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The main objective of this work was to show the application of the study of ancient technology and science on teaching (and learning) chemistry in Chemical Engineering Undergraduate studies. Degradation patterns of pigments used in Ancient Egypt were incorporated in the syllabus of the course entitled "Technological and Scientific Developments in Antiquity: Egypt and Near East" (TSDA) (Last year of the Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering at the Universitat Polite`cnica de Catalunya, UPC). The case studies were discussed following 5 steps which might be a basis for the study of a large number of real cases: (1) Study of the history (Egyptology) related to the case; (2) reading of selected references; (3) description of the degradation pattern; (4) deduction of the chemical mechanism of the degradation; and (5) remediation procedures (if possible). The three degradation patterns observed in pigments used in Ancient Egypt might be used as examples for improving the teaching of chemistry for undergraduate students by applying chemical concepts to real cases in antiquity.

Copyright of Documenta Praehistorica is the property of Documenta Praehistorica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study presents the first complete reconstruction of gold metallurgy in Złoty Stok, Poland. The key parameters of the process (i.e., temperature of smelting and solidification, melt viscosity, oxygen fugacity) are calculated using the remnants of the process: metallurgical slags. The slags consist of silicate phases (i.e., olivine, pyroxene), sulfides and arsenides (i.e., pyrrhotite, Fe2As), as well as glass. These slags are chemically dominated by SiO2 (< 56.60 wt%), MgO (< 18.36 wt%), FeO (< 15.36 wt%), and CaO (< 15.19 wt%). The obtained results indicate that the temperature during the metallurgical process was at least 1300–1350°C, and crystallization of the slags took place until they cooled to < 1200°C. The morphology of olivine crystals in the slags indicates large differences in their cooling rate, from 5 to 300°C/h. Strongly reducing conditions during the metallurgical process (−10.5 to −11.5 log fO2) was confirmed. Low melt viscosity (logƞ = 0.26 – 0.90 Pa s) facilitated the separation of the sulfide melt rich in gold from the silicate melt being the slag precursor. The obtained results allowed existing descriptions of the smelting process in Złoty Stok to be corrected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin of metallurgy is usually monitored via the appearance and frequency of various types of metal items. Quantifying the distribution of metal versus stone tool types over time and space can provide insight into the processes underlying the introduction and diffusion of a functional metallurgical technology for subsistence activities, but is a very limited approach. By quantifying the relative frequency of metal versus stone tool slicing cut marks in butchered animal bone assemblages, it becomes possible to identify and map the introduction and spread of metallurgy into and across a region. Prehistoric data from central Poland (from the Early Neolithic, ca. 5400 b.c., through the Early Iron Age, ca. 450 b.c.) are used to calculate the frequency of use and relative importance of stone and metal implements over time. The results clearly demonstrate that metal tools are adopted slowly throughout the entire length of the Bronze Age and that the advent of the Bronze Age did not entail the wholesale disappearance of lithics for butchering animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the use of "legacy data" in research on Roman Period iron smelting in the territory of the Przeworsk Culture in Magna Germania. The dataset includes results of 240 analyses of smelting slag and iron ores chemistry. A majority of these analyses were conducted in the 1950s-1980s. The quality of these data is far below present-day standards. Only major elements were reported, analytical methods were often not specified (although optical emission spectroscopy and wet chemical analyses can be assumed in such cases) and information on detection limits, precision and accuracy of the results is missing. In spite of this, a Principal Component Analysis-Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering treatment successfully isolated observations from the three main iron smelting regions of the Przeworsk Culture (the Holy Cross Mountains, Masovia and Silesia). These results to a degree confirm a theory proposed in the 1960s by J. Piaskowski, according to whom it was possible to distinguish iron produced in the Holy Cross Mountains from the iron produced elsewhere in the territory of what is now Poland on the basis of metal characteristics. These findings will pave the way to the ongoing research project on the Przeworsk Culture metallurgy. It is also argued that, apart from a search for new methods in iron provenance studies, more attention should be paid to results of earlier analyses and to a compilation of legacy databases. The other result is an open and flexible Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering R code to examine discrimination between production areas and to propose artefact provenance patterns in a convenient interactive way using the R development environment., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2023 Żabiński et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Background/Aims: The study was carried out to evaluate the changes in the eating habits and lipid parameters in a 21-year follow-up on a group of 435 men living in Poland. Methods: The studied population was composed of the same subjects: a group of men who were first studied in the years 1987–1989 and in 2008–2010. The following data was gathered: body mass, body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride concentration in blood serum. Results: The changes in the eating habits among the studied men registered throughout the 21-year period were positive since they showed a reduction in the caloric content of their diet (p < 0.001), lower total fat content (p < 0.001), total amount of carbohydrates (p < 0.001), sucrose (p < 0.001), iron (p < 0.001), and featured more vitamins: A (p < 0.002), B1 (p < 0.001), and C (p < 0.001). An adverse trend was observed in terms of constant calcium shortages in their food portions (ns). A 21-year follow-up of the studied group showed significant differences in terms of weight (p < 0.001), BMI (p < 0.001), and all cholesterol fractions (p < 0.001) in their blood serum, except cholesterol alone (ns). Conclusion: It is important to continue observing the dietary trends in the studied group, with the focus on the occurrence of potential changes in their bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a review of methods for production of non-ferrous metals used in Poland. Technologies for production of copper and by-product metals applied in KGHM Polska Miedź S.A., for zinc and lead in ZGH Bolesław and HC „Miasteczko Śląskie" Smelters, as well as processes for production of lead from the used lead-acid batteries performed at Baterpol S.A., Orzeł Biały S.A., are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steel production involves processes and alloys based on iron. Metallurgy is one of the most energy-intensive branches of industry and it also generates a lot of damage. The aim of the research was to recognize magnetic properties, mineral composition, and phase content of dusts from a de-dusting station, steel mill, sinter strand and filter press located in a steel metallurgical foundry in Upper Silesia, the most urbanized, industrialized and also the most polluted region of Poland. The following methods were applied: X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and the Mössbauer spectroscopy measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to present the possibilities of analyzing popular among investors ratio of ROE and identification the determinants of its growth or decline. Traditionally, according to the DuPont formula three indicators are presented as the primary determinants of ROE. The paper shows the possibility of a broader look at the issue and use of the five factors affecting the ROE. This approach reveals that, using various financial and operational strategies one can influence ROE. The analysis was conducted on the example of two Polish companies from mining and metallurgy sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodology for selection of the optimal sources of supply, which is also known as the problem of supplier selection. Theoretical considerations are expanded with research related to aluminium supplier selection for a hypothetical manufacturer of aluminium parts for transportation equipment located in Poland. Evaluation of five suppliers of aluminium from Poland, Germany and Slovenia has been conducted using a weighted scoring method, a strengths and weaknesses method and a graphical method. Choosing the best offer and prioritizing suppliers allows not only the most rational decision in the field of supply logistics to be taken but also the quality of service in the metallurgical industry to be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disorders of paraoxonase and γ-glutamyltranspeptydase activities can induce development of the atherosclerotic process. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of occupational exposure to heavy metals, tobacco smoke and alcohol consumption on the activities of paraoxonase and γ-glutamyltranspeptydase as well as glutathione concentration. We have observed reduced paraoxonase activity and higher γ-glutamyltranspeptydase activity in serum of smelters when compared to control groups. In the blood of smoking smelters was demonstrated a negative correlation between paraoxonase activity and BMI value as well as between paraoxonase activity and tobacco smoke and consumption of 40 % alcohol. Also, negative correlation was found for the activity of paraoxonase and glutathione concentration as well as γ-glutamyltranspeptydase activity. Higher γ-glutamyltranspeptydase activity and lower paraoxonase activity in the serum of smelters exposed to heavy metals and tobacco smoke can cause disorders in functioning of the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the concept of value added and value added statement. That report may provide an additional source of information for the company's stakeholders such as employees, capital donors, State Budget and the company itself. According to the theory of stakeholders and corporate social responsibility the objective of the company is to deliver value to all stakeholders, not just shareholders. Hence the need for disclosure of information about the value added generated for all stakeholders. For internal analysis and for comparison purposes, several indicators based on value added should be elaborated. Calculations were carried out on the example of two Polish companies of the metallurgical and mining sectors for the years 2011-2013. This allowed for the evaluation of these two companies, to show the differences in the distribution of value added for stakeholders and evaluation of selected indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the range and outcomes of soft restructuring in metallurgical enterprises in Poland. The term 'soft restructuring' applies to changes in metallurgical enterprises' employment policy during the period of political transformation in Poland. Steelworks performance under the market economy conditions demanded introducing changes in staff resources. Changes referred both to the staff structure as well as employees' skills and gradual engaging of the staff in building the steelworks' competitive advantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper studies the possible influence of selected post-mining and air pollution on metallurgicaldumps at czech republic and polish sites on air pollution load in the region. The content of PAHs and heavy metals were determined in dust samples taken from surface dumps SZOTKÓWKA I "of KWK" JAS-MOS and ČSM. The obtained data were used for modeling pollution load around hald using models SYMOS'97. On the basis of the models was assessed the effect of hunger on both air pollution situation around in terms of PAHs, heavy metals and PM10. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to present the degree of involvement of Polish companies from the mining and metallurgical industry in activities for sustainable development. Various initiatives, which aim to promote sustainable development and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are discussed. ISO 26000 is the recognized international standard for CSR and it forms the basis for sustainable development. The paper also presents problems of integrated reporting of CSR activities and an index of socially responsible companies which is the Respect Index, introduced by the Warsaw Stock Exchange. Two presented companies from the analysed sector are listed by the Respect Index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic change and increased competition in such a difficult sector as mining and metallurgy sector requires updating the existing methods of measuring the value of a company. Supporters of the shareholder value theory believe that the only aim of the company is to increase the value for the owners. Hence there is a need to indicate the measurement value of the determinant. The paper pointed out the need to adapt the tools of measurement to the current expectations and demands of the market. Among different measures Economic Value Added (EVA) is increasingly used. EVA indicates the ability of companies to generate economic value for the owners of capital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper describes the problems of knowledge transfer in networks based on the steel industry in Poland. Knowledge is the key element in the development of a company's competitiveness. This is particularly important in the case of networking, where there is a process of mutual learning between partners. Based on the example of Arcelor-Mittal Group, the transfer of knowledge within an intra-organizational network was presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Twelve bagged black tea samples available in Poland were analyzed for P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Al concentrations both in leaves and their infusion. In dry tea the most abundant element among the macroelements was K followed by P, Mg and Ca, whereas the Al content was prominent among the trace metals tested, followed by Mn, Fe and Zn. Both macroelements and trace metals were extracted from the black tea leaves to tea infusion. The results showed that the percentage transfer differed significantly among all elements. The solubility of Ca and K was the highest among the elements studied and averaged 63.8% and 60.7%, respectively. The percentage transport of trace elements was also relatively high except for Fe, which was insoluble, and its content remained higher in the solid particles during beverage preparation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This publication presents the program assumptions of restructuring and achieved effects. The range of tests on restructuring effects was broadened by analysis of enterprise situation in the surrounding, pointing at conducted strategies of actions. Presented publication is a result of own research which aimed at possibly complex analysis of the restructuring processes course in metallurgical enterprises in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the most common directions of changes in capital groups in the sector of metallurgy around the world and in Poland. During the observation of the restructuring activities in metallurgy the attention was turned to the integration of the capital groups, capital outsourcing and contract outsourcing, creation and the take-over of the dependent companies. The meaning of the capital consolidation was underlined on the global metallurgy market in order to gain competitive advantage through the increase of manufacturing capacity. The overview of the rating of the global steel producers in years 1989-2009 was conducted with this article in mind and it has shown the changes in the participation of particular capital groups in the world production of steel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Organizacija is the property of Sciendo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Recent several years of Polish metallurgy have seen deep changes and both organizational and ownership transformations. Steel companies, frequently subject to restructuring and continuous improvement in their operation, developed a highly competitive position in the European market. The requirements connected with Poland's accession to the EU has considerably contributed to positive changes which occurred in the sector. However, they had also impact on the extent to which Polish metallurgy was affected by the aftermath of world crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mine drainage impacts from a coal waste pile at Smolnica, Poland have been monitored. Groundwater in an unconfined aquifer downgradient from the pile has near-neutral pH, but high concentrations of sulfate (up to 3,827 mg/l), chloride (up to 903 mg/l), and sodium (up to 2,606 mg/l). Concentrations of iron and manganese are elevated only locally, and concentrations of other metals are low. The behavior of sulfate seems to be conservative in the downgradient aquifer, and gypsum may only be precipitating locally. Concentrations