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Subject and purpose of the work The commercial success of an organisation is based on its unique characteristics which make it stand out from its competitors. It can be the result of as many factors as there are many types of organisations and the goals they pursue. However, there are some invariants among them, which include leadership and management style associated with it. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the possible ways of implementing the idea of a turquoise management model in organisations with strong knowledge-based leadership. Materials and methods The subject of the study were medical entities of the SMEs group. A faceto- face and telephone interview with a person holding a leadership role in the treatment unit was chosen as the research method. Results and conclusions An attempt was made to verify the thesis of the possible synergies between turquoise ideas and strong leadership. The paper demonstrates a natural evolution of the leadership model which has resulted from the generation Y and Z entering the labor market, which is characterised by features converging with the turquoise idea of management.

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have recently become widely publicized because they have the potential to function in alternative therapies as “natural” antibiotics, with their main advantage being a broad spectrum of activity. The potential for antimicrobial peptides to treat diabetes mellitus (DM) has been reported. In diabetes mellitus type I (T1D), cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP), cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) and mouse-β- defensin 14 (mBD14) are positively affected. Decreased levels of LL-37 and human neutrophil peptide 1-3 (HNP1-3) have been reported in diabetes mellitus type II (T2D) relative to healthy patients. Moreover, AMPs from amphibians and social wasps have antidiabetic effects. In infections occurring in patients with tuberculosis-diabetes or diabetic foot, granulysin, HNP1, HNP2, HNP3, human beta-defensin 2 (HBD2), and cathelicidins are responsible for pathogen clearance. An interesting alternative is also the use of modified M13 bacteriophages containing encapsulated AMPs genes or phagemids.

In this work, chitosan/caffeic acid mixtures in the weight ratios of 80/20 and 50/50 were used to obtain thin films enriched with poly(ethylene glycol). It was hypothesized that the presence of caffeic acid indicates the antibacterial properties of the materials (i) and that poly(ethylene glycol) acts as a films modifier (ii). The results showed that by poly(ethylene glycol) addition, the surface free energy as well as mechanical and thermal properties were improved. Moreover, water vapor permeability was observed. All the tested materials showed antioxidant properties in the range of approximately 90%. They also showed antibacterial effectiveness against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The most appropriate material for the application as packaging was composed of chitosan and caffeic acid mixed in a 50/50 weight ratio with 20% PEG addition.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is an increasingly frequently diagnosed disease, the molecular mechanisms of which have not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of our study was to investigate subpopulations of lymphocytes to better understand their role in the molecular pathomechanisms of various types of PAH and to find a suitable biomarker that could be useful in the differential diagnosis of PAH. Using flow cytometry, we measured the frequencies of lymphocyte subpopulations CD4+CTLA-4+, CD8+ CTLA-4+ and CD19+ CTLA-4+ in patients with different types of PAH, namely pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease (CHD-PAH), pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with connective tissue disorders (CTD-PAH), chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (iPAH), and in an age- and sex-matched control group in relation to selected clinical parameters. Patients in the iPAH group had the significantly highest percentage of CD4+CTLA-4+ T lymphocytes among all PAH groups, as compared to those in the control group (p < 0.001), patients with CTEPH (p < 0.001), CTD-PAH (p < 0.001) and CHD-PAH (p < 0.01). In iPAH patients, the percentages of CD4+CTLA-4+ T cells correlated strongly positively with the severity of heart failure New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Classification (r = 0.7077, p < 0.001). Moreover, the percentage of B CD19+CTLA-4+ cells strongly positively correlated with the concentration of NT-proBNP (r = 0.8498, p < 0.001). We have shown that statistically significantly higher percentages of CD4+CTLA-4+ (p ≤ 0.01) and CD8+ CTLA-4+ (p ≤ 0.001) T cells, measured at the time of iPAH diagnosis, were found in patients who died within 5 years of the diagnosis, which allows us to consider both of the above lymphocyte subpopulations as a negative prognostic/predictive factor in iPAH. CTLA-4 may be a promising biomarker of noninvasive detection of iPAH, but its role in planning the treatment strategy of PAH remains unclear. Further studies on T and B lymphocyte subsets are needed in different types of PAH to ascertain the relationships that exist between them and the disease.

Viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) is a term referring to a group of life-threatening infections caused by several virus families (Arenaviridae, Bunyaviridae, Filoviridae and Flaviviridae). Depending on the virus, the infection can be mild and can be also characterized by an acute course with fever accompanied by hypervolemia and coagulopathy, resulting in bleeding and shock. It has been suggested that the course of the disease is strongly influenced by the activation of signaling pathways leading to RIG-I-like receptor-dependent interferon production. RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) are one of two major receptor families that detect viral nucleic acid. RLR receptor activation is influenced by a number of factors that may have a key role in the differences that occur during the antiviral immune response in VHF. In the present study, we collected data on RLR receptors in viral hemorrhagic fevers and described factors that may influence the activation of the antiviral response. RLR receptors seem to be a good target for VHF research, which may contribute to better therapeutic and diagnostic strategies. However, due to the difficulty of conducting such studies in humans, we suggest using Lagovirus europaeus as an animal model for VHF.

The oral mucosa is a mechanical barrier against the penetration and colonization of microorganisms. Oral homeostasis is maintained by congenital and adaptive systems in conjunction with normal oral flora and an intact oral mucosa. Components contributing to the defense of the oral cavity include the salivary glands, innate antimicrobial proteins of saliva, plasma proteins, circulating white blood cells, keratinocyte products of the oral mucosa, and gingival crevicular fluid. General disturbances in the level of immunoglobulins in the human body may be manifested as pathological lesions in the oral mucosa. Symptoms of immunoglobulin-related general diseases such as mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP), pemphigus vulgaris (PV), linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD), Epidermolysis Bullosa Aquisita (EBA), and Hyper-IgE syndrome (HIES) may appear in the oral cavity. In this review, authors present selected diseases associated with immunoglobulins in which the lesions appear in the oral cavity. Early detection and treatment of autoimmune diseases, sometimes showing a severe evolution (e.g., PV), allow the control of their dissemination and involvement of skin or other body organs. Immunoglobulin disorders with oral manifestations are not common, but knowledge, differentiation and diagnosis are essential for proper treatment.

