Introduction and purpose of research With the surge of popularity of energy drinks, a growing trend of mixing alcohol with energy drinks (AmED) has been observed, particularly among youth and young adults. This review aims to explore both the mechanism of action of this mixture as well as its short- and long-term effects. Research Materials and Methods A literature review was conducted using the PubMed database to identify studies on the health effects of alcohol mixed with energy drinks. The search included keywords such as “alcohol mixed with energy drinks”, "alcohol AND energy drinks" and "AmED AND health effects". Basic results Studies consistently report an association between AmED consumption and an increased risk of cardiovascular, mental, and kidney diseases, binge drinking and risky behaviors more frequently than those who consume alcohol alone. A common effect among AmED consumers is “false sobriety”, a phenomenon where individuals feel less intoxicated despite consuming high amounts of alcohol. However, due to the limited number of controlled human studies, the precise physiological and molecular interactions between caffeine and alcohol still remain unclear. Conclusions The ban on pre-mixed AmED products has not yet yielded satisfactory results. Therefore, governments should explore alternative measures, such as stricter regulations on marketing and sales or public awareness campaigns. This article highlights the issue of mixing alcohol with energy drinks, examining physiological effects, potential health risks, and broader societal impacts. With the growing popularity of this practice, our study emphasizes the need for continued research to guide effective prevention strategies and public health actions.

Xenoestrogens are chemicals that mimic natural estrogens and disrupt hormonal balance, posing health risks such as endocrine disruption and cancer. Recent studies have demonstrated the widespread presence of xenoestrogens in various environmental matrices, encompassing not only pesticides and industrial chemicals but also water, soil, air, and consumer products. Exposure during critical periods such as fetal development and puberty is of particular concern. Increased awareness of the effects of xenoestrogens on hormonal and reproductive health is essential to address their potential long-term health impacts. The presented paper discusses the principal sources of xenoestrogens, elucidating the endocrine mechanisms they activate, and delineating the potential risks associated with neoplastic development.To obtain up-to-date information on trends in xenoestrogens, PubMed and Google Scholar databases, along with the latest legislative reports in Europe and Poland, were reviewed. This study aimed to explore current research on the mechanisms, health impacts, environmental implications, and potential neoplastic threats related to xenoestrogens across diverse ecosystems, with a specific emphasis on their effects on human health and well-being

Hantaviruses are members of the Hantaviridae family, which can cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS). At present, no specific antiviral treatment is available for hantavirus infection, while licensed hantavirus vaccines are restricted to a limited number of countries in Asia. This review summarizes recent advances in hantavirus deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, focusing on antigen design, delivery systems, immunogenicity, safety and translational development. Peer-reviewed studies published primarily within the past 10 years were evaluated together with available hantavirus vaccine trials registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, with emphasis on Hantaan virus (HTNV), Puumala virus (PUUV) and Andes virus (ANDV). DNA vaccine candidates have demonstrated immunogenicity in preclinical and early clinical studies, with an acceptable safety profile. mRNA vaccines represent a newer approach with promising preclinical evidence of humoral and cellular immune responses. However, they have not yet been evaluated clinically. Studies have also reported the potential for varying degrees of cross-protection between hantavirus species, although protection remains limited by antigenic diversity. Overall, current evidence supports further development of nucleic acid-based hantavirus vaccines, particularly multivalent strategies, with emphasis on standardized evaluation and clinical efficacy.

Hantaviruses are members of the Hantaviridae family, which can cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS). At present, no specific antiviral treatment is available for hantavirus infection, while licensed hantavirus vaccines are restricted to a limited number of countries in Asia. This review summarizes recent advances in hantavirus DNA and messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, focusing on antigen design, delivery systems, immunogenicity, safety and translational development. Peer-reviewed studies published primarily within the past 10 years were evaluated together with available hantavirus vaccine trials registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, with emphasis on Hantaan virus (HTNV), Puumala virus (PUUV) and Andes virus (ANDV). DNA vaccine candidates have demonstrated immunogenicity in preclinical and early clinical studies, with an acceptable safety profile. mRNA vaccines represent a newer approach with promising preclinical evidence of humoral and cellular immune responses. However, they have not yet been evaluated clinically. Studies have also reported the potential for varying degrees of cross-protection between hantavirus species, although protection remains limited by antigenic diversity. Overall, current evidence supports further development of nucleic acid-based hantavirus vaccines, particularly multivalent strategies, with emphasis on standardized evaluation and clinical efficacy.

BackgroundIntermittent fasting (IF) is a dietary pattern based on alternating fasting and feeding periods. It is gaining attention for its potential effects on sleep, health, and well-being. Current evidence on these links remains limited and inconsistent. ObjectiveTo analyze and synthesize existing studies on intermittent fasting and evaluate its potential impact on sleep outcomes and overall well-being, including possible underlying mechanisms. MethodsA systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. Articles published between 2015 and 2025 were reviewed. Keywords included: circadian rhythm, intermittent fasting, sleep, quality of life. ResultsIntermittent fasting shows small but noticeable improvements in perceived well-being, including better mood, reduced inflammation, and enhanced cognitive functioning. Its effects on sleep remain modest and inconsistent: some studies report slight improvements in subjective sleep quality, while objective measures reveal minimal or no change, with occasional worsening of sleep efficiency. In terms of health, IF supports metabolic regulation by improving insulin sensitivity, glucose control, and lipid profile. ConclusionsIntermittent fasting appears to exert variable effects on sleep and well-being and also supports metabolic health and weight control. Current research is not yet sufficient to define clear clinical guidance. IF may benefit some individuals, although its safety and effectiveness vary. More long-term, well-designed studies are needed to identify protocols that provide meaningful benefits with minimal risk.

The COVID-19 pandemic has not only caused a global health crisis but has also posed significant challenges to medical waste management. The rapid increase in waste generation, including used personal protective equipment (PPE), presents a serious threat to the environment and public health. Improper waste management leads to the accumulation of nonbiodegradable plastics and increases the risk of secondary infections, particularly in developing countries where infrastructure is limited. Our review aimed to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the scale of medical waste generation, its management, and to assess the environmental and health consequences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, waste generation increased by 18-425%, intensifying pollution and associated health risks. Inadequate disposal practices, including incineration without advanced technologies, release toxic compounds, such as dioxins and heavy metals, adversely affecting air, water, and soil quality. Systemic changes, including improved waste segregation, recycling, and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies, are necessary to minimize the negative impacts of the pandemic on both the environment and public health and to prevent similar crises in the future. recycling, and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies, to minimize the negative impacts of the pandemic on both the environment and public health. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a significant challenge to public health in terms of developing new systems for medical waste management. These measures are crucial for mitigating the negative effects of the pandemic on the environment and public health and preventing similar crises in the future.