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Purpose: The article analyzes the consequences of transformation in governance structures of stock exchanges on their CSR initiatives, in particular relations between their organizational forms and the number and nature of CSR initiatives as well as their influence on stock exchanges’ performance.

The effect of incorporation of different contents of chokeberry polyphenols extract (CPE) into cookie recipe on the oxidative stability of the lipid fraction of cookies was determined in the study. Margarine and butter cookies with different contents of CPE were prepared. Contents of primary (Peroxide value, PV) and secondary (Anisidine value, AV; thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS) lipid oxidation products and fatty acids profile were measured during storage. Different course of lipid degradation depending on both polyphenols content and storage time was shown. Cookies were characterised by a low PV (1.45 and 4.90 meq of O/kg of fat in margarine and butter cookies, respectively). The AV increased during storage both in margarine and in butter cookies. Losses of PUFA in margarine cookies (0.34%) apply mainly to α-linolenic acid. It appears safe to incorporate 100 mg and 250 mg of CPE into margarine cookies stored for 9 weeks and 1000 mg of CPE into butter cookies stored for 9 weeks. The incorporation of 1000 mg CPE into cookies resulted in a significant increase in the intensity of astringent taste, acidic taste, off-taste and off-flavour.

Apples are rich in components that are important for human health, such as polyphenols, organic acids and microelements, but their chemical composition varies with different apple cultivars. We aimed to find out if there is any superiority in traditionally grown apple cultivars in terms of their fruits’ bioactive components content. Juice from two traditionally grown apple cultivars, ‘Mutsu’ and ‘Reinette Simirenko’, was compared to eight popular apple cultivars, ‘Jonagold’, ‘Jonagold Decosta’, ‘Jonica’, ‘Šampion’, ‘Gloster’, ‘Elise’, ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Rubin’, and the results are presented. In the study we determined several major and minor nutrient elements, organic acids, phenolic content as well as the antioxidant activity of apple juice made from different cultivars, both modern and traditionally grown. Antioxidant activity determined as FRAP varied from 1.12 (‘Elise’) to 12.10 (‘Jonagold’) mmol Fe dm-3. The concentration of polyphenols fell between 0.16 (‘Elise’) and 1.30 (‘Jonagold’) mg ml-1 gallic acid equivalent. Malic acid concentration was highest in ‘Reinette Simirenko’ and ‘Mutsu’ (6.58 and 5.84 g dm-3, respectively) and lowest for ‘Jonagold’ (3.73 g dm-3). The microelement concentrations for the apple cultivar juices were as follows: 8-24 mg dm-3 for Na, 567-1022 mg dm-3 for K, 26.9-59.4 mg dm-3 for Mg and 0.105-0.201 mg dm-3 for Zn. Statistical analysis confirmed a highly positive correlation between total polyphenols and antioxidant activity (r = 0.98, p = 0.001).

Abstract Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects not only the joints but also has significant cardiovascular (CV) manifestations. The mechanistic interplay between RA and cardiovascular complications is not yet well understood due to the lack of relevant in vitro models. In this study, we established RA cardiac microtisses (cMTs) from iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (CMs), endothelial cells (ECs) and cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) to investigate whether this fully human 3D multicellular system could serve as a platform to elucidate the connection between RA and CV disorders. Methods PBMC and FLS from healthy and RA donors were reprogrammed to hiPSCs with Sendai vectors. hiPSCs pluripotency was assessed by IF, FACS, spontaneous embryoid bodies formation and teratoma assay. hiPSCs were differentiated to cardiac derivatives such as CMs, ECs and CFs, followed by cell markers characterizations (IF, FACS, qRT-PCR) and functional assessments. 3D cMTs were generated by aggregation of 70% CMs, 15% ECs and 15% CFs. After 21 days in culture, structural and metabolic properties of 3D cMTs were examined by IF, qRT-PCR and Seahorse bioanalyzer. Results hiPSCs demonstrated typical colony-like morphology, normal karyotype, presence of pluripotency markers, and ability to differentiate into cells originating from all three germ layers. hiPSC-CMs showed spontaneous beating and expression of cardiac markers (cTnT, MYL7, NKX2.5, MYH7). hiPSC-ECs formed sprouting spheres and tubes and expressed CD31 and CD144. hiPSC-CFs presented spindle-shaped morphology and expression of vimentin, collagen 1 and DDR2. Self-aggregation of CMs/ECs/CFs allowed development of contracting 3D cMTs, demonstrating spherical organization of the cells, which partially resembled the cardiac muscle, both in structure and function. IF analysis confirmed the expression of cTnT, CD31, CD144 and DDR2 in generated 3D cMTs. RA cMTs exhibited significantly greater formation of capillary-like structures, mimicking enhanced vascularization—key RA feature—compared to control cMTs. Seahorse examination of cMTs revealed changes in mitochondrial and glycolytic rates in the presence of metabolic substrates and inhibitors. Conclusions The cMTs model may represent an advanced human stem cell-based platform for modeling CV complications in RA. The highly developed capillary-like structures observed within RA cMTs highlight a critical feature of inflammation-induced CV dysfunction in chronic inflammatory diseases.

