Vol. 7 No. 05 (2025)

Public water fluoridation, once a celebrated preventive dentistry milestone, is increasingly being reevaluated in light of current scientific, ethical, and policy considerations. While initially justified based on data suggesting systemic benefits from ingestion, current evidence demonstrates fluoride’s primary anticaries mechanism is topical, not systemic. Simultaneously, recent studies have linked fluoride ingestion—even at levels considered safe (0.7 mg/L) by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)—to neurodevelopmental harm, endocrine disruption, and musculoskeletal risks. This article presents a review of the scientific literature addressing fluoride’s mechanisms of action, its systemic risks, and the ethical challenges posed by involuntary mass medication. Based on recent epidemiological findings, policy developments, and bioethical principles, the continued practice of public water fluoridation appears scientifically outdated and ethically untenable.

Multiseptate gallbladder is a congenital alteration in the formation of this organ, resulting in septa in the lumen of the gallbladder. Cases of patients with this condition is quite rare in the world database, which means that the amount of papers published on this subject can be hard to find and in a few numbers. These conditions usually do not lead to symptoms in which a patient can live the entire life without a diagnosis; however, some patients may present an association with another pathology, especially in the abdominal region, which leads to an evaluation of the gallbladder and diagnosis of this septa. The main ways to diagnose this condition are through imaging tests, such as ultrasonography and computed tomography, which allow the perception of the wall, volume, consistence and lumen of this organ. Therefore, the present case report presents a picture of an asymptomatic patient diagnosed with multiseptate gallbladder. In addition, a review of the literature on the similar case reports presents in databases such as PubMed is included. Applying the knowledge acquired from the literature found it’s possible to understand that this condition occurs because of an alteration on the process that forms the gallbladder and it can manifest with symptoms or it can stay asymptomatic and just be found by accident. When this condition creates symptoms, the patient may need to go through a surgical procedure, like a cholecystectomy, but its only necessary in the presence of manifestations, otherwise, the patient can live a normal life with treating this alteration.

The article considers the integration of aesthetic practices of nail care with clinical knowledge in order to avoid risks to the health of the nails by their growing popularity within the beauty industry. This paper identifies the principal issues connected with modern practices such as gel polishes, acrylic extensions, and nail art and argues for an interdisciplinary concept combining Dermatology and Aesthetics. The relevance is based on how fast the market for nail services is growing, and more complications such as onycholysis allergic reactions and infections are due to improperly performed procedures. The scientific novelty consists of a systematic analysis of aesthetic tendencies and clinical risks that lead to recommendations for safe practice. This was gleaned from analyzing eight sources comprising market reports, clinical studies, and technology reviews. The key results show that the addition of clinical knowledge to nail beauty requires; 1) the creation of strict guidelines for instrument sterilization; 2) training of practitioners in safe practices, thinking about the structure of the nail part; 3) developing composite materials with reduced toxicity (for example, acrylates). It has been found that even "soft" ways, like taking off gel polish, make microcracks if done badly. Customers need to pick licensed shops that follow clean rules and do not use fake coats in a way that stops the nail plate from getting thin. The outlook for the industry’s growth lies in dermatologists and manicurists working together to diagnose systemic diseases early based on manifestations through nail changes. This should serve the needs of podiatrists, dermatologists, nail service specialists, cosmetic product developers, and clients who want a safe mix of aesthetics and health for their nails.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a disease characterized by hyperglycemia, first detected during pregnancy, but not corresponding to the diagnostic criteria of manifest diabetes mellitus (DM). According to modern concepts, pregnancy is a "diabetogenic factor", since during gestation there is a change in hemostasis of the female body, including carbohydrate metabolism. Hyperglycemia during pregnancy is associated with the development of complications both on the part of the mother and the fetus. In addition, GDM is a risk factor for the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in the mother and offspring in the future. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 14% of pregnancies are associated with GDM, resulting in 18 million births per year. All of these children are at risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes. The increasing prevalence of this disease, the high probability of adverse pregnancy outcomes for the mother and fetus, and a number of long-term consequences of GDM dictate the need for its prevention by correcting risk factors, timely diagnosis, and effective treatment of the disease.

Prenatal stress has been increasingly recognized as a significant factor influencing fetal brain development, leading to long-term neuroanatomical and psychiatric consequences. This literature review synthesizes current research on the impact of maternal stress during pregnancy on offspring neurodevelopment, focusing on structural brain abnormalities and associated psychiatric disorders. Evidence suggests that prenatal stress disrupts neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function, increasing susceptibility to conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, and mood disorders. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing early intervention strategies to mitigate adverse outcomes.

The identification of semen is crucial in sexual assault investigations. This article reviews current methods for the forensic identification of seminal stains, encompassing initial detection, confirmatory testing, and DNA analysis. We discuss the principles, applications, and limitations of each technique. A comprehensive approach is essential, starting with initial detection methods like alternate light sources (ALS) to locate potential stains. Confirmatory tests, including microscopic identification of spermatozoa and biochemical assays for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or semenogelin, provide more specific evidence. DNA analysis, particularly autosomal and Y-STR profiling, offers the highest level of individualization. This review highlights the importance of these techniques in providing evidence for legal proceedings, while also acknowledging factors that may complicate semen detection, such as the absence of spermatozoa or degradation of seminal components.

