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The development of efficient and reliable online assessments has become increasingly important in the digital era. We developed a 10-min online word reading assessment of global English based on the existing paper-and-pencil version of our English silent word reading test. The test includes two parts, namely, random word recognition and contextual word reading. A total of 889 participants (437 children and 392 adults; 62.7% female) took part in the study. They were from various regions including mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, Poland, the United States, and the Philippines. Reliability and validity analyses on various demographics samples (by age and country/region of origin) demonstrated that the WordSword Test is highly reliable and valid (e.g., the correlation of this test with other English reading measures were above.80). Education level was positively correlated with test performance, while the correlations between age and test performance were not consistent. Ninety-seven children participants also took the paper-and-pencil version of the WordSword Test. The correlation between performances on the online and paper-and-pencil versions of the test was.879, one year apart. With more children and adults taking the WordSword Test, we ultimately hope to establish norms by area, grade level, and age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. This study aimed to investigate how nursing students utilised the "DiagNurse" mobile app to assess patient health conditions during their clinical apprenticeships. Material and methods. This prospective, quasi-experimental post-test study included a convenience sample of 62 undergraduate nursing students. In the course of the work, they utilized paper-based measurement scales (first measurement) and the mobile app (second measurement) to assess patient health conditions during clinical practice. In total, 432 clinical condition assessments were performed on patients in the first measurement and 432 in the second measurement. Following the clinical assessment, two types of post-tests were employed to ascertain the usability of the mobile app: quantitative testing using the System Usability Scale and qualitative testing. Results. The mean SUS score was 80.2 (SD 15.67). The majority of the students agreed that the utilisation of the mobile app to assess a patient's health condition is faster (M=3.21) and more convenient (M=3.16) than the use of paper-based scales and questionnaires. On a 0–10 scale, the study participants rated it as "highly recommended" (M=8.03) for fellow nursing students or practicing nurses. Conclusions. Although the "DiagNurse" mobile app was considered a suitable tool for learning clinical patient assessment, the students also proposed some improvements to the app's design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Study design:Systematic literature reviewObjective:To review and assess the quality of available epidemiologic data of spinal cord injury (SCI) in Poland in the context of general International Classification of Functioning (ICF) domains and to answer the question whether there is a need for a comprehensive epidemiologic study of SCI in Poland.Methods:Databases Medline, Embase and Polish Medical Bibliography were searched using keywords 'spinal cord injury', 'paraplegia', 'tetraplegia' and 'Poland'. Inclusion criteria: studies on humans, original papers, publication in 1979 or later. Case reports and studies with unclear inclusion criteria or performed on a population other than Polish were excluded. Full texts were reviewed for data on incidence, prevalence, etiology, mortality, natural history and outcome of comprehensive treatment. Quality of studies was assessed according to the modified Downs and Black criteria. The ICF model was applied to group the studies according to the ICF components.Results:Out of 536 identified papers, 224 articles were extracted and reviewed. Mean quality score was 11.04 points based on a 28-grade scale. Body functions and structures were assessed in 81.6%, activities in 22.4%, participation in 14.8%, environmental factors in 15.2% and personal factors in 47% of the studies reviewed.Conclusion:Current epidemiologic data on SCI in Poland are insufficient and biased toward biomedical aspects. There is a need to develop a long-term research strategy for SCI in Poland in the form of a comprehensive cohort study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Evidence shows that 20%–30% of patients who aspirate do so silently. Research to date has not demonstrated clear evidence to indicate which patients are at higher risk of silent aspiration. Our aim was to use univariate logistic regression analysis of retrospective case review to determine potential patterns of silent aspiration. Materials and methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 455 fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) reports. The patients were divided into four groups: G1 – neurological diseases (n = 93), G2 – head and neck surgery (n = 200), G3 – gastroenterological diseases (n = 94) and G4 – other patients (n = 68). Data included the occurrence or absence of saliva penetration or aspiration, of silent fluid/solid food penetration or aspiration, type of penetration or aspiration, occurrence of cranial nerve paresis, radiotherapy and tracheostomy. Univariate logistic regression was used to evaluate independent risk factors of silent aspiration in the study population. Three models with different independent variables were considered. Results: There is a statistically significant difference in the frequency of occurrence of silent penetration and aspiration within the groups (p < 0.001), with intraglutative being most frequent. Fluid and food penetration and aspiration correlated with saliva penetration and aspiration in all groups (p < 0.001). Cranial nerve paresis (IX and X), radiotherapy and tracheostomy correlate with saliva penetration and aspiration (p = 0.020 for cranial nerve paresis; p = 0.004 for radiotherapy; p < 0.001 for tracheostomy). One hundred and fifteen patients (45.81%) in the subgroup of patients with intraglutative aspiration had cranial nerve paresis (IX, X or IX–X). Conclusions: Patients who should be prioritised or considered to be at a higher need of instrumental swallowing evaluation are those with IX and X cranial nerve paresis, tracheostomy and those who have had radiotherapy, with saliva swallowing problems, especially after paraganglioma, thyroid and parathyroid glands and middle and posterior fossa tumour surgery. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: Clinical signs of penetration or aspiration include coughing, throat clearing and voice changes, while silent penetration or aspiration patients aspirate without demonstrating any clinical symptoms. The most common consequences of silent aspiration include aspiration pneumonia, recurrent lower respiratory tract infections and respiratory failure. Additionally, malnutrition and dehydration can be indicators of silent aspiration. Patients may unknowingly reduce their oral intake and lose weight. Retrospective studies have shown that 20%–30% of patients aspirate silently (e.g. patients after stroke, acquired brain injury, head and neck cancer treatment, prolonged intubation). Clinical examination of swallowing can miss up to 50% of cases of silent aspiration. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: Currently, silent aspiration is often discussed in neurological literature, but its applications to head and neck surgery are limited. In this study, we identify head and neck surgery patients who should be prioritised or considered to be in higher need of instrumental swallowing evaluation due to a higher risk of silent aspiration. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Post‐treatment structural changes can result in lower cranial nerve paresis (IX, X, XII) and face injury, in which vagus and glossopharyngeal nerves are injured. After tracheostomy and radiotherapy, patients with problems swallowing saliva need careful clinical examination, particularly cranial nerve examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. This study examines the prevalence and underlying factors of loneliness among Polish adolescents in schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives. The aim of this study is to assess the frequency of loneliness experienced by Polish students depending on the perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on various aspects of life. Material and methods. Utilizing data from a representative sample of over 6,200 students aged 11 to 17, as part of the global Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey for the 2021/2022 school year, the study investigates how the pandemic has affected the lives of young people, particularly in fostering feelings of loneliness. Results. The findings indicate that almost one-third of Polish school students report feeling lonely “often” or “always”. Key factors contributing to this loneliness include gender, age, the level of support from family and peers, as well as the amount of time spent on social media. Notably, the study uncovers that girls are more likely to feel lonely – especially those in secondary school and living in larger cities. There is also a noticeable link between heavy social media usage and heightened loneliness. Conclusions. The pandemic’s toll on mental health, family dynamics, and academic life has emerged as a significant concern. This paper underscores the urgent need for dedicated programs and support mechanisms to counteract the adverse effects of the pandemic on the mental health and overall well-being of young people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The increasing prevalence of overweight, defined as excessive body weight, among different population groups is one of the most serious public health problems that Poland has to face. The aim of this paper was to review the recent data regarding the nutritional status of subpopulations of children, adolescents and adults in Poland. Material and methods: The search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Sciences databases, as well as official websites of the Polish Ministry of Health, the National Institute of Public Health NIH - National Research Institute and the World Health Organization. Scientific publications in English and Polish, published between January 2020 and September 2023, were used as sources of information. Results: The prevalence of overweight among children, adolescents and adults in Poland is relatively high. However, it should be noted that most studies were observational, the methods used for data collection varied (self-reported vs. measured), and BMI was a tool to measure body weight status. The prevalence of overweight among the paediatric population varies from 11% to 45%. Among adults, the prevalence of overweight exceeds 62% for men and 43% for women. The prevalence of higher-than-normal body mass increases with age. The COVID-19 pandemic increased the risk of abnormal body weight among both paediatric and adult populations. Conclusions: Early prevention is essential in dealing with excessive body weight and the adverse health outcomes that may result therefrom. To address the weight gain problem across different populations, comprehensive and family-based obesity prevention programmes should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, female life expectancy exceeds male life expectancy almost worldwide. However, numerous studies indicate that this disparity is gradually decreasing. In Poland, the gender gap in life expectancy peaked in 1991 when it amounted to 9.2 years. Since then, a narrowing of the gap has been observed, reaching 8 years in 2021. Decreasing differences in life expectancy between men and women in Poland were mainly the result of a reduction in mortality due to ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and a number of malignancies.Less attention has been paid to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) although it is the third leading cause of death worldwide. This paper includes an analysis of mortality due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD. The male excess mortality was calculated as the ratio of mortality rates in the male population scaled up to the corresponding rates in the female population using both crude and standardised detailed mortality rates. The Joinpoint model was used to determine time trends. It was shown that from 2008 to 2021, the excess mortality of men due to COPD in Poland decreased by 3.3% per year from 2.4 to 1.7 when using crude coefficients, while when standardised coefficients were applied, it decreased significantly by 3.9% per year from 3.8 to 2.4. The decrease in the excess mortality of men in Poland was due to a simultaneous decrease in mortality in the population in general; however, a greater decrease was observed in the male population. The mortality of men and women, and, at the same time, the excess mortality of men caused by COPD in Poland decreased faster in the period studied than in other European countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a survey conducted among people walking the pilgrimage route to the shrine of St James in Santiago de Compostela. The aim of the research was to investigate how a pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago among a married couple or family affects marital or familial relationships, whether walking the trail to Compostela together influences the behaviour of family members towards each other and whether it forms positive attitudes and behaviour. The empirical basis of the study is the results of a survey among respondents who made the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, as well as in-depth interviews conducted with 24 spouses of pilgrims along the Way of St James. The study revealed that doing the pilgrimage as a married couple or family had a positive impact on intra-family relationships. According to the interviewees, going on the pilgrimage together helped to strengthen marital bonds and trust, improve communication and mutual connection, show care and affection and improve contact with children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition caused by progressive cutaneous hypomelanosis. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine its epidemiology and clinical aspects. As considerable progress has been made in understanding of the pathogenesis of vitiligo and its classification as an autoimmune disease, the paper pays particular attention to coexisting autoimmune or atopic diseases. Material and methods: The study included 55 patients attending the Diagnostic and Treatment Center of Skin Diseases in Lodz. Data were collected during outpatient dermatological consultation. Results: The most common type of vitiligo was nonsegmental (85.5%) followed by segmental (12.7%) and unclassified (2.1%). The first skin lesions were mostly located on the hands (45.5%) and face (38.2%). Older patients with higher body mass index tended to demonstrate a higher body surface area. Of the patients, 63.6% demonstrated an autoimmune or atopic comorbidity, the most common of which were type 1 diabetes mellitus (18.2%), psoriasis (16.4%) or Hashimoto's thyroiditis (14.5%). Location on the face was associated with a significantly greater incidence of autoimmune or atopic co-morbidities. Conclusions: A facial location may serve as a predictive factor for other autoimmune or atopic diseases in vitiligo patients. Determining clinical factors in vitiligo patients which could be associated with a higher risk of autoimmune comorbidities may allow for their early diagnosis and suitable treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aphasia is often accompanied by impairment of non‐language cognitive functions. Assessment of cognitive capacity in people