Many medical procedures could benefit from the use of tissue sealants which allow for reduced surgery time, limited blood loss, easier tissue handling, and fewer postoperative complications. The safety and biocompatibility of surgical sealants are of paramount importance therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the biocompatibility of NE’X Glue Surgical Adhesive. Chemical characterization (VOC and elements), cytotoxicity (MEM elution), genotoxicity (AMES and MLA), endotoxin contamination, sensitization potential, intracutaneous reactivity, acute and subchronic systemic toxicity with implantation as well as pyrogenicity were evaluated to investigate the biocompatibility of the NE’X Glue Surgical Adhesive. Studies were conducted according to ISO 10993 standards. The biocompatibility requirements with accordance to ISO 10993-1 for NE'X Glue were met. In vitro studies showed that NE'X Glue surgical adhesive is non-cytotoxic and non-mutagenic. Also, in vivo studies demonstrated that NE'X Glue shows no signs of toxicity, has no pyrogenic potential, and is non-sensitizing and non-irritating. The chemical characterization showed that no compounds were identified above Analytical Evaluation Threshold (AET), and no elements with concentrations higher than element-specific PDE (µg/day) were detected. NE'X Glue Surgical Adhesive is a versatile and promising new surgical sealant with a wide range of potential applications and very good biocompatibility.

The purpose of this paper is to identify whether tax rate choices in the area-based tax system are perceived as an instrument prone to manipulation in accordance with election cycles. We use the un...

International audience; This study investigates chronic conditions (CC) prevalence among children in mainstream schools, their school experience and life satisfaction in Europe. Data were collected from the 2017/2018 HBSC survey, a cross-national study using self-reported questionnaires administered in classrooms. Nationally representative samples of children aged 11, 13, and 15 years in mainstream schools from 19 European countries (n = 104,812) were used. School experience was assessed using four variables: low school satisfaction, schoolwork pressure, low teacher support, and peer-victimization, which were related to life satisfaction. Latent class analysis (LCA) was conducted to identify patterns of school experience among students with CC. The prevalence of CC varied from 8.4 (Armenia) to 28.2% (Finland). Children with CC (n = 17,514) rated their school experience and life satisfaction lower than children without CC. LCA identified three school experience patterns: “negative on all items” (37%), “negative on all items, except school pressure” (40%) and “overall positive” (23%). The distribution of subgroups varied across countries—in countries with a higher proportion of children with CC in mainstream schools, children reported more negative school experiences. Compared to the “overall positive” group, low life satisfaction was highest for students classified as “negative on all items” (relative risk (RR) = 2.9; 95% CI 2.2–3.8) with a lesser effect for “negative on all items, except school pressure” (RR) = 1.8; 95% CI 1.4–2.4). These findings provide cross-national data documenting the diversity in inclusive educational practices regarding school placement and school experiences, and suggest that efforts are still needed to allow a fully inclusive environment.

In the beginning of the third year of the fight against COVID-19, the virus remains at least still one step ahead in the pandemic “war”. The key reasons are evolving lineages and mutations, resulting in an increase of transmissibility and ability to evade immune system. However, from the immunologic point of view, the cytokine storm (CS) remains a poorly understood and difficult to combat culprit of the extended number of in-hospital admissions and deaths. It is not fully clear whether the cytokine release is a harmful result of suppression of the immune system or a positive reaction necessary to clear the virus. To develop methods of appropriate treatment and therefore decrease the mortality of the so-called COVID-19-CS, we need to look deeply inside its pathogenesis, which is the purpose of this review.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, causing a large majority of deaths but accounting for only ~1% of all skin cancer cases. The worldwide incidence of malignant melanoma is increasing, causing a serious socio-economic problem. Melanoma is diagnosed mainly in young and middle-aged people, which distinguishes it from other solid tumors detected mainly in mature people. The early detection of cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) remains a priority and it is a key factor limiting mortality. Doctors and scientists around the world want to improve the quality of diagnosis and treatment, and are constantly looking for new, promising opportunities, including the use of microRNAs (miRNAs), to fight melanoma cancer. This article reviews miRNA as a potential biomarker and diagnostics tool as a therapeutic drugs in CMM treatment. We also present a review of the current clinical trials being carried out worldwide, in which miRNAs are a target for melanoma treatment.

Melanoma is one of the most aggressive and progressive skin cancers. It develops from normal pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes, so it is important to know the mechanism behind such transformations. The study of metastasis mechanisms is crucial for a better understanding the biology of neoplastic cells. Metastasis of melanoma, or any type of cancer, is a multi-stage process in which the neoplastic cells leave the primary tumour, travel through the blood and/or lymphatic vessels, settle in distant organs and create secondary tumours. MicroRNA (miRNA) can participate in several steps of the metastatic process. This review presents the role of miRNA molecules in the development and progression as well as the immune response to melanoma.

Istnieje wiele metod waloryzacji krajobrazu (Antolak i Młynarczyk 2013) ukazujących ocenę wartości obszaru m.in. pod względem przydatności i predyspozycji terenu do określonych funkcji czy stopnia atrakcyjności wizualnej. Metody opierają się głównie na eksperckim doświadczeniu osoby oceniającej krajobraz „obiektywnie”. Koncepcję projektową kąpieliska miejskiego przy jeziorze Czos w Mrągowie opracowano w oparciu o wybrane metody badawcze. Zastosowano metodę krzywej wrażeń Wejcherta oraz przeprowadzono pilotażowe badania angażujące w proces projektowy wizualnych użytkowników przestrzeni. Zastosowane metody waloryzacji krajobrazu pozwoliły na graficzną prezentację doznań i wrażeń osób użytkujących teren i pomogły w sformułowaniu wytycznych projektowych.

