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This study aspired to provide comprehensive real-world data on a population with heart failure in the Moravian region of the Czech Republic. The authors compared local clinically relevant data with those from the ground-breaking Paradigm-HF trial and they found that local patients had a more advanced state of heart failure. The high prevalence of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) confirms access to advanced and financially demanding treatment options in this region.

An observational study evaluating the safety and efficacy of thoracoscopic ablation of atrial fibrillation in the single-center experience. The cohort consisted of 81 patients suffering from some form of atrial fibrillation, undergoing thoracoscopic ablation either as a single method of treatment or as a part of the hybrid protocol where catheter ablation was suplemented later.

This review provides an updated overview of emerging immune-based therapies for oropharyngeal malignancies, particularly those associated with HPV infection. It summarizes current evidence on checkpoint blockade, engineered T-cell approaches, monoclonal antibodies, and therapeutic vaccination strategies, while discussing their clinical relevance and translational potential. The article further evaluates the influence of viral biology, tumor microenvironment, and predictive biomarkers on therapeutic response. Key limitations, including resistance and immune escape, are also highlighted, together with future opportunities for individualized and combination-based treatment strategies in head and neck oncology.

Background and Aim. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to increased cancer risk and death but the effect of vitamin D substitution on the prognosis of patients with malignant disease is debatable. We aimed to investigate the value of serum vitamin D3 levels in patients with a history of malignancy and confirmed lung metastases. Materials and Method. Serum Vitamin D2 (25-hydroxyergokalciferol) and D3 (25‑hydroxycholekalciferol) levels were measured in 38 patients (28 with and 10 without lung metastases) using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Serum Vitamin D2 + D3 levels of patients with lung metastases were analysed with respect to season, number of metastases, number of malignancies in the history, value according to the ASA (The American Society of Anaesthesiologists) physical status classification, and compared to patients with a history of malignancy without confirmed lung metastasis. Results. Overall, mean serum vitamin D3 levels were significantly higher in summer (summer vs. winter; 85.06 nmol/L vs. 61.01 nmol/L; P=0.013). There was no significant difference in vitamin D3 levels in summer or winter between patients with or without lung metastases. There was also no significant difference in vitamin D3 levels in the summer months between patients with a history of one malignancy versus those with two or more. In winter however, patients with a history of one malignancy had significantly higher vitamin D3 levels (mean, 75.25 nmol/L) than those with two or more malignancies (mean 44.6 nmol/L) (P=0.027). The differences between vitamin D3 levels in patients with ASA 2 and 3 were not statistically significant. Conclusion. Vitamin D supplementation may be advisable for patients with a history of multiple malignancies, particularly during the winter months. However, confirmation in a clinical trial with a larger patient cohort is warranted before firm recommendations can be made.

Amyloidosis represents a clinically and molecularly heterogeneous group of serious, potentially life-threatening disorders characterized by the extracellular deposition of insoluble amyloid fibrils derived from misfolded precursor proteins. These deposits disrupt tissue architecture and function, often affecting vital organs such as the heart and kidneys. Accurate diagnosis and subtyping of amyloidosis are essential for effective clinical management and personalized therapeutic interventions. This review provides an integrated overview of modern approaches to the laboratory diagnosis of amyloidosis, divided into three main areas: (1) histological and immunological methods (including Congo red staining, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and immunoelectron microscopy) for the initial detection and characterization of amyloid deposition, (2) electrophoretic techniques (capillary electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing, immunofixation electrophoresis) used primarily for the analysis of amyloid-associated proteins in serum and urine, and (3) mass spectrometry-based proteomic analyses that have significantly improved subtype specificity and clinical decision-making. By emphasizing the complementary roles of these techniques, the review aims to support timely, accurate, and subtype-specific diagnosis, ultimately improving clinical outcomes and treatment strategies for patients affected by amyloidosis.

This article provides a synthesis of key clinical trials on device-based therapy in heart failure within the context of the current trend toward personalized medicine. Its main contribution is the proposal of a novel decision-making algorithm that integrates risk stratification based on underlying etiology, electrophysiological and functional parameters, as well as prognostic indicators including current non-invasive methods. The review also reflects current developments in clinical practice, including the growing role of physiological pacing, and supports an individualized approach to improving patient prognosis and quality of life.