of iron and manganese seem to be controlled by the precipitation of ferric oxide and hydroxides and rhodochrosite, respectively. Complete neutralization of mine drainage by carbonates is consistent with high concentrations of calcium (up to 470 mg/l) and magnesium (up to 563 mg/l) and also with high strontium concentrations of up to 3.08 mg/l, observed in groundwater downgradient from the pile. Hydraulic head profiles at two sites within the river bottom sediments indicate upward flow toward the river with large local differences in groundwater recharge. Water chemistry profiles in the river bottom sediments and geochemical modeling suggest conservative behavior of Na, Cl, and SO4 and precipitation of Fe and Mn at the groundwater/river water interface. Mine drainage enters the Bierawka River and causes increasing sulfate concentrations. In contrast, concentrations of sodium and chloride in the Bierawka River decrease downgradient from the pile because water in the river upgradient from the pile is already highly contaminated by these species from the discharge of mining waters. Concentrations of Fe and Mn in the river water are low, as a consequence of the precipitation of Fe and Mn oxide and hydroxides. Direct geochemical modeling was able to reproduce measured concentrations of conservative species (e.g., Na, Cl, and SO4), but errors for metals and Ba were relatively large. In addition, calculated PCO2 values in the river water are very high, suggesting that equilibrium with atmospheric PCO2 and PO2 has not been reached, and at least some reactions should be modeled as kinetic processes. High concentrations of Na, Cl, and SO4 contribute to the contamination of the Odra River, which is joined by the Bierawka River farther downgradient, thus limiting the use of river water for recreation and other purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the distribution of selected trace metals, 137Cs and 210Pb, in floodplain deposits of the lowland Warta River (southern Poland) downstream of Częstochowa, a large city with an iron smelter. The depth profiles of trace metal (Zn, Pb, Cu, Ni, Cd and Mn), 210Pb and 137Cs contents in floodplain sediments were used to derive deposition rates on the floodplain for the twentieth century. The applicability of particular chronometric tools is considered within the context of their mutual relationships and confirmed by the consistency of the results. Deposition rate estimates for the past 50 years based on the vertical patterns of trace metal concentrations, which were correlated with particular events in the development of the smelter, range from 0.4 cm·year−1 in profiles situated in backswamps far from the channel to over 1.1 cm·year−1 in profiles of the natural levee adjacent to the river. Deposition rates based on 210Pb inventories in the profiles range from 0.08 to 0.66 g·cm−2·year−1, which corresponds to linear sedimentation rates of 0.10 to 0.91 cm·year−1, respectively. Dating of characteristic levels associated with peak fallout of 137Cs gives sediment accretion rates resembling those obtained from trace metals and 210Pb. The period of the highest sediment accumulation rate could be related to the highest loads of effluent from the iron smelter and city of Częstochowa, which were substantially reduced after the construction of effluent treatment plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background, aim, and scope Elevated levels of heavy metals in the aquatic and soil systems can be caused by the weathering of mineralized rocks. This enrichment is often considerably enlarged by historical and current mining and smelting activities. In Poland, the most contaminated river systems are those in the Silesia region. The metalliferous ore mining and smelting industries have been the main sources of heavy metal pollutions over the last 100-170 years. The previous and present studies have shown very high concentrations of heavy metals in the bottom sediments of the Mala Panew River, the most polluted tributary of the Oder River. The main objective of this work was to study temporary changes of selected metal (Zn, Pb, and Cd) concentrations in upper layer of bottom sediments at the measuring point near the outlet of the Mala Panew River into the Oder River, and to determine the vertical distribution of the metals in the sediment cores from the most polluted middle part of this river. The mobility of the metals and their potential bioavailability were assessed based on metal partitioning in the sediments and metal concentrations in pore waters. The presented data were compared with metal concentrations in aquatic sediments from similar historical mining and smelting sites in Poland and other countries. Methods The upper layer of bottom sediment samples from the same Mala Panew River measuring point were collected six times in the period 1997-2005, while five sediment cores were collected once from the middle course of Mala Panew River in 2006. Abiotic parameters such as pH and Eh have been determined in situ. Metal contents were determined in the <20 and <63 μm size fractions of sediments after digestion in a microwave oven with aqua regia or concentrated nitric acid. Metal mobility was assessed in the selected sediment cores by the chemical forms of metals (sequential extraction method) and their concentrations in pore waters were investigated. Results The concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Zn in the upper layer of sediments varied, depending on both the season and the year of sampling. Their mean concentrations (from six samplings) are [mg/kg]: Zn 1,846, Pb 229 and Cd 73. The metal concentrations in the sediment cores varied with the depth in the range of [mg/kg]: 0.18-559 for Cd, 26.2-3,309 for Pb and 126-11,153 for Zn, although the highest accumulations generally could be observed in the deeper layers. The most mobile metal fractions, i.e., exchangeable, carbonate and easily reducible fractions, are typical of Zn and Cd. Cadmium was found to be the most mobile metal and its relative contribution ranges from 84 to 96%, while in the case of Zn it ranged from 45 to 94%. Lead is mainly associated with the moderately reducible fraction (30-60%). Relative contributions of metal chemical forms slightly vary with the depth in the sediment profile. The results obtained for the pore water samples show very high concentrations of the metals studied, especially in the case of Cd (31-960 μg/dm3) and Zn (300-4,400 μg/dm3). Discussion Accumulation of Cd, Pb, and Zn in the upper layer of the bottom sediments and in the sediment core samples from the Mala Panew River is very high, considerably exceeding the local geochemical background. High contributions of mobile Cd and Zn and the toxicity of cadmium can cause environmental risk.… [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The content of heavy metals in mineralised dental tissues is an indicator of the exposure of their mineral phase to heavy metals during the time of tooth development and dental tissue formation. Therefore, teeth have been used as bio-indicators which accurately reflect the environmental or dietary exposure of animals and humans to heavy metals. This study follows from the earlier work in which it was demonstrated that the teeth from bank voles inhabiting various environmentally polluted and non-polluted forests in Southern Poland were reliable indicators of exposure to heavy metals. Using analytical techniques employed in the earlier study heavy metal concentrations were obtained in the teeth of bank voles trapped in 1998–2000 to determine if efforts to clean up the environment could be detected in changes in heavy metal concentrations in the teeth. The results show that these efforts are reflected in lower concentrations of heavy metals in the teeth but that cross border contamination remains a problem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Researchers at the Institute of Non-Ferrous Metals in Gliwice, Poland, have successfully used PM techniques to produce and test silver-based compounds that could replace the cadmium currently used in electrical contacts… [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The type of pollution is related to the type concentrates (ores) that are processed. • The permissible levels of Pb and Zn in soils were exceeded 2–10 times. • Close surrounding of smelter should be excluded from agricultural production. • On this area agrotechnical measures should be applied to immobilise metals in the soil. This paper assesses the degree of soil pollution of agricultural land exposed to the emission of pollution related to the mining and processing industry. Based on the analysis of the content of primary elements (Mg, K, P, Ca, S and Fe) and trace elements (Cr, Ni, Pb, Zn, Ti and Mn) in soils from the area of Bukowno, Sosnowiec, Nowa Huta and Cło (southern Poland, EU) pollution coefficients i.e. the geo-accumulation index I geo and the enrichment factor EF were calculated. The usability of the soils analysed in terms of agriculture was also determined in accordance with the guidelines of the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation in Puławy. The research findings indicate that the permissible levels of Pb and Zn have been exceeded (Bukowno, Sosnowiec and Nowa Huta) in locations where the exploitation and processing of Zn-Pb ores and steel production take place. The amount and type of pollution found in the soils is closely related to the type of industry and concentrates (ores) that are processed in a given plant. Heavy Zn pollution (I geo ≥ 3) and medium Pb pollution (I geo > 2) preclude some of these areas from agricultural production, especially from leafy vegetable cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analyses of human-environment interactions in prehistoric and medieval mining and metallurgical centres in Europe result in various assessments of the environmental impact of early metal ore mining and metallurgy. In some mining and metallurgical sites or areas, such as the prehistoric basin on the Greek island of Kythnos or the later Morvan and Mont Lozère areas in France as well as Tjursbosjön in Sweden, the impact was significant and lasting. In others, such as: Cors Fochno in Wales, the Falkenstein region in Austria, or the Northern Vosges Mountains in France, the environmental changes were limited and reversible. The results of palaeobotanical research (pollen analysis and analysis of plant macroremains) in peat cores from southern Poland enabled the Holocene vegetation transformations in one of the oldest mining regions in Central Europe to be reconstructed. They also provided new data, used to assess the impact of settlements as well as the development of metallurgy on the environment in the region and changes in bog ecosystems. The first changes in vegetation caused by human activity were observed at the boundary between the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. They are documented by pollen indicating shepherding activity and single grains of cereal pollen. The greatest intensity of change, reflected in sediment as a maximum concentration of charcoal, was recorded at the end of the Bronze Age and attributed to the Lusatian culture. The changes in the vegetation under the impact of human activity until the early Middle Ages were reversible and had a local scope. The intensification of slash-and-burn agriculture was indicated as the most probable and important cause., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The subject of this paper is an analysis of one of the most crucial aspects of the contemporary business, which is knowledge and change management. Competition on the market is more and more stronger. Knowledge is one of the most precious business resources, it lets companies be more competitive because knowledge inspires to changes. The paper contains examples of knowledge and change management, faced by the largest metallurgical company on the Polish market - Arcelor Mittal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slags from the historic metallurgy of Zn-Pb ores are known for unique chemical and phase compositions. The oxides, silicates, aluminosilicates, and amorphous phases present therein often contain in the structure elements that are rare in natural conditions, such as Zn, Pb, As. The study focuses on processes occurring on the contact of the melted batch and the refractory materials that build the furnace, which lead to the formation of these phases. To describe them, chemical (X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)) and petrological ((X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron probe micro-analyses (EPMA), Raman spectroscopy) analyses were performed on refractory material, slag, and contact of both. Two main types of reactions have been distinguished: gas/fluid- refractories and liquid- refractories. The first of them enrich the refractories with elements that migrate with the gas (Pb, K, Na, As, Zn) and transport the components building it (Fe, Mg, Ca) inward. Reactions between melted batch and refractory materials through gravitational differentiation and the melting of refractories lead to the formation of an aluminosilicate liquid with a high content of heavy elements. Cooling of this melt causes crystallization of minerals characteristic for slag, but with a modified composition, such as Fe-rich pyroxenes, Pb-rich K-feldspar, or PbO-As2O3-SiO2 glass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature is a crucial factor influencing the effectiveness of metal smelting process. When studied in historical slags it provides information on the evolution of smelting technologies over time and how humankind approached metal recovery. Methodological approaches to temperature reconstruction using pyrometallurgical slags vary and this study serves as a critical review of the methods used so far with the complex historical smelting site used as an example of the application of the methods. The example includes silica-undersaturated, potassium-rich Cu slags from four sites in the Old Copper Basin (Stare Zagłębie Miedziowe), Poland, and is of particular interest because (a) K-rich slag compositions are not widely found and this provides additional challenge to temperature reconstruction approach and (b) the site provides material of different ages (18th and 19th century) and, therefore, gives insight into potentially different pyrometallurgical processes. Several methods are compared and include phase diagrams, geothermometry (Cpx-WR), thermodynamic modelling with MELTS software and temperature XRD analyses with the main implication that most of the methods have their merits, but modelling by MELTS software returns the most reliable estimates of liquidus temperature. In fact, MELTS is the only method that returns differences of 200 °C in reconstructed temperatures between the studied sites, which signifies a change in smelting technique probably related to the change in input material. More importantly, MELTS may also be used to estimate crystallization interval (temperature difference between solidus and liquidus) that together with liquidus temperature gives insight into metal extraction efficiency for a given site and provides information on society advancement in metallurgy. The software can also be used cost-effectively for a large number of samples and its combination with experimental approach (temperature XRD analyses) provides the most promising tool to reconstruct differences in smelting technologies of ancient and historical metallurgical sites. • Liquidus temperatures are best estimated by thermodynamic modelling. • Modelling shows variable efficiency in achieving eutectic composition. • Geothermometers often return cooling rather than liquidus temperatures. • Estimated temperatures for the slags studied range from 1215 to 1400 °C. • Earliest smelting had low metal extraction because of less effective ore-flux mixing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The following research describes the influence of a metallurgical ash dump on both the soil environment and the atmosphere. Soil samples were collected along a line positioned on an unprotected, hazardous ash dump and extended into the adjacent, arable land. Three soil depths were sampled at 0-20-, 20-40- and 40-60-cm depth intervals, and in each sample, pseudo-total concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Ti, Zn, Li, Sr and V were analyzed. Additionally, emissions of CH 4 and CO 2 were measured at each sampling site. All emission measurements were taken in the same day, and the duration of gas measurements in each place was six minutes. The results demonstrate elevated concentrations of Cu, Cr, Pb and Zn on dump surface and along its margins, where the maximum concentrations of these elements are, respectively, 82, 23, 1144 and 8349 mg kg -1 . Obtained results exceed several times both the natural background values and the values typical of local soils in the southern Poland. Moreover, natural background values for Fe, Mn, Ni, Li, Sr and V were exceeded, as well. Along the sampling line, no methane emission was detected, whereas the carbon dioxide flux varied from 7 to 42 g m -2  d -1 . The reconnaissance study of the ash dump revealed a high contamination level of soils with heavy metals, which, together with the changes of soil environment, may cause migration of pollutants into the adjacent areas and, consequently, may generate hazard to the environment and, particularly, to the living organisms. Hence, further studies are necessary in order to evaluate the soil quality and the leaching of heavy metals from the dump.

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of insomnia among the employees of a zinc smelter in Miasteczko Śląskie using the Athens Insomnia Scale ., Material and Methods: The examined group of plant employees and the control group were asked to fill in a questionnaire composed of the AIS and questions relating to the place and nature of their work, accidents over the last year, medications, diseases and conditions, sleep, naps and sleepiness during the day., Results: The result leading to a diagnosis of insomnia as indicated by the AIS was found in significantly more instances in the test group than in the control group (29.5% vs. 8.4%). While comparing the test subgroup, which was not employed in shift-work, with the control group did not result in a statistically significant difference, slightly more respondents from the day-work test subgroup obtained the result of ≥ 8 pts., Conclusions: The prevalence of insomnia assessed by means of the AIS in the group of employees of a zinc smelter is significantly higher than in the control group. Based on the AIS, the highest percentage of individuals with insomnia occurred in the subgroup employed in shift-work. Med Pr. 2019;70(5):611-6., (This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.)

The aim of this study was to perform a complex assessment of changes in the elements of an ecosystem that are caused by environmental pollution in industrial and urban biotopes. The study focused on three sites: a park, a road and the site of the metallurgical plant "Pokój" in the city of Ruda Śląska (Southern Poland), which are each under a different level of anthropogenic load. Soil and plant material samples (Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata leaves) were investigated by performing biochemical, ecophysiological and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. A significant difference was observed in all of the study samples. The content of Pb, Zn and Cd in the soil samples that had been collected at the site of the metallurgical plant exceeded the permitted limits (Cd > 4 mg kg -1 , Pb > 100 mg kg -1 , Zn > 300 mg kg -1 ). The content of Fe, Mn, Pb, Cd and Zn in the plant material was much higher in unwashed samples than in washed samples. The concentrations of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) were below the permitted level in the leaves of Plantago lanceolata for Cd (> 5 mg kg -1 ) and in the leaves of Plantago major for Zn (> 100 mg kg -1 ). The SEM observations revealed a significant decrease in the stomata pore length (SPL) in the Plantago lanceolata leaves that had been collected at the road site compared with the plants from the park site. The elemental content on the leaf surface was also determined using X-ray microanalysis. The total chlorophyll (Chl) content, ascorbic acid (AA), proline, guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) activity, pH, relative water content (RWC) and air pollution tolerance index (APTI) were evaluated. The APTI for the investigated species ranged from 5.6 to 7.4, which demonstrated that the studied plant species are sensitive to air pollutants.

The purpose of this study was to show that some elements have a proven antioxidative effect and are essential for the proper development and functioning of the human body. The study also assessed the concentration of selected elements and total antioxidant status (TAS) in a group of male inhabitants of Białystok, Poland, who are professionally active in the metal industry. The study group comprised 163 men aged 55-64 years. The concentration of the analyzed elements was determined using flame (Zn and Cu) and electrothermal (Se, Cd, and Pb) atomic absorption spectrometry. Spectrophotometric test kits were used to assay the TAS and glutathione reductase (GR) activity in serum. The results suggested the mean concentration of Se in serum was 54.04 ± 12.10 μg/L, which was below the reference range. A significant negative correlation was observed between the concentration of Se in the serum and Pb and Cd concentrations in the whole blood of the studied men. The concentrations of the other elements, antioxidant potential, and GR activity were within the reference range. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between Pb and Cd, indicating combined exposure and a considerable negative correlation between lead and selenium as well as between lead and TAS. Selenium and TAS are likely to modify the adverse effects of Pb in the bodies of the studied men. The results indicate that it is necessary to constantly monitor men who are occupationally exposed to heavy metals, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and introduce effective preventive measures at a local level.

Global economy faces an increasing problem of the supply risk of critical raw materials, therefore the search for secondary resources has become an urgent issue. Copper orebodies in Poland contain substantial amounts of metals deemed critical (e.g. Co, Mo, rare earth elements (REE) or V), which are not recovered during processing. The metals of interest are concentrated in metallurgical waste residues that should be classified as a secondary resource rather than as a waste. Bioleaching is a frontier technology promising for environment-friendly treatment of slags. Therefore, the objective of this work was to study the feasibility of metal (Co, Mo, REE, V) bioleaching from copper metallurgical wastes employing Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans bacterial strain as the leaching agent. The effect of particle size (fractions <0.25 mm and 0.25-0.5 mm) and pulp density (1%, 2%) was studied using three different slag samples (lead slag - LS, shaft furnace slag - SFS and granulated slag - GS). The bioleaching experiment was set up for 28 days under acidic conditions (pH t 0  = 2.5). The results revealed that the microorganisms can catalyze metal extraction from slags as compared to leaching achieved under abiotic conditions. The optimal bioleaching yield was achieved under conditions at 0.25-0.5 mm particle size and 1% pulp density, regardless of used type of slag. After 28 days, the extracted amounts of metals were: 88% Co, 40% Mo, 83% REE and 55% V from LS, 100% Co, 44% Mo, 70% REE and 70% V from SFS and 95% Co, 70% Mo, 99% REE and 93% V from GS. All examined slags showed good potential for bioleaching of valuable elements. However, optimization of initial parameters is still needed for further efficiency improvement, especially in terms of the process duration., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

This study aimed at evaluation of air pollution control residues (APCR) and flue gas desulfurization residues (FGDR) from copper foundry in Southwestern Poland as adsorbents of Cu(II) and Pb(II) from simulated wastewater. Studies of the impact of pH and adsorbent dose, as well as sorption isotherms, and kinetic and thermodynamic studies were conducted in a series of batch experiments. The maximum adsorption capacities were equal to 42.9 mg g -1 Cu(II) and 124.4 mg g -1 Pb(II) for APCR and 98.8 mg g -1 Cu(II) and 124.7 mg g -1 Pb(II) for FGDR, which was comparable to mineral adsorbents examined in other studies. Adsorption isotherms followed the Langmuir model, except for Pb(II) for FGDR, which followed Freundlich model. Sorption kinetics for both materials was properly expressed by pseudo-second-order equation. Mean adsorption energy parameter suggested that the adsorption might have occurred via physical bonding. Thermodynamic study revealed that adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic for Cu(II) and not spontaneous and exothermic for Pb(II), with lower temperature favoring the process. The results suggested that both materials had high affinity towards Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions and could be conducted industrial scale research for consideration as potential adsorbents from aqueous solutions.

The article a chronicle and summary of the Ninth International Seminar on "Nitriding Technology: Theory & Practices." The seminar was organized on September 23-25, 2003 in Warsaw, Poland, by the Institute of Precision Mechanics together with the International Federation for Heat Treatment and Surface Engineering. The 109 attendants of the seminar represented 21 countries. The seminar was devoted to the problem of nitriding of metallic materials at large. The reports were devoted to various steels, such as, carbon, low-alloy structural, nitralloy, laser-alloyed, high-speed, corrosion-resistant, maraging, chromium, chromium-vanadium ledeburitic, and ultra-low carbon rolled steels, as well as composite-metal friction pairs. Some reports were devoted to nitriding of alloys.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether cadmium (Cd) accumulation and toxicity in the midgut gland of Helix pomatia snails living in a Cd-contaminated area were related to soil pH. Toxic responses in the midgut gland (i.e., increased vacuolization and lipid peroxidation) occurred in H. pomatia snails exhibiting the highest Cd levels in the gland (265-274 µg/g dry wt) and living on acidic soil (pH 5.3-5.5), while no toxicity was observed in snails accumulating less Cd (90 µg/g) and ranging on neutral soil (pH 7.0), despite the fact that total soil Cd was similar in the two cases. The accumulation of Cd in the gland was directly related to the water extractable Cd in soil, which in turn correlated inversely with soil pH, indicating that this factor had a significant effect on tissue Cd. It appeared further that the occurrence of Cd toxicity was associated with low levels of metallothionein in the gland of snails ranging on acidic soil.

Purpose: To examine the differences in urinary arsenic metabolism patterns in men affected by occupational exposure, we performed a study on 149 participants—workers of a copper mill and 52 healthy controls without occupational exposure. To elucidate the role of genetic factors in arsenic (As) metabolism, we studied the associations of six polymorphisms: As3MT Met287Thr (T>C) in exon 9; As3MT A>G in 5'UTR; As3MT C>G in intron 6; As3MT T>G in intron 1; GSTP1 Ile105Val and GSTO2 T>C., Methods: Air samples were collected using individual samplers during work shift. Urine samples were analyzed for total arsenic and arsenic chemical forms (As(III); As(V), MMA, DMA, AsB) using HPLC-ICP-MS. A specific polymerase chain reaction was done for the amplification of exons and flanking regions of As3MT and GSTs., Results: The geometric mean arsenic concentrations in the air were 27.6 ± 4.9 µg/m(3). A significant correlation (p < 0.05) was observed between arsenic in air and sum of iAs +MMA and iAs. As3MT (rs3740400) GG homozygotes showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher %iAs (21.8 ± 2.0) in urine than GC+CC heterozygotes (16.0 ± 2.1). A strong association between the gene variants and As species in urine was observed for GSTO2 (rs156697) polymorphism., Conclusions: The findings of the study point out that the concentration of iAs or the sum of iAs + MMA in urine can be a reliable biological indicator of occupational exposure to arsenic. This study demonstrates that As3MT and/or GSTs genotype may influence As metabolism. Nevertheless, further studies investigating genetic polymorphism in occupational conditions are required.

The most important biothiols include glutathione, homocysteine (HCY), cysteine and proteins. The aim of the presented study was to evaluate the influence of lead on the biothiol turnover--the concentration of HCY and protein sulfhydryl groups (P-SH) in the serum and reduced glutathione (G-SH) in erythrocytes--in individuals (employees of metal works) exposed to lead and to evaluate its probable oxidative disorders, measured as the carbonyl protein (CP) concentration in serum. The exposed workers were divided into 2 subgroups: 1) low lead exposure (LPb), with a lead concentration in the blood (PbB) of 20-45 µg dl(-1) (n= 102), and 2) high lead exposure (HPb), with PbB = 45-60 µg dl(-1) (n= 81). The control group consisted of 72 office workers or other healthy subjects with no history of occupational exposure to lead. All the controls had normal PbB (<10 μg dl(-1)) and ZPP (<2.5 μg dl(-1)) levels. The concentration of HCY was higher in the LPb group by 11% and in the HPb group by 26%, compared with the control group (n=72). The CP concentration in these 2 groups was more than twice as high as that of the control group, with 108% and 125% increases for the LPb and HPb groups, respectively; G-SH was lower by 6.6% and 7.4% for the LPb and HPb groups, respectively; P-SH was lower by 8.2% and 13% for the LPb and HPb groups, respectively. Lead decreases levels of glutathione and protein thiol groups. Lead-induced oxidative stress contributes to the observed elevation of protein carbonyl groups. Besides, lead poisoning seems to be associated with hyperhomocysteinaemia, which may promote the development of atherosclerosis.

Purpose: Present study aimed at determining blood selenium concentration (Se-B) in a selected population of children inhabiting industrial regions., Methods: The studies were conducted on a group of 267 children inhabiting industrial regions in Upper Silesia (Poland). Determination of Se-B was performed using hydride generation atomic absorption technique., Results: In the studied group of children mean Se-B amounted to 76.75±12.52μg/L. Only in 38.20% of studied children the estimated Se-B could be regarded as an optimal. Children with underweight (BMI<15th centile) manifested a significantly lower Se-B than children with BMI within the normal range (BMI 15-85th centile). In the entire study group of children a significant positive linear correlation was disclosed between BMI and Se-B (r=0.16, p<0.05). Regression analysis demonstrated that in the studied subgroup of children (with normal height, body mass and BMI) a higher BMI represented an independent factor of Se-B increase and a more pronounced age an independent factor of Se-B decrease. Moreover, maternal education represented an independent factor of Se-B increase in the studied group of children (with normal height, body mass and BMI)., Conclusions: Se-B in the studied group children from industrial area in Upper Silesia corresponded with the lower range of blood selenium concentrations noted in recent years in other populations. A negative relationship was documented between age and Se-B and a positive relationship between BMI of a child and maternal education on one hand and Se-B of a child on the other., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The aim of the present study was to compare lead and cadmium contents in cruciferous vegetables grown under diversified ecological conditions for three consecutive years, independently of the climatic and agrotechnical conditions. The research was conducted in the Cracow region of Poland and tests vegetables near the Steelworks, from ecological farms, and from local markets. The heavy metal contents were determined using the validated Atomic Absorption Spectrometry method, including electrothermal atomization, with an ET-AAS graphite cuvette (Varian AA240Z, made by Varian). Cruciferous vegetables cultivated in the areas surrounding the steelworks were characterized by alarmingly high lead content versus ecological and commercially available vegetables, while the contents of this metal in vegetables from the two latter locations did not differ. It cannot be definitively stated that the origin of vegetables influenced their cadmium content.

The problem of an extensive contamination of soils with metals can be resolved using an in situ chemical immobilization technology. Five substances (natural zeolite, bog iron ore, "Polifoska 15" fertilizer, triple superphosphate, diammonium phosphate) were tested to determine their efficiency to immobilize Zn, Pb and Cd in smelter-contaminated soil in the Upper Silesia region. Soil samples were collected at three sites located in the vincity of a Pb-Zn smelter and a sludge landfill near the town of Bukowno. Effective reduction of leachable and fitoavailable Zn, Pb and Cd concentrations in soil was observed after addition of diammonium phosphate, "Polifoska 15" fertilizer and bog iron ore amendments. Additional test proved that immobilization effect gained by these amendments sustains at low-temperature conditions. It was noticed that phosphate addition resulted in lowering pH and mobilization of As(V) in soils. Good immobilization effectiveness and lack of major adverse effects of bog iron application suggest that this is the method of choice.

Background: Chronic exposure to heavy metals may cause the increase in blood pressure (BP). The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between chronic exposure to lead, cadmium and manganese, BP values and the incidence of arterial hypertension (AT)., Material and Methods: The study group consisted of 171 men occupationally and chronically exposed to heavy metals (group I), and 19 healthy men included into the control group (group II). Concentrations of lead and cadmium in blood, manganese in serum, free protoporphyrins in erytrocytes, and delta aminolevulinic acid in urine as well as blood pressure were measured. Six subgroups of the exposed individuals were chosen: those exposed to lead (subgroup A), to cadmium--(subgroup B), to manganese (subgroup C), to lead and cadmium (subgroup D), to lead and manganese (subgroup E), and to cadmium and manganese (subgroup F)., Results: In group I, the values of systolic blood pressure and mean blood pressure were statistically significantly higher than in group II. Moreover, systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in subgroups A, B, D and E in comparison with group II. Diastolic pressure was significantly lower in group II than in subgroups A and D, and mean blood pressure was significantly higher in subgroups A, D and E in comparison with group II. The incidence of arterial hypertension was significantly higher in subgroups A and D than in group II. The independent risk factors for the incidence of arterial hypertension in the study group were higher blood concentrations of lead and, cadmium., Conclusions: In men occupationally exposed to heavy metals there is a tendency to higher levels of BP. Higher blood concentrations of lead and cadmium were found to be the independent risk factors for the incidence of arterial hypertension in subjects chronically exposed to heavy metals.