Background Tissue adhesives are an alternative to conventional surgical sutures to reduce the time and cost of wound closure and to improve patient comfort. The use of tissue adhesives does not require any subsequent intervention and significantly lowers the volume and rate of blood loss, and reduces the need for transfusions during and after surgery. However, based on their formulation, tissue adhesives’ safety profile and functional properties may differ. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the basic safety and performance of NE’X Glue® Surgical Sealant, BioGlue® Surgical Sealant, and PREVELEAKTM Surgical Sealant in vitro. Methods The basic safety of commercially available tissue adhesives was evaluated using MEM elution assay according to ISO 10993–5 and endotoxin level according to 85. USP. The in vitro performance was evaluated using lap-shear by tension loading test, burst strength test, degradation, and swelling assays. Results NE’X Glue®, BioGlue®, and PREVELEAKTM did not cause cytotoxicity in MEM elution assay. All surgical adhesives are below the general limit of endotoxin contamination of 20 EU/device. NE’X Glue® and BioGlue® showed the highest and comparable strength properties in lap shear and burst strength tests compared to PREVELEAKTM. NE’X Glue® and PREVELEAKTM are characterized by lower degradation potential than BioGlue®. PREVELEAKTM is characterized by the highest swelling when compared to NE’X Glue® and BioGlue®. Conclusions NE’X Glue® is most versatile in terms of functional properties while maintaining the same safety profile as BioGlue® and PREVELEAKTM.

Temporary lockdowns have been introduced in many countries as a preventive measure against the spread of the virus in 2020 and 2021. School closures and remote education have posed some difficulties for both students and teachers. A qualitative study and the semi-structured interview method was chosen to collect hospital teachers' insights into their work experiences during the pandemic. The sample consisted of 21 participants who worked as hospital school teachers. The study revealed the following thematic areas: introduction of remote/hybrid teaching (Frequency=8), lack of the sense of employment stability (F=4), limited contact with students (F=6), necessity to adapt to dynamically changing conditions (F=3), sedentary character of work (F=3), improvement of the quality of work and work conditions (F=4). The research was conducted as part of the Back to School Project (project number: 2019-1-PL01-KA201-065602), with funding from Erasmus+. The data collected during the study will be used to create guidebooks for both hospital school and mainstream school teachers.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic all schools in Poland were closed and obliged to conduct lessons remotely. The aim of the study is to present the demographic analysis of difficulties with remote learning, as perceived by students during coronavirus pandemic in Poland. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In April 2020, a nationwide online survey was conducted among adolescents aged 11-18 (N=2408). Quantitative and qualitative data were used. Teenagers were asked about the problems connected with remote learning. In order to examine the overall level of remote learning difficulties, a scale of remote learning difficulties (RLD) was devised (range 0-23 points). Differences connected with gender, age and place of residence were analysed. RESULTS: More than a half of the teenagers surveyed rated the increased demands from teachers as a major problem. This answer appeared statistically more often among girls than boys (59.6% v. 53.2%). Almost every third adolescent saw the lack of consultation (31.6%) as a significant problem. Difficulties related to learning in the remote system were most often described as considerable by the oldest students (17-18-years-old) and those living in rural areas. The big problem for them was usually much higher requirements of teachers and poor organization of distance learning. The mean level on the scale of remote learning burden was M=11.9 (SD=7.1). Technical difficulties and insufficient skills in using software constituted additional problems most frequently mentioned by students. CONCLUSIONS: There is a need to pay particular attention to organizing appropriate technical conditions for remote learning, especially in rural areas, where students have complained more often than in cities about equipment and problems with access to the Internet during the pandemic.

Endometriosis is a chronic disease that affects about 10% of women of reproductive age. It can contribute to pelvic pain, infertility or other conditions such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, breast or ovarian cancer. Research has shown that one of the conditions for the development of endometrial lesions is the dysfunction of the immune system. It appears that immune cells, such as neutrophils, macrophages, NK cells and dendritic cells, may play a specific role in the angiogenesis, growth and invasion of endometriosis cells. Immune cells secrete cytokines and defensins that also affect the endometriosis environment. This review discusses the various components of the immune system that are involved in the formation of endometrial lesions in women.

Self-regulation is associated with life satisfaction, well-being, and life success. For adolescents, who may be exposed to peer pressure and engage in risky behaviors, the ability to self-regulate or control emotions, thoughts, and behaviors is crucial for healthy development. While self-regulatory skills have long been recognized as important for many areas of life, instruments to measure self-regulation remain limited, especially in Poland. The aim of this study was to adapt and validate the Self-Regulation Scale in the Polish adolescent sample. The data for this study were obtained as part of the Health Behavior in School-aged Children 2021/2022 pilot study. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses confirmed that the instrument has satisfying psychometric properties. A three-factor structure of the instrument was obtained with cognitive, behavioral, and emotional subscales, which corresponds to the original instrument and theoretical assumptions. The final version of instrument contains 24 items, and based on the statistical analysis, it is concluded that it is suitable to be used in adolescent samples.

AL (light-chain) amyloidosis is a systemic disease in which amyloid fibers are formed from kappa or lambda immunoglobulin light chains, or fragments thereof, produced by a neoplastic clone of plasmocytes. The produced protein is deposited in tissues and organs in the form of extracellular deposits, which leads to impairment of their functions and, consequently, to death. Despite the development of research on pathogenesis and therapy, the mortality rate of patients with late diagnosed amyloidosis is 30%. The diagnosis is delayed due to the complex clinical picture and the slow progression of the disease. This is the type of amyloidosis that most often contributes to cardiac lesions and causes cardiac amyloidosis (CA). Early diagnosis and correct identification of the type of amyloid plays a crucial role in the planning and effectiveness of therapy. In addition to standard histological studies based on Congo red staining, diagnostics are enriched by tests to determine the degree of cardiac involvement. In this paper, we discuss current diagnostic methods used in cardiac light chain amyloidosis and the latest therapies that contribute to an improved patient prognosis.