with aphasia (PWA) with standard neuropsychological methods may be problematic due to their language difficulties. Numerous experimental studies indicate that P300 may be considered as an index of cognitive capacity in both healthy and clinical samples. Accordingly, the measurement of event‐related potentials enables the investigation of behaviourally non‐observable mental processes underlying the cognitive functions that are assessed with neuropsychological tests. Aims: To investigate in PWA the relationship between P300 parameters and cognitive function efficiency measured with neuropsychological methods. Methods & Procedures: A total of 25 PWA after left‐hemispheric stroke participated in the study. Electrophysiological (EEG) signals were recorded during the performance of a visual Go‐No Go task. P300 was identified on nine electrodes, which were then pooled in three lines: left (F3, C3, P3), central (Fz, Cz, Pz) and right (F4, C4, P4). The neuropsychological assessment of cognitive functions included mental speed, short‐term memory, divided attention, executive functions, auditory language comprehension and expression. Outcomes & Results: P300 latency correlated with indices of several cognitive functions: temporal resolution, psychomotor speed, spatial short‐term memory, planning, word and sentence comprehension, as well as verbal fluency. Shorter P300 latencies were accompanied by greater efficiency of the abovementioned functions. In contrast, significant correlations between P300 amplitudes and cognitive measures were fragmentary. Conclusions & Implications: In PWA, P300 latency might be related to cognitive functioning, especially to measures that rely heavily on the speed of information processing. However, P300 seems to be unrelated to more complex cognitive functions. P300 latency may be used as a neurophysiological correlate of cognitive efficiency in PWA and might have potential applications in monitoring the effects of therapeutic interventions in this patient group. What this paper adds: What is already known on the subject: P300 parameters have been reported to be associated with cognitive performance in both healthy individuals and clinical groups (e.g., patients with Alzheimer's disease). Previous studies show that the presence of P300 at the early post‐stroke stage may be a predictor of better recovery of comprehension in PWA. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: Our results show for the first time that P300 may be used as a neurophysiological correlate of cognitive efficiency in PWA. In our study, P300 latency was associated with several languages and non‐language cognitive functions, especially with those whose effectiveness depends mainly on processing speed. In PWA, shorter latency corresponded to more efficient cognitive functioning. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: P300 measurement may be potentially useful in assessing the efficiency of certain cognitive functions in PWA. It may be also used to monitor the recovery process of PWA and to verify the effects of therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to establish strategies of coping with COVID-19 pandemic adopted by the clients of social assistance from the perspective of social workers. The qualitative research among Polish social workers and family assistants was conducted from September to November 2021. Based on 30 in-depth interviews with social work professionals, groups of social assistance clients' behaviours were identified and classified into the theoretical models of reactions to social change by Merton and Giddens. The following types of behaviour have been selected and categorized into four groups of reactions when dealing with social workers in a pandemic situation: coolheaded calculation, defiance, confusion, and adaptation. At the same time, reactions to the situation of social change were categorized into one of the strategies of active or passive behaviour: innovation, contestation, retreat, and acceptance. In addition, we discussed the impact of clients' coping strategies on social workers and established three attitudes of the surveyed social workers: adapting to the pandemic situation and customer behaviour, assuming the role of an emotional buffer and informant, and expecting support from superiors and coworkers. Knowing the behaviour of social assistance clients in a challenging situation makes it possible to adopt tailor-made measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Objective: The objective of this paper is to examine the opinions of Poles about what they think is important in their professional work. Research Design & Methods: The paper analyzes the preferences of Poles regarding occupational hygiene factors and motivating factors using Generations and Gender Survey data for Poland. Due to the frequent connections between the possible alternatives of choice, the use of the nested logit model to model the preferences of respondents was proposed in this study. Findings: This study presents the factors that are important for Poles in their professional work depending on their socio-economic and demographic characteristics. For women, compared to men, options related to occupational hygiene and stable employment were less important than other motivating factors. However, for younger people, compared to people from the last age group, options related to occupational hygiene were also important. Implications / Recommendations: In the research on the opinions and preferences of respondents, a common approach is to perform a comparative analysis using descriptive statistics or standard logistic regression models. The use of standard multinomial logit models may lead to erroneous conclusions, because in discrete choice problems the available options are rarely unrelated. In such cases, the suggested solution is to use nested logit models. Contribution: The paper reveals the features of groups of respondents for whom good pay is not necessarily the most important factor in professional work, and so-called higher needs are also important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite progress in the field of water safety, Poland has been experiencing much higher mortality due to drowning than in other countries of the EU region. The main aim of the paper is to examine the changes in drowning frequency and their causes. Material and methods: All available sources of data on drowning in Poland were analysed. Crude and age-standardized mortality rates due to drowning were calculated. A jointpoint regression model was employed in the analysis of long-term trends in annual mortality rates. Results: In total, 7350 persons died due to various types of drowning (ICD-10 codes: W65-W74, V90, V92, X37-X39, X71, Y21) in Poland in the years 2013-2021. The most frequent type of registered drowning was a drowning in natural waters - 3990 (54.3% of registered cases). The second cause of death due to drowning were falls into the water - 914 (12.4% of cases). Age-standardized death rates of males due to drowning in the years 2013-2021 dropped from 4.3 to 2.7 per 100,000. Among females the age-standardized rate decreased from 0.8 to 0.6 per 100,000. The annual percentage change of mortality (APC) in Poland was -4.0%. The downward trend of mortality was only significant among males (APC = -4.4% vs. APC = -2.6% among females). Mortality reduction was especially high among the youngest age groups: 0-14 years old (APC = -7.9%) and 15-29 years old (APC = -6.5%). Conclusions: There is a need to properly address drowning prevention tailored to groups with risk factors in Poland such as males, elderly people, and people with low socio-economic status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Rehabilitation of patients with a diagnosed cancer poses a major challenge for physiotherapists (PT) due to the limited number of methods which may be used on every stage of cancer treatment (including convalescence). Kinesiology Taping (KT) is