Objective. This study aimed to explore the independent causal relationship between three types of crystallin proteins (α, β, and γ) and risk of cataract, using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as instrumental variables for α, β, γ crystallin through Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Methods. Genetic instruments associated with α, β, γ crystallin levels and cataract were obtained from the IEU Open GWAS Project (GWAS IDs: prot-a-673, prot-a-674, prot-a-675, and ukb-d-20002_1278). Two-sample MR analyses were conducted using five different MR algorithms containing MR-Egger, inverse variance weighted (IVW), Weighted median, Simple mode, and MR-PRESSO. Results. The MR analysis revealed a significant causal relationship between α crystallin level and the risk of cataract [odds ratio (OR)_IVW = 0.9989, 95% CI 0.9978~0.9999; OR_MR-PRESSO= 0.9988, 95% CI 0.9978~0.9999]. Conversely, no significant causal relationship was found between β or γ crystallin and the risk of cataract. Conclusion. The occurrence of cataract may be potentially linked to abnormal levels of α crystallin, suggesting that monitoring and managing these levels could be crucial in understanding and potentially mitigating the risk of cataract.

This bioinformatics study aimed to determine differentially expressed genes (DEGs) patterns of knee osteoarthritis chondrocytes versus human bone marrow stem cells towards chondrogenic commitment. We identified 43 DEGs (15 downregulated and 28 upregulated) and enriched pathways, which revealed the enrichment of complement and coagulation cascades and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy pathways for upregulated and downregulated DEGs, respectively. Hub networks identified the top 5 hub genes, including CLU, PLAT, CP, TIMP3, and SERPINA1.

This work provides an in-depth exploration of mitochondrial functions beyond energy production, highlighting their essential roles in cellular processes, signaling, and health maintenance. By emphasizing recent advances in mitochondrial research, the manuscript underscores the impact of mitochondria in aging, disease, and exercise, offering valuable insights that could guide therapeutic strategies for enhancing mitochondrial health and longevity

The article describes a single centre experience using the minimally invasive extracorporeal (MiECC) circulation that was modified by incorporation of coronary suction into the circuit, while maintaining the core principles of closed circuit perfusion. A detailed description of the construction of the circuit is provided. Perfusion management and the specific demands placed on the surgeon are explained in the article. The results of the retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes after utilization of this circuit in comparison to the conventional extracorporeal circulation are presented and discussed. The study focused mainly on major adverse events and blood loss comparison. The results demonstrate lower post-operative blood loss in patients operated on the MiECC circuit.

The Measles-Rubella-Zoster (MRZ) reaction is a test for the intrathecal synthesis of IgG antibodies against measles, rubella and varicella zoster viruses. Since the 1990s, it has been used as an adjunctive test to support the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), although it has no formal role in current McDonald diagnostic criteria and its clinical relevance remains debated. While early studies considered a single elevated antibody index (M, R or Z) as a positive result, the practice today requires at least two elevated antibody indices (M+R, M+Z, or R+Z), referred to as a polyspecific MRZ reaction (MRZ-2). MRZ-2 is the most specific laboratory marker for MS, with reported specificity exceeding 90%. However, sensitivity varies widely across studies, ranging from approximately 30% to over 70%. In the Czech adult MS population, MRZ-2 sensitivity was recently reported at 32%, markedly lower than the 67% pooled sensitivity reported in a meta-analysis of predominantly German cohorts. Broadening the panel of anti-viral antibodies (MRZ+) has been proposed to improve sensitivity, with parvovirus B19 and mumps virus being the most promising candidates. Further studies are required to determine whether an extended panel can increase sensitivity while maintaining high diagnostic specificity.