We present a surgical technique of closed tympanoplasty for chronic otitis, together with an intraoperative functional evaluation system with the OssiMon LAIOM software. The technique can be used in one or two steps for an intraoperative evaluation of the functional effect during ear operation. Using OssiMon LAIOM, we were able to simultaneously measure the auditory steady-state response (ASSR), as well as to perform laser dopler vibrometry (LDV). For electrophysiologic measurements, OssiMon LAIOM uses the Intelligent Hearing System platform, and the Polytec single-point laser to evaluate the ossicular mobility. The measurements can be conducted using both methods at the same time or separately, applying each method independently. The OssiMon LAIOM software records the ASSR response intraoperatively and marks it automatically on the audiogram with the preoperative hearing level. The ossicular vibration level is determined based on the measured LDV response. To the best of our knowledge, OssiMon LAIOM is the first solution allowing to objectively measure the effectiveness of tympanoplasty using two methods simultaneously, i.e. ASSR and LDV. The system could be widely applied in the functional evaluation of the middle ear and in clinical practice.

The article presents the results of a survey on the perception of the psychosocial school environment and school functioning of lower secondary school students with and without chronic conditions. Students of grades 1–3 (N = 4,058) from randomly selected 234 public lower secondary schools from all voivodships participated in the survey. In this group 3,232 (80%) students were healthy and 798 (20%) had different chronic conditions. The anonymous “Health and school” questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collections with questions from HBSC study (Health Behaviour in School-aged Children) and from CHIP–AE Questionnaire (Child Health and Illness Profile: Adolescent Edition). Based on Urie Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model, dimensions of psychosocial school environment were analysed on the individual level (microsystem) and the social relations level (mesosystem). It was found that healthy students, in comparison with those with chronic conditions, perceived school environment and their functioning at school better. They have: a larger sense of school belonging, higher level of school competencies and achievements, larger sense that their grades are adequate to the results, a higher social position in the class and a higher level of support from peers, teachers and parents. Students with chronic conditions have higher level of workload, stress and problems associated with the school, and they also spend more time on homework. These students (about 20% of the population of school age) have special educational needs which depend on the specificity and the course of the disease. Identification of difficult areas in the functioning of chronically ill students in the school and knowledge of their perception of their school’s psychosocial environment will allow teachers to provide them with appropriate support.

This paper analyses the interdependencies between state debt and the volume of the public sector’s expenditure, focusing particularly on pro-social spending. These phenomena have been studied in relative values (versus GDP) and in absolute values (per capita). This served as the grounds for an attempt to identify general directions of the public finance policies followed by countries in the Central and Eastern Europe and in selected highly developed countries.

A novel assay for the simultaneous determination of ibuprofen (IBU) and its four probable metabolites, 1-hydroxyibuprofen (1-OH IBU), 2-hydroxyibuprofen (2-OH IBU), 3-hydroxyibuprofen (3-OH IBU) and carboxyibuprofen (CBX IBU) in equine urine samples with the application of Gas Chromatography-Electron Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (GC-EI-MS) has been developed and elaborated. The new approach for sample preparation including minimizing matrix effects by the application of weak cation exchange solid-phase extraction together with strong cation exchange solid-phase extraction has been applied. The GC-EI-MS method was validated to demonstrate specificity, matrix effect, linearity, limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ), precision, trueness, carry-over and stability by using the matrix-matched quality control samples. Additionally, extraction yield was evaluated. The assay achieved the LOQ of 1.75 μg mL-1, 0.62 μg mL-1, 4.15 μg mL-1, 0.58 μg mL-1 and 4.04 μg mL-1 for IBU, 1-OH IBU, 2-OH IBU, 3-OH IBU and CBX IBU, respectively. The developed method has been successfully applied to the excretion study in horses, in which a single oral IBU dose was administered to twelve horses (mares and geldings) and equine urine samples were collected for 5 or 6 days after the drug administration. Data on the detection and determination of three IBU metabolites, 2-OH IBU, 3-OH IBU and CBX IBU in equine urine samples has been presented for the first time. The obtained results indicated the rapid excretion of IBU and its metabolites that were detectable only in the first day after the drug administration. IBU was mainly the most abundant compound detected in equine urine samples (with two exceptions in the case of samples collected from two horses, for which the highest instrumental responses were obtained for CBX IBU). The received results have indicated that two major IBU metabolites, CBX IBU and 2-OH IBU can be important markers for the IBU abuse in view of doping control in equestrian sports.

Introduction The Cantril Scale (CS) is a simple visual scale which makes it possible to assess general life satisfaction. The result may depend on the health, living, and studying conditions, and quality of social relations. The objective of this study is to identify key factors influencing the CS score in Polish adolescents. Material and methods The survey comprised 1,423 parent-child pairs (54% girls; age range: 10–17; 67.3% urban inhabitants; 89.4% of parents were mothers). Linear and logistic models were estimated; the latter used alternative divisions into “satisfied” and “dissatisfied” with life. In addition to age and gender, child-reported KIDSCREEN-52 quality of life indexes were taken into account, along with some information provided by parents – child physical (CSHCN) and mental (SDQ) health, and family socio-economic conditions. Results According to the linear model, nine independent predictors, including six dimensions of KIDSCREEN-52, explain 47.2% of the variability of life satisfaction on the Cantril Scale. Self-perception was found to have a dominating influence (ΔR 2 = 0.301, p < 0.001). Important CS predictors also included Psychological Well-being (ΔR 2 = 0.088, p < 0.001) and Parent Relations (ΔR 2 = 0.041, p < 0.001). The impact of socioeconomic factors was more visible in boys and in older adolescents. According to logistic models, the key factors enhancing the chance of higher life satisfaction are Moods and Emotions (cut-off point CS > 5) and School Environment (CS > 8 points). None of the models indicated a relationship between the CS and physical health. Conclusions The Cantril Scale can be considered a useful measurement tool in a broad approach to psychosocial adolescent health.

