work space lighting, eyeglasses with anti-glare coating, taking 5-minutes breaks after every 30 minutes, or following the 20-20-20 rule. Conclusion. Prolonged usage of the video display terminals is connected to many ocular disorders, and in today’s world, it is very important to remember actions that can be undertaken to minimize the risk.

Insulin resistance is a growing concern worldwide, affecting millions of people and increasing the risk of various metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and fatty liver disease. This paper aims to display the symptoms of insulin resistance and the importance of early detection through various diagnostic tests such as fasting insulin levels, oral glucose tolerance tests, and HOMA-IR scores. Despite the high prevalence of insulin resistance, there is currently no known cure for this condition as it is not a disease in itself. However, lifestyle modifications, including exercise and dietary changes, can effectively manage and prevent the progression of insulin resistance and its associated complications. This study emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about insulin resistance and its adverse effects on individuals' health and the healthcare system's burden. Early detection and management of insulin resistance can significantly reduce the risk of developing metabolic disorders and prevent serious health complications.

Introduction and aim. Blue light is part of the natural light spectrum and plays a role in regulating the circadian rhythm. However, with the increasing use of electronic devices and energy-efficient lighting emitting high levels of artificial blue light, concerns are raised regarding its potential effect on human health. Blue-blocking filters have been developed and are adver tised as a solution to be used in spectacles or intraocular lenses. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the use of blue-blocking filters based on the results of clinical trials. Material and methods. This review included relevant original papers reporting on clinical trial results from PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases using specified keywords. Analysis of the literature. Trials conducted with patients reveal mixed results, with some showing no significant changes in vision and reading abilities, while others indicating potential limitations such as reduced contrast vision. However, blue-blocking filters have demonstrated potential benefits in improving sleep quality and mood, particularly in patients with sleep disturbances or psychiatric disorders. The efficacy of blue-blocking filters in mitigating symptoms of digital eye strain remains inconclusive. Conclusion. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive assessment of the benefits and limitations associated with the use of blue-blocking filters, highlighting the need for further investigation in certain areas.