Abstract Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is characterized by excessive parathormone (PTH) secretion and disrupted calcium homeostasis. Untargeted metabolomics offers a valuable approach to understanding the complex metabolic alterations associated with different diseases, including PHPT. Plasma untargeted metabolomics was applied to investigate the metabolic profiles of PHPT patients compared to a control group. Two complementary liquid-phase separation techniques were employed to comprehensively explore the metabolic landscape in this retrospective, single-center study. The study comprised 28 female patients diagnosed following the current guidelines of PHPT diagnosis and a group of 30 healthy females as a control group. To evaluate their association with PHPT, we identified changes in plasma metabolic profiles in patients with PHPT compared to the control group. The primary outcome measure included detecting plasma metabolites and discriminating PHPT patients from controls. The study unveiled specific metabolic imbalances that may link l-amino acids with peptic ulcer disease, gamma-glutamyls with oxidative stress, and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) with cardiovascular complications. Several metabolites, such as gamma-glutamyls, caffeine, sex hormones, carnitine, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S-1-P), and steroids, were connected with reduced bone mineral density (BMD). Metabolic profiling identified distinct metabolic patterns between patients with PHPT and healthy controls. These findings provided valuable insights into the pathophysiology of PHPT.

The main research objective of this study is to present the dynamics of land productivity changes in EU agriculture in the years 2012-2020 and evaluate the influence of direct subsidies received by farmers on land productivity. The source data for 2012-2020 are secondary and come from Eurostat. The research results were prepared for the entire European Union (EU-28), and divided into 'old' countries (EU-15) and 'new' countries (EU-13). The results were developed using the method of assessing convergence (in terms of differences in land productivity in individual countries) using the coefficient of variation and the relative index of changes in individual Member States in relation to the EU average over the period under study. Results showed that between 2012 and 2020, average land productivity in the EU increased by 7%. At the same time, differences in land productivity between EU countries decreased. The correlation analysis confirmed a statistically significant relationship between land productivity and the amount of direct payments per ha of agricultural land. Additionally, results of the correlation between productivity per 1 ha and the total area of agricultural land in EU countries confirmed the law of decreasing marginal productivity of land.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the formation of sustainable development competencies (SDCs) in future primary school teachers during English for specific purposes classes, and to assess the correlation between English proficiency and the development of SDCs, including Collaboration, Strategic thinking, Critical thinking, Modelling sustainable behaviour, Systems thinking and Future thinking. Design/methodology/approach: The research experiment involved the application of content and language integrated learning and facilitation methods in three higher education institutions in Ukraine. The students' level of English language proficiency was assessed based on the results of the online Cambridge English Language Assessment test, while the level of SDC formation was measured using research methods adapted to the Ukrainian context. Findings: The experiment revealed positive changes in the levels of SDCs and English language proficiency through integrated learning and the application of facilitation methods. Originality/value: The study established a correlation between the level of English language proficiency and the formation of competencies, such as Collaboration, Strategic thinking, Critical thinking, Modelling sustainable behaviour, Systems thinking and Future thinking, all of which are vital for sustainable development.

Review contents the extensive insight into the last 10 years in the history of inverse gas chromatography (IGC). Although this technique seems to be well-known. Every year brings new proposals concerning the procedures enabling the deeper insights in the properties of the surfaces as well as the bulk of various materials. Meetings organized by the universities and commercial groups indicate the growing society of users. Different versions of IGC are most often used in following the changes of materials properties undergoing technological modifications and/or changes caused by the environment in which such material is applied.The wide group of raw materials, minerals, pharmaceutical components, abrasive articles, cellulosic materials, bacteria biomass, ionic liquids, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as well as various hybrid materials were characterized by IGC. Here it is worth to indicate the properties of dentine and enamel during dental treatment or (on the other side) examination of the influence of various external parameters on the transport of gaseous compounds in different geologic materials. The advantages and challenges that arise during such experiments are presented and discussed.

