Alicja Kapciak’s scientific contributions

Introduction: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition commonly found in young women. It is associated with many possible health consequences, ranging from acne, hirsutism, and obesity to fertility problems and even the development of endometrial cancer. Treatment is tailored to the individual, depending on various complications and needs. However, it is important to note that in most cases, the first recommended step is lifestyle modification. Key components of this include a healthy diet and physical activity. These recommendations are often overlooked or undervalued, with patients frequently expecting immediate pharmacological treatment and not believing in the potential effects of lifestyle changes. Aim of Study: The purpose of this review is to explore and emphasize the crucial role of diet and physical activity in the management of women with PCOS. Material and methods: PubMed and Google Scholar databases were used for the research. Results and Conclusions: A well-balanced diet and regular physical activity play a crucial role in both the prevention and management of women with PCOS. While there are no specific diets or forms of physical activity recommended, research shows that any modifications towards eliminating unhealthy diet habits and sedentary lifestyles can significantly impact the quality of life for these women.

Caffeine is one of the most widely consumed and studied stimulants worldwide with a long history in athletics as a performance enhancer. Although listed as a stimulant in the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA’s) 2024 Monitoring Program, its use is not prohibited. Individual responses to caffeine vary widely due to factors like genetics, age, and lifestyle habits, such as smoking and diet. This paper examines caffeine's multifaced role in human metabolism, with an emphasis on athletes' training (endurance and strength) and post-exercise recovery. Our comprehensive review of literature indicates that caffeine typically ingested one hour before exercise in doses around 3-6 mg/kg raises metabolic rate, increases free fatty acids mobilization, extends time to exhaustion in running and cycling, improves maximal voluntary contraction and enhances high-speed muscular activity with low-load movements. It also blocks pain perception. These findings highlight caffeine’s role in endurance and strength sports. However, due to inconsistencies, further research is needed to develop exercise-specific protocols considering dose, timing, and training status. Caffeine aids recovery by reducing delayed - onset muscle soreness, improving glycogen resynthesis, and reducing fatigue. However, late consumption may affect sleep, requiring careful timing and dosage adjustments. Moreover, potential side and positive effects of caffeine ingestion need to be considered.

Introduction: Caffeine, a well-known stimulant, is commonly used by athletes to enhance performance across various sports, including combat sports. Its ergogenic properties, such as improved strength, endurance, and cognitive function, have been well documented in the literature. This paper explores the effects of caffeine supplementation on combat sports, specifically in disciplines such as judo, jiu-jitsu, taekwondo, and boxing. The impact of different doses of caffeine on performance in these sports is examined, along with potential risks, limitations, and considerations for its use. Aim of Study: The primary aim of this study is to analyze the effects of caffeine on performance in combat sports, considering various factors such as optimal dosage, timing, and the impact of habitual caffeine consumption. Additionally, this paper evaluates the potential adverse effects, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, and cardiovascular concerns, as well as the considerations regarding caffeine’s status as a banned substance in sports. Material and methods: A review of the literature on caffeine and its effect was performed using the PubMed database. Results and Conclusions: Caffeine supplementation consistently enhances performance in combat sports. Doses ranging from 3–6 mg/kg were found to improve strength, endurance, and reaction times across various combat sports, with higher doses being more effective for elite athletes. However, habitual caffeine consumption may diminish responsiveness to caffeine’s ergogenic effects. Caffeine’s potential adverse effects, such as anxiety, insomnia, and increased heart rate, were reported, with gender differences in sensitivity. While caffeine’s ergogenic effects are well-established, its use should be personalized, considering individual responses and training status. Furthermore, caffeine's legal status and potential interactions with other substances, such as alcohol and medications, must be considered in competitive settings.

Introduction: Sturge-Weber Syndrome is a rare neurocutaneous disorder characterized by facial port-wine birthmarks, leptomeningeal angiomatosis, and associated neurological, ophthalmological, and dermatological symptoms. The condition's variable presentation poses challenges for diagnosis, management, and long-term care. Advances in imaging, genetics, and targeted therapies are reshaping the landscape of Sturge-Weber Syndrome treatment. Aim of Study: This review aims to summarize current knowledge on the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, differential diagnoses, and treatment options for Sturge-Weber Syndrome, with a focus on the management of neurological, ophthalmological, and dermatological symptoms. Material and methods: A comprehensive review of the literature on Sturge-Weber Syndrome was performed using the PubMed database. Results and Conclusions: Sturge-Weber Syndrome is a complex disorder requiring a multidisciplinary approach to management. Neurological complications, particularly epilepsy, are a major concern, often necessitating pharmacological or surgical interventions. Ophthalmological issues, especially glaucoma, pose challenges across all age groups, with tailored treatments offering varying success. Dermatological symptoms, such as port-wine stains, benefit significantly from early pulsed dye laser therapy, often enhanced by adjunctive treatments like topical rapamycin. Emerging therapies, including sirolimus and aspirin, show promise in reducing complications. Advances in imaging techniques and targeted treatments offer hope for improved management, while lifelong monitoring remains essential. Further research into the pathophysiology and therapies for Sturge-Weber Syndrome is critical to developing personalized and effective treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