Objective. To evaluate transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomies performed at the University Hospital, Olomouc over a period of 20 years. Introduction. Thanks to the increased availability of imaging, the detection of adrenal disease is increasing. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is now regarded as the gold standard for the treatment of adrenal disease due to its safety and efficacy despite the increasing popularity of robotic-assisted surgery. Methods. Over a period of 20 years, from 2002 to 2021, we retrospectively evaluated a cohort of 405 patients who had undergone laparoscopic adrenalectomy. The indication criteria for laparoscopic adrenalectomy were hormonally active symptomatic tumours (pheochromocytoma, Conn's syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, etc.), symptomatic cysts or myelolipomas, carcinomas, metastatic disabling or incidentalomas, growing at a rate >1 cm or more per year. Data collected focused on sex, age, medical classification, imaging, operative time, side dominance, hormonal activity, complications associated with surgery, length of hospital stay, and histopathologic verification. No patient who had undergone laparoscopic adrenalectomy was excluded from the cohort. Patients in our cohort were not operated by a single surgeon. Results. Women accounted for 52.1% (211) and men 47.9% (194). The mean age was 55.6 years, BMI 28.7, and median ASA score was 2. Preoperative imaging included abdominal CT in 352 (86.9%) patients, abdominal MRI with contrast agent in 8 (2.0%), and PET/CT in 45 (11.1%) patients. More frequent findings were on the right side in 223 (54.39%) patients. Hormonal activity was found in 271 patients (67 %). Hormone overproduction from the right adrenal gland was found in 120 (44.3%) patients, and from the left in 151 (55.7%). Adenoma was the most frequent histological finding, followed by hyperplasia. Conversion to open surgery was due to bleeding in 2 patients. There was no perioperative or postoperative mortality. According to the Clavien-Dindo classification, minor complications (Grade I) occurred in 375 patients (92.6%). Grade II complications were reported in 17 patients (4.2%). Grade III complications were identified in 13 patients (3.2%) due to operative field bleeding; in three cases (0.7%), surgical revision of the adrenalectomy bed was required. Conclusion. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a safe surgical method for the management of adrenal disease and our retrospective follow-up confirmed that it remains the gold standard.

Heart failure (HF) remains a growing public health concern. This study provides an updated analysis of HF incidence, prevalence, hospitalizations, and mortality trends in the Czech Republic (2015-2023). Using data from the National Healthcare Reimbursement Database (NRHZS), the authors evaluated key epidemiological patterns. Findings show a rising prevalence, stable incidence, and a slight decline in hospitalizations, while in-hospital mortality remains around 10%. Increased use of novel HF therapies, including ARNIs and SGLT2 inhibitors, was observed. These insights highlight the need for improved guideline adherence and multidisciplinary care models.

Congenital hypofibrinogenemia (CH) and congenital dysfibrinogenemia (CD) are rare coagulation disorders caused by quantitative or qualitative defects in the fibrinogen gene. In this study, the authors, working to identify genetic variants and expanding knowledge about genetic variants in Slovak patients with congenital fibrinogen disorders registered at the National Haemophilia Centre. Molecular-genetic analysis have revealed six novel variants in 36 patients - FGA c.923_968dup p.(Gly324Lysfs*44) and FGG c.1105C>T p.(His369Tyr) were identified in CD patients. In CH patients, in the FGG gene c.8G>A p.(Trp3*), c.823G>T p.(Glu275*) and c.323C>A p.(Ala108Asp) variants were detected. In the FGB gene c.1427C>T p.(Ser476Leu) was identified.

Acute cellular rejection (ACR) is a common issue after lung transplantation, but standardized screening remains elusive. This study compared histological transbronchial biopsy assessment with donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) as a biomarker for detecting ACR. 74 samples obtained from lung transplant recipients were analysed, with ACR cases defined by histological grade and/or treatment necessity (n=10, 14%). Results showed significantly higher dd-cfDNA in ACR cases (61.2 cp/mL vs. 25.8 cp/mL in controls; P=0.04), but dd-cfDNA% and total cfDNA were not significantly different. While dd-cfDNA may help rule out ACR, further research is needed to refine its clinical application.

Introduction. Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring is a standard in surgeries with an increased risk of iatrogenic neurological injury development. The gold standard for this monitoring modality is propofol-based total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA). Although there seems to be no clinically significant complication for propofol administration in patients with soy, egg, or peanut allergies, a whole range of recommendations still prohibit propofol administration in patients with these allergies. Remimazolam is a new, ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine that can potentially be an alternative in cases of propofol contraindications in need of TIVA. Case reports. We report two cases of a 19-year-old girl and a 17-year-old boy undergoing scoliosis surgery with transcranial motor evoked potentials monitoring (TcMEP). We chose remimazolam-based total intravenous anaesthesia due to the severe peanut and soy allergy, respectively. Total intravenous anaesthesia was maintained with remimazolam at a dose of 1.5-2 mg/kg/h and remifentanil at a dose of 0.5-0.8 µg/kg/min. Depth of anaesthesia was controlled using frontal EEG monitoring. TcMEP remained stable and showed no significant alterations throughout the surgeries. No new neurological deficits were detected after the surgeries. Conclusion. Our results show that remimazolam-based anaesthesia may be a safe alternative to propofol-based anaesthesia for surgeries with an intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, or patients with propofol contraindications but more data are needed.