Background Implementation of the cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention guidelines in the UK has been repeatedly evaluated under the auspices of the British Cardiovascular Society in three Action on Secondary and Primary Prevention by Intervention to Reduce Events (ASPIRE) surveys in 1994–1995, 2008–2010 and 2017–2019. The primary care arm of ASPIRE-2-PREVENT (A-3-P) was conducted to evaluate lifestyle and medical risk factor management in people at high risk of atherosclerotic CVD in everyday clinical practice.Methods A-3-P was a cross-sectional survey in 27 general practices and health centres across 5 English National Health Service regions. Patients with no history of atherosclerotic CVD started on blood pressure and/or lipid and/or glucose lowering treatments were identified retrospectively and interviewed at least 6 months after the initiation of medication.Results 557 patients attended the interview and examination (45.8% women; mean age 61.7±10.8 years). The risk factor control was poor: 9.3% of patients were smokers, 38.1% obese (body mass index≥30 kg/m2) and 53.5% centrally obese (waist circumference≥88 cm for women, ≥102 cm for men). Only 37.8% of patients on blood pressure-lowering therapies achieved the target of

The aim of this study was to compare tissue concentrations of heavy metals (copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn)) in roach (Rutilus rutilus (L.)), chub (Squalius cephalus (L.)), and bleak (Alburnus alburnus (L.)) from two locations on the Vistula River upstream from Kraków and Zakrzówek Reservoir, a former limestone quarry flooded over 30 years ago that is located close to the center of Kraków. The findings showed that heavy metal concentrations in fishes from the Vistula River upstream from Kraków were higher compared to those in fishes from Zakrzówek Reservoir. The highest heavy metal concentrations were found in hard tissues, such as bone and scales, and the lowest was in muscle tissue. Metal pollution index (MPI), estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) analyses showed no significant non-carcinogenic risk to human health from the consumption of the muscle meat of the fishes analyzed. Cancer risk (CR) values, calculated based on maximum Ni concentrations in fish muscle tissue, did not exceed the upper limit of the acceptable cancer risk range. The findings show that the assessment of heavy metal contamination of fishes should be continued and extended to include other water bodies used for fishing and other xenobiotics that accumulate in fishes and may pose risks to human health.

Abstract The aim of the study was to investigate the relation between thyroid autoimmunity (TAI), reflected as the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb), and parameters of ovarian reserve in women with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We studied 83 euthyroid women with T1DM (age – 26 ± 5 years, BMI – 24 ± 3 kg/m2) – 12 with PCOS and positive TPOAb (PCOS + TPOAb), 29 with PCOS with negative TPOAb (PCOS + noTPOAb), 18 without PCOS with positive TPOAb (noPCOS + TPOAb), 24 without PCOS with negative TPOAb (noPCOS + noTPOAb). Serum concentrations of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), sex hormones, TSH, thyroid hormones and TPOAb were assessed. The prevalence of TAI was comparable between PCOS and noPCOS. We did not observe differences in hormonal profile or AMH concentration between two PCOS groups—PCOS + TPOAb and PCOS + noTPOAb (p > 0.05). Women with PCOS + TPOAb had lower FSH concentration and higher LH/FSH index than noPCOS + noTPOAb (p = 0.027; p = 0.019, respectively). Moreover, PCOS + TPOAb had lower oestradiol level than noPCOS + TPOAb (p = 0.041). AMH concentration was higher in both groups with PCOS, independent of TPOAb presence, than in noPCOS + noTPOAb (both p

Abstract Adrenal gland incidentaloma is frequently identified through computed tomography and poses a common clinical challenge. Only selected cases require surgical intervention. The primary aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of selected machine learning (ML) techniques in proper qualifying patients for adrenalectomy and to identify the most accurate algorithm, providing a valuable tool for doctors to simplify their therapeutic decisions. The secondary aim was to assess the significance of attributes for classification accuracy. In total, clinical data were collected from 33 patients who underwent adrenalectomy. Histopathological assessments confirmed the proper selection of 21 patients for surgical intervention according to the guidelines, with accuracy reaching 64%. Statistical analysis showed that Supported Vector Machines (linear) were significantly better than the baseline (p