The aim of this work was to determine interrelationships among macroelements Na, K, Ca, Mg, and Fe, microelements Zn, Cu, Mn, and Co, and toxic heavy metals Pb and Cd in the blood of white stork Ciconia ciconia, during postnatal development, in different Polish environments, and their impact on the activity of antioxidant enzymes. We considered the content of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARSs), i.e., malondialdehyde (MDA), and activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ceruloplasmine (CP), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR). Blood samples were collected from storks developing at Odra meadows (Kłopot; southwestern Poland). They were compared with blood of chicks from several suburban sites located 20 km away from Zielona Góra (0.1 million inhabitants; southwestern Poland) and near Głogów, where a copper smelter is situated. We also conducted research in the Pomeranian region (Cecenowo; northern Poland). We collected blood samples via venipuncture of the brachial vein of chicks in 2005-2007. They were retrieved from the nest and placed in individual ventilated cotton sacks. The blood was collected using a 5-ml syringe washed with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). We found significant interactions between macro- and microelements and enzymatic activity and TBARS products. We noticed the predominance of Cd and Pb participation in element-enzyme interactions. Simultaneously, we found interrelationships between cadmium and Na, K, Ca, Mg, and Fe and the activity of antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, CP, GR, and TBARS products in the blood of white stork chicks. In the case of lead these relationships were not numerous and they were significant for Ca, Mg, Cu, Mn, and Co. Correlations with enzymes were significant for Pb-CAT and Pb-TBARS. We noted that activities of most enzymes (SOD, CAT, CP, GR) and TBARS products are determined by their interactions with physiological elements Na, Ca, Mg, Fe, and Zn and toxic heavy metals. White stork chicks ranged in age from 17 to 59 days. Concentrations of elements in the blood were age related. Among enzymes, only SOD, CAT, and GPx were age related. Young storks differed in the case of element concentration (except for Ca, Zn, and Cd) and enzymatic activity. We found that significant element-element interaction/enzyme activity predominated in the case of physiological elements and toxic metals, which we explain by the intensive and prevailing access of toxic metals in redox reactions. This causes changes in the priority of these metals, reflected by their influence on the enzymatic activity of antioxidant enzymes. The content of Cd and Pb in blood of young storks from different regions tends to affect the lipid peroxidation process negatively. However, in many cases we observed an increase in enzymatic activity with an increase in heavy metals. This indicates the changes in oxidative stress intensity in chicks in response to environmental differentiation. The increase in lipoperoxidation modifies antioxidant enzyme activity and causes changes in SOD, CAT, CP, GPx, and GR activity in chicks from various regions, principally increases in enzyme activity in chicks from polluted environments and suburbs. We suggest that the source of heavy metals in chicks' blood might be used as a biological test system of adaptation to oxidative stress. We also report that a high level of heavy metals is accompanied by increased lipid peroxidation. Thus young storks are probably significantly susceptible to environmental conditions. They demonstrated initiation of lipoperoxidation and oxidative modification of proteins that coincide with chemical elements, as a possible antioxidant defense system.

Copper slag wastes, even if treated via processes such as flotation for metal recovery, still contain heavy metals with hazardous properties posing environmental risks for disposal. This study reports the potential use of flotation waste of a copper slag (FWCS) as iron source in the production of Portland cement clinker. The FWCS appears a suitable raw material as iron source containing >59% Fe(2)O(3) mainly in the form of fayalite (Fe(2)SiO(4)) and magnetite (Fe(3)O(4)). The clinker products obtained using the FWCS from the industrial scale trial operations over a 4-month period were characterised for the conformity of its chemical composition and the physico-mechanical performance of the resultant cement products was evaluated. The data collected for the clinker products produced using an iron ore, which is currently used as the cement raw material were also included for comparison. The results have shown that the chemical compositions of all the clinker products including those of FWCS are typical of a Portland cement clinker. The mechanical performance of the standard mortars prepared from the FWCS clinkers were found to be similar to those from the iron ore clinkers with the desired specifications for the industrial cements e.g. CEM I type cements. Furthermore, the leachability tests (TCLP and SPLP) have revealed that the mortar samples obtained from the FWCS clinkers present no environmental problems while the FWCS could act as the potential source of heavy metal contamination. These findings suggest that flotation wastes of copper slag (FWCS) can be readily utilised as cement raw material due to its availability in large quantities at low cost with the further significant benefits for waste management/environmental practices of the FWCS and the reduced production and processing costs for cement raw materials.

The aim of the study was to determine the degree of explanation of the central adiposity variation, presented by waist circumference (WC), waist-hip ratio (WHR), and the sum of the three trunk skinfold thicknesses (subscapular, abdominal, suprailiac) (TTS) through the socioeconomic status (SES) and lifestyle. The material included cross-sectional population-based research of 259 healthy working males aged 20-30 from the city of Cracow, Poland. Objective anthropometric measurements, the results of motor fitness tests, and social and lifestyle data from a questionnaire were analyzed. The independent variables were: age, SES (the birthplace, place of residence until the age of 14, social class, educational level, and the type of work done), and lifestyle elements (smoking habits, dietary habits, family obesity resemblance, sport activity in the past, leisure time physical activity (LTPA), and the level of motor fitness). Three separate full models were created using stepwise straightforward regression with WC, WHR, and TTS as dependent variables. The highest autonomous influence on WC was ascribed to age, level of motor fitness, and family obesity resemblance. Variation in WHR was explained by age, level of motor fitness, upper-middle class, LTPA, and village as the birthplace. Level of motor fitness, place of residence until the age of 14 (city), age, smoking fewer than 20 cigarettes a day, and family obesity resemblance had greatest influence on TTS. The findings indicated the importance, besides age, of lifestyle elements connected with motor fitness and LTPA in determining body fat distribution in young working males., ((c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)

Background: The objective of this work was to investigate the association between occupational exposure and lung cancer risk based on a case-control study., Material and Methods: The study of 414 primary lung cancer cases, recorded in the Lódź industrial center in the years 1998-2002, was carried out under the international multicentre case-control study, coordinated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The control group, composed of individuals who did not report any tobacco-related diseases or other cancers, were matched by gender and age. Data on lung cancer risk factors were derived from a questionnaire survey on life styles and occupational exposure. The detailed information on the occupational history of all the study subjects and exposure to lung carcinogens was collected and subsequently assessed by occupational hygienists. Logistic regression was used in the data analysis. Confounders, such as age, gender, education, diet and cigarette smoking were controlled in the analysis., Results: A total of 88 case patients and 79 controls had been employed in occupations and industries associated with the evidenced or suspected risk of lung cancer development. The corresponding odds ratio was 0.71 (95%CI: 0.48-1.06). The study population was mostly exposed to organic dust, lubricating oil mist, sand, mild steel dust, organic solvents and abrasives dust., Conclusions: The present study provides evidence that occupational exposure in the investigated Lódź industrial center is responsible for a moderate increase in lung cancer risk among exposed persons. However, only a small fraction of the study population was exposed to well documented carcinogens.