This article contributes to the ongoing debate on local tax policy-making, in particular regarding yardstick competition in the area-based property taxation system. Based on data from 300 municipalities located in ten metropolitan areas in Poland over ten years, we identify whether we are faced with tax mimicking induced by political considerations in tax rates setting. In particular, we seek to identify whether the spatial interdependence of property tax rates set by local governments of Polish municipalities is driven by a yardstick competition mechanism. The analytical approach is based on the estimation of the spatial residential property tax reaction function by using spatial autoregressive panel models. In order to verify the presence of yardstick competition, we include a set of purely political variables in the models and test their impact on tax rate decisions. The results confirm the evidence of yardstick competition, which, however, is present only in a few of the examined metropolitan areas. We found nominal tax rates for residential buildings that were significantly lower in election years, and empirical evidence of several political factors influencing local tax policies in Poland.

In this study, sodium alginate-based thin films were modified by the addition of tannic acid. Materials were obtained by solvent evaporation. They were characterized by the observation of its morphology and its surface by scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope. The thermal properties were studied by differential scanning calorimetry. The concentration of tannic acid released from the material was determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu method. The material safety for biomedical application was determined by the hemolysis rate study in contact with sheep blood as well as platelet adhesion to the material surface. Based on the obtained results, we assume that proposed films based on sodium alginate/tannic acid are safe and may potentially find application in medicine.

Introduction In numerous papers, it was indicated that teenagers who spend a lot of time in front of the screen can experience subjective health complaints. The aim The aim of the paper is to show the frequency and life style-related determinants of health complaints in adolescence. Material and methods The study was conducted in school year 2013/14 in the frame of international Health Behaviour in School-aged Children survey. The nationwide sample included 2441 students with age ranging 15–16 years. Ten logistic regression models for five somatic and five mental complaints were estimated. The main independent variables were sedentary behaviours (watching TV/ films, computer games, social media and the Internet), age and gender. Results More often than once a week, at least one somatic complaint was reported by 55.3% and at least one mental one by 48.5% of teenagers. On average, young respondents spent 3 hours daily on the Internet and social media, 2.5 hour on watching films and 1.5 hour on playing computer games. It was indicated that the Internet and social media significantly increase the risk of all ten complaints, especially dizziness, nervousness, stomach ache and irritation. Watching TV increases the risk of six complaints while computer games could induce only two of those complaints – in both cases, the highest association with stomach ache was found. Conclusions Sedentary behaviours have negative impact on the well-being in adolescents. There is a need to work out the educational strategies in order to limit their screen time as well as to promote higher physical activity.

The paper focuses on an adaptation of the AHP method to elicit housing preferences on the rental market. To assess the applicability of the AHP method for residential market analyses, a survey was conducted on a group of students from Cracow University of Economics, Poland. The students were asked to evaluate the importance of particular criteria when selecting an apartment. We identified the major methodological difficulties of the utilization of the AHP method in applied research on preferences and decision-making on the housing market. Potential solutions to the mentioned limitations were also presented.

Adaptacja kompleksów poprzemysłowych do nowych funkcji użytkowych niesie ze sobą szereg specyficznych trudności. Człowiek, będący punktem odniesienia dla niemal wszystkich funkcji użytkowych budynków, w architekturze przemysłowej schodzi na drugi plan. Skala i organizacja obiektów fabrycznych dostosowana jest wyłącznie do wymagań maszyn i przebiegu linii produkcyjnych. Dlatego kiedy przestrzenie te trzeba adaptować do nowej funkcji użytkowej, podstawą jest zapewnienie komfortu jego nowym użytkownikom, przy jednoczesnym zachowaniu najważniejszych wartości dziedzictwa przemysłowego. Dziedzictwo przemysłowe – jako pełnoprawny element dziedzictwa kulturowego – stanowi element tożsamości mieszkańców. Z tego względu jego zachowanie po ustaniu funkcji produkcyjnej nie powinno podlegać dyskusjom (mowa oczywiście o wybranych kompleksach o wysokich wartościach kulturowych). Ponadto istniejące już budynki przemysłowe stanowią wartość materialną, której wtórne wykorzystanie, również ze względów ekonomicznych, wydaje się zasadne. Co więcej, w ostatnich latach pojawiła się wyraźna moda na industrialną stylistykę w architekturze, która mobilizuje inwestorów do adaptowania przestrzeni poprzemysłowych. Czy jednak współczesne adaptacje obiektów poprzemysłowych potrafią przekazać użytkownikowi informacje na temat historii miejsca? Czy zachowują najważniejsze wartości kulturowe adaptowanych zespołów? Czy moda na industrialną stylistykę w architekturze pomaga przekazywać prawdziwe informacje o dziedzictwie przemysłowym czy jedynie sprzyja scenograficznym aranżacjom? Autorka w publikacji stara się odpowiedzieć na te pytania w oparciu o kilka przykładów adaptacji kompleksów poprzemysłowych do współczesnych funkcji użytkowych z terenu miasta Bydgoszczy.