DNA methylation plays a critical role in the regulation of gene expression in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system which is a key component of immune function. This article reviews the molecular mechanisms by which DNA methylation influences HLA gene regulation, highlighting its impact on their antigen presentation and immune tolerance functions. We describe how methylation patterns vary in HLA class I and II genes, affecting their expression in a tissue- and allele-specific manner. In addition, we examine the interplay of DNA methylation in shaping immune responses. A focus is on the role of methylation in immune-mediated, namely autoimmune diseases, where aberrant epigenetic modifications at HLA loci contribute to disease susceptibility and progression. We also explore how single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within CpG sites can alter methylation patterns and gene expression, providing insights into genetic-epigenetic interactions. These findings may contribute to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for immune-mediated diseases.

This study aimed to investigate changes in fundus autofluorescence in patients taking daily lutein oral supplements and to develop image processing methods for follow-up evaluations of the images. Dual wavelength fundus autofluorescence is a valuable technique for macular pigment evaluation in follow-up examinations, utilizing software image post-processing with commonly available hardware.

Background. Proinflammatory cytokines are a pivotal factor in cancer initiation and progression. The paracrine and autocrine secretions of such inflammatory cytokines are reported in different cancer types. Recently, C-C motif ligand (CCL) 5 (CCL5), CCL22, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1 RA) have been detected in basal secretions of breast cancer (BC) cells and linked to BC pathogenesis. While Vitamin D has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, its modulation on cytokine expression is rarely studied in relation to cancer. Aims. In this study, we evaluated whether vitamin D could modulate cytokine basal levels in BC. Materials and Methods. This in vitro study was conducted on BC cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Cells were treated with vitamin D (10 and 100 nM), and cytokine levels were measured using the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Results. There was a significant reduction in CCL5 total levels in MCF-7 cells at both concentrations (P≤0.01) and in MDA-MB-231 at 100 nM (P≤0.05). Both concentrations reduced CCL22 levels significantly in MCF-7 (P≤0.05) and MDA-MB-231 (P≤0.01). Regarding G-CSF, a significant reduction was found in MCF-7 at both concentrations (P≤0.05) and at 100 nM in MDA-MB-231 (P≤0.01). In comparison, IL-1 RA levels were significantly elevated in MCF-7 (100 nM (P≤0.01)) and MDA-MB-231 (10 nM (P≤0.05) and 100 nM (P≤0.01)). Conclusion. Vitamin D down-regulated the pro-inflammatory and up-regulated the anti-inflammatory cytokines. This indicates that vitamin D can modulate the expression of inflammatory mediators, particularly in a cancer setting. The results support the potential use of vitamin D as an anti-cancer agent with anti-inflammatory properties.

Cervical cancer remains a major contributor to cancer-related mortality among women worldwide, despite substantial progress in prevention and treatment strategies. While established prognostic factors such as tumor size, lymphovascular space invasion, and nodal status guide clinical decision-making, they lack sufficient specificity for individualized risk stratification. Consequently, there remains an unmet need for robust biomarkers capable of reliably predicting recurrence and treatment response. L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM), a neural adhesion protein implicated in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), tumor invasion, and metastasis, has emerged as a candidate prognostic marker in several solid tumors, including gynecologic malignancies. Its role in cervical cancer, however, remains insufficiently defined. This narrative review synthesizes preclinical evidence and clinical studies evaluating L1CAM expression in cervical cancer, with an emphasis on its biological rationale, methodological challenges, and prognostic significance across different disease contexts. Data from early-stage and from locally advanced disease were critically appraised. Most early-stage studies have not demonstrated an independent prognostic effect of L1CAM, although associations with adverse histopathological features have been reported. In contrast, recent multicenter evidence suggests that high-level L1CAM expression (≥50%) may predict inferior pelvic control in patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy, underscoring a potential context-dependent prognostic role. Current evidence emphasizes the need for standardized immunohistochemistry protocols, prespecified positivity thresholds, and integration of L1CAM assessment with other. Prospective, adequately powered studies are essential to validate L1CAM as a clinically actionable biomarker and to determine whether its incorporation into prognostic models can enhance treatment personalization in cervical cancer.

