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Sanitary indicators standardly used in water quality monitoring refer to fecal microorganisms or cyanobacterial toxins, but at present they do not include fungi, despite the fact that many fungi can pose potential health hazards. The aim of study was a quantitative and qualitative assessment of yeast in waters of urban artificial recreational reservoirs in relation to microbiological and sanitary cleanliness indicators and to demonstrate that yeast could be an indicator of anthropogenic pollution. In total, 18 species of yeast were isolated, including 13 classified as clinically relevant. Tested reservoirs exceeded the standards of sanitary indicators acceptable for bathing water. Since isolated yeasts are associated with living organisms, their presence in the water of urban recreational reservoirs may be a public health concern. Therefore, a mycological analysis should be incorporated into standard water quality assessment procedures. The results obtained are very promising, but further research is still needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been a rapid increase in the incidence of Candida infections. The different species of the genus Candida vary in their virulence abilities and susceptibility to antifungal agents, depending on several external factors. The result of such modifications may be cross-resistance, which is understood as an acquired resistance to a certain antimicrobial agent after exposure to another drug. The aim of this study was to determine the possibility of cross-resistance between fluconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, and methotrexate in Candida albicans and Meyerozyma guilliermondii (syn. Candida guilliermondii). Fieen strains of M. guilliermondii and eight strains of C. albicans, including the standard strains, were tested. For all strains, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for fluconazole, voriconazole, and itraconazole were determined before and after stimulation with methotrexate. The median MICs in M. guilliermondii before and after stimulation were 9.333 and 64 mg/L (p =0.005) for fluconazole; 0.917 and 1.667 mg/L (p =0.001) for itraconazole, respectively. No significant change in MIC was observed for voriconazole. For C. albicans strains, the median MICs before and after stimulation were 0.917 and 64 mg/L (p =0.012) for fluconazole; 0.344 and 1.135 mg/L (p =0.018) for voriconazole, respectively. There was no significant change in MIC values for itraconazole. Thus, this study demonstrates the presence of cross-resistance between voriconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, and methotrexate for the selected strains. Methotrexate exposure induces different responses when certain drugs are used for various species. Therefore, if a patient was previously exposed to methotrexate, there may be a higher risk of treatment failure with fluconazole than with other azoles such as voriconazole for fungemia caused by M. guilliermondii or itraconazole for C. albicans infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assesses the knowledge of medical students on the health effects of the use of psychoactive substances, in the context of their future role in prevention and treatment of addictions. The study was conducted using a questionnaire containing questions about classification, symptoms and effects of psychoactive substances, and the existing prevention programs. The study involved 430 students of medicine and allied faculties. Only 20.8% of medicine students and 12.5% of students of other faculties could correctly classify different psychoactive substances. Correct symptoms of drug misuse were mentioned by 20.4% of medicine students and 19.2% of students of other faculties. The overall knowledge of medical students was no greater than the knowledge of students of other allied faculties. Medical students showed insufficient knowledge about psychoactive substances and their effects on the human body, thus indicating the need to introduce into their study programme a more teaching in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfungi occurring in surface water may represent an important health risk. Recreational water reservoirs are a potential reservoir of pathogenic fungi. The aim of the study was to assess the diversity of mycobiota in selected artificial bathing reservoirs with regard to its biosafety for the human population. The studies were conducted during the summer of 2016 in three research seasons (June (I), July and August (II), and September (III)), taking into account the various periods of recreational activities. Filamentous fungi were isolated from water samples collected at five different ponds utilized for recreation. From 162 water samples, 149 fungal taxa of filamentous fungi were identified: 140 were classified to species level and only nine to genus level. Aspergillus fumigatus was the dominant species. The highest species richness (S) was noted in June, with 93 fungal taxa (Menhinick's index from 2.65 to 4.49). Additionally, in season I, the highest diversity of fungal species was revealed (Simpson's diversity index from 