one of the few available options that enable pain and oedema reduction. Limited number of studies with significantly varied study methods makes it difficult to draw clear conclusions on the legitimacy of KT use. Aim of the review was to analyse available studies on the KT use in pain management and associated discomfort reported by cancer patients. Six papers met the criteria for the review and were included in the detailed pooled analysis (2 clinical studies and 4 case studies). Analysis emphasized papers describing analgesic effect of KT. On the basis of available studies, it proved to be beneficial for oncology patients (breast cancer, lung cancer, multiple myeloma). Additionally, studies reported an increased ability to carry out daily activities, decreased 'psychological suffering' and lower fatigue which directly resulted in the improvement of the quality of life (QoL) - a main goal of palliative care. The number of studies that evaluate the effectiveness of KT in pain reduction in oncology patients is scarce. Since KT has minor adverse effects it is recommended to be used as an adjunct analgesic therapy. Review supports the effectiveness of KT for pain management in oncologic patients. In order to confirm the efficacy of KT use in cancer patients, a greater number of randomized clinical trials, covering larger study groups, is required with special emphasis on malignant neoplasms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Occupational stress-related factors among working municipal police officers in Poland have not been examined in the literature. The purpose of the paper was to evaluate the impact of selected work-related factors on occupational stress in active municipal police officers in Warsaw by using configural frequency analysis (CFA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 578 participants, which accounted for 55.1% of all municipal police officers in Warsaw. The majority of study participants were men (72%) (mean age 43 years old). Two groups of workplace-related stress factors were analysed in the study: physical conditions and organisational working conditions causing stress. The study was carried out using the PAPI method (Paper-and-Pencil Interviewing), based on a proprietary questionnaire developed for the study. CFA searches for templates and patterns in contingency tables. RESULTS: Municipal police officers who claimed that stress did not affect health, took advantage of psychological/psychiatric advice less often than those who thought so (1.7% vs 10.1%; χ2 = 20.152, df = 2, P = 0.000). Those who declared that they often experienced stress at work were also more prone to claiming that one or two factors affected their level of stress: physical abuse, contact with infectious materials, working at uncomfortable temperatures or working in a noisy environment. In the opinion of the study population, there were some factors which contributed to the occurrence of stress at work, and these factors included: working in a hurry, lack of necessary resources, devices and materials at work, the need to be available at all times and the unpredictability of the work. The municipal police officers from the study population combined two or three methods to cope with stress, such as watching TV, surfing the Internet and talking with their families. CONCLUSION: Due to the specificity of a municipal police officer's occupation, special attention should be paid to the occupational stress risk factors characteristic for this group of professionals, and measures should be taken to reduce the number of stressors. It is important to organise training events devoted to effective methods of coping with stress. There is need to carry out more in-depth studies of occupational stress among municipal police officers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Consumerism refers to people who adopt attitudes characterised by unnecessary consumption and excessive accumulation of material goods, which are the most important, essential in life, and are a determinant of quality. Consumerism has brought noticeable positive effects in the area of health services due to the observance of patients' rights, the provision of ever higher quality medical services, allowing the patient to decide on certain issues concerning their life and health, and the choice of doctor or medical facility. Aim. The aim of the work was to analyze the scientific literature on consumerism in health care. Method. Scopus, PubMed databases and Google Scholar were searched in accordance with the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyzes (PRISMA 2020).Ultimately, 14 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included for detailed analysis. Results. Comprehensive, high-quality nursing care in a hospital, upgrading the skills of health care professionals and appropriate behaviour of medical staff contribute to the positive assessment of a particular facility, and thus attract other customers (patients) to use medical services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although leisure constraints that individuals have to cope with can negatively affect their social inclusion and satisfaction with life, little research has addressed the link between these variables. Therefore, the current paper examined the moderator role of leisure constraints on the relationship between satisfaction with life and leisure constraints among adults living in five different European countries. The respondents were 1,382 women and 877 men adults. The findings of analysis revealed that all factors used in the study accounted for 15% of the variance in satisfaction with life and social inclusion had a significant and positive impact on satisfaction with life. As a result, it can be said that leisure constraints had a moderating effect on the relationship between satisfaction with life and social inclusion. The present research study recommends that social inclusion should be encouraged through decreasing to leisure constraints to increase the life satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective of this research was to test the efficacy and safety profile of tozinameran (30 μg, BNT162b2, Pfizer, BioNTech) and elasomeran (100 μg, mRNA-1273, Moderna) in COVID-19 prevention in ≥16-year-old patients vaccinated with two doses. Methods: A meta-analysis of the literature was conducted using the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, following inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eight RCTs have been selected. The results were presented using the risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). A fixed-effect model or random-effect model was applied based on the heterogeneity of the results. Results: BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 vaccines are efficient in preventing COVID-19 in comparison to a placebo (MH, RR 0.08 [0.07, 0.09] p < 0.00001 (95% CI)). It was found that administering the vaccines BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 was associated with a higher proportion of adverse events in comparison to the placebo (IV, RR 2.14 [1.99, 2.29] p < 0.00001 (95% CI)). Administering the vaccines BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 was associated with a higher proportion of serious adverse events in comparison to the placebo (MH, RR 0.98 [0.89, 1.08] p = 0.68 (95% CI)). Conclusions: Tozinameran and elasomeran are effective and safe in preventing the occurrence of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ability to understand figurative language, including metaphors and proverbs, decreases with age, although the phenomenon is not universal. Cognitive capacities and education play an important role in the competence connected with figurative language use and comprehension in people during the second half of life. Aims: To identify possible similarities and differences in task performance by subjects representing middle adulthood (40–49 and 50–59 years old) and late adulthood (60–69 and 70–92 years old). Additionally, the analyses took into account factors significantly affecting the results, that is, tasks type (metaphors versus proverbs), the way the answer is given (open‐ended versus multiple choice) and types of answers (abstract and concrete). This study also aimed to identify some cognitive correlates of task completion. Methods & Procedures: A total of 86 Caucasian subjects, aged 40–92 years, participated in this study (Mwhole group = 62.37, SD = 15.53); the group included 20 subjects aged 40–49 years (Mage = 45.4; SD = 3.05), 20 aged 50–59 years (Mage = 55.50; SD = 2.64), 20 aged 60–69 years (Mage = 64.40; SD = 2.78), and 26 aged 70–92 years (Mage = 79.15; SD = 6.27). A total of 20 well‐known Polish metaphors and 20 popular Polish proverbs were used to assess the level of proverb and metaphor comprehension. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale and Vocabulary subtest of the Polish version of WAIS‐R were applied to assess the cognitive functions. Outcomes & Results: The results of the analyses suggest that there are differences as well as certain similarities between the groups. At 70+ years of age, the ability to explain and comprehend metaphors and proverbs decreases when compared with younger adults. In the 70+ group, the ability to grasp the meaning of both metaphors and proverbs is similar, unlike in the younger groups which present a better ability to explain and comprehend metaphors than proverbs. The conditions related to the types of tasks, that is, spontaneous interpretation and choice of responses, do not affect scores of the oldest subjects. Conclusions: The analysis of response types, that is, abstract versus concrete, shows that, compared with younger groups, people aged 70+ years tend to less frequently provide abstract explanations and more often give concrete (but correct) responses, referring to situational data or examples from everyday life. Moreover, attention, short‐term/delayed memory and lexical reserve influence the ability to use and comprehend figurative language to a varied degree. What this paper adds: What is already known on the subject: Studies focusing on metaphor and proverb interpretation by people in middle and late adulthood are rather scarce, and what is more, they provide inconclusive results. Research has shown that the capacities related to attention and memory, as well as language resources and executive functions, all deteriorate in older people, which negatively affects their ability to understand metaphors and proverbs. However, varied methods are applied to assess these skills, which may explain why the related findings are inconsistent. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: The novelty of this study lies in the fact that the analyses took into account the type of task (metaphors versus proverbs), the method of responding (open‐ended versus multiple‐choice) and the nature of the answer (abstract versus concrete). This allowed us to highlight intergroup differences and to show specific characteristics of proverb and metaphor spontaneous interpretation and choice of correct answers. The results were compared among the participants representing relatively narrow age ranges classified as middle and late adulthood. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Analysis of how people in middle and late adulthood interpret metaphors and proverbs might constitute an element of preliminary screening assessment showing whether a decrease in this capacity is in the normal range or if it reflects a serious cognitive decline. It would be worthwhile if the diagnostic process included varied task designs, that is, both metaphors and proverbs, as well as spontaneous interpretation and multiple‐choice, as well as varied types of responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is some indication that discrimination as well as low levels of life satisfaction render young people at risk of cyberhate victimization. Adopting a socio-ecological perspective, this paper examines whether supportive family, peer and school environments may buffer against the effects of perceived discrimination and low life satisfaction on cyberhate victimization. Data from four countries (N = 3396) of the EU Kids Online IV survey on children aged 11–17 (51% girls) revealed a positive association between perceived discrimination and cyberhate victimization, but this impact was moderated by supportive family and peer environments. A negative association between life satisfaction and cyberhate victimization was mitigated by peer support. However, no associations with the school context were found. The current study provides new insights on how social support on different levels of the social environment may buffer against potential risk factors for cyberhate victimization and can inform decision-makers towards intervention and prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of Poles and the availability of psychiatric and psychological support during the pandemic. A prospective, cross-sectional web-based survey design was adopted. It was carried out on a sample of 1080 Polish citizens above 18 years old. The majority of Poles (70%) experienced symptoms of mental disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sleep disturbance (63.79%), anxiety (48.79%), low mood for most of the day (44.63%), sadness, tearfulness (41.29%), and concentration disorders (35.93%) were the mental disorder symptoms reported most often by the survey subjects. To reduce the potential acute and long-lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, decision-makers of the Polish health system should implement stepped multilevel and multi-target psychological support services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

This paper presents current information on policy developments, service design, best practices, and approaches to empower the users of health and medical care services for people with intellectual disabilities in Poland. Polish regulations allow systemic support to be provided for all people with disabilities. However, Polish patients with intellectual disabilitiy (PwID) and their caregivers face many barriers. Although a key obstacle is the lack of a standard definition that approaches disability in an interdisciplinary way, PwID are also more likely to experience difficulties in personal communication in medical settings and less likely to encounter specialists prepared to work with this group. There is also a need to pay greater attention to the expectations of PwID. To facilitate a holistic approach to diagnosis and therapy, there needs to be coordination between different specialists, including medical staff, paramedics, psychologists, and teachers. Providing personal communication training for medical personnel, as well as developing dedicated procedures for PwID in primary health care, clinics and hospitals, will improve equal access to health and health literacy for all in Poland. Even so, it is important to respect the autonomy of PwID and the commitment of caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer and genital warts and constitutes one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Cervical cancer is the only reproductive cancer that has a primary prevention programme through the introduction of HPV vaccinations. Even though the majority of European countries have nationally funded HPV vaccination programmes, in Poland these are exclusively local and scarcely funded. Moreover, the majority of local programmes are directed to females only. Meanwhile, Poland has one of the highest cervical cancer incidence rates among high income countries. The aim of this study was to measure HPV vaccination levels among final-year students in Poland and to establish the association between vaccination status and gender, region and level of sexual education received. This study is a part of the POLKA 18 Study, which used original self-reported paper-based questionnaires