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) may experience other supraventricular tachycardias (SVT) that can trigger AF and cause similar symptoms. This study aimed to analyse the safety and efficacy of inducing SVT in patients undergoing catheter ablation (CA) for AF. The authors enrolled 61 patients with paroxysmal AF who underwent CA between January 2022 and March 2023. This electrophysiological study was performed after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) to induce SVT. Induced arrhythmias were mapped and ablated. All patients were followed at 3, 6 and 12 months after the procedure and seven-day ECG Holter monitoring was carried out after 6 and 12 months from the procedure. SVT inducibility after successful pulmonary vein isolation was 39%. Age differed significantly in patients with arrhythmia inducibility compared to those without (64.5± 7.6 and 58.2±10.5, P=0.04). There were no significant differences in procedure time (P=0.408) or fluoroscopy dose (P=0.458) between patients with inducible arrhythmia and those without. None of the echocardiographic parameters showed any significant differences between groups. The conclusion of the study is that ablation of induced non-clinical arrhythmia is safe and does not prolong the total procedure or fluoroscopy time.

Introduction. Ovarian tumours represent a highly malignant disease that is often diagnosed at an advanced stage and is associated with a poor prognosis. The most common histological type is high-grade serous carcinoma, characterized by significant genomic instability and homologous recombination defects, particularly due to pathogenic variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The introduction of high throughput sequencing methods has enabled the identification of a broader spectrum of predisposing genes and further emphasised the importance of genetic testing for targeted prevention and individualised treatment. Methods. The aim of our study was to determine the frequency of germline mutations in 117 unrelated patients diagnosed with ovarian, tubal, or primary peritoneal cancer. We also assessed epidemiological and tumor pathogenesis data. The patients were examined with the "CZECANCA" gene panel sequenced by next-generation sequencing (NGS) on an Illumina platform. Results. Pathogenic variants were found in 29% of patients, most commonly mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The median age of patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer was 61 years. The median age of BRCA1/2-positive women was 54 years, and all had a positive family history of cancer. Conclusion. Identifying carriers of pathogenic variants enables targeted prevention, earlier detection, and personalized therapy. Despite significant advances in treatment, early diagnosis and screening of at-risk individuals remain a major challenge.

Chronic nonbacterial prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a prevalent urological disorder with a significant impact on quality-of-life. The administration of cannabidiol/hyaluronic acid based suppositories demonstrated potential symptom relief in CP/CPPS with a favourable tolerability profile.

Background. To investigate the association between atopic dermatitis (AD) and keratoconus (KC) in atopic dermatitis patients with no prior ophthalmologic diagnosis. Methods. Thirty eyes of 30 patients with moderate to severe AD were included in this pilot study and compared to healthy controls (n=20) and patients with forme fruste KC (n=28). In the AD group, diagnosis of KC was based on clinical signs and corneal topography criteria such as inferior steepening (inferior-superior difference>1.45 D) and elevated maximum keratometry values (>47 D). Subclinical KC was defined by the presence of specific sensitive indices from corneal topography, tomography, or biomechanical assessments. Risk factors analyzed for ectasia development were the onset and severity of AD, sensitization to aeroallergens, systemic therapy, concomitant atopic diseases, eyelid eczema, and total IgE. Results. We identified two manifest KC (6.7%), and six subclinical KC (20%) cases in patients with AD but with no previous diagnosis of KC. No overall differences were found in corneal tomography and biomechanics indices between control and AD patients. However, eye rubbing was not identified as a risk factor for developing ectasia in the AD group. Conclusion. Dermatologists should be aware that patients with moderate or severe AD may have a higher risk for developing corneal ectasia, particularly when eyelid eczema is present. The estimated prevalence of KC in patients with AD appears to be higher than that in the general population but more studies are needed.

In this review, the authors comprehensively evaluate the unique challenges associated with assessing stroke risk and determining the need for anticoagulation therapy in patients with device-detected atrial fibrillation. This condition poses diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas, given its often subclinical nature and variability in atrial fibrillation burden. The analysis places particular emphasis on findings from recently published clinical trials, which provide valuable insights into the management strategies for this patient population. Additionally, the authors explore the emerging evidence on the interplay between device-detected atrial fibrillation and heart failure.

Motor imagery techniques, such as motor imagery, mirror therapy, and graded motor imagery, have the capacity to activate brain regions that overlap with those involved in actual movement execution. In individuals with chronic pain, these areas may undergo structural and functional changes due to persistent nociceptive input. Engaging in motor imagery can stimulate brain activity and potentially contribute to the restoration of more typical neural patterns. This scoping review of randomized controlled trials demonstrates that patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain may benefit from these techniques. Compared to control groups, participants receiving MI-based interventions experienced reductions in pain both immediately after therapeutic sessions and during follow-up assessments conducted up to several months post-intervention.