Objectives Aim was to investigate the innovative method of direct acoustic bone conduction (BC) stimulation applied directly to the otic capsule and measured intraoperatively by promontory displacement in living humans. The objective was to find the best stimulation site that provides the greatest transmission of vibratory energy in a living human and compare it with the results previously obtained in cadavers. Design The measurements were performed in 4 adult patients referred to our department for vestibular schwannoma removal via translabyrinthine approach. The measurements were performed in the operated site. The cadaver data were obtained in our previous study and here they are reanalyzed for comparison. Promontory displacement was measured using a commercial scanning laser Doppler vibrometer. The laser Doppler vibrometer points located on the promontory were used to analyze the promontory displacement amplitude. Cochlear stimulation was induced with BC stimulation through an implant positioned at three sites. The first site was on the skull surface at the squamous part of the temporal bone (BC No. 1), the second at the bone forming the ampulla of the lateral semicircular canal (BC No. 2), and the third between the superior and lateral semicircular canals (BC No. 3). BC No. 2 and BC No. 3 were located directly on the otic capsule. Four frequencies in total were tested (500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz), one at a time. Results In patients, the detailed analysis of promontory displacement amplitudes revealed the BC No. 1 magnitude to be the smallest and significantly different from BC No. 2 and No. 3 at all measured frequencies. Transmission of vibratory energy at BC No. 2 and BC No. 3 was the most effective and similar with a small and insignificant difference at 500, 1000, and 4000 Hz, and a significant difference at 2000 Hz. The results observed in cadavers were similar to those in living humans. However, a few differences were observed when comparing patients and cadavers. Small and insignificant differences were found for BC No. 1. Almost the same results were obtained for BC No. 2 and BC No. 3 in cadavers as in living humans, with only BC No. 3 measurements results at 500 Hz at the limit of statistical significance, with no other significant differences observed. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that the promontory vibration amplitude increases when the BC stimulation location approaches the cochlea. BC No. 1 stimulation located on the squama caused overall smaller displacement than both BC No. 2 and No. 3 screwed to the ampulla of the lateral semicircular canal and to the midpoint between the semicircular canals, respectively. In our opinion, the results of BC stimulation applied directly to the otic capsule present a potential new stimulation site that could be introduced in the field of BC hearing rehabilitation.

Background Recent years saw the development of international tools for measuring health competencies understood as health literacy (HL). One of them is the short index Health Literacy for School–Aged Children (HLSAC) implemented by the members of the Health Behaviour in School–aged Children (HBSC) network. So far, when researching the properties of this instrument, less attention has been devoted to the correlation of HLSAC with other tools related to health. The aim of the paper is to present selected psychometric features of the HLSAC index in a sample of Polish pupils, supplemented by the preliminary analysis of its association with the health locus of control. Material and methods The information collected relates to 630 junior secondary school students surveyed in Poland in 2016 as part of the HLSAC questionnaire pilot study. The Multidimensional Health Locus of Control (MHLC) scale by K. Wallston was used as the additional module for Poland. It differentiates among three dimensions of health control: internal, external – dependent on other people, and external – dependent on random factors. It was checked which HLC dimension correlates most strongly with HL. Results It was demonstrated that the HLSAC scale consisting of 10 questions has a very good reliability in the Polish version (Cronbach alfa = 0.851) and a one–factor structure. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a unidimensional model (RMSEA = 0.082; CFI=0.922; TLI=0.877). The HLSAC most strongly correlates with the internal health locus of control (r=0.376; p

Introduction: The aims of this study included: (a) to develop a method of direct acoustic bone conduction (BC) stimulation applied directly to the otic capsule, (b) to investigate the effect of different stimulation sites on the promontory displacement amplitude, and (c) to find the best stimulation site (among 2 located directly on the otic capsule and 1 standard site approved for clinical use) that provides the greatest transmission of vibratory energy. Methods: Measurements were performed on 9 cadaveric whole human heads. A commercial scanning laser Doppler vibrometer was used. The promontory displacement was recorded in response to BC stimulation delivered by an implant at 3 sites: BC1 on the squamous part of the temporal bone, BC2 on the ampulla of the lateral semicircular canal, and BC3 between the semicircular canals. The displacement of the promontory was analyzed in detail. Results: The results show that BC1 caused an overall smaller promontory displacement than both sites BC2 and 3. BC3 stimulation is more efficient than that at BC2. Conclusions: BC is an effective method of acoustic stimulus delivery into the inner ear, with the effectiveness increasing when approaching closer to the cochlea. Placing the implant directly on the labyrinth and thus applying vibrations directly to the otic capsule is possible and very effective as proved in this study. The results are encouraging and represent the potential of new stimulation sites that could be introduced in the field of BC hearing rehabilitation as the possible future locations for implantable BC hearing devices.

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the following: (1) the vibration pattern of the round window (RW) membrane in human cadavers during air (AC) and bone conduction (BC) stimulation at different excitation sites; (2) the effect of the stimulation on the fluid volume displacement (VD) at the RW and compare the VD between BC and AC stimulation procedures; (3) the effectiveness of cochlear stimulation by the bone implant at different excitation sites. Design The RW membrane vibrations were measured by using a commercial scanning laser Doppler vibrometer. The RW vibration amplitude was recorded at 69 measurement points evenly distributed in the measurement field covering the entire surface of the RW membrane and a part of the surrounding bony surface. RW vibration was induced first with AC and then with BC stimulation through an implant positioned at two sites. The first site was on the skull surface at the squamous part of the temporal bone (implant no. 1), a place typical for bone-anchored hearing aids. The second site was close to the cochlea at the bone forming the ampulla of the lateral semicircular canal (implant no. 2). The displacement amplitude (dP) of the point P on the promontory was determined and used to calculate the relative displacement (drRW) of points on the RW membrane, drRW = dRW - dP. VD parameter was used to analyze the effectiveness of cochlear stimulation by the bone implant screwed at different excitation sites. Results RW membrane displacement amplitude of the central part of the RW was similar for AC and BC implant no. 1 stimulation, and for BC implant no. 2 much larger for frequency range >1 kHz. BC implant no. 2 causes a larger displacement amplitude of peripheral parts of the RW and the promontory than AC and BC implant no. 1, and BC implant no. 1 causes larger than AC stimulation. The effect of BC stimulation exceeds that of AC with identical intensity, and that the closer BC stimulation to the otic capsule, the more effective this stimulation is. A significant decrease in the value of VD at the RW is observed for frequencies >2 kHz for both AC and BC stimulation with BC at both locations of the titanium implant placement. For frequencies >1 kHz, BC implant no. 2 leads to a significantly larger VD at the RW compared to BC implant no. 1. Thus, the closer to the otic capsule the BC stimulation is located, the more effective it is. Conclusions Experimental conditions allow for an effective acoustic stimulation of the inner ear by an implant screwed to the osseous otic capsule. The mechanical effect of BC stimulation with a titanium implant placed in the bone of the ampulla of the lateral semicircular canal significantly exceeds the effect of an identical stimulation with an implant placed in the temporal squama at a conventional site for an implant anchored in the bone. The developed research method requires the implementation on a larger number of temporal bones in order to obtain data concerning interindividual variability of the observed mechanical phenomena.