Ferula moschata (syn. Ferula sumbul) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Central Asian and Middle Eastern folk medicine for its stimulant, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent studies have highlighted its potential as a source of bioactive compounds with significant pharmacological effects. This study investigates the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Ferula moschata extract through a comprehensive phytochemical and biochemical approach.

Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), we identified key bioactive constituents, including coumarins, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to its therapeutic potential. In vitro antioxidant assays (DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS) demonstrated strong free radical scavenging activity, comparable to standard antioxidants such as ascorbic acid and Trolox. Additionally, the extract exhibited dose-dependent inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators (NO, TNF-α, and IL-6) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophage cells, suggesting potent anti-inflammatory effects.

Molecular docking studies further revealed interactions between Ferula moschata compounds and key inflammatory markers (COX-2, iNOS), supporting its mechanism of action. These findings provide a scientific basis for the traditional use of Ferula moschata in oxidative stress and inflammation-related disorders, suggesting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent. Further in vivo studies are warranted to validate its efficacy and safety for clinical applications.

Asthma is the most common chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, characterized by episodes of obstruction. The aim of the study is to assess the state of the gut microbiome in children with bronchial asthma and to investigate its interaction with Chlamydia pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections in the course of the disease. Materials and methods. All patients were examined at the Department of Pediatric Allergology of the Tashkent Medical Academy. The study included 14 children with severe, 23 with moderate, and 31 with mild forms of BA. Age distribution: 7–10 years – 23 children (34%), 11–14 years – 20 children (30%), 15–17 years – 25 children (36%). Duration of the disease: 1–3 years — 34 children (50%), 3–6 years — 34 children (50%). Gender distribution: 43 boys (63%) and 25 girls (36%). Results. All children with BA experienced breathing difficulties, mainly at night. In 82.3% of cases, bronchial asthma attacks (shortness of breath, dry cough) occurred 1–3 times per month, lasting 5–10 minutes. In patients infected with M. pneumoniae and C. pneumoniae, significant alterations in the gut microbiota were observed. These changes manifested as a decrease in beneficial bacteria — Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. In infected children, the number of Bifidobacterium decreased by an average of 48% (p<0.05), while Lactobacillus decreased by 42% (p<0.01). Additionally, an increase in conditionally pathogenic bacteria — Escherichia coli, Clostridium, and Bacteroides — was detected: Clostridium increased by 35% (p<0.01), Bacteroides by 29% (p<0.05), and E. coli by 33% (p<0.01). These infectious agents contribute to the development of dysbiosis, characterized by a reduction in beneficial microorganisms (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus) and an increase in conditionally pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli, Clostridium, Bacteroides). Such changes are associated with an enhanced systemic inflammatory response and a higher susceptibility to allergic reactions, which aggravate the clinical course of the disease. Conclusion: Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia pneumoniae significantly affect the composition of the gut microbiome in children with bronchial asthma. These infectious agents contribute to the development of dysbiosis, characterized by a decrease in beneficial microorganisms (such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus) and an increase in conditionally pathogenic microorganisms (such as Escherichia coli, Clostridium, and Bacteroides). These alterations in the intestinal microbiota are associated with enhanced systemic inflammatory processes and increased susceptibility to allergic reactions, which in turn aggravate the clinical course of the disease.

This study investigates immunological distinctions between clinical subtypes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), focusing on pediatric populations diagnosed with Kanner’s and Asperger’s syndromes. Utilizing quantitative analysis of serum cytokines—IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-1β—we evaluated immune deviations in relation to behavioral severity and neurocognitive function. The data revealed subtype-specific inflammatory patterns, with heightened IL-6 and TNF-α in Kanner’s syndrome and selective IL-1β elevation in Asperger’s syndrome. A deficiency in IL-10 was common across both groups, suggesting impaired anti-inflammatory modulation. These results underscore the role of immune biomarkers in refining ASD subtypes and tailoring early interventions.

A study conducted from January 2024 to January 2025 at the Tashkent Medical Academy and the 44th Family Polyclinic aimed to assess the impact of breastfeeding on the risk of allergic diseases in children and the mechanisms of its protective effects. A total of 187 children aged 0 to 3 years participated in the study. The primary assessment method was a survey of mothers, along with an analysis of clinical data, including skin manifestations, respiratory symptoms, and food intolerance. Children with identified neurological disorders, congenital anomalies, and severe somatic diseases were excluded from the study. The results showed that breastfeeding for six months or more significantly reduces the risk of developing allergies (p<0.05). The prevalence of atopic dermatitis among breastfed children was 12.4%, whereas among formula-fed children, it reached 34.7%. A similar trend was observed for respiratory allergies: 9.8% in breastfed children versus 27.3% in formula-fed children. A correlation was found between the duration of breastfeeding and a reduction in skin allergies (r=-0.42, p<0.01) as well as food intolerance (r=-0.36, p<0.05). Additionally, children who were breastfed for more than 12 months had lower IgE levels (p<0.05), indicating a stronger immune defense.Conclusion. Breastfeeding, particularly for six months or longer, has a pronounced protective effect, reducing the risk of allergic diseases, including skin, respiratory, and food allergies. These findings confirm the importance of natural breastfeeding as an effective allergy prevention strategy in early childhood.