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The flora of Adjara (Southern Colchis) is characterized by high biodiversity, a significant proportion of endemism, and unique forest ecosystems. Our study aimed to analyze the biologically active compounds in leaves of five Adjara-Lazeti endemic species: Astragalus sommieri, Quercus petraea subsp. Dshorochensis, Amaracus rotundifolius, Rhododendron smirnovii, and Rhododendron ungernii. Methanolic leaf extracts were prepared and analyzed using GC-MS to identify bioactive constituents. Antimicrobial (specifically fungicidal) activity was evaluated in vitro against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Alternaria alternata, and Fusarium solani using the agar well diffusion method. Cytotoxicity was assessed on human lung carcinoma (A-549) and normal skin fibroblasts (WS-1) using resazurin and Hoechst assays. For GC-MS analysis and cytotoxicity assays, methanolic extracts were prepared, the aqueous and 40% ethanolic extracts were used exclusively for antifungal activity evaluation. GC-MS analyses revealed a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, sterols, etc. Rhododendron ungernii extract exhibited the highest selective cytotoxicity against A-549 cells (IC₅₀=12.4±0.5 µg/ml; SI=9.68). Strong antifungal activity was observed in R. ungernii, Astragalus sommieri, and R. smirnovii extracts. These results suggest the potential of these endemic species as sources of selective anticancer and antimicrobial agents. All experiments were performed in triplicate. Results are expressed as mean±standard deviation (SD). Statistical analysis was carried out using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Differences were considered statistically significant at p<0.05.

Introduction: The study examined the ontogenetic psychological mechanisms underlying the development of addictive behavior among young people in modern Ukraine. It aimed to identify how early-life experiences, personality traits, and sociocultural conditions contribute to addictive tendencies and behavioral patterns.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among pre-undergraduate students of Sumy State University. A structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, substance use, and psychosocial variables was administered. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests at a significance level of p=0.005.

Results: The response rate was 86%. Men exhibited significantly higher rates of substance use and addiction than women (p<0.0001). Cannabis was the most frequently consumed substance (13%), followed by psychotropic drugs (3.8%). The average age of first use was 15 years. Early-life experiences, such as family environment and peer influence, were key predictors of addiction risk. A higher proportion of respondents with addictive behavior were occasional rather than constant users (32.9% vs. 20%).

Conclusions: The findings revealed that male gender and adverse early-life environments were major determinants of addictive behavior. The results emphasized the need for early preventive interventions, psycho-educational programs in schools and universities, and community awareness campaigns focusing on the socio-economic consequences of addiction.

Objective: An incisional hernia is a common postoperative complication following abdominal surgery, influenced by various contributing factors, including the patient's comorbidities and the surgical technique used. The role of perioperative anemia in the development of incisional hernia remains insufficiently studied. The aim of the study is to determine the role of anemia in the manifestation of incisional hernia.

Materials and methods: The study included patients who underwent either elective or emergency abdominal surgery. Postoperative follow-up lasted for 18 months. The patients were classified into two groups: those with anemia (preoperative or within the early postoperative period) and those without anemia. The primary outcome of the study was the development of incisional hernia during the follow-up observation period, while the secondary outcomes included wound complications and recurrence.

Results: The incidence Incisional hernia was significantly higher in the anemic group compared to the non-anemic group: 39.2% vs. 8.1% respectively Surgical site infection significantly more frequent in the anemia group - 10 (12.66%) vs. 4 (1.91%); p=0.008). Wound dehiscence was also statistically significantly higher among anemic patients - 4 (5.06%) vs. 2 (0.96%), p=0.030. The mean length of hospital stay was significantly longer in the anemia group (6+1.2 vs. 4+0.9 days, p<0.0001). Anemia - OR=6.804(95% CI:3.249-14.249), duration of surgery - OR=1.045(95% I:1.009-1.082), and female gender OR=3.054(95% CI:1.434-6.504) increased the risk of developing postoperative hernia.

Conclusions:  Anemia, whether present preoperatively or within the first 72 hours after the surgery, significantly increases risks of incisional hernia following abdominal surgery (OR=3.054(95% CI:1.434-6.504).  Early identification and correction of anemia may serve as a preventive strategy for surgical patients at risk of developing incisional hernia.