distributed in schools in six Polish regions. The study was conducted between April and December 2019. The obtained data were analysed in STATA 17. In total, 2701 fully completed questionnaires were collected. Over half of the respondents (58.2%) did not know their HPV vaccination status. Only 16.0% of the respondents replied that they have been vaccinated against HPV (18.2% of females and 14.5% of males). There was no direct association between vaccination status and access to 'family life education' classes. The vaccination level significantly differed among the different regions of Poland (p < 0.0001), with the Śląskie and Wielkopolskie regions achieving the highest rates. At least a quarter of adolescents after their sexual debut have not been vaccinated against HPV. Regions with immunization programmes introduced to their provincial capitals had higher vaccination rates. Our findings indicate the need for the introduction of state-funded vaccination programmes at the national level for the vaccination rate to increase, which will have the potential to decrease cervical cancer incidence in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates different uses of the Journal Impact Factor (JIF) in national journal rankings and discusses the merits of supplementing metrics with expert assessment. Our focus is national journal rankings used as evidence to support decisions about the distribution of institutional funding or career advancement. The seven countries under comparison are China, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Norway, Poland, and Turkey—and the region of Flanders in Belgium. With the exception of Italy, top‐tier journals used in national rankings include those classified at the highest level, or according to tier, or points implemented. A total of 3,565 (75.8%) out of 4,701 unique top‐tier journals were identified as having a JIF, with 55.7% belonging to the first Journal Impact Factor quartile. Journal rankings in China, Flanders, Poland, and Turkey classify journals with a JIF as being top‐tier, but only when they are in the first quartile of the Average Journal Impact Factor Percentile. Journal rankings that result from expert assessment in Denmark, Finland, and Norway regularly classify journals as top‐tier outside the first quartile, particularly in the social sciences and humanities. We conclude that experts, when tasked with metric‐informed journal rankings, take into account quality dimensions that are not covered by JIFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper makes accessible to an English-speaking readership recent research published in Polish designed to provide and to test a Polish adaptation of the Francis Psychological Type Scales (FPTS) and the Francis Psychological Type and Emotional Temperament Scales (FPTETS). The process of development involved studies reported among 53 Catholic clerics, 87 Catholic clerics, 119 university students, 134 university students, 240 final grade secondary school students, 133 university students, and 75 university students. The four-factor structure of the FPTS was recovered by confirmatory factor analysis, with 10 items loading on each factor, and producing the following Cronbach alpha coefficients:.81 for Extraversion vs. Introversion,.66 for Sensing vs. Intuition,.77 for Thinking vs. Feeling, and.80 for Judging vs. Perceiving. For the additional ten-item scale of Emotional Temperament (Volatile vs. Calm), α =.75. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the self-care practices of individuals employed as social workers in Poland (N = 250). Whilst personal self-care practices occurred slightly more frequently than did professional self-care practices, overall results indicate that participants only engaged in moderate amounts of self-care. Findings revealed significant differences in self-care by education level and self-reported health status, respectively. Only health status significantly predicted overall self-care. This study indicates the need for more attention to self-care. After a brief review literature, this paper will explicate findings and discuss salient implications derived from this study. This paper concludes by identifying apposite areas for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of the study was to evaluate general physical activity (PA) level on the basis of leisure time and transportation physical activity (LTPA and TPA), assess the percentage of persons not meeting PA recommendations by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and evaluate the relationship between selected sociodemographic factors and physical inactivity. Methods. The paper is based on data (n = 7,347) retrieved from five large-scale surveys (2014-2018) used to collect information on the PA of Polish society. In order to meet the aim of the paper, we selected a sample of 2,023 Poles aged ≥ 60 years old. In each wave, the Polish long version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used. Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to investigate the differences between the types and volume of PA and sociodemographic variables. Relationships between physical inactivity and analysed variables were evaluated using log-linear analysis. To capture relationships between physical inactivity and a set of explanatory variables, a predictive model was built. Results. The total average energy expenditure amounted to 1879.5 ± 2352.5 MET-min/week, including LTPA (938.5 ± 1491.9 MET-min/week) and TPA (944.8 ± 1322.4 MET-min/week). Over the course of the last two years of the study, the average value of MET-min/week increased significantly (p < 0.05); however, prohealth WHO norms are not met by nearly 40% of Poles. Sex determines the volume of LTPA and TPA (p < 0.05) but does not determine the inactivity of seniors. Place of residence and education differentiate participation in LTPA and TPA. The lower the education level and the smaller the place of residence, the greater the inactivity. Conclusions. The target for future interventions should be people aged 60+ living in villages and small towns (especially those with primary education). It is necessary to undertake educational and motivational programmes promoting PA. It is essential to develop detailed recommendations and to create a friendly and supportive environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

In 2020, pharmacists in Poland received additional authority to prescribe drugs. In this study, we analyzed prescribing after the implementation of this new responsibility. We assessed how the new regulation works in practice and what it means for the healthcare system in the area of access to prescription-only medicines. Data analysis included information on the prescriptions written, the type of substance according to the ATC classification, and data on the prescribing pharmacists. The study used over 2.994 million e-prescriptions written by pharmacists in Poland, which were made available by the e-Health Center. The largest group of drugs prescribed were drugs used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, accounting for 25% of all prescribed medications during the time of the analysis. The next prescription groups were for drugs used in gastrointestinal diseases and metabolic disorders, and those acting on the central nervous system, the respiratory system, and the musculoskeletal system. Among pharmaceutical prescriptions, 73% were pharmaceutical prescriptions issued in pharmacies at full price to the patient. The results indicate that pharmacists are eager to use their permission to prescribe drugs in authority situations. Almost three million records showed improved patient access to medicines in the healthcare system (approximately 5% of repeat prescriptions for all patients during the study period). These data confirm the possibility of cooperation between physicians and pharmacists in strengthening the efficiency of the patient healthcare system. An important conclusion