Search

BackgroundAlthough chitin is absent in humans, chitinases are present in healthy subjects and show dysregulated expression in a variety of diseases resulting from abnormal tissue injury and repair responses. It was shown that chitotriosidase (chitinase 1/CHIT1) and structurally-related chitinase 3-like 1 protein (CHI3L1/YKL-40) play important roles in the pathobiology of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), however little is known about their longitudinal serum levels and relationship to clinical measures in IPF.MethodsThe present study is the first to evaluate serial measurements of serum CHIT1 activity and YKL-40 concentrations in patients with IPF starting antifibrotic treatment and followed up for 24 months. In addition, baseline serum CHIT1 and YKL-40 were compared between patients with IPF and control subjects, and possible CHIT1 and YKL-40 relationships to longitudinal clinical assessments in IPF were explored.ResultsBaseline serum CHIT1 activity and YKL-40 concentrations were significantly elevated in patients with IPF compared to control subjects and showed similar discriminatory ability in distinguishing IPF from controls. No significant differences between the median serum CHIT1 activity and YKL-40 concentration measured over a study follow-up were noted. We found significantly elevated baseline serum CHIT1 activity in the progressors compared with the stables in the first year, while significantly increased baseline serum CHIT1 activity was noted in the stables compared to the progressors in the second year. Additionally, we observed a significant negative correlation between a change in serum YKL-40 concentration and a change in forced vital capacity (FVC) % predicted (% pred.) in the stables subgroup, whereas, a change in serum CHIT1 activity correlated negatively with a change in FVC% pred. in the progressors subgroup.ConclusionsThis explorative study findings add further evidence that CHIT1 and YKL-40 are upregulated in patients with IPF, and suggest that longitudinally stable serum CHIT1 activity and YKL-40 concentration levels may potentially be associated with the antifibrotic treatment response. In addition, our findings are supporting the possible role of CHIT1 and YKL-40 as candidate diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in IPF. Further research is needed to validate present study findings.

IntroductionInterstitial lung disease is one of the most severe pulmonary complications related to connective tissue diseases, resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality. Telepneumology has the potential to improve the long-term management of patients with CTD-ILD. We propose a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of home-based telemonitoring of patients with CTD-ILD, in whom treatment was initiated.Materials and methodsWe will conduct a randomized controlled trial comparing the standard of care with a telemonitoring program. Telemonitoring will start 10 to 14 days before treatment and will be carried out for three months of therapy. After initial training, patients from the intervention group will perform daily spirometry (FVC), transdermal pulse oximetry, pulse and blood pressure measurements, activity measurement (accelerometry), and assessment of the severity of cough and dyspnea. The results will be reported using a telemetric system designed by Mediguard® for this study. The primary outcome measure will be the health-related quality of life change using EQ-5D-5L questionnaire and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, as measured at stationary visits in both study groups. Secondary outcomes will include assessment of lung function, costs of health service utilization, satisfaction from being telemonitored, dyspnea by mMRC, fatigue by FAS, patients' adherence to recommended medications using the ASCD, anxiety and depression symptoms as measured by HADS, PHQ-9, and side effects of treatment.DiscussionThis is the first clinical trial protocol to evaluate home-based telemonitoring to optimize connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung management. The study aims to provide data on the impact of telemonitoring on quality of life, evaluation of health status of patients with CTD-ILD using telemonitoring versus standard care. Additionally, we will evaluate the cost-effectiveness of telemonitoring solutions in patients with CTD-ILD.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04428957; Registered June 11, 2020; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04428957.

In Europe, there is a dearth of studies on abortion-related mobilities within countries where abortion is legal. In France, 18% of women seek abortion care outside their department of residence care. Most of these flows take place within Île-de-France region. This paper aims at providing novel insights into the motives and experiences of women traveling within France and particularly within the Île-de-France region for abortion care. It draws upon official abortion statistics as well as quantitative and qualitative data collected in three Parisian hospitals during a five-year European research project on barriers to legal abortion and abortion travel. Despite governmental efforts to facilitate access to abortions over the past decades, our findings show that various barriers exist for why women do not find services in their department of residence (lack of services or access to preferred methods, quality of care, long waiting times). However, most of our study participants report coming to Paris as a convenience and use commuting as a strategy to overcome obstacles in receiving abortion care.

Background In 2018, the right to lawful abortion in the Republic of Ireland significantly expanded, and service provision commenced on 1 January, 2019. Community provision of early medical abortion to 9 weeks plus 6 days gestation delivered by General Practitioners constitutes the backbone of the Irish abortion policy implementation. We conducted a study in 2020–2021 to examine the barriers and facilitators of the Irish abortion policy implementation. Methods We collected data using qualitative in-depth interviews (IDIs) which were conducted in-person or remotely. We coded and analysed interview transcripts following the grounded theory approach. Results We collected 108 IDIs in Ireland from May 2020 to March 2021. This article draws on 79 IDIs with three participant samples directly relevant to the community model of care: (a) 27 key informants involved in the abortion policy development and implementation representing government healthcare administration, medical professionals, and advocacy organisations, (b) 22 healthcare providers involved in abortion provision in community settings, and (c) 30 service users who sought abortion services in 2020. Facilitators of community-based abortion provision have been: a collaborative approach between the Irish government and the medical community to develop the model of care, and strong support systems for providers. The MyOptions helpline for service users is a successful national referral model. The main barriers to provision are the mandatory 3-day wait, unclear or slow referral pathways from primary to hospital care, barriers for migrants, and a shortage and incomplete geographic distribution of providers, especially in rural areas. Conclusions We conclude that access to abortion care in Ireland has been greatly expanded since the policy implementation in 2019. The community delivery of care and the national helpline constitute key features of the Irish abortion policy implementation that could be duplicated in other contexts and countries. Several challenges to full abortion policy implementation remain.

Neuropathic pain pathophysiology is not fully understood, but it was recently shown that MIP-1 family members (CCL3, CCL4, and CCL9) have strong pronociceptive properties. Our goal was to examine how pharmacological modulation of these chemokines and their receptors (CCR1 and CCR5) influence hypersensitivity after nerve injury in Albino Swiss male mice. The spinal changes in the mRNA/protein levels of the abovementioned chemokines and their receptors were measured using RT-qPCR and ELISA/Western blot techniques in a mouse model of chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve. Behavioral studies were performed using the von Frey and cold plate tests after pharmacological treatment with neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) against chemokines or antagonists (CCR1-J113863, CCR5-TAK-220/AZD-5672) alone and in coadministration with morphine on Day 7, when the hypersensitivity was fully developed. Our results showed enhanced protein levels of CCL3 and CCL9 1 and 7 days after nerve injury. The single intrathecal administration of CCL3 or CCL9 nAb, J113863, TAK-220, or AZD-5672 diminished neuropathic pain symptoms and enhanced morphine analgesia. These findings highlight the important roles of CCL3 and CCL9 in neuropathic pain and additionally indicate that these chemokines play essential roles in opioid analgesia. The obtained results suggest CCR1 and CCR5 as new, interesting targets in neuropathy treatment.