A prosthetic arteriovenous graft (AVG) represents a type of vascular access for haemodialysis (HD), employing a synthetic conduit that replaces a native vessel and permits repeated cannulation. Due to their associated complications, particularly thrombosis and infection, arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) have long been regarded as a secondary option. Current recommendations advocate an individualized approach to vascular access planning based on patient´s anatomy, life expectancy, anticipated dialysis duration, and personal preferences, leading to a broader and more flexible use of AVGs. Their key advantage is the potential for early initiation of HD, while minimizing the need for central venous catheters. However, a major disadvantage of AVGs is their tendency to develop stenotic lesions, predominantly at the venous anastomosis, which adversely affects graft patency. If left untreated, this may lead to graft thrombosis. Regular evaluation of AVG function is essential for early detection of stenosis and maintenance of graft patency. Despite its widespread use in clinical practice, the role of AVG surveillance in vascular access management remains a subject of considerable debate, as current evidence regarding its effectiveness in preventing thrombosis and prolonging graft patency is inconclusive.

Ceramides are a heterogeneous group of bioactive membrane sphingolipids. Evidence suggests that specific ceramide species are potential biomarkers and mediators of cardiovascular disease. The aim of the study was to develop two prediction models for carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) using readily available variables. One model included conventional biomarkers (total cholesterol, triglycerides, hypolipidemics) in addition to gender and age, while the other included blood concentrations of selected ceramides. Cer(d18:1/18:0) was inversely related to CIMT, while Cer(d18:1/24:1) was positively correlated. Given that the study is cross-sectional, the findings should be interpreted as associations and do not support any causal inference.

Integrin alpha-6 (α6ITG, CD49f) has long been considered one of the most reliable markers of stemness, yet emerging evidence challenges this view by revealing its broader role in niche accessibility and survival. As a laminin receptor, α6ITG mediates cellular interactions and participates in signal transduction pathways that help maintain cellular phenotype. Its expression allows for the identification and purification of stem cells from heterogeneous populations. Because α6ITG expression is highly sensitive to environmental cues, it also serves as a sensor of culture conditions and cryopreservation stress, with potential use in biobanking and regenerative medicine. This marker holds significant potential; it may be one of the few markers consistently expressed in all stem cells, potentially qualifying it as a common "stemness" marker. Additionally, the therapeutic implications of α6ITG knockdown using antibodies may greatly influence future cancer treatments. Elevated expression in cancer correlates with growth, invasion, and poor prognosis. The aim of this review is to explore the biological and translational importance of α6ITG in stem cell and cancer biology.

Background and Aims. Suicide represents a major public health issue influenced by a complex interplay of individual, social, and environmental factors. While suicidological research traditionally focuses on psychological and clinical aspects, spatial dimensions of suicidal behavior remain less explored, particularly in Central Europe. This study presents a geospatial analysis of completed suicides in the Olomouc and Zlín Regions of the Czech Republic between 2018 and 2022, using a unique dataset derived from forensic autopsy records. The primary goal was to demonstrate the potential of spatial processing and interdisciplinary collaboration between forensic medicine and geoinformatics in identifying contextual patterns of suicidal behavior. Methods. A dataset of 585 completed suicides was compiled from forensic autopsy reports, including detailed individual-level characteristics and geolocation data. Spatial analyses were conducted using GIS software, integrating additional layers such as land use, demographic and socioeconomic indicators, and quality of life indices. Both point-level and aggregated data (municipality and administrative district levels) were used to explore correlations and spatial variability. Results. The study confirmed known trends - such as male predominance and the role of alcohol - and identified new spatial relationships, including a negative correlation between blood alcohol concentration and latitude, and between age and distance from residence to suicide location. Spatial analyses were conducted at multiple levels of aggregation and combined with selected socioeconomic and environmental indicators, including quality of life, urban-rural context, and foreclosure (enforcement) rates. The results demonstrate that spatial patterns and correlations between suicide rates and area-based characteristics vary depending on the spatial scale of analysis. Conclusion. The findings illustrate the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration between forensic medicine and geoinformatics and provide an exploratory basis for further research and more context-sensitive suicide prevention approaches.