IntroductionDermatitis herpetiformis is a chronic autoimmune blistering disease characterized by intensely pruritic,symmetrically distributed skin lesions and an association with gluten-sensitive enteropathy. Despite advances indiagnostic methods, delayed diagnosis remains a challenge due to its overlapping features with other dermatoses.Aim of StudyThis study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the diagnostic methods, associated conditions, anddifferential diagnosis of dermatitis herpetiformis, focusing on recent advancements in serological,histopathological, and immunological testing.Material and methodsA comprehensive review of the literature on dermatitis herpetiformis was performed using the PubMed database.Results and Conclusions Direct immunofluorescence remains the gold standard in diagnosing dermatitis herpetiformis, revealing granularIgA deposits in the dermal papillae. Histopathological findings are supportive but nonspecific, with early lesionsshowing subepidermal vesicles and neutrophilic infiltrates. Serological markers, including anti-TG2 and anti-TG3 antibodies, provide valuable diagnostic support but exhibit variable sensitivity. HLA-DQ2/DQ8 haplotypesare present in most dermatitis herpetiformis patients, offering high negative predictive value for exclusion.Associated autoimmune conditions, such as autoimmune thyroid disease and type 1 diabetes, are prevalent, anddermatitis herpetiformis patients face an elevated risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma within the first five years afterdiagnosis. The diagnosis of dermatitis herpetiformis relies on a combination of direct immunofluorescence,serological testing, and clinical features. Increased awareness of dermatitis herpetiformis and its associatedconditions is critical for timely diagnosis and management. Advances in immunological and genetic testing mayfurther refine diagnostic accuracy, while screening for associated autoimmune disorders and malignanciesremains an integral part of patient care.

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in human health, including mental health. Depression and anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses in the population. This review examines recent PubMed literature to evaluate the microbiota's impact on these conditions and potential therapeutic strategies. Gut microbiota affects depression and anxiety through neural, endocrine, and immune-inflammatory mechanisms, involving factors such as BDNF, elevated cortisol during dysbiosis, bacterial endotoxins, and cytokines. Conditions like leaky gut syndrome and SIBO are linked to the development of depression, anxiety, and other disorders, such as autism. Probiotics and prebiotics may alleviate depression by enhancing neuroplasticity, though this effect is better established in animal studies. For anxiety disorders, most studies report unfavorable alterations in gut microbiota composition among affected patients, while a few suggest a beneficial effect of probiotics. Probiotics also reduce side effects of antipsychotic drugs. Antibiotic use has been associated with increased risks of these mental conditions. Attempts have been made to use microbiota transfer therapy (MTT) as a complementary treatment, showing improvements particularly in depression and, to a lesser extent, anxiety, especially among patients recovering from COVID-19, those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and individuals with severe depression. In recent years, numerous studies have explored the impact of gut microbiota on mental health, highlighting its significant therapeutic potential as an adjunct in treating anxiety and depression. However, there remains a need for more well-designed, large-scale human studies to confirm these findings conclusively.

Introduction Dermatitis herpetiformis is a chronic autoimmune blistering disease characterized by intensely pruritic, symmetrically distributed skin lesions and an association with gluten-sensitive enteropathy. Despite advances in diagnostic methods, delayed diagnosis remains a challenge due to its overlapping features with other dermatoses. Aim of Study This study aims to provide an overview of the diagnostic methods, associated conditions, and differential diagnosis of dermatitis herpetiformis, focusing on recent advancements in serological, histopathological, and immunological testing. Material and methods A comprehensive review of the literature on dermatitis herpetiformis was performed using the PubMed database. Results and Conclusions Direct immunofluorescence remains the gold standard in diagnosing dermatitis herpetiformis, revealing granular IgA deposits in the dermal papillae. Histopathological findings are supportive but nonspecific, with early lesions showing subepidermal vesicles and neutrophilic infiltrates. Serological markers, including anti-TG2 and anti-TG3 antibodies, provide valuable diagnostic support but exhibit variable sensitivity. Associated autoimmune conditions, such as autoimmune thyroid disease and type 1 diabetes, are prevalent, and dermatitis herpetiformis patients face an elevated risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma within the first five years after diagnosis. The diagnosis of dermatitis herpetiformis relies on a combination of direct immunofluorescence, serological testing, and clinical features. Increased awareness of dermatitis herpetiformis and its associated conditions is critical for timely diagnosis and management. Advances in immunological and genetic testing may further refine diagnostic accuracy, while screening for associated autoimmune disorders and malignancies remains an integral part of patient care.