from this work is the need to create the possibility for the pharmacist to access the information resources of the implemented Internet Patient Account system, including therapeutic indications for the drugs used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Following the introduction of COVID-19 lockdown, studies have shown an increase in domestic violence in many countries. The aim of the study was to assess the frequency of seeking domestic violence information and support during the initial COVID-19 lockdown (March - April 2020) in Poland. Material and methods: We analysed searches for information on domestic violence on Google and the use of the domestic violence crisis helpline in the lockdown period compared to previous years. Google search terms were selected by the authors of the paper and then the frequency of searches performed in March and April 2020 and in the corresponding months of 2015-2019 were determined using the Google Trends tool. Additionally, we compared the data obtained from the national helpline Blue Line in March - April 2020 vs. the corresponding months in 2019. Results: An increase in the number of reports of domestic violence was observed in comparison to the previous year (+6.9%), with the largest increase in the number of reports by email (+77.7%). At the same time, the number of reports from persons under 18 years old was lower (-48.5%). An increase in reports of both physical and psychological violence was observed. Google Trends data showed an increase in searches for 'psychological help' and a decrease in searches for domestic violence and addiction (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The presented results highlight a potential short-term increase of domestic violence during COVID-19 lockdown periods, with growing importance of Internet-based tools for seeking help (e-mails, and web search engines to a lesser extent). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of the paper was to study the role of gender in the progression of myopia among Polish schoolchildren. Materials and Methods. 4875 children from elementary schools and high schools were examined (2470 boys, aged 6–16 years, mean age 11.0, SD = 2.6 and 2405 girls, aged 6–16 years, mean age 11.1, SD = 2.6). The examined students were Caucasian and resided in and around Szczecin, Poland. The examination included retinoscopy under cycloplegia. The refractive error readings were reported as spherical equivalent (SE). Myopia was defined as SE of at least −0.5 D. Data analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U test and 2-sided Fisher's exact test. p values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results. It was found that the SE among Polish boys is similar to the SE among Polish girls before the age of 9 years. However, in older children, lower SE values and higher prevalence of myopia were found among girls than boys, both at 9–13 years range (0.45 ± 1.05 vs 0.55 ± 1.23 D, p=0.047 and 8.30% vs 5.71%, p=0.015, respectively) and at 13–16 years range (0.32 ± 1.14 vs 0.54 ± 1.08 D,  p=0.0093 and 10.37% vs 5.96%, p=0.0050), respectively. Conclusions. Gender is associated with the prevalence of myopia among Polish schoolchildren ranging from 9 to 16 years of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incrementalism and punctuated equilibrium theory (PET) have secured their standing in public policy research when studying change in budgetary data. On the other hand, however, new empirical evidence is constantly developed to confront it with theoretical assumptions. In line with the above, the aim of the paper is threefold. First, it is examined if budgetary outlays in Poland follow either incrementalism or PET's core premises. Second, the paper aims at facilitating discussion on identifying punctuations. It is claimed that any cut-off point should be data-driven, category-responsive, and generalizable across different types of outliers. And third, it is investigated which of the budget categories have the most punctuations. Methodologically, the study is based on descriptive and distributional statistics provided to tackle the above two issues comprehensively. Consequently, the paper aims at filling the gap in theory-driven literature on Polish budget shifts and their empirical rigorous explanations. Thus, it is claimed that the Polish case study contributes to the debate on the verification of empirical research on public policy agendas and public policy change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accurate symptom monitoring is vital when managing pediatric asthma, providing an opportunity to improve control and relieve associated burden. The CHILDHOOD ASTHMA CONTROL TEST (C-ACT) has been validated for asthma control assessment in children; however, there are concerns that response option images used in the C-ACT are not culturally universal and could be misinterpreted. This cross-sectional, qualitative study developed and evaluated alternative response option images using interviews with children with asthma aged 4–11 years (and their parents/caregivers) in the United States, Spain, Poland, and Argentina. Interviews were conducted in two stages (with expert input) to evaluate the appropriateness, understanding and qualitative equivalence of the alternative images (both on paper and electronically). This included comparing the new images with the original C-ACT response scale, to provide context for equivalence results. Results: Alternative response option images included scale A (simple faces), scale B (circles of decreasing size), and scale C (squares of decreasing quantity). In Stage 1, most children logically ranked images using scales A, B and C (66.7%, 79.0% and 70.6%, respectively). However, some children ranked the images in scales B (26.7%) and C (58.3%) in reverse order. Slightly more children could interpret the images within the context of their asthma in scale B (68.4%) than A (55.6%) and C (47.5%). Based on Stage 1 results, experts recommended scales A (with slight modifications) and B be investigated further. In Stage 2, similar proportions of children logically ranked the images used in modified scales A (69.7%) and B (75.7%). However, a majority of children ranked the images in scale B in the reverse order (60.0%). Slightly more children were able to interpret the images in the context of their asthma using scale B (57.6%) than modified scale A (48.5%). Children and parents/caregivers preferred modified scale A over scale B (78.8% and 90.9%, respectively). Compared with the original C-ACT, most children selected the same response option on items using both scales, supporting equivalency. Following review of Stage 2 results, all five experts agreed modified scale A was the optimal response scale. Conclusions: This study developed alternative response option images for use in the C-ACT and provides qualitative evidence of the equivalency of these response options to the originals. Plain English summary: Accurate monitoring of the symptoms associated with pediatric asthma is important when managing the condition. The CHILDHOOD ASTHMA CONTROL TEST (C-ACT) is a questionnaire widely used to measure asthma severity in young children (aged 4–11 years). Each question answered by the child in the C-ACT has four possible answer choices. To help children answer, each choice is presented alongside an image of a male child's face ranging from sad to happy. However, there are concerns that the images used are not culturally universal and could be misinterpreted—due to difficulties translating to electronic formats and a lack of differentiation between the images used. Through interviewing children with asthma, we aimed to address these concerns by developing and testing new images. Alternative image options developed included simpler faces, circles of decreasing size and squares of decreasing quantity. Children aged 4–11 years old were interviewed to test whether they understood the response scale using the new