M87 has been monitored with a cadence of 5 days over a span of 9 months through the near-ultraviolet (NUV; F275W) and optical (F606W) filters of the Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3) of the Hubble Space Telescope. This unprecedented dataset yields the NUV and optical light and color curves of 94 M87 novae, characterizing the outburst and decline properties of the largest extragalactic nova dataset in the literature (after M31 and M81). We test and confirm nova modelers’ prediction that recurrent novae cannot erupt more frequently than once every 45 days, show that there are zero rapidly recurring novae in the central ∼1/3 of M87 with recurrence times

The aim of the present study was to increase the value of rice protein concentrate (RPC) by improving the functional properties of a preparation subjected to acetylation and analyze the impact of this chemical modification on chemical composition, digestibility, and protein patterning using SDS-PAGE electrophoresis and FT-IR spectroscopy. In the modified samples, the protein content increased (80.90–83.10 g/100 g cf. 74.20 g/100 g in the control). Electrophoresis revealed that the content of the main rice protein fractions (prolamin and glutelin) decreased as the concentration of the modifying reagent increased. Through spectroscopic analysis, wavenumbers, corresponding to the presence of proteins or lipids, aromatic systems, and carbohydrates, were observed. The use of acetic anhydride did not change the digestibility of the modified RPC significantly when compared to that of the control sample. The acetylation of the RPC caused a significant increase in its emulsifying properties at pH 8 (1.83–14.74%) and its water-binding capacity but did not have a statistically significant impact on the oil-absorption capacity. There was a slight increase in protein solubility and a decrease in foaming capacity in the modified RPC.

Anoplin is a linear 10-amino acid amphipathic peptide (Gly-Leu-Leu-Lys-Arg-Ile-Lys-Thr-Leu-Leu-NH2) derived from the venom sac of the solitary wasp. It has broad antimicrobial activity, including an antibacterial one. However, the inhibition of bacterial growth requires several dozen micromolar concentrations of this peptide. Anoplin is positively charged and directly interacts with anionic biological membranes forming an α-helix that disrupts the lipid bilayer. To improve the bactericidal properties of anoplin by stabilizing its helical structure, we designed and synthesized its analogs with hydrocarbon staples. The staple was introduced at two locations resulting in different charges and amphipathicity of the analogs. Circular dichroism studies showed that all modified anoplins adopted an α-helical conformation, both in the buffer and in the presence of membrane mimics. As the helicity of the stapled anoplins increased, their stability in trypsin solution improved. Using the propidium iodide uptake assay in Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, we confirmed the bacterial membrane disruption by the stapled anoplins. Next, we tested the antimicrobial activity of peptides on a range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Finally, we evaluated peptide hemolytic activity on sheep erythrocytes and cytotoxicity on human embryonic kidney 293 cells. All analogs showed higher antimicrobial activity than unmodified anoplin. Depending on the position of the staple, the peptides were more effective either against Gram-negative or Gram-positive bacteria. Anoplin[5-9], with a lower positive charge and increased hydrophobicity, had higher activity against Gram-positive bacteria but also showed hemolytic and destructive effects on eukaryotic cells. Contrary, anoplin[2-6] with a similar charge and amphipathicity as natural anoplin effectively killed Gram-negative bacteria, also pathogenic drug-resistant strains, without being hemolytic and toxic to eukaryotic cells. Our results showed that anoplin charge, amphipathicity, and location of hydrophobic residues affect the peptide destructive activity on the cell wall, and thus, its antibacterial activity. This means that by manipulating the charge and position of the staple in the sequence, one can manipulate the antimicrobial activity.

The aim of the publication is to assess the current legal solution within the scope of placing the notion of an agricultural holding as a basic conceptual category of the agricultural law in the Civil Code. This problem is directly connected with the postulate of coherence of the whole system of private law when it comes to the most important structural elements or just the understanding of basic notions. The statutory regulation of trade in agricultural real estate and agricultural holdings should be a code regulation, and the location of the definition of an agricultural holding in the Civil Code should be conducive to strengthening ownership. In the dilemma whether to keep in the Civil Code the regulation of trade in agricultural land (including its conceptual network with an agricultural holding at the forefront) or to transfer it to a special act (or perhaps even to the Agricultural Code), it is impossible to point to a just and possible solution. On the basis of arguments of teleological nature, especially from the scope of legislative policy, one should definitely opt for keeping the regulation of trade in agricultural land in the Civil Code.

Tocząca się w krajach Unii Europejskiej dyskusja na temat jakości kształcenia nauczycieli oraz utrzymująca się w wielu krajach członkowskich tendencja zmniejszającej się liczby kandydatów na studia pedagogiczne skłaniają do podjęcia eksploracji empirycznej problematyki motywacji kandydatów do podejmowania studiów pedagogicznych. Poszerzonej wiedzy w tym zakresie dostarczają badania międzynarodowe, stąd artykuł poświęcony jest analizie teoretyczno-empirycznej problematyki motywów wyboru studiów pedagogicznych przez studentów w Polsce i Portugalii z uwzględnieniem kontekstu ich miejsca zamieszkania. Oba kraje są członkami UE i realizują jej założenia strategiczne. W badaniach uczestniczyło 308 studentów, w tym 163 z Polski oraz 145 z Portugalii. Artykuł finalizowany jest wnioskami, wynikającymi ze zgromadzonego materiału, które wskazują na dominującą rolę własnych zainteresowań studentów w procesie wyboru studiów pedagogicznych, w tym najliczniejszą grupę stanowią zarówno w Polsce, jak i Portugalii, studenci deklarujący wieś jako miejsce zamieszkania. W badanej grupie, na wybór studiów pedagogicznych mniejszy wpływ miały tradycje rodzinne niż nauczyciele i środowisko rówieśnicze.

Neuropathic pain is a serious clinical issue, and its treatment remains a challenge in contemporary medicine. Thus, dynamic development in the area of animal and clinical studies has been observed. The mechanisms of neuropathic pain are still not fully understood; therefore, studies investigating these mechanisms are extremely important. However, much evidence indicates that changes in the activation and infiltration of immune cells cause the release of pronociceptive cytokines and contribute to neuropathic pain development and maintenance. Moreover, these changes are associated with low efficacy of opioids used to treat neuropathy. To date, the role of CC chemokine receptor type 3 (CCR3) in nociception has not been studied. Similarly, little is known about its endogenous ligands (C-C motif ligand; CCL), namely, CCL5, CCL7, CCL11, CCL24, CCL26, and CCL28. Our research showed that the development of hypersensitivity in rats following chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve is associated with upregulation of CCL7 and CCL11 in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Moreover, our results provide the first evidence that single and repeated intrathecal administration of the CCR3 antagonist SB328437 diminishes mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity. Additionally, repeated administration enhances the analgesic properties of morphine and buprenorphine following nerve injury. Simultaneously, the injection of SB328437 reduces the protein levels of some pronociceptive cytokines, such as IL-6, CCL7, and CCL11, in parallel with a reduction in the activation and influx of GFAP-, CD4- and MPO-positive cells in the spinal cord and/or DRG. Moreover, we have shown for the first time that an inhibitor of myeloperoxidase-4-aminobenzoic hydrazide may relieve pain and simultaneously enhance morphine and buprenorphine efficacy. The obtained results indicate the important role of CCR3 and its modulation in neuropathic pain treatment and suggest that it represents an interesting target for future investigations.

Summary: We identify amino acid variants within dominant SARS-CoV-2 T cell epitopes by interrogating global sequence data. Several variants within nucleocapsid and ORF3a epitopes have arisen independently in multiple lineages and result in loss of recognition by epitope-specific T cells assessed by IFN-γ and cytotoxic killing assays. Complete loss of T cell responsiveness was seen due to Q213K in the A∗01:01-restricted CD8+ ORF3a epitope FTSDYYQLY207-215; due to P13L, P13S, and P13T in the B∗27:05-restricted CD8+ nucleocapsid epitope QRNAPRITF9-17; and due to T362I and P365S in the A∗03:01/A∗11:01-restricted CD8+ nucleocapsid epitope KTFPPTEPK361-369. CD8+ T cell lines unable to recognize variant epitopes have diverse T cell receptor repertoires. These data demonstrate the potential for T cell evasion and highlight the need for ongoing surveillance for variants capable of escaping T cell as well as humoral immunity.

Summary: Human Vδ2 cells are innate-like γδ T effectors performing potent immune surveillance against tumors. The constitutive expression of NKG2A identifies a subset of Vδ2 T cells licensed with an intrinsic hyper-responsiveness against cancer. Indeed, the transcriptomic profiles of NKG2A+ and NKG2A− cells characterize two distinct “intralineages” of Vδ2 T lymphocytes that appear early during development, keep their phenotypes, and show self-renewal capabilities in adult life. The hyper-responsiveness of NKG2A+ Vδ2 T cells is counterbalanced by the inhibitory signaling delivered by human leukocyte antigen E (HLA-E) expressed on malignant cells as a tumor-escape mechanism. However, either masking or knocking out NKG2A restores the capacity of Vδ2 T cells to exert the highest effector functions even against HLA-E+ tumors. This is highly relevant in the clinic, as the different degrees of engagement of the NKG2A-HLA-E checkpoint in hepatocellular carcinoma, glioblastoma, and non-small cell lung cancer directly impact patients’ overall survival. These findings open avenues for developing combined cellular and immunologic anticancer therapies.

Objectives The steroid hormone vitamin D has roles in immunomodulation and bone health. Insufficiency is associated with susceptibility to respiratory infections. We report 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) measurements in hospitalised people with COVID-19 and influenza A and in survivors of critical illness to test the hypotheses that vitamin D insufficiency scales with illness severity and persists in survivors.Design Cross-sectional study.Setting and participants Plasma was obtained from 295 hospitalised people with COVID-19 (International Severe Acute Respiratory and emerging Infections Consortium (ISARIC)/WHO Clinical Characterization Protocol for Severe Emerging Infections UK study), 93 with influenza A (Mechanisms of Severe Acute Influenza Consortium (MOSAIC) study, during the 2009–2010 H1N1 pandemic) and 139 survivors of non-selected critical illness (prior to the COVID-19 pandemic). Total 25(OH)D was measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Free 25(OH)D was measured by ELISA in COVID-19 samples.Outcome measures Receipt of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and in-hospital mortality.Results Vitamin D insufficiency (total 25(OH)D 25–50 nmol/L) and deficiency (

Neuropathic pain treatment remains a challenging issue because the therapies currently used in the clinic are not sufficiently effective. Moreover, the mechanism of neuropathy is still not entirely understood; however, much evidence indicates that chemokines are important factors in the initial and late phases of neuropathic pain. To date, the roles of CCR1, CCR3 and their endogenous ligands have not been extensively studied; therefore, they have become the subject of our research. In the present comprehensive behavioral and biochemical study, we detected significant time-dependent and long-lasting increases in the mRNA levels of CCR1 and/or CCR3 ligands, such as CCL2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9, in the murine spinal cord after chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve, and these increases were accompanied by changes in the levels of microglial/macrophage, astrocyte and neutrophil cell markers. ELISA results suggested that endogenous ligands of CCR1 and CCR3 are involved in the development (CCL2/3/5/7/8/9) and persistence (CCL2/7/8) of neuropathic pain. Moreover, intrathecal injection of CCL2/3/5/7/8/9 confirmed their possible strong influence on mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity development. Importantly, inhibition of CCL2/7/8 production and CCR1 and CCR3 blockade by selective/dual antagonists effectively reduced neuropathic pain-like behavior. The obtained data suggest that CCL2/7/8/CCR1 and CCL7/8/CCR3 signaling are important in the modulation of neuropathic pain in mice and that these chemokines and their receptors may be interesting targets for future investigations.

Several cross-sectional studies have shown hair cortisol concentration to be associated with adiposity, but the relationship between hair cortisol concentration and longitudinal changes in measures of adiposity are largely unknown. We included 786 adults from the NoHoW trial, who had achieved a successful weight loss of ≥5% and had a body mass index of ≥25 kg/m2 prior to losing weight. Hair cortisol concentration (pg/mg hair) was measured at baseline and after 12 months. Body weight and body fat percentage were measured at baseline, 6-month, 12-month and 18-month visits. Participants weighed themselves at home ≥2 weekly using a Wi-Fi scale for the 18-month study duration, from which body weight variability was estimated using linear and non-linear approaches. Regression models were conducted to examine log hair cortisol concentration and change in log hair cortisol concentration as predictors of changes in body weight, change in body fat percentage and body weight variability. After adjustment for lifestyle and demographic factors, no associations between baseline log hair cortisol concentration and outcome measures were observed. Similar results were seen when analysing the association between 12-month concurrent development in log hair cortisol concentration and outcomes. However, an initial 12-month increase in log hair cortisol concentration was associated with a higher subsequent body weight variability between month 12 and 18, based on deviations from a nonlinear trend (β: 0.02% per unit increase in log hair cortisol concentration [95% CI: 0.00, 0.04]; P=0.016). Our data suggest that an association between hair cortisol concentration and subsequent change in body weight or body fat percentage is absent or marginal, but that an increase in hair cortisol concentration during a 12-month weight loss maintenance effort may predict a slightly higher subsequent 6-months body weight variability.Clinical Trial RegistrationISRCTN registry, identifier ISRCTN88405328.

Wstęp: Aktywność fizyczną definiuje się jako ruch ciała człowieka wykonywany przez mięśnie szkieletowe. Stanowi ona element zdrowego stylu życia i jest związana z celami takimi jak rozwój, zdrowie i dobre samopoczucie. Wykazuje korzystny wpływ na ciało człowieka, jak również jego psychikę. Cel pracy: Przedstawienie opinii społeczeństwa na temat aktywności fizycznej. Materiał i metody: Badania przeprowadzono za pomocą autorskiej ankiety. Uzyskano 198 kwestionariuszy a następnie przeanalizowano. Omówienie wyników: W badaniu wzięli udział kobiety (76,8%) oraz mężczyźni (23,2%). Średni wzrost kobiet wyniósł 169,5 cm, zaś mężczyzn 178,3 cm. Natomiast średnia waga kobiet wynosiła 65,7 kg a mężczyzn 79,2 kg. Z analizy wynika, że codzienną regularną aktywność fizyczną uprawia 61,1% ankietowanych. W odmienny sposób przedstawia się aktywność sezonowa, gdyż jedynie 29,3% badanych ją podejmuje. Najpopularniejszy sport stanowiła jazda na rowerze, którą wybrała blisko 1/3 respondentów. Również popularna była siłownia (29,8%). W sezonie zimowym badani najczęściej jeździli na nartach (19,7%) i łyżwach (19,2%), zaś latem na rolkach (18,6%). Mężczyźni częściej wybierali aktywności wpływające na dobrą kondycję fizyczną, zaś kobiety wolały ćwiczenia kształtujące sylwetkę. Analiza wykazała również, że dla 34,0% respondentów najważniejszym celem jest zdrowie. Stawiali także na sprawność (24,2%) i sylwetkę (23,2%). Prawie wszyscy badani określali swoją motywację jako wysoką (88,9%) oraz wierzą, że osiągną swój cel aktywności fizycznej (81,8%). Wnioski: Dane sugerują, że większość społeczeństwa wie jak ważna jest aktywność fizyczna na co dzień. Rodzaj sportu jest zróżnicowany w zależności od płci, pory roku oraz indywidualnych preferencji. Głównym celem aktywności jest utrzymanie zdrowia.

Introduction: Despite medical advances, the prevention and treatment of tropical diseases continue to be a current problem for communities. Purpose: To present the public awareness of tropical diseases. Material and method: The study was conducted by using an author's questionnaire. 158 questionnaires were collected and analysed. Results: The study included women (55.7%) and men (44.3%) of varying ages, nearly half of whom were studying or are studying a medical profession. The analysis showed that 92.4% of the respondents were aware of the factors causing contagious and parasitic diseases. Only 5.0% of respondents expressed opposition to prevention when travelling to tropical countries. Every fourth person planning a trip would not go to a specialist on this issue. Nearly 90% of respondents wanted to be vaccinated before travelling. On the other hand, only 15.2% of respondents knew that malaria is not currently prevented by a vaccine, but by chemoprophylaxis. One in five respondents said there was no need for hygienic food consumption, while more than half (53.8%) had not heard of the rule "cook, steam, peel or forget". Among the most important preventive measures, respondents most often selected hand washing (50.6%), taking care of hygiene (20.2%) and immunization (17.8%). Conclusions: Most of the respondents, especially those with medical education, demonstrated basic knowledge of tropical diseases. However, there is a great need for education, especially about visiting a doctor before travelling, types of prevention and methods of hygienic food consumption. The possibility of implementing programmes to supplement knowledge should be kept in mind. Keywords: tropical diseases; contagious diseases; awareness; society.

Introduction: Restrictions against the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in a decrease in other contagious diseases. However, their prevention and treatment are still a topical issue. Purpose: To present the public awareness on infectious diseases taking into account the knowledge of people with medical education. Material and method: The study was conducted by means of the author's questionnaire. 158 questionnaires were collected and analysed. Results: Men and women of different age took part in the survey. Half of the respondents had medical education. The analysis showed that as many as 89.2% of the respondents were aware of the pathogenic factor of influenza, which is the virus. Only a small percentage of respondents had information regarding the number of influenza infections in Poland (10.8%) and worldwide (21.5%). Medics were aware of this in 10.0% and 28.8% respectively. Influenza was admitted by 81.0% of the respondents, while for other infectious disease (except COVID-19) the result was 75.3%. The respondents indicated as the most common route of transmission of infectious diseases the droplet route (66.5%), while fever was the typical symptom (81.0%). Washing hands turned out to be the most important prophylactic behaviour of respondents (50.6%) and especially of students (93.7%). Conclusions: Awareness of infectious diseases among Poles is not at the highest level. Those with medical education have slightly higher knowledge, but it is necessary to introduce educational programmes and update knowledge.

Wstęp: Kompetencje to połączenie wiedzy z konkretnego zakresu, umiejętności i postaw. Grupą zawodową najczęściej podlegającą ocenie w tej kwestii są lekarze. Pacjenci po wyjściu z gabinetu dokonują oceny kompetencji pracownika służby zdrowia w odniesieniu do własnych spostrzeżeń. Cel pracy: Przedstawienie oceny kompetencji lekarzy przez społeczeństwo. Materiał i metody: Badania przeprowadzono za pomocą autorskiej ankiety. Zebrano 210 kwestionariuszy i poddano analizie. Omówienie wyników: W badaniu wzięli udział mężczyźni (29%) oraz kobiety (71%). Analiza wykazała, że według ¼ respondentów, lekarze nie odznaczają się kompetentnością. Zaledwie 45,72% osób wskazało na pozytywne odczucia dotyczące wizyty lekarskiej. Ankietowani w podobny sposób opowiedzieli się w kwestii braku czasu odnośnie przeprowadzenia badania (48,10%). Prawie 40% z nich nie wykazała zaufania do systemu służby zdrowia w odróżnieniu do ufności wobec specjalisty, której nie przejawia 13% respondentów. Wnioski: Dane sugerują, że lekarze w swojej pracy są dość dobrze oceniani przez pacjentów, szczególnie lekarze specjaliści. Istnieją jednak kontrowersje w kwestii sposobu realizacji świadczenia zdrowotnego.

Introduction: Society today is overly overwhelmed with advertisements for attractive products and ways to purchase them. The population is becoming richer and richer, which means they can spend more money on entertainment and their own pleasures. Purpose: To present the role of shopping in human life in 2021 from the perspective of consumers. Material and method: The study was carried out using the author's questionnaire. 260 questionnaires were collected and analyzed. Results: Men (52.3%) and women (47.7%) participated in the study. More than half of them (53.8%) were employed and more than 30% were studying. One in three respondents earned cash income greater than the minimum national gross rate. Nearly 60% rated their material situation as good. The analysis showed knowledge of the term "consumerism" by 83.1% of people. The study showed that the respondents shopped several times a week (69.2%) and even daily (18.5%). In order to buy food products, they usually visited supermarkets (64.6%), and in buying products they were most often guided by quality (47.7%). They are most encouraged by sales (50.8%), as well as recommendations from friends (18.5%) and product ingredients (12.6%). The data shows that as many as 58.5% of respondents used shopping to improve their mood. They were also induced to buy products by advertisements in the media (49.2%). Conclusions: For consumers, apart from the price, the quality of the products is of primary importance. They buy mainly in large supermarkets and via the Internet. The advertisements in media, promotions and the desire to improve one’s mood are the reasons of increasing phenomenon of consumerism.

Introduction: Since the 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) was classified as a pandemic infection on March 11, 2020, it has spread rapidly around the world. The total number of confirmed infections was 217,119,281 and the total deaths were 4,510,202 worldwide, as of August 31, 2021. The changes in life caused by these new threats also impacted patient care. Medics around the world have had to adapt to this new reality. There is a lot of research into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diagnosis and treatment of other diseases, including cancer. The aim of the study: Paying attention to the causes of delays in the diagnosis of cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic, with particular emphasis on oral cancer. Material and method: The research was done using the PubMed and Google Scholar articles about the topics of: covid-19 pandemic; oral cancer; healthcare; cancer diagnosis Description of the state of knowledge: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the entire health system around the world. According to various studies, there were fewer cancer diagnoses between 2020 and 2021. Studies have identified the causes of these delays, such as: overwork and fatigue of health care workers, limited access to doctors due to quarantine, patients' fear of being infected in a health care facility, and the lack of follow-up visits, including dental visits. Summary:Undoubtedly, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has put the people with chronic illnesses and those who are immunocompromised at the most risk. Solutions such as telemedicine during lockdown may be helpful in caring for cancer patients, but cannot replace a comprehensive examination by a doctor, especially in the case of oral cancer. As a result of the diagnostic delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant increase in the number of cancer deaths worldwide is expected.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic broke out in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Coronavirus disease is commonly transmitted through contact transmission and direct contact. Considering the transmission mechanism of the virus, healthcare workers are at high risk of becoming infected. SARS-CoV-2 has became a major stressor for medical staff, that can lead to burnout. The aim of the study: Paying attention to the correlation between COVID-19 pandemic and burnout among healthcare workers. Material and method: The research was done by the usage of the PubMed and Google Scholar articles about the topic of: burnout; healthcare workers, COVID-19 pandemic, mental health, stress. Description of the state of knowledge: According to various studies, the COVID-19 pandemic may have negative impact on the mental health of healthcare workers. Worsening systemic stressors may lead to professional burnout. Latest research has identified associations between burnout and inadequate psychological support, direct contact with infected patients, and working in the nursing profession. Summary: The results from all studies proved that the COVID-19 pandemic has tremendous impact on professional burnout among medical staff. It is essential to pay attention to the psychological wellbeing of healthcare workers.

Celem artykułu jest zaprezentowanie społecznego magazynu dla kobiet mieszkających na terenach wiejskich. Analiza dotyczy lat 1985–1986. Publikacja składa się z dwóch części. W pierwszej z nich omówiono zawartość periodyku, w drugiej wskazano, jakie funkcje pełniło pismo w wybranych latach.

Abstract Human (gamma delta) γδ T cells are unconventional innate-like lymphocytes displaying a broad array of anti-tumor activities with promising perspectives in cancer immunotherapy. In this context, Vδ2pos T cells represent the preferential target of several immunotherapy protocols against solid tumors. However, the impact of both aging and chemotherapy (CHT) on Vδ2pos T cells is still unknown. The present study evaluates with multi-parametric flow cytometry the frequencies, terminal differentiation, senescence and effector-functions of peripheral blood and tumor infiltrating Vδ2pos T cells purified from liver metastases (CLM) of patients affected by colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to those of sex- and age-matched healthy donors. The peripheral blood of CLM patients underwent CHT is characterized by decreased amounts of Vδ2pos T cells showing a relative increase of terminally-differentiated CD27neg/CD45RApos (TEMRA) cells. The enrichment of this latter subset is associated with an increased expression of the senescent marker CD57. The acquisition of CD57 on TEMRA Vδ2pos T cells is also coupled with impairments in cytotoxicity and production of TNF-α and IFN-γ. These features resemble the acquisition of an immune-senescent profile by Vδ2pos T cells from CLM patients that received CHT, a phenomenon that is also associated with the loss of the co-stimulatory marker CD28 and with the induced expression of CD16. The group of CLM patients underwent CHT and older than 60 years old showed higher frequencies of CD57pos and TEMRA Vδ2pos T cells. Similar results were found for tumor infiltrating Vδ2pos T cell subset purified from CLM specimens of patients treated with CHT. The toxicity of CHT regimens also affects the homeostasis of Vδ2pos T cells by inducing higher frequencies of circulating CD57pos TEMRA subset in CLM underwent CHT and younger than 60 years old. Taken together, our data demonstrate that the enrichment of senescent Vδ2pos T cells in CLM patients is not only induced by patients’ aging but also by the toxicity of CHT that further accelerates the accumulation of CD57pos TEMRA cells highly dysfunctional in their anti-tumor activities. These results are important to both predict the clinical outcome of CLM and to optimize those protocols of cell cancer immunotherapy employing unconventional Vδ2pos T cells.

Introduction Emergency medical system (EMS) workers are exposed to traumatic events that may lead to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Objectives The purpose of this study was to explore and discuss the relationship between peritraumatic distress (PD) and elevated posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in EMS employees. Material and methods A cross-sectional study including 100 EMS employees was conducted. Demographic and occupational data were collected for each subject. The Polish version of the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) was used to evaluate PTSS and the Polish version of the Peritraumatic Distress Inventory (PDI) was used to determine the level of PD experienced during and immediately after a traumatic event. Results The highest scores indicative of distress were obtained on the negative emotions subscale, and the lowest on the loss of control and arousal (LCA) subscales. A strong positive correlation was found between the severity of PD and PTSS. Among the PDI subscales, the severity of PTSS was most strongly correlated with LCA, and had the weakest correlation with sense of threat. The optimal PDI cut-off score for predicting elevated PTSS was 19. Conclusions PD is strongly related to elevated PTSS and serves as a useful tool for screening EMS workers at risk of developing PTSD. Individuals with PDI scores of 19 or higher are good candidates for specialist consultations aimed at detecting and treating elevated PTSS.

The different duration of a strawberry phenolic fraction intake and different post-intake time were experimental factors affecting the concentrations of ellagitannin metabolites in the urine and blood serum of rats. For four days, the animals were gavaged once a day as follows: group C (water, days 1-4), group F1-4 (fraction, days 1-4), group F1-3 (fraction, days 1-3; water, day 4), group F1-2 (fraction, days 1, 2; water, days 3, 4), group F3-4 (water, days 1, 2; fraction, days 3, 4), and group F4 (water, days 1-3; and fraction, day 4). The daily dosage of the fraction gavaged to one rat was 20 mg/kg of body weight. The fraction contained monomers and dimers of ellagitannins as well as proanthocyanidins. The caecal, urinal, and blood serum ellagitannin metabolites were analysed 12 h after the last treatment. Ellagic acid, urolithin A, and nasutin A were detected in the caecal digesta. In turn, urolithin A, nasutin A, and their glucuronide conjugates were detected in the urine, while urolithin A glucuronide, nasutin A glucuronide, and ellagic acid dimethyl ether glucuronide were found in the serum. The highest caecal and urinal concentrations of ellagitannin metabolites followed the F1-4 treatment. In the serum, the highest concentrations of the metabolites were determined in the rats administered the phenolic fraction during days 1-4 and 3-4. No metabolites were found in the rats following the C and F1-2 treatments. The results suggest that the presence of ellagitannin metabolites in the rat’s urine and serum largely reflects the concentrations of caecal metabolites and the number of subsequent days of strawberry phenolic fraction administration.

Purpose: Supracondylar fractures of the humerus cause significant morbidity in children. Nerve damage and loss of fracture reduction are common recognised complications in patients with this injury. Uncertainty surrounds the optimal Kirschner wire configuration and diameter for closed reduction and pinning of these fractures. This study describes current practice and examined the association between wire configuration or diameter and outcomes (clinical and radiological) in the operative management of paediatric supracondylar fractures. Methods: Children presenting with Gartland II or III supracondylar fractures at five hospitals in south-west England were eligible for inclusion. Collaborators scrutinised paper and electronic case notes. Outcome measures were maintenance of reduction and iatrogenic nerve injury. Results: Altogether 209 patients were eligible for inclusion: 15.7% had a documented neurological deficit at presentation; 3.9% who were neurologically intact at presentation sustained a new deficit caused by treatment and 13.4% experienced a clinically significant loss of reduction following fixation. Maintenance of reduction was significantly better in patients treated specifically with crossed ×3 Kirschner wire configuration compared to all other configurations. The incidence of iatrogenic nerve injury was not significantly different between groups treated with different wire configurations. Conclusion: We present a large multicentre cohort study showing that crossed ×3 Kirschner wires are associated with better maintenance of reduction than crossed ×2 or lateral entry wires. Greater numbers would be required to properly investigate nerve injury relating to operative management of supracondylar fractures. We found significant variations in practice and compliance with the British Orthopaedic Association Standard for Trauma (BOAST) 11 guidelines. Keywords: Fracture fixation, Humerus, Child, Nerve injury, Bone wires

Introduction: In the course of infectious diseases, various neurological symptoms can be observed. The aim of the study: The article focuses on the neurological symptoms presented in infectious diseases. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed, Google Scholar, ReaserchGate database was carried out using the following keywords: neurological symptoms, infectious diseases, neuropathology. Description: Infectious diseases such as Lyme diseases, syphilis, group A beta-hemolytic Streptoccocus infection, rabies, tetanus, botulism, poliomyelitis, AIDS can be manifested by neurological symptoms. Symptoms that appear as a result of the development of the diseases include these simple, non-specific symptoms such as weakness, abdominal pain, fever or headache to more serious, life-threatening as respiratory failure, arrhythmias. Summary: Many infectious diseases can cause neurological symptoms. It is important to remember about the possibility of these diseases during the diagnostics of neurological conditions.

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) constitutes a group of brain developmental disorders and is characterized by difficulty with social communication and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interest, or activities. ASD has no clear etiology and research is still ongoing to find it. Gut microbiota seems to have significant impact on the development of autism. The aim of the study: The purpose of this systemic review was to collect and analyse available data about the role of gut microbiota and new methods of treatment of ASD. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed and Google Scholar database was carried out using the following keywords: autism spectrum disorder, gut microbiota, probiotics. Description of the state of knowledge: In the studies we can found that symptoms from gastrointestinal tract occur more often in patients with ASD. Many studies confirm alterations in gut microbiota accompanying autism. The general changes are imbalance between Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes phyla, increased population of Sutterella and higher level of cultured Clostridium species in the feces. Researchers try to find a reason of these microbiota changes and the main cause they indicate is using antibiotics. Restoration of microbial balance in the colon, for instance by probiotics or microbiota transfer therapy may have beneficial effect on treatment of ASD. Summary: Complicated relationship between gut microbiota and brain needs more studies, but at that point we can find its association with autism and ASD and also with anorexia nervosa, depression and other mood disorders and GI diseases. Among currently available methods of treatment we can distinguish behavioural treatment, pharmacological approach (risperidone and aripiprazole) and complementary and alternative medicine therapies. Understanding the impact of microbiota on autism opens up new paths of treatment, for instance probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation or microbiota transfer therapy. Although, there is a great need for more researches of their efficacy.

Introduction: Toxicity of animal venom is a defense mechanism known to mankind for centuries for many species of animals. We are still learning the possibilities of its use as a substance with therapeutic potential, because on its basis several drugs known and commonly used in medicine were created. Aim of the study: To review research on the known and potential use of animal toxins as medicinal substances. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review literature data. Search for articles in the PubMed database was carried out using the following keywords: animal venoms, medical use, snake venoms, drugs from venom, Description of the state of knowledge: Animal venoms have been used by man since ancient times. Due to many different mechanisms, they are able to modulate the tissue functions of the human body. In the form of already known drugs have an effect, among others. on the cardiovascular, nervous and circulatory systems. Research is also being carried out on their use in the treatment of other diseases such as autoimmune diseases and cancer. Summary: Due to the variety of substances in animal venom and their therapeutic properties, it is possible to use them for the production of medicines. However, many studies are needed to better understand them.

Introduction: PPS appears at least 15 years after polio virus infection, followed by stabilization of the neurological condition. In the course of the disease, there are neurological, musculoskeletal and general symptoms. The aim of the study: The article focuses on the current knowledge about post-polio syndrome. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed, Google Scholar, ReaserchGate database was carried out using the following keywords: post-polio syndrome, poliovirus, poliomyelitis Description: There is no treatment that would cure PPS patients. However, interdisciplinary management focused on symptomatic treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of patients. One of the first solutions proposed to improve the clinical condition of patients with PSS was physical rehabilitation. In the treatment of post-polio syndrome, in addition to the use of non-pharmacological agents, therapy with the use of immunoglobulin infusions, the use of coenzyme Q10 or L-citrulline treatment has been introduced. Summary: Despite the fact that there is no specific treatment in PPS, it has been proven that non-pharmacological intervention (motor rehabilitation, lifestyle change, orthoses, respiratory assistance) has a beneficial effect on relieving the symptoms of the disease

Introduction: Meditation can include any kind of practices during practitioners can calm their mind and expend their consciousness. Meditation practising have been known since a long time ago. However, in the West it is still gaining popularity since nowadays people are under more and more stress. Meditation is thought to be helpful in coping with chronic disorders or stress. The aim of the study: The purpose of this systemic review was to collect and analyse available data about practising meditation and its effects on health. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed database was carried out using the following keywords: meditation, stress, health. Description of the state of knowledge: Psychological stress contributes to the development of many disorders. Studies of the effects of meditation practises such as mindfulness meditation or yoga showed that they are beneficial for reducing stress, depression and anxiety. The study in which participated patients with active depression and anxiety showed a reduction of both depression and anxiety score after the course meditation comparing to control group. Yoga practising was also examined in many studies as a depression treatment and showed some promising results. Another study showed improvement in perceived stress after yoga practising on a group of distressed women. Summary: Many studies of meditation practises showed their beneficial effects on depression, mood, anxiety and stress. People should be more aware of the effects of practises such as mindfulness meditation or yoga and consider their role in addressing psychological stress. Meditation may be a useful practise in maintaining health and well-being. However, further researches of meditation practises are still needed.

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of pervasive neurodevelopmental disorders that are characterized by persistent moderate to severe impairment in social skills and communication but also repetitive or stereotyped behaviours and interests. Many factors have been suggested to cause autism. However, its aetiology is still not fully understood. There are many kinds of treatments: behavioural treatment, pharmacological approach and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. The aim of the study: The purpose of this systemic review was to collect and analyse available data about aetiology and treatment of ASD. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed database was carried out using the following keywords: autism spectrum disorder, aetiology, treatment. Description of the state of knowledge: The study that is one of the biggest population-based twin studies of autism shows that heritability of autism is around 55%. Literature reports that approximately 10% children with autism or ASD have other chromosomal or genetic disorder and the most common is Fragile X and it is the most common cause of autism. Several environmental risk factors were thought to be the cause of autism. Nevertheless, only some of them might have an influence on developing ASD. There are many forms of behavioural treatment, but only two drugs were approved for ASD symptoms treatment. CAM offers many different therapies but their efficiency is not strong enough. Summary: The aetiology of ASD remains unclear. Reports of different factors being cause of developing ASD are not consistent. When it comes to treatment, early diagnosis and intervention are very important and can result in better onset of the disorder. ASD is subject of many researches but still even more is needed to answer the questions of aetiology and successful treatment of ASD.