Introduction and Aim of the ReviewMagnesium and zinc are vital for cellular metabolism and maintaining homeostasis, playing a particularly significant role for athletes. Magnesium, which is largely stored in bones and muscles, is essential for protein synthesis. Zinc, a critical trace element found in muscle and bone tissue, participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions, acts as an antioxidant and making both minerals crucial for physical performance. This study aims to explore the physiological role of magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) in the context of athletic performance and to examine their impact on energy metabolism, muscle function, protein synthesis and potential benefits of Mg and Zn supplementation for improving athletic outcomes and post-exercise recovery. MethodsA comprehensive review of scientific literature was conducted through a thorough search of the PubMed database to explore the latest findings on the utility of magnesium and zinc in sports. Only articles in English were considered. Current KnowledgeThe review results indicate that Mg and Zn play critical roles in energy metabolism, muscle and immune system health. Mg deficiency can impair muscle function and reduce endurance, while its supplementation supports muscle relaxation, cardiovascular health, and respiratory efficiency. Although required in small amounts, Zn is indispensable for enzymatic activity, protein synthesis, hormonal balance, and muscle recovery, making it vital for post-exercise recovery and immune response modulation. Conclusions Available data suggest that Mg and Zn supplementation may positively influence athletic performance, energy metabolism, and recovery post-exercise, though further research is needed to establish specific supplementation guidelines. This review provides a foundation for developing supplementation strategies aimed at enhancing athletic performance and supporting healthy recovery.

IntroductionThe Mediterranean diet, inspired by traditional dietary habits of the Mediterranean region, exhibits anti-inflammatory and protective effects, reducing the risk of civilization diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. This diet is characterized by a high intake of plant-based foods, olive oil, and moderate consumption of fish and dairy products. These components provide unsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants, which positively impact metabolic health and lower the risk of chronic diseases. In the face of the global obesity epidemic and an increasing number of individuals affected by lifestyle-related diseases, the Mediterranean diet offers a promising tool to support a healthy lifestyle. Aim of study This article aims to review current scientific studies evaluating the potential of the Mediterranean diet in preventing and managing civilization diseases. Particular attention is given to its effects on weight loss, improvements in glycemic markers, reductions in low density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol levels, and blood pressure control. The article also explores its benefits for athletes' health, as well as its potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory states. Material and methods A literature review of the PubMed database was conducted, assessing relevant studies on the Mediterranean diet and its impact on lifestyle diseases.

Introduction: Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, characterized by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) that damages the optic nerve. Current treatments mainly focus on reducing IOP, but some patients do not respond adequately to conventional therapies. Cannabinoids, particularly Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), have been investigated as potential adjunctive treatments for glaucoma. Studies have shown varying effects of cannabinoids on IOP regulation, though their precise mechanisms remain unclear. Aim of Study: This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in the treatment of glaucoma by examining their effects on IOP, their mechanisms of action, and the risks and benefits associated with their use. Material and methods: A comprehensive literature review of studies on the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in glaucoma was conducted using the PubMed database. Results and Conclusions: Cannabinoids, especially Δ9-THC, have demonstrated the ability to reduce IOP in both healthy individuals and glaucoma patients. However, the effect is typically short-lived, lasting only 3-4 hours. The efficacy of cannabinoids in reducing IOP is influenced by the method of administration (oral, intravenous, inhalation) and the delivery system used for topical application. Despite some promising results, the use of cannabinoids as a mainstream glaucoma treatment is limited by factors such as the short duration of action, the potential for addiction, and the occurrence of adverse effects like tachycardia, hypotension, and cognitive impairment. Although cannabinoids offer a unique approach to glaucoma management, further research is necessary to address these limitations and determine their long-term therapeutic viability.