images and if they answered in the same way as with the original images. Interviews were conducted in two stages, with expert guidance at key stages. Results showed that children can interpret and understand the newly developed images and that they answer the questions the same as they would using the original images. These new images have the advantages of being culturally neutral and easier to implement on an electronic device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known about the subject? (Scientific Rationale): Mental health care in Poland lags behind that of many other countries, and coercive measures are used on a regular basis.Scant research has been conducted in Poland regarding the treatment of psychiatric patients.The perspectives of Polish psychiatric nurses towards aggression remain unknown. What does this paper add to the existing knowledge?: The translated and validated Attitude Towards Aggression Scale (ATAS) in Polish will serve as an instrument that gauges Polish nurses' attitudes towards aggression. The Polish nurses have unenlightened and negative attitude towards aggression. What are the implications for practice?: There is now an instrument in Polish by which we can gauge the attitudes of mental health nurses, which must precede any educational efforts. Polish nurses showed more restrictive and antiquated attitudes about patient violence than nurses in some other parts of the world. With a shift to more positive attitudes, the use of coercion could be reduced, resulting in improved patient care. Introduction: In Poland, the mode and site of patient treatment have changed little in the past 75 years, despite therapeutic advances worldwide. There is limited information regarding attitudes of nurses towards aggression in psychiatric settings in Poland, nor has there been an instrument in Polish to measure it. Aim: To translate and validate the Attitudes Towards Aggression Scale (ATAS) for use in Poland, and to assess the attitudes of three groups of nursing personnel towards aggression. Method: We surveyed 980 psychiatric and general nurses as well as nursing students. We translated the ATAS into Polish, and validated it using exploratory factor analysis. Results: The Polish version of the ATAS showed good psychometric properties. We found that Polish nurses perceived patient aggression extremely negatively. Discussion: Polish nurses perceive aggression as destructive, negative and not to be tolerated, leading to use of restraints. Among the three groups, psychiatric nurses showed the most negative attitude towards aggression. Thus, education is needed for preservice and inservice nurses alike to address this issue. What this study adds to existing evidence: We now have a validated instrument to assess nurses' attitudes about aggression. We also know that Polish nurses have exceedingly negative attitudes towards aggression. Implications for Practice: The Polish version of ATAS was found valid and reliable. Therefore, we can now measure the attitudes of Polish nurses towards aggression, which was not possible previously. The baseline data provide a starting point from which to determine effects of educational efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Aim. The aim of the study was to determine whether the National Chamber of Nurses and Midwives (NIPiP), as well as the District Chambers of Nurses and Midwives (OIPiP), undertake activities to inform Ukrainian war refugees - nurses (UKR-Ns) about the simplified work permit procedure. Material and methods. We analysed work permit related information for UKR-Ns available on the NIPIP and OIPIP websites. The research was conducted in two stages: 1) content analysis of information for UKR-Ns posted on the official NIPiP website 2) quantitative and qualitative analysis of information for UKR-Ns on official OIPIP websites. Results. The analysis of information on work permits demonstrated that its content and the way in which this information was communicated varied greatly over time. Seven OIPIs did not publish any information on the procedure of obtaining work permits by UKR-Ns and for three OIPIPs, access to information was modified and/or removed from the website at the time of the observation undertaken. The vast majority of OIPIPs provided information that could only be considered as partly relevant. Conclusions. The information for UKR-Ns, regarding the process of obtaining work permits, published by the NIPiP and OIPiPs on their official websites requires modification, both in terms of content and form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidemiology is a unique science that identifies the incidence and distribution of diseases and their risk factors. An example of response to this need is the "Prospective Epidemiological Study of Urban and Rural Populations" (PURE), conducted in 27 countries around the world, including Poland, which is a unique multi-year cohort study of more than 150,000 people. The purpose of the PURE study is a prospective, multilevel observation of the development of chronic non-communicable diseases and their risk factors. The Polish cohort includes 2036 people from urban and rural areas with a rate response of 88.2% over 15 years. The main research focus of the analyses of the data collected in the Polish PURE cohort during the multiyear follow-up period was on the incidence and determinants of chronic non-communicable diseases. The results of the PURE study help in understanding the development of cardiovascular diseases and provide a unique opportunity for research and respond to the need to create guidelines, recommendations, and health policies in line with evidence-based medicine. Its results are compelling evidence pointing to the need to continue to create, develop, and maintain regional and global observational cohorts over many years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a condition affecting many people worldwide. This study aimed to measure the quality of life and itch intensity in patients with CVD using the Chronic Venous Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (CIVIQ-20) and Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) among individuals in Poland. Material and methods: The study was based on an internet questionnaire fulfilled by 160 respondents. 57 (35.6%) represented grade 1 according to Clinical–Aetiology–Anatomy–Pathophysiology (CEAP) Classification, 57 (35.6%) grade 2, 26 (16.2%) grade 3, 12 (7.5%) grade 4, 5 (3.1%) grade 6 and 3 (2%) grade 5. Results: The mean CIVIQ-20 global score for all CEAP classes was 50.1 ± 17.7. 67 (41.9%) respondents reported the presence of itch. The mean intensity of itch for individual groups was: 1.6 for C1, 1.9 for C2, 1.0 for C3, 2.3 for C4, 7.0 for C5 and 3.6 for C6. A fair positive correlation was found between the level of advancement of CVD and a global score of CIVIQ-20 (r = 0.332, p < 0.001), level of advancement of CVD and body mass index (BMI) (r = 0.345, p < 0.001), and the number of symptoms and the global score of CIVIQ-20 (r = 0.370, p < 0.001). Conclusions: To assess the quality of life of patients with CVD, CIVIQ-20 can be used in clinical practice regarding its fair correlation with the intensity and advancement of CVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are multiple misconceptions concerning the breastfeeding mother's diet and its adverse impact on breast milk composition and the breastfed child's health, which might lead to breastfeeding cessation. Although prophylactic maternal dietary restrictions are not recommended, mothers all over the world are often recommended to avoid certain foods, due to cultural beliefs, social pressure and even outdated or ambiguous medical recommendations. In Poland, there is no systematic approach to breastfeeding education in the form of nationwide educational programs for particular social groups. It was estimated that in 2017 only 3–4% of Polish infants were exclusively breastfed at 6 months of age. The aