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Introduction: Bibliometric analysis became a separate scientific discipline, frequently used to evaluate the output of research institutes. Objective: The aim of this study was the assessment of Polish contribution to the development of world dermatology between 1994 and 2005. Material and methods: The evaluation of Polish dermatological achievements was based on the frequency of Polish publications in eight prestigious dermatological journals divided in two groups: group A consisted of four mostly cited dermatological journals, and group B contained further four, meticulously selected, well known journals with a special interest on clinical aspects of dermatology. Results: Among 14.893 analyzed publications, we have identified a total of 70 papers, in which the first author (n=51; 72.86%) or one of co-authors (n=19; 27.14%) worked in Poland. Twenty eight (40%) were published in group A journals and 42 (60%) in group B journals. In group A, papers with Polish authorship accounted for only 0.27% of all publication, whereas in group B Polish reports constituted 0.93% of all papers. (group A vs. group B: p<0.001). In group A journals Polish papers were usually originals reports (n=22; 78.57%), rarely other types of publications were noted (n=6; 21.43%). In group B original articles also predominated (n=19; 45.24%), but Polish authors also published case reports (n=11; 26.19%) and review papers (n=7; 16.67%) (group A vs. group B: p=0.03). Conclusions: Polish researchers were the authors of a very small percentage of all published dermatological reports. It seems, that this undesirable observations could be changed only by increase of funds for dermatology in Poland. Scholarships dedicated for institutions that perform studies in the field of dermatology would substantially support this discipline. Hopefully, joining the European Union by Poland will have a positive impact on the development of dermatology in our country and, as a consequence, this discipline will be recognized by others as one of the leading Polish sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conjunction between music and medicine is described widely as a multi-faceted phenomenon. Music is used to regulate physiological and mental states. Studies about sound structure and music and its perception show that music should also be considered from the perspective of musical work elements (rhythm, melody, tempo, dynamics) and patients' perceived capabilities. It is of great importance especially in a holistic approach in medicine and modern rehabilitation combined with music therapy. Music therapy for older people suffering from dementia disorders has been developing intensively in recent years and it is because the human population is gradually getting older (Krzyzanowski 2004). In addition, mental disorders, especially dementia and mood disorders, are becoming more common in this group. Music therapy can provide a valuable support in rehabilitation and daily care of people with dementia. The studies show the importance of using particular techniques of music therapy when taking care of people with dementia. The paper presents selected music therapy techniques used in medicine, the value of music therapy in dementia disorder and therapeutic initiatives with music use and its functions in therapy of people with dementia. Text analysis shows similarities and differences in studies about music therapy in dementia disorders in both Europe and the USA in the last years. The most common techniques shown in the research are: music stimulation, music reminiscence, music and movement and social dancing. The authors present a theory report on music therapy use in dementia disorders and they show selected studies referring to use of this method in therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the case of a male patient aged 44, admitted to Szczecin Department of Dermatology with swelling in both lips, which had been steadily worsening over a 25-year period. Examination revealed three symptoms: swelling in both lips, lingua plicata and an excessively smooth left naso-labial furrow, suggestive of left facial nerve paralysis. Bacterial cultures obtained from the throat indicated high levels of Bifidobacterium adolescentis. In patch tests there were positive reactions to phenylenediamine and anesthezine. Neurological examination revealed that the left naso-labial furrow was excessively smooth. Thermographic investigation revealed a higher temperature in the left naso-labial fold (+1°C) in comparison with the right side of the face. A skin biopsy taken from the cheek showed a diffuse granulomatous infiltration typical for Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. The patient was treated with steroids and antibiotics, after which there was a marked reduction in the swelling of the lips for a period of 2 years, although there was no improvement in the palsy of the facial nerve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]