Introduction: Bee products have been used by man for centuries. However, their therapeutic options are not fully understood. Aim of the study: To review research on the possibilities of using the medicinal properties of bee products. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review literature data. Search for articles in the PubMed database was carried out using the following keywords: apitherapy, honey, bee venom, propolis, royal jelly, bee pollen. Description: Apitherapy is a healing method known to mankind since the oldest times. Due to the diverse composition, substances produced by bees show a number of activities, which include Antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antibacterial and anticancer effect. Thanks to numerous mechanisms, they have a beneficial effect on wound healing, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders. Summary: Numerous properties and a wide range of activity of each bee product brings the possibility of using them in the therapy of many diseases.

Introduction: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is one of the most common genetically determined causes of infant and young child death. The aim of the study: Review of medical literature on therapeutic strategies used in the treatment of SMA. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed database was carried out using the following keywords: spinal muscular atrophy, nusinersen, zolgensma, reldesemtiv, branaplam, olesoxime. Description: Therapeutic mechanisms in SMA are directed to: 1) modification of pre-mRNA splicing of the SMN2 gene; 2) gene therapy; 3) neuroprotection; 4) improving skeletal muscle function. Summary: The gigantic advances in the development of therapeutical strategies resulted in the approval of two drugs for the treatment of SMA and the commencement of clinical studies on numerous with bundles.

Introduction: Eating disorders are severe psychiatric disorders. Anorexia nervosa (AN) has a mortality rate among the highest of any psychiatric illnesses. Anorexia nervosa is characterised by extreme weight loss and fear of gaining weight. Lifestyle and diet have a major influence on gut microbiota composition. Thus, studies of this subject may have potential in better understanding pathophysiology of AN. The aim of the study: The purpose of this systemic review was to collect and analyse available data about correlations between anorexia nervosa and gut microbiota. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed database was carried out using the following keywords: anorexia nervosa, gut microbiota, diet. Description of the state of knowledge: Intestinal microbiota plays an important role in weight regulation. Alterations in bidirectional brain-gut microbiota interactions can be responsible for a number of diseases including irritable bowel syndrome or functional gastrointestinal disorders. Studies show differences of gut microbiota composition between AN patients and normal-weight control groups. Composition of intestinal microbiota changes during nutritional rehabilitation. However, the differences between AN and control groups are still present even after substantial weight gain. Moreover, some correlations according to BMI are observed. Also there might be a correlation between increased intestinal permeability and gastrointestinal complaints common in AN. Summary: Studies showed alterations in intestinal microbiota composition in anorexia nervosa patients comparing to normal-weight individuals. However, more studies of this subject are needed. Knowing more correlations between gut microbiota, diet and weight may be helpful in understanding anorexia nervosa and improving its treatment.

Communication is an important element of medical care at all its stages. It is particularly important in the care of terminally ill patients. Then the psychological support of the patients and their families seems to be a prime matter while taking care of them. The purpose of this study is to discuss important aspects in communication with a palliative patient such as start time of conversations, culturally sensitive communication, positive emotion communication (PEC), communication with a pediatric patient and talking about spirituality and beliefs. This analysis of scientific publications presents the current state of communication between doctors and patients and also provides guidance on what actions should be taken to improve it. The number of evidence showing the advantages of early and honest dialogue with terminally ill patients (especially pediatric patients) and their families is increasing. As a result of research on communication-based on positive emotions, it has been shown that it is equally important to relieve the negative emotions of the patient and to build a sense of strength and connection. Research shows that insufficient knowledge of clinicians prevents effective communication with culturally diverse patients. Almost all of the parents do not regret talking to their children about their deadly diseases. Supporting them makes it easier to accept the loss of their child and increases their satisfaction. Clearly defining the concept of spirituality can help physicians properly talk about religion and beliefs with patients.

Introduction: There is common statement, that schizophrenia patients are more likely to smoke comparing to the total world population. The aim of the study: The aim of this article is to find out why do schizophrenic patients smoke, how does it affect them and what can be the cause of susceptibility to smoking. Material and method: The research of the scientific articles was made on a database of PubMed and Google Scholar. Description of the state of knowledge: Many different associations were found during the research such as these describing that patients with schizophrenia have up to two to five times higher risk of developing type II diabetes. Also patients with diagnosed schizophrenia are characterized by low neuronal activity of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. In post mortem studies in schizophrenic patients a decrease in the number of M1 and M2 receptors in the brain was found, mainly in the dorsal lateral part of the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum and cingulate cortex, and decreased number of nicotinic receptors in the hippocampus, thalamus, cingulate cortex and prefrontal cortex The key process of undergoing of nicotine is the induction of the cytochrome P450 1A2 enzyme (CYP 1A2), thus increasing the metabolism of antipsychotic therapeutics, e.g. olanzapine, clozapine what explain why usage of nicotine is told to be self-treatment in schizophrenic people. Summary: This article gathers scientific research on the relationship between schizophrenia and susceptibility among patients to smoking addiction and its impact on both mental and physical health. However, not all mechanisms are known yet.

Objectives The article presents the right to legal aid in civil litigation in Poland and in Spain. Material and methods The analysis proves that overburdening Polish courts (judges and court referendaries) with duties related to considering applications for appointing a legal representative for the purpose of litigation ex officio and exempting from court costs as well as granting the right to legal aid in cross-border disputes cannot be justified by ensuring effective access to justice for indigent subjects. Decisions made on these issues do not count as the administration of justice, and only the said administration is restricted to courts. Results What is more, court instruments to verify the truthfulness of statements which provide a basis for granting exemption from court costs or appointment of a legal representative for the purpose of litigation ex officio are exceptionally inefficient. Conclusions Granting the right to legal aid to parties by the state should rather be treated as an administrative case. The state has a specialised administrative apparatus which is prepared to support subjects that are incapable of overcoming difficult life situations by using their own powers, resources, and opportunities. Social workers could verify the correctness of the information concerning the financial status of the interested parties. Being aware of a petitioner’s situation, such clerks determine whether exemption is sought by an indigent person or whether this person can afford to cover court costs and remuneration of a professional legal representative for the purpose of litigation but prefers to pay for litigation from public funds.

The article presents academic Polish online journals which focus on media and journalism. In the first part, the author discusses the history of Polish academic publications and the profiles of chosen journals. The second part of the article describes the characteristics of journalism genres as they appear in journals.

Celem artykułu jest zaprezentowanie gatunków dziennikarskich w wybranych czasopismach dla młodzieży. Tekst składa się z dwóch części. W pierwszej zaprezentowano historię prasy młodzieżowej oraz przedstawiono definicję i omówiono funkcję czasopism młodzieżowych. Druga cześć stanowi zaś analizę gatunków prasowych w dwóch periodykach: „Cogito” oraz „Victorze”.

Introduction: Eating disorders are severe psychiatric disorders. nervosa (AN) has a mortality rate among the highest of any psychiatric illness. Its etiology is multifactorial and not fully understood yet. Patients with AN have an intense fear of gaining weight and they continuously seek to their “ideal” weigh. Many studies focus on changes at the endocrine an neuronal level which can be a result of the illness or occur premorbid. The aim of the study: The purpose of this systemic review was to collect and analyse available data about aspects of anorexia nervosa. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed database was carried out using the following keywords: anorexia nervosa, neuroimaging, endocrinology. Description of the state of knowledge: Emotional and psychological aspects of anorexia nervosa are very important in understanding this condition. Food restrictions may have a compulsive quality which were compared to those of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), but with the focus on eating, weight and shape. Another aspects concerns neuronal alterations. Many studies with the use of neuroimaging showed changes in the right inferior prefrontal lobe, the right superior prefrontal lobe and the right parietal region, insula and orbitofrontal cortex in patients with anorexia nervosa. Also there is a variety of changes in endocrine system such as disturbances on the axis of Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal or growth hormone axis. Summary: The perception of anorexia nervosa has changed over year. It is known now that its etiology is complex. There are changes on many levels and it is still not known which one of them were premorbid. More studies are needed to have a better understanding of this condition and to be able to treat it better.

Introduction: Wine is worldwide known drink with a long history. It is popular in many cultures and diets. It is a component of Mediterranean diet, which is an example of healthy eating. Red wine seems to be an essential component of the diet, since moderate consumption of wine is associated with lower risk and mortality from cardiovascular disease. The aim of the study: The purpose of this systemic review was to collect and analyse available data about health properties of wine. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed database was carried out using the following keywords: wine, alcohol, cardiovascular, polyphenols. Description of the state of knowledge: Pro-health properties of alcohol depends mainly on the content of polyphenols. The most biologically active polyphenol is resveratrol. Light drinking of wine has multiple beneficial effects. It decreases level of total plasma cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein and increases high-density lipoprotein, lowers blood fibrinogen, thromboxane A, platelet stickiness, reducing insulin resistance, inhibits inflammation, improves endothelial function, fibrinolysis and increases plasma concentration of atrial natriuretic peptide. In addition it may have neuroprotective effect and beneficial effect on gut microbiota. Summary: Moderate wine consumption can be beneficial for our health, may protect against cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, hypertension, certain types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, neurological disorders and metabolic syndrome. Nevertheless, any amount of alcohol consumed can lead to alcohol addiction and there is a very thin line between drinking small amounts and abuse. Furthermore, there are studies indicating that small amounts of alcohol can also have a negative impact on health. This subject still needs more studies and clinical trials.

Introduction: Biofeedback (BFB) is about improving conscious control over emotional states and some physiological activities. It is a non-invasive, painless and completely safe technique of self-regulation of the body and mind through psychophysiology. The aim of the study: The aim of this article was to present the effects of Biofeedback therapy in psychiatric and psychological clinical situations Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. A search of articles was carried out in the PubMed and Google Scholar database. Description of the state of knowledge: Biofeedback is a promising form of behavioral therapy. It can support the work of the mind in healthy people and intensify the treatment of many psychological and psychiatric conditions. The analysis of the research shows that the effectiveness of BFB therapy is high in conditions such as: anxiety disorders, increased stress levels, ADHD, depressive disorders, and insomnia. Summary: The versatile effectiveness of BFB should therefore lead clinicians to encourage this form of therapy during therapeutic treatment of their patients.

Introduction: Depression during pregnancy seems to be dominated by the postpartum depression. It is important to remember about this condition and its symptoms as they are easy to be mistaken with mood changes and other behavioural changes common during pregnancy. Although we know the risk factors for this condition, we still do not know its complex etiology. Moreover, there is also not enough information about the treatment. The aim of the study: The purpose of this systemic review was to collect and analyse causes and possibilities of treatment depression during pregnancy. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed and Google Scholar database was carried out using the following keywords: depression, treatment, pregnancy. Description of the state of knowledge: Currently the most common treatment for pregnant women suffering from depression are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, especially citalopram, escitalopram, paroxetine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine and sertraline. However, their potential side effects affecting the fetus is a controversial issue. The results of many studies are not consistent. Summary: It is still not known how to treat depression during pregnancy properly. Psychotherapy, considered as a basic way of treatment, is always recommended. However, the usage of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors is still open to debate.

Abstract Background IgG-class autoantibodies to N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA)-type glutamate receptors define a novel entity of autoimmune encephalitis. Studies examining the prevalence of NMDA IgA/IgM antibodies in patients with Parkinson disease with/without dementia produced conflicting results. We measured NMDA antibodies in a large, well phenotyped sample of Parkinson patients without and with cognitive impairment (n = 296) and controls (n = 295) free of neuropsychiatric disease. Detailed phenotyping and large numbers allowed statistically meaningful correlation of antibody status with diagnostic subgroups as well as quantitative indicators of disease severity and cognitive impairment. Methods NMDA antibodies were analysed in the serum of patients and controls using well established validated assays. We used anti-NMDA antibody positivity as the main independent variable and correlated it with disease status and phenotypic characteristics. Results The frequency of NMDA IgA/IgM antibodies was lower in Parkinson patients (13%) than in controls (22%) and higher than in previous studies in both groups. NMDA IgA/IgM antibodies were neither significantly associated with diagnostic subclasses of Parkinson disease according to cognitive impairment, nor with quantitative indicators of disease severity and cognitive impairment. A positive NMDA antibody status was positively correlated with age in controls but not in Parkinson patients. Conclusion It is unlikely albeit not impossible that NMDA antibodies play a significant role in the pathogenesis or progression of Parkinson disease e.g. to Parkinson disease with dementia, while NMDA IgG antibodies define a separate disease of its own.

Background and purpose — Thresholds of implant migration for predicting long-term successful fixation of tibial components in total knee arthroplasty have not separated cemented and uncemented fixation. We compared implant migration of cemented and uncemented components at 1 year and as the change in migration from 1 to 2 years. Patients and methods — Implant migration of 360 tibial components measured using radiostereometric analysis was compared at 1 year and as the change in migration from 1 to 2 years in 222 cemented components (3 implant designs) and 138 uncemented components (5 implant designs). Results — 1-year maximum total point motion was lower for the cemented tibial components compared with the uncemented components (median = 0.31 mm [0.03–2.98] versus 0.63 mm [0.11–5.19] respectively, p < 0.001, mixed model). The change in migration from 1 to 2 years, however, was equivalent for cemented and uncemented components (mean [SD] 0.06 mm [0.19] and 0.07 mm [0.27] mm respectively, p = 0.6, mixed model). Interpretation — These findings suggest that current thresholds of acceptable migration at 1 year may be better optimized by considering cemented and uncemented tibial components separately as higher early migration of uncemented components was not associated with decreased stability from 1 to 2 years.