0.83 to 0.99). The average number of CFU/1 mL sample ranged between 0.4 and 4.6 depending on the time of sampling and ponds. Of all the isolated species, 128 were clinically relevant (11 from RG-2 and 117 from RG-1), highlighting the need to introduce seasonal mycological monitoring of such reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Since cardiovascular diseases remain the main cause of premature mortality in men and women in Poland, it is reasonable to look for factors that protect against these conditions. Psychological resiliency is one of such properties that support adaptation in difficult situations and conducive to adaptation to the disease. The aim of the present study was to analyze the relationship between resiliency and flexibility in coping of cardiac patients and to determine whether resiliency is a predictor of flexibility in coping with stress in this group. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE In the study the Assessment of Resiliency Scale (SPP-25) and the scale of Flexibility in Coping with Stress (KERS-14) were used. The participants of the study were 120 cardiac patients (72 men and 48 women) at the age 29-75. RESULTS The results show that there is a statistically significant relationship between resiliency and flexibility in coping. Each of the resiliency dimensions, as well as the result of the overall resiliency, correlates positively with each of the dimensions of flexibility in coping. The analysis showed that resiliency is an important predictor of a dependent variable -- flexible in coping. CONCLUSIONS There is a positive relationship between resiliency and flexibility in coping with stress in cardiac patients. People with a higher intensity of resiliency in comparison to people with lower intensity of resiliency are characterized by greater flexibility in coping with stress. The dimensions of resiliency, in particular 'Persistence and determination in action' and 'Openness to new experiences and sense of humor', together with the duration of the disease, play a predictive role for flexibility in coping with stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of keratinophilic and keratinolytic fungi in the soil of recreational areas in Lodz, with a particular emphasis on species potentially pathogenic for humans. The material consisted of 104 soil samples collected from the surface layer and 10-15 cm below the surface at 26 recreational areas in Lodz. Soil samples were inoculated on Sabouraud, Czapek-Dox, and PDA media. In order to isolate the common dermatophytes from the collected soil, hair bait tests were prepared. From the collected soil samples, 83 species of fungi belonging to 53 genera were isolated. The most numerous were those of the genera Penicillium, Fusarium, and Cladosporium. Dermatophytes were isolated from 79 out of 104 of soil samples from 24 examined sites. They were classified into eight species from five genera. The most numerous was the genus Trichophyton. The presence of dermatophytes and mould fungi with keratinolytic properties in the soil of recreational areas may pose a significant risk to human health, especially for children and young teenagers. The results obtained in this study and an analysis of the literature suggests the need for monitoring the soil of places of active leisure for potentially pathogenic fungi species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rapid increase of resistance of antropopathogenic fungi to routinely used antimycotic drugs forces researchers to search for new alternative methods of antifungal therapies. Among compounds investigated there are glucosinolates (GLS), whose antimycotic activity was proved against plant pathogens. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to determine the value of minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) of GLS degradation products on yeast and yeast-like fungi isolated from human ontocenoses. Material and methods: Fungi were obtained from the collection of Department of Mycology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn and isolated from the human respiratory system and digestive tract. GLS degradation products were originated from seeds of broccoli, small radish, mustard and cabbage and were prepared at the Department of Food Chemistry and Biodynamics of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn using HPLC method. The MIC value was conducted with the disk-diffusion method. Results: Experiments showed that the strongest antifungal activity was demonstrated for GLS degradation products from broccoli (MIC reached 1.62±0.11 μmol/g), the lowest for GLS degradation products from small radish (MIC reached 5.87±4.08 μmol/g). Conclusions: The analysis of the inhibiting effect of GLS degradation products on the growth of fungi showed their possible usefulness for antimycotic therapy and prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: An increasing number of reports have been issued in the recent years on considerably increased frequency of yeast-like fungi and yeast in organ ontocenoses of man. This applies in particular the respiratory and digestive systems. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was the taxonomical analysis of yeast and yeast-like fungi from the respiratory system and gastrointestinal tract of human with particular emphasis on the number of taxa and attention to the dominant species and rare species in the different sections of studied ontocenosis. Material and methods: The experimental material were yeast-like fungi and yeasts isolated from the respiratory and the digestive system of human. The fungi were cultured and identified following standard principles of mycological diagnostics. Results: The fungi isolated from the respiratory system were classified to 37 species and from the gastrointestinal tract – to 23 species. The predominating species turned out to be the Candida albicans, constituting 19.49% in the respiratory system and 27.87% in the digestive system. Conclusions: Five species have been isolated for the first time in Poland. The abundance of the species detected and the presence of perfect stages in the material examined imply a successive increase in the expansiveness of fungi towards human tissues. Results obtained confirms that the respiratory systems affords the fungi better conditions for the survival and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Routine mycological diagnostic for culturing of fungi isolated from the skin changes recommends Sabouraud agar with antibiotics and a selective Sabouraud agar with antibiotics and cycloheximide. Although the introduction of a selective medium with Actidion facilitates isolation of dermatophytes, but also inhibits the growth of other fungi present on the skin - an ecological niche, a especially rich in micro-fungi including molds, which include the genus Fusarium. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze several cases of hyalohyphomycosis caused by Fusarium solani and F. oxysporum, and note that occasional quotations of fungi of the genus Fusarium can be the result of shortcomings in the standard diagnostics. Material and methods: The research material was represented by swabs and fragments of necrotic tissue from inflammatory focus of surgical wound of the lower leg (1 case), and from toe nail shaft, from which Candida albicans was previously isolated (3 cases). For mycological analysis were used: direct preparations stained with Gram method of biological materials and macrocultures, in isotonic 0.9% NaCl; macrocultures on Sabouraud agar with chloramphenicol and gentamicin, Sabouraud agar with chloramphenicol and Actidion, Czapek-Dox agar and PDA (Potato-Dextrose Agar); microculture on Nickerson agar with the addition of broth with serum in a 1:1 ratio. The course of diagnostic, the method of culturing of fungi and the criteria required for taxonomic evaluation were consistent with the generally accepted recommendations for mycological laboratories. Adequately to the aim of the work, particular attention was focused on the criteria considered in identification of the species of the genus Fusarium. Results: The use of PDA agar has allowed the isolation of two species of Fusarium: F. solani (Mart.) Sacc. from the surgical wound and nail shaft and F. oxysporum Schlecht. from the nail shaft. On media recommended in the routine mycological diagnostic the growth of these species was not characteristic. Conclusions: An occasional isolations of fungi of the genus Fusarium from skin lesions may be caused by Actidion added to the standard Sabouraud media as an inhibitor of mold growth. Medium PDA - optimal for capturing phytopathogens potentially pathogenic for humans - should be introduced into routine diagnostics of fungi isolated from skin lesions and surgical wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the greatest environmental health problems to arise in recent years is air pollution. Inorganic and organic particles are important components of air aerosol. The potential of air microbiota as an indicator of air quality is gaining increasing research interest. The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between the level of fungal contamination and the levels of bacteria and smog particles in outdoor air in recreational areas during the heating season. A quantitative and qualitative mycological evaluation and quantitative bacteriological evaluation of air quality in 10 selected parks were performed. The numbers of microorganisms in the air were correlated with smog levels. The mean prevalence of fungi was 18.96 ± 15.43–23.30 ± 26.70 CFU/m3 of air and the mean bacterial count was 74.06 ± 130.89–268.04 ± 126.10 CFU/m3. Among the isolated fungi, clinically significant species were identified: four species belonged to Risk Group 2, and 17 to Risk Group 1. The predominant genera were Aspergillus, Penicillium and Alternaria. The total number of bacteria demonstrated a positive correlation with the size of the park, air temperature and ozone level during sampling, and a negative correlation with humidity, pressure and smog parameters (CO, NO, NO2 and NOx). The qualitative and quantitative composition of bioaerosols can be used as a bioindicator for environmental monitoring. There is a need for more efficient monitoring of airborne pollutants and microorganisms to learn about