The article discusses the engagement of local governments in socially responsible investment. Due to the goals and tasks taken by municipalities in the area of investment policy, which is a crucial part of general local development policy, there is a need to ask: In what sense do municipal authorities contribute to socially responsible investments and support the sustainable development of local areas? This issue is considered in relation to the municipality’s own investment and to investment undertaken by other entities in municipalities. In their conclusions, the authors emphasize the key circumstances that reflect municipalities’ contribution to public and private socially responsible investments, mainly in the following areas: analysing and locating investment needs on a hierarchy, defining strategic documents, establishing selection criteria and standards for implementing and evaluating investments. Finally, the article presents the main causes and consequences of municipal investment activities, which stand in contrast to the idea of responsible investment.

The aversive action of the pharmacological properties of ethanol was studied in selectively bred Warsaw Alcohol High-Preferring (WHP) and Warsaw Alcohol Low-Preferring (WLP) rats. For this study, a conditioned-taste aversion test was used. Male WHP and WLP rats were submitted to daily 20-min sessions for 5 days, in which a saccharin solution (1.0 g/L) was available (pre-conditioning phase). Next, this drinking was paired with the injection of ethanol (0, 0.5, 1.0 g/kg), intraperitoneally [i.p.] immediately after removal of the saccharin bottle (conditioning phase). Afterward, the choice between the saccharin solution and water was extended for 18 subsequent days for 20-min daily sessions (post-conditioning phase). Both doses of ethanol did not produce an aversion to saccharin in WLP and WHP rats in the conditioning phase. However, injection of the 1.0 g/kg dose of ethanol produced an aversion in WLP rats that was detected by a decrease in saccharin intake at days 1, 3, 7, and 10 of the post-conditioning phase, with a decrease in saccharin preference for 16 days of the post-conditioning phase. Conditioned taste aversion, measured as a decrease in saccharin intake and saccharin preference, was only visible in WHP rats at day 1 and day 3 of the post-conditioning phase. This difference between WLP and WHP rats was apparent despite similar blood ethanol levels in both rat lines following injection of 0.5 and 1.0 g/kg of ethanol. These results may suggest differing levels of aversion to the post-ingestional effects of ethanol between WLP and WHP rats. These differing levels of aversion may contribute to the selected line difference in ethanol preference in WHP and WLP rats.

Fast, simple in use and highly effective voltammetric enantiosensor dedicated for determination of thalidomide (TD) enantiomers (especially towards the toxic (S)-enantiomer) in blood plasma is still desirable. Here we have proven that newly synthesized chiral naphthalene diimide (NDI) derivatives are excellent electroactive materials for TD enantiosensors. The recognition process relies on the specific interaction between the chiral NDI receptor and the thalidomide enantiomer of the opposite configuration. This unique specific interaction between (S)-thalidomide and (R)-NDI derivative counterparts, evident in the DPV voltammograms, was confirmed by molecular modeling. The demonstrated voltammetric enantiosensors are characterized by the low detection limit at the level of μg·L−1, wide analytical range from 5·10−4 – 10 mg·L−1, high selectivity and long lifetime. The results of the recovery rates showed a very good degree of accuracy towards the determination of (S)-thalidomide in the blood samples, so it can be successfully used in the analysis of clinical samples.

BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common clinical problem. The left atrium anatomy makes up a factor that may significantly affect the effectiveness of the AF ablation. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to evaluate a long-term effectiveness ablation in patients with common pulmonary vein trunk (CPVT) and AF. MATERIAL AND METHODS The outcomes of 129 procedures in 95 patients with CPVT out of 1,475 procedures carried out in 1,150 patients with AF treated with ablation, were analyzed. Ablation with CARTO 3 system (Johnson & Johnson, New Brunswick, USA), cryoballoon, and the circular multipolar duty-cycled radiofrequency-based pulmonary vein ablation producer with catheter (PVAC) were considered as advanced methods. The following data was recorded for every patient: age, gender, AF duration and type, previous antiarrhythmic drugs, weight, height, any prior cardioversion, and comorbidities, including hypertension, diabetes, hypothyreosis, thyrotoxicosis, heart failure, and stroke/transient ischemic attack. The following anatomical factors were assessed: the presence of patent foramen ovale (PFO) and localization of the CPVT on the basis of venography or computed tomography (CT). In the 1st year after ablation, 24-h Holter monitoring was performed 3-5 times, and the patients were encouraged to visit their doctor or an emergency department if a cardiac arrhythmia occurred. Long-term ablation effectiveness was assessed based on a telephone interview and patients' answers to the questionnaires including 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG). RESULTS Sinus rhythm was maintained in 44 patients (43.6 %) after a median of 42 months (range 12-120). A lower number of clinical factors (odds ratio [OR] range 0.09; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.02-0.56; p < 0.01), and advanced ablation methods (OR 3.1; 95% CI 1.4-7.1; p < 0.01) were related to a better longterm effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS The long-term effectiveness of pulmonary vein (PV) isolation in patients with AF and CPVT is higher when advanced ablation techniques are used. Accumulation of clinical factors was found to be the most tremendous predictor of AF recurrence.

Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) is a direct ethanol metabolite. The presence of EtG in urine can be used as a laboratory test to detect recent alcohol consumption. Several earlier studies in humans and in rats revealed that the same amount of ethanol ingested at different concentrations results in different blood ethanol concen- trations. The effect of different concentrations of ingested ethanol on the resulting EtG levels in urine was tested in WHP rats. The EtG concentration was also measured in rat hair. A significant (p0.05) decrease in the total amount of urine EtG after administration of the higher concentration (50%) ethanol solution as compared to 30% ethanol at the same dose of ethanol (3 g/kg) was observed. Median EtG concentration in rat hair of 1.5 ng/mg (range: 0.7-2.3 ng/mg) was observed. Our results demonstrate that EtG production and excretion in WHP rats is dependent on alcohol concentration administered orally. EtG levels in hair closely reflect the fate of EtG in the rat.

This study has investigated domperidone (DOM) and quinidine (QD) interaction in the Wistar rat experimental model of repeated administration. We used nonconventional administration model consistent with occasional administration method. Difference in administration was related to sequence of domperidone alone or with quinidine dosage. Expected domperidone-quinidine interactions could have its origin both in the ability of quinidine to inhibit P-glycoprotein (P-gp) activity as well as cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism of both compounds. There also were examined kinetics of acetaminophen (PAM) administered (30 mg/kg) with domperidone as an indicator of gastric emptying, showing domperidone prokinetic activity, as well as quinidine anticholinergic activity. Domperidone (30 mg/kg) with PAM and with/without quinidine (25 mg/kg) was administered orally according to the disposition regiment different for six examined rat groups. DOM and PAM concentrations in plasma were assayed by HPLC method. Following changes were observed: domperidone did not modify the duration of the uptake phase of acetaminophen; quinidine prolongs gastric emptying time (as a result of anticholinergic action); quinidine given as the fourth or fifth dose with domperidone promotes growth of its concentration in plasma; analysis of changes in the value of AUC(0-2) at the initial three weeks of experiment suggests intensity of domperidone absorption processes, the following week increase in the value AUC(4-6) suggests inhibition of domperidone hepatic biotransformation and the mechanism of induction of absorption during domperidone administration is different from the absorption - inducing effects of quinidine. Both effects are superimposed and produce large, 2, 3-fold change in domperidone's AUC(0-6).

Background Ethanol and caffeine are the most widely used psychoactive substances in the world, with an observed steady increase in the combined consumption of alcohol and caffeine. Specific signs of ethanol-caffeine interactions have been reported both in humans and in animals. The metabolic effects of these interactions have not been fully elucidated. There are no published reports on the influence of caffeine on ethyl glucuronide (EtG) formation. EtG is a direct metabolite of ethanol and is very often used as a biomarker of alcohol consumption. Here, we investigated the influence of caffeine on the formation of EtG in rat plasma and EtG incorporation into the hair. Methods Studies were conducted on three male Wistar rat groups, each receiving either ethanol at 3 g/kg/day, ethanol (at the same dose) with caffeine at 3 mg/kg/day, or caffeine at 3 mg/kg/day for four weeks. EtG and caffeine levels were evaluated in hair and in blood after the last administration. Results Blood EtG levels after the administration of ethanol together with caffeine were significantly higher than after the administration of ethanol alone. EtG levels in rat hair in the ethanol-and-caffeine group were also higher than in the ethanol-only group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion This study shows the possible effect of ethanol and caffeine co-administration on EtG formation. Caffeine stimulates EtG synthesis resulting in increased blood and, possibly, hair levels of this metabolite. However, the role of these changes in estimating alcohol consumption requires further studies.

Worldwide, drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a major cause of hepatic failure. It is also the leading cause of withdrawal, cautionary labeling, and restricted usage of licensed drugs; therefore, European Medicines Agency (EMA) and United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warn that the existing methods of assessing DILI are insufficient and that some of the translational biomarkers of hepatotoxicity must be relooked. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) seems to be a proper tool in elucidating the effects of DILI in both preclinical and clinical studies, providing excellent visualization of the morphology of the liver parenchyma. Therefore, herein, we propose preclinical MRI assessment of liver injury in experimental paracetamol-treated rats. Quantitative MRI clearly provides evidence of adverse effects in the liver tissue caused by a single overdose of paracetamol (1 g kg−1 and 1.5 g kg−1 b.w.). The results of the MRI were confirmed by the histopathological examination (HE it has a potential to serve as the early diagnostic tool for the prediction of DILI in preclinical evaluation.

Background: Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation is a first-line therapy for patients with drug-refractory atrial fibrillation (AF). Complete isolation of electrical potentials at the ostium of pulmonary vein (PV) is a challenging procedure. There are different techniques and devices used for PV isolation (PVI). The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PV ablation catheter (PVAC). Methods: A total of 67 consecutive patients with paroxysmal and persistent AF were treated with the PVAC. The patients’ information were obtained from clinical charts. Follow-up was obtained by one day Holter monitoring at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 months after ablation and ECG registration if any symptoms or arrhythmia occurred. Results: The median follow-up duration was 16 months (IQR: 12–20 months). In the population which was available at follow-up (n = 60), 22 (36.7%) patients were in sustained sinus rhythm (SR) without anti-arrhythmic drugs (AAD). Overall 26 (43.3%) patients were in sustained SR with and without AAD. In the paroxysmal AF group, after a single PVAC ablation procedure (n = 39), 19 (48.7%) patients had sustained SR without AAD. In the persistent AF group (n = 15), after the single PVAC ablation, 2 (13.3%) patients had sustained SR without AAD. Conclusions: PVI with PVAC is a safe procedure with 48.7% efficacy in patients with paroxy smal AF. The efficacy of PVAC in patients with persistent or long-standing persistent AF is not acceptable. (Cardiol J 2013; 20, 6: 618–625)