Introduction Fracture of the proximal femur is common in elderly patients, in fact threatening their lives. Age-related sarcopenia may be involved in the imbalance resulting in the injury. Handy and readily accessible biochemical tests would be useful to assess the musculoskeletal system condition in daily practice. The aim of the study was to determine whether there is any relation between muscle decay and fracture of the proximal femur and to assess bone quality in elderly patients. Material and methods In the study 22 patients who represented the treatment group were hospitalized due to proximal femur fracture. Eighteen patients from the control group with no fracture in their history were admitted to the Internal Medicine Department. Anyone treated for osteoporosis, immune disease affecting protein balance, neoplasm, mental illness, heart failure, or myocardial infarction was excluded from the study. In every case a blood sample from an elbow vein was drawn, collected in EDTA-K2 tubes, and then centrifuged to separate plasma from the whole blood. Subsequently, the concentrations of C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and creatine kinase (CK) in plasma were determined using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results The CK plasma concentration differed between the patient groups (p = 0.011). The SHBG plasma concentration was significantly higher in the treatment group (p = 0.006), whereas a slight difference in CTX-I plasma concentration between the groups was found (p = 0.038). No significant correlations between plasma CK, SHBG or CTX-I were found (p > 0.05). Conclusions Creatine kinase is actually not an appropriate marker for the clinical assessment of muscle tissue quality in patients with or at risk of proximal femur fracture. Analyzing the quality of bone tissue, we can conclude it was poorer in patients with proximal femur fracture than in the control group.

Introduction: Wilson's disease (WD) is a genetic disease, inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, caused by a mutation in the ATP7B gene, which results in impaired excretion of copper in the bile. This causes the accumulation of copper in various tissues and organs, leading to their damage. The range and severity of symptoms are wide, so diagnosis is difficult and requires a high index of suspicion. The most common clinical symptoms are hepatic and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Diagnosis is based primarily on clinical suspicion, typical symptoms and reduced serum ceruloplasmin concentration. Treatment includes pharmacological therapies, and in some cases liver transplantation is necessary. Wilson's disease, if left untreated, inevitably leads to serious disability and death. Purpose of the work: This study aims to review and characterize the clinical and pathophysiological aspects of Wilson’s disease. Materials and methods: A comprehensive analysis of research papers available on PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus was undertaken using the searchterms encompassing the following keywords: Wilson’s disease, Copper metabolism, Copper toxicity, ATP7B, Ceruloplasmin, Gene Mutation Results: Wilson's disease is a rare genetic disorder that can lead to severe disability and even death. For this reason, rapid diagnosis and appropriately selected and individualized treatment play a key role. Wilson's disease remains a major diagnostic challenge, but new techniques for its diagnosis, such as genotype analysis, mainly through sequencing, as well as newborn screening, may significantly improve patient prognosis in the future.

QRGS stands for the Question Responses Generation System. It is an online game-like framework designed for gathering various types of question responses. A QRGS user is asked to read a simple story and impersonate its main character. As the story unfolds the user is confronted with four questions and (s)he is expected to answer these in the way the main character would. In this way, we obtain responses to questions of a desired type. The data gathered via QRGS is a useful supplement to the linguistic data already present in language corpora – especially for languages for which such resources are sparse. As such, it opens the possibility for better understanding of the use of questions in natural language dialogues and analysing the response space of such questions. In this paper, we present the main idea of QRGS and the results of five studies (in Polish and in English) that test the framework. Our discussion addresses issues concerning the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed approach. We also discuss the availability of the QRGS and its potential future improvements.

Objective: The article identifies and explores differences in how employees and managers assess the importance of retention factors. It also looks at predictors of the importance employees attach to these factors. Research Design & Methods: Literature studies and quantitative empirical research were carried out with CAWI. The research questionnaire included a self-designed WCR form and the MQSS-JSS scale. Findings: Employees and managers differ in how they assess the importance of retention factors. Managers tend to underestimate the importance of individual factors. All of the predictors studied – company size, job satisfaction, age, gender and seniority – proved important in assessing the importance of the factors tested. Implications / Recommendations: Research results indicate the importance of personalisation in retention strategies. Effective retention strategies should take the predictors of the importance of specific factors for employees into account. Contribution: Managers’ tendency to underestimate the importance of retention factors has been revealed and it has been shown that the individual and organisational features tested are important predictors of factor selection in retention strategies.