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have become an important vertebrate model in modern biomedical research due to their genetic similarity to humans, rapid embryonic development, and suitability for in vivo experimentation. Their optical transparency, high fecundity, and ease of genetic manipulation allow detailed investigation of developmental processes, disease mechanisms, and pharmacological effects. This review summarizes current applications of zebrafish in preclinical research, including toxicology, neurobiology, oncology, regenerative medicine, infectious diseases, and drug discovery. Zebrafish models enable efficient screening of therapeutic compounds, real-time observation of pathological processes, and analysis of molecular pathways involved in tissue regeneration and disease progression. Although certain physiological differences limit direct clinical translation, zebrafish provide a cost-effective and ethically advantageous platform that complements mammalian models. Their continued use significantly contributes to accelerating biomedical research and improving the early stages of translational medicine.

Background: Environmental exposures are increasingly linked to reproductive dysfunctions such as endometriosis, ovarian insufficiency, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Through endocrine disruption, oxidative stress, and epigenetic pathways, heavy metals (such as cadmium [Cd], lead [Pb], mercury [Hg], and arsenic [As]) and trace elements (such as zinc [Zn], copper [Cu], and selenium [Se]) may affect female fertility. Nevertheless, there are still few integrated assessments that address their combined consequences. The goal is to perform a critical evaluation and systematic analysis of epidemiological data about the link between reproductive health issues in women of reproductive age and exposure to heavy metals and trace elements.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science to locate articles published between 2010 and 2024. Included were observational human studies that looked at correlations between metal exposure and the reproductive results of females. The study's quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and the review process adhered to PRISMA guidelines.

Findings: A total of twenty-three studies were included in the review: eleven case-control studies, eight cross-sectional studies, three cohort studies, and one analytical study. Cd, Pb, As, Hg, Cu, and Zn were the most frequently evaluated elements; these were usually detected in biological samples such blood, serum, or follicular fluid. While low Zn and Se levels were linked to endometrial diseases and a reduced ovarian reserve, elevated levels of Cd, Pb, and As were linked to an increased risk of PCOS and endometriosis. Inflammation and endocrine dysregulation were inversely correlated with protective trace elements, especially zinc and selenium. 17 studies had a high-quality rating (NOS score ≥7).

Conclusions: One important and controllable risk factor for the reproductive health of women is exposure to hazardous metals. It seems that preserving reproductive function depends on striking a balance between harmful and necessary components. To elucidate dose-response connections, synergistic effects, and possible therapeutic options, further prospective and mechanistic research is required.

Background: The potential of virtual reality (VR) in medical education in Kazakhstan proved substantial, offering innovative learning methods and creating secure, interactive training environments that facilitated the acquisition of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Material and methods: This study aimed to evaluate the application and effectiveness of virtual reality in medical education through a survey conducted with 53 students and 20 teachers. To assess the perceptions and satisfaction with VR in medical education, a survey was conducted utilizing a scale from 1 to 10.

Results: Findings from the survey revealed that students perceived significant advantages in using virtual reality to grasp complex medical concepts and hone clinical skills. They appreciated the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in practice, the availability of high-quality content across various disciplines, and the safe learning conditions provided.

Conclusion: Teachers recognized virtual reality as a valuable educational tool but highlighted some challenges, including insufficient training and limited access to equipment. Addressing these obstacles is crucial for the successful integration of virtual reality into training programs, thereby unlocking its full potential and enhancing educational outcomes.

Objective: To investigate the role of hypercorticism in the pathogenesis of acute radiation sickness (ARS) and under conditions of increased radioresistance, assessing the theoretical and clinical significance of impaired protein-steroid interactions.

Materials and methods: An analysis was conducted of experimental data from irradiated animal models: chinchilla rabbits (n=20), dogs (n=15), WISTAR rats (n=63), guinea pigs (n=49), and BALB/c mice (n=32). Some animals underwent adrenal autotransplantation. Fluorometric and gel filtration methods were used to assess protein-steroid interactions; total-body γ-irradiation was administered at doses inducing grade IV ARS. Data were statistically processed using Student's t-test.

Results: A biphasic adrenocortical response to radiation was observed in most species, whereas rabbits exhibited a monophasic decline in corticosteroid levels. During the peak of ARS, impaired corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) function led to increased levels of free, biologically active corticoids, even with normal or reduced total 11-oxycorticosteroids. A consistent radiobiological pattern was established: an increase in the free hormone fraction due to diminished CBG binding capacity. Adrenal autotransplantation prior to irradiation reduced corticoid levels, enhanced CBG binding capacity during ARS, and decreased free corticoid concentrations, resulting in a protective effect and increased radioresistance.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the critical role of corticosteroid regulation and CBG functional status in the body's response to radiation exposure. Modulation of adrenal activity and correction of protein-steroid interactions may be considered a promising strategy for enhancing radioresistance.

Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a significant medical problem worldwide and the cause of many complications for the mother and the foetus, in terms of pregnancy management and outcome. Early assessment of the risk of diabetes in pregnant women with hyperglycaemia is particularly important, as it allows timely preventive measures to help avoid potential complications Aim: Our aim was to identify microRNAs that could enable the assessment of diabetes risk in pregnant women with hyperglycaemia.

Methods: The study analyzed the expression of the following microRNAs: miR-132, miR-29a, miR-222, miR-93and miR-17-5p, from the blood samples of pregnant women with hyperglycaemia, with gestational diabetes mellitus, with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and healthy pregnant between 24 and 28 weeks of their pregnancy. The miR-17-5p was used as a reference.

Results: A significant difference in the miR-222 and miR-29a expression level was found in plasma samples. Compared to the control group Among pregnant patients with hyperglycaemia miR-222 and miR-29a in some sample exhibit increased levels while others show reduced levels-suggesting its potential for subgroup differentiation within this population. MiR-93 remains uniformly low in in Diabetes, GDM, Hyperglycaemia groups compared to the control group. A significant difference in the miR-93 expression level was found in plasma samples. miR-132 is also upregulated in GDM and diabetic patients, with the highest levels observed in the diabetic group, compared to the control group. In contrast, its expression fluctuates among pregnant women with hyperglycaemia.

Conclusion: The wide variability in the expression levels of miR-29a, miR-222 and miR-132 suggests that they may serve as useful predictive biomarkers for evaluating diabetes risk in hyperglycemic pregnant women. Further studies involving longitudinal follow-up of hyperglycaemic pregnant women are needed to determine the predictive value of these microRNAs.

Introduction: The study of acute toxicity is considered an integral part of any medical substance's preclinical evaluation. Changes in the psycho-emotional state are among the important indicators of the neurotoxic effects of various substances on animals and humans. Non-conflict methods of research are gaining increasing popularity as the most humane approaches with respect to animals, among which methods based on ethological approaches play a central role.

Materials and methods: A nanocellulose-based biocomposite was used as the implantable material. The study was conducted on 25 rats and included the formation of a defect in the mid-diaphysis of the femur followed by filling with either the biocomposite (10) or an autologous blood clot (10). Additionally, implantation into soft tissues was performed (5). The animals were observed for 14 days, during which clinical symptoms were assessed and open field and elevated plus maze tests were conducted.

Results: The nanocellulose-based biocomposite did not exhibit pyrogenic activity when implanted into bone and soft tissues. Assessment of several behavioral acts and states revealed no statistically significant differences in locomotor and exploratory activity between the experimental and control groups. The analysis of the indicators shows that the tested substance does not exert an acute toxic effect on the nervous system.

Background: The development of e-pharmacies has significantly expanded public access to pharmaceutical products. At the same time, the rapid growth of e-commerce, the globalization of digital services and the expansion of cross-border trade in medicines have created new risks for consumers. These include violations of the conditions of storage and transportation of medicines, distribution of low-quality or counterfeit products, increased cases of self-medication, uncontrolled or illegal interference by third parties in the delivery process, etc. Aim: The purpose of the study is to analyze legal challenges and improve consumer protection mechanisms in the field of electronic commerce of medicines at the national and international levels.

Materials and methods: The study applies an interdisciplinary approach combining doctrinal legal analysis, comparative legal methodology, and empirical review of international regulatory practices. Legal acts, WHO and EU documents, FDA guidelines, and statistical data were examined to identify best practices for consumer protection in the field of e-commerce in medicines.

Results: The results of the study indicate that the legal regulation of relations in the field of electronic pharmaceutical services in the legislations of many countries is insufficient. It is emphasized that fragmented legal regulation, lack of harmonized international standards and insufficient supervision in the field of medicines circulation pose a significant threat to the health, safety and privacy of consumers.

Conclusions: It is concluded that effective consumer protection of digital services requires strengthening of regulatory requirements for e-commerce in medicines, in particular, introduction of clear rules for registration and licensing of online pharmacies, regulation of creation of relevant web resources, protection of personal data of consumers, etc. The author proposes a set of legal and institutional measures aimed at ensuring effective protection of the rights of consumers using the services of online pharmacies.