the structure of the air biota, the mechanisms regulating their occurrence, and to identify potential threats to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The alimentary tract is colonized very frequently by opportunistic fungi of various systematic and ecophysiological groups, particularly yeasts-like fungi and yeasts. It is not only the reservoir of potential human pathogens but also the path of mycotic invasion and dissemination in many cases leading to fungemia. Aim of study: The study aimed at the detailed taxonomic analysis of fungi isolated from the endoscopic materials and determined in routine tests as yeasts-like fungi. Material and methods: The research material consisted of fungi isolated from the alimentary tract (swabs and specimens) of 45 patients referred to the Endoscopy Laboratory at the Municipal Hospital in Olsztyn. The procedures applied were consistent with the generally accepted diagnostic process applied in mycology laboratories. Specialist keys were used for taxonomic analyses. Results: In total, 70 isolates of fungi belonging to 22 species were obtained, among which as many as 9 species (21% of positive results) had not been previously recorded in Polish gastroenterological literature. Those were: Candida brumptii, Candida dubliniensis, Candida lactis-condensi, Candida pelliculosa, Metchnikovia pulcherrima, Rhodosporidium diobovatum, Saccharomycopsis capsularis, Trichosporon capitatum and Trichosporon fermentans. Conclusions: The taxonomic spectrum of fungi populated the alimentary tract clearly expands - 21% of the fungal community were species new to that ontocenosis. Considering biology and adaptation capacity of fungi, interactions with bacteria and increasing number of iatrogenic factors predisposing for fungal infections, standards of mycological analyses of endoscopic materials should be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many types of cancer have infectious origins. Gastric cancer patients can demonstrate high seroprevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The aim of the present study was to assess the expression of SMOX gene in the group of Polish patients with gastric cancer. SMOX is believed to promote H. pylori -induced carcinogenesis via inflammation, DNA damage and activation of β-catenin signaling. We also assessed the mRNA expression of selected pro-inflammatory cytokines, i.e. IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α , and antimicrobial peptide, cathelicidin. The study material consisted of gastric tissue samples collected during total gastrectomy from three different places in stomach: from primary tumor, 3 ​cm away from the primary lesion, and from the wall opposite to the primary tumor. After RNA isolation, qPCR reactions were performed for the relevant genes. The obtained results confirmed an increased level of SMOX expression in gastric cancer patients with the history of H. pylori infection. And, as far as we know, this is the first study on SMOX gene expression conducted on tissue taken from a patient, not on a cell line. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, i.e. IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α , were also increased, thus indicating their contribution to the specific inflammatory microenvironment of the tumor. Interestingly, the levels of CAMP , encoding antimicrobial peptide, were reduced in all tissue types. The findings confirm that SMOX plays a role in gastric carcinogenesis. However, further research is needed on the role of inflammatory and other factors involved in this process to identify targets for cancer immunotherapy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

background Flexibility in coping relies on applying a coping strategy that is appropriate to the circumstances. Individuals who are flexible in coping exhibit sensitivity to subtle signals sent by the environment. Therefore, they are able to adjust their behaviour accordingly and function in a more adaptive manner. participants and procedure The study included N = 1535 participants. The following methods were used: the Flexibility in Coping with Stress Questionnaire (FCSQ-14) and the Cognitive Flexibility Inventory (CFI). results The Flexibility in Coping with Stress Questionnaire measures flexibility as a feature of the process of coping with which an individual applies coping strategies. The Flexibility in Coping with Stress Questionnaire is an accurate and reliable method of measuring coping flexibility and three of its subscales: the Repertoire of coping strategies, the Changeability of their use, and Reflexivity. conclusions The Flexibility in Coping with Stress Questionnaire examines three subscales of flexibility, namely, Repertoire of coping strategies, Changeability, and Reflexivity. This measurement is accurate and reliable. The questionnaire is applied to the study of persons exposed to severe or chronic stress at work, when we want to assess the individual's ability to change their functioning in a stressful situation. It can be used to examine healthy and somatically ill people, in the area of research and clinical diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]