Introduction: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene. Characteristic symptoms include persistent lung infection, pancreatic insufficiency, and elevated sweat chloride, although many patients have mild or atypical symptoms. Diagnosis of CF is based primarily on the detection of genetic and/or functional abnormalities in the CFTR gene. Treatment includes pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, mucolytic drugs, respiratory physiotherapy, and antibiotic therapy. Purpose of the work: This study aims to review and characterize the clinical and pathophysiological aspects of cystic fibrosis. Materials and methods: A comprehensive analysis of research papers available on PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus was undertaken using the searchterms encompassing the following keywords: Cystic fibrosis, CFTR, Chloride Channels, Lung Inflammation, Diagnosis, Gene therapy, Treatment. Results: Cystic fibrosis is the most common, multisystem, life-threatening recessive disease in the white race. Although many organs are affected, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality is lung disease. Treatment requires pharmacotherapy, extensive physiotherapy, and nutritional support. In recent years, there has been significant progress in the diagnosis and treatment of cystic fibrosis, and the average survival has increased from a few to almost 50 years.

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and damage to the exocrine glands, leading to symptoms such as ocular and oral dryness, and a range of extraglandular manifestations including polyneuropathies, lung and kidney dysfunction, and systemic vasculitis. Although the exact etiology of SS remains unclear, recent research has highlighted the significant role of gut microbiota in its pathogenesis. Alterations in the gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, have been implicated in the onset and progression of autoimmune diseases, including SS. This review synthesizes current research on the impact of microbiota on SS, focusing on microbial dysbiosis, its impact on disease severity, and potential therapeutic interventions. Evidence indicates that specific microbial changes, such as reductions in beneficial bacteria and alterations in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, correlate with increased disease activity and systemic inflammation. Microbiome-targeted therapies, including probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, have shown promise in improving SS symptoms and modulating immune responses. Notably, butyrate and specific probiotic strains have demonstrated potential in reducing inflammation and enhancing salivary flow in preclinical studies. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and assess long-term efficacy. This review underscores the importance of gut microbiota in SS and suggests that microbiome-focused treatments could offer new avenues for managing this condition, improving patient outcomes, and potentially preventing disease onset.

ABSTRACT Comprehensive whole-genome sequencing was performed on two multi-drug-resistant Escherichia coli strains isolated from cattle manure from a typical dairy farm in Poland in 2020. The identified strains are resistant to beta-lactams, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and fluoroquinolones. The complete sequences of the harbored plasmids revealed antibiotic-resistance genes located within many mobile genetic elements (e.g., insertional sequences or transposons) and genes facilitating conjugal transfer or promoting horizontal gene transfer. These plasmids are hitherto undescribed. Similar plasmids have been identified, but not in Poland. The identified plasmids carried resistance genes, including the tetracycline resistance gene tet(A), aph family aminoglycoside resistance genes aph(3″)-lb and aph (6)-ld, beta-lactam resistance genes blaTEM-1 and blaCTX-M-15, sulfonamide resistance gene sul2, fluoroquinolone resistance gene qnrS1, and the trimethoprim resistance gene dfrA14. The characterized resistance plasmids were categorized into the IncY incompatibility group, indicating a high possibility for dissemination among the Enterobacteriaceae. While similar plasmids (99% identity) have been found in environmental and clinical samples, none have been identified in farm animals. These findings are significant within the One Health framework, as they underline the potential for antimicrobial-resistant E. coli from livestock and food sources to be transmitted to humans and vice versa. It highlights the need for careful monitoring and strategies to limit the spread of antibiotic resistance in the One Health approach.IMPORTANCEThis study reveals the identification of new strains of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in cattle manure from a dairy farm in Poland, offering critical insights into the spread of drug resistance. Through whole-genome sequencing, researchers discovered novel plasmids within these bacteria, which carry genes resistant to multiple antibiotics. These findings are particularly alarming, as these plasmids can transfer between different bacterial species, potentially escalating the spread of antibiotic resistance. This research underscores the vital connection between the health of humans, animals, and the environment, emphasizing the concept of One Health. It points to the critical need for global vigilance and strategies to curb the proliferation of antibiotic resistance. By showcasing the presence of these strains and their advanced resistance mechanisms, the study calls for enhanced surveillance and preventive actions in both agricultural practices and healthcare settings to address the imminent challenge of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Introduction: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetically determined congenital metabolic disorder characterized by the body's inability to properly metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine, which is ingested through food. This deficiency leads to the accumulation of phenylalanine in the blood. If untreated, this can result in neurological damage and cognitive impairments. Despite significant progress in understanding the disease, along with advancements in diagnostic methods, the fundamental approach to managing PKU has remained consistent: early detection and adherence to a diet low in phenylalanine are essential to preventing the adverse effects of the disorder. Purpose of the work: The aim of the study is to analyze and present the current knowledge about phenylketonuria and the quality of life of patients suffering from this disease, as well as methods of its detection. Materials and methods: An analysis of research papers available on PubMed and Google Scholar was undertaken using the following keywords: phenylketonuria; PKU diagnosis; phenylketonuria newborn screening; genetic testing for PKU; Quality of Life in PKU patients. Results: There are various diagnostic methods used in newborn screening and to confirm diagnosis. Regardless of the method, early diagnosis and the introduction of an appropriate diet are crucial. Adherence to dietary restrictions and monitoring phenylalanine levels, along with managing the effects of elevated levels in the body, may negatively impact the quality of life for individuals affected by PKU.

Abstract: Introduction: Pompe disease is classified as a metabolic myopathy and is a glycogen storage disorder inherited in an autosomal recessive manner due to a mutation in the gene encoding the enzyme α-glucosidase. There are two main forms: infantile and late-onset. The disease progresses chronically, with clinical presentation characterized by progressive muscle weakness and varying degrees of respiratory insufficiency. Although incurable, causative treatment is available in the form of enzyme replacement therapy with alglucosidase alfa, a human recombinant α-glucosidase. Early diagnosis, primarily based on enzyme activity assessment, is crucial as timely treatment can extend and improve patients' quality of life. Purpose of the work: This study aims to review and characterize the clinical and genetic aspects of Pompe disease. Materials and methods: A comprehensive analysis of research papers available on PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus was undertaken using the searchterms encompassing the following keywords: Pompe disease / lysosomal storage disease / myopathy / acid alpha-1,4-glucosidase / glycogen / newborn screening / enzyme replacement therapy. Results: Pompe disease is a life-threatening rare condition where prompt diagnosis is essential due to the availability of causative treatment. It is included in newborn screening programs for inherited metabolic disorders in some countries. Unfortunately, in Poland, routine diagnostic screening does not cover this disease. Implementing screening could simplify diagnosis and reduce the need for extensive differential diagnostics. Diagnosing late-onset Pompe disease can be challenging due to its diverse progression and symptoms. Patients with Pompe disease, even those receiving enzyme replacement therapy, require multidisciplinary care involving cardiology, pulmonology, neurology, and physical therapy.

MAKENZY ORCEL The Emperor Trans. Nathan H. Dize. London. Seagull Books. 2024. 160 pages. THIS EXTRAORDINARY novel by fêted Haitian novelist and poet Makenzy Orcel is the second of his [...]

Magdalena Stasiak,1 Przemys&lstrok;aw Witek,2 Emilia Adamska-Fita,1 Andrzej Lewi&nacute;ski1,3 1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital—Research Institute, Lodz, Poland; 2Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw; Mazovian Brodnowski Hospital, Warszawa, Poland; 3Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, PolandCorrespondence: Magdalena Stasiak, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital—Research Institute, 281/289 Rzgowska Street, Lodz, 93-338, Poland, Tel +48502049292, Fax +48422711140, Email mstasiak33@gmail.comAbstract: Cushing’s disease (CD) is the most common cause of endogenous hypercortisolism. Osilodrostat was demonstrated to be efficient in treating CD, and the mean average dose required for CD control was < 11 mg/day. Potential differences in osilodrostat treatment between cortisol-producing adenoma (CPA) and CD have not been reported. The aim of this study was to present two patients with CPA in whom significant differences in the response to therapy compared to CD were found. We demonstrated a case of inverse response of cortisol levels with adrenal tumor progression during the initial dose escalation (Case 1). Simultaneously, severe exaggeration of hypercortisolism symptoms and life-threatening hypokalemia occurred. A further rapid dose increase resulted in the first noticeable cortisol response at a dose of 20 mg/day, and a full response at a dose of 45 mg/day. We also present a case that was initially resistant to therapy (Case 2). The doses required to achieve the first response and the full response were the same as those for Case 1. Our study demonstrated that osilodrostat therapy in patients with CPA may require a different approach than that in CD, with higher doses, faster dose escalation, and a possible initial inverse response or lack of response.Keywords: osilodrostat, adrenal adenoma, hypercortisolism, ACTH-independent, adverse events, hypokalemia

Tussilago farfara L. is a traditional medicinal plant valued for its potentially health-promoting metabolites. Its herbal raw material has been recognized and used since ancient times and continues to be widely used in traditional medicine. Introducing this plant species to in vitro cultivation is a challenging task, but once the protocol is developed, such cultures can provide an abundant and inexhaustible source of plant material. In this study, we report the successful induction and growth of vigorous T. farfara callus in vitro. Callus induction was achieved on MS solid media with the combination of indole-3-acetic acid (3 mg/L) and benzyl aminopurine (2 mg/L) in darkness, whereas it appeared inefficient under light conditions and in suspension culture. We present a detailed description of callus growth kinetics, morphological analysis, photosynthetic activity, and biochemical parameters (including protein content and photosynthetic pigments) supported by histological studies. Furthermore, we observed the potential for organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis. This method for the in vitro propagation of T. farfara, along with callus culture maintenance, offers a wide range of applications in pharmacy for the production of valuable metabolites. Moreover, it could benefit the environment by reducing the depletion of natural populations of this species and may serve as an alternative strategy for species conservation in light of global warming.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a prevalent metabolic disease. The clinical impact of sustained hyperglycemia on ligament healing has not been well characterized. Diabetes is a known cause of macro-, microvascular, and diabetic ulcer healing difficulties among tissues. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the healing potential occurring in injured and healthy ligaments among diabetic and healthy individuals using a rat model. We hypothesize that DM may contribute to altering the knee medial collateral ligament (MCL), thus its morphology, biochemical fitness, and functionality. The study cohort consisted of 40 rats. The animals were randomized into four equal groups. Groups I and II (20 rats) received saline subcutaneously and served as controls. Groups III and IV (20 rats) were injected with a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ). All animals underwent surgery to cut the left tibial collateral ligament in the hind limb and suture it. The access site was sutured to create inflammation and study the regenerative capacities of animals with normal carbohydrate metabolism and pharmacologically induced diabetes. Each animal then underwent sham surgery to access and suture the right tibial collateral ligament in the hind limb without ligament intervention. After the animals had undergone surgeries, groups II and IV were given melatonin supplementation for 4 weeks. Rats with DM presented with more fibrosis and calcification of the MCL and decreased healing potential. Treatment with melatonin in diabetic rats mitigated alterations and improved the antioxidant status of ligaments from the diabetic group.

Understanding photoinjection in semiconductors—a fundamental physical process—represents the first step toward devising new opto-electronic devices, capable of operating on unprecedented time scales. Fostered by the development of few-femtosecond, intense infrared pulses, and attosecond spectroscopy techniques, ultrafast charge injection in solids has been the subject of intense theoretical and experimental investigation. Recent results have shown that while under certain conditions photoinjection can be ascribed to a single, well-defined phenomenon, in a realistic multi-band semiconductor like Ge, several competing mechanisms determine the sub-cycle interaction of an intense light field with the atomic and electronic structure of matter. In this latter case, it is yet unclear how the complex balance between the different physical mechanisms is altered by the chosen interaction geometry, dictated by the relative orientation between the crystal lattice and the laser electric field direction. In this work, we investigate ultrafast photoinjection in a Ge monocrystalline sample with attosecond temporal resolution under two distinct orientations. Our combined theoretical and experimental effort suggests that the physical mechanisms determining carrier excitation in Ge are largely robust against crystal rotation. Nevertheless, the different alignment between the laser field and the crystal unit cell causes non-negligible changes in the momentum distribution of the excited carriers and their injection yield. Further experiments are needed to clarify whether the crystal orientation can be used to tune the photoinjection of carriers in a semiconductor at these extreme time scales.

Problems such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, and oral candidiasis are common conditions that affect people of all ages and geographical zones. They are often associated with poor oral hygiene. Pathogenic microorganisms, their metabolic activity, and inflammation are considered to be the basis of their formation. The search for active substances, components of oral care products, and hygiene products expands this possibility to include research on plant substances with antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Plant extracts such as Rhamus prinoides, Pongamia pinnata, Myrmecodia pendens, Eichhornia crassipes, or the well-known propolis or coffee can effectively reduce the formation of dental plaque and protect against periodontitis. The effect of reducing tooth decay has been demonstrated in relation to extracts from plants such as: Stachytarpheta cayennensis, Mentha spicata, Piper crocatum, Mentha × piperita, Eucalyptus globulus, Clitoria ternatea, Stryphnodendron adstringens, Carum copticum, Phlomis bruguieri, Marrubium parviflorum and Prosopis africana. Rosmarinus officinalis, Punica granatum, Rosa centifolia, Curcuma longa, numerous essential oils (sage, mint, lavender, thyme, hyssop, oregano, lemongrass and others) and other known aromatic plants (including cloves, cinnamon, or Citrus paradisi) had anti-yeast properties. This study aimed to present an up-to-date review of the literature in relation to the latest research and possible potential sources of biologically active plant ingredients for use in preparations, both in prophylaxis and oral hygiene.

Abstract Some of the multiple autoimmune diseases have been already associated with IL-13 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). However, there are only few studies regarding multiple sclerosis (MS) risk and IL-13 rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism, and their results are conflicting. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the frequency of the IL-13 gene rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in MS participants and its association with MS clinical subsets in the Polish population. We conducted a case‒control study including 94 relapsing remitting MS patients and 160 healthy volunteers. We genotyped the rs20541 polymorphism in the IL-13 gene and analysed the genotype frequency, age of MS onset and clinical condition (EDSS values) of the MS participants. Fisher’s exact test was used for statistical analysis, and the log-linear model was applied to test for associations. Allele A, as well as the AA and AG genotypes, was observed to be significantly more common in the MS subjects. The OR (odds ratio) for the A compared to the G allele was 1.71 (1.14–2.56), whereas OR 2.33 (0.86–6.26) and OR 1.92 (1.11–3.30) were obtained for the AA and AG genotypes, respectively. We did not identify any significant associations of the studied IL-13 SNP with the investigated clinical parameters of the MS participants. Our results suggest that the rs20541 polymorphism in the IL-13 gene may play an important role in MS predisposition but not in investigated clinical parameters in MS subjects of the Polish population.

Betulin derivatives are proposed to serve as an alternative to the drugs already established in oncologic treatment. Drug-induced nephrotoxicity leading to acute kidney injury frequently accompanies cancer treatment, and thus there is a need to research the effects of betulin derivatives on renal cells. The objective of our study was to assess the influence of the betulin derivatives 28-propynylobetulin (EB5) and 29-diethoxyphosphoryl-28-propynylobetulin (ECH147) on the expression of TGFβ1, BMP2 and GDF15 in renal proximal tubule epithelial cells (RPTECs) cultured in vitro. The changes in mRNA expression and copy numbers were assessed using real-time reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and the standard curve method, respectively. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to evaluate the effect of the betulin derivatives on the protein concentration in the culture media’s supernatant. The assessment of the betulin derivatives’ influence on gene expression demonstrated that the mRNA level and protein concentration did not always correlate with each other. Each of the tested compounds affected the mRNA expression. The RT-qPCR analyses showed that EB5 and ECH147 induced effects similar to those of betulin or cisplatin and resulted in a decrease in the mRNA copy number of all the analyzed genes. The ELISA demonstrated that EB5 and ECH147 elevated the protein concentration of TGFβ1 and GDF15, while the level of BMP2 decreased. The concentration of the derivatives used in the treatment was crucial, but the effects did not always exhibit a simple linear dose-dependent relationship. Betulin and its derivatives, EB5 and ECH147, influenced the gene expression of TGFβ1, BMP2 and GDF15 in the renal proximal tubule epithelial cells. The observed effects raise the question of whether treatment with these compounds could promote the development of renal fibrosis.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a high-tech ultrasound examination that simultaneously combines the options of endoscopic and ultrasound diagnosis of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, bile ducts and liver. The advantages of endoscopic ultrasound over traditional transabdominal ultrasound are that the ultrasound transducer can be guided directly through the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract to the object under visual control. The EUS is the method of choice for the study of submucosal lesions in the upper gastrointestinal tract. It is the most accurate method for the detection and diagnosis of submucosal formations due to its high sensitivity, specificity, is used as the next research method after endoscopy and can provide information about the origin, size, borders, homogeneity, as well as the choice of treatment method: endoscopic or surgical one. A more important application of EUS is the determination of the stage of malignant neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract, as it determines the treatment and predicts the disease. And the real-time strain elastography, which allows analyzing the stiffness of tissues, helps in this. The high accuracy of this study allows for the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant neoplasms. The article presents cases of examination of patients with submucosal neoplasms of the stomach who were treated in the SI “Institute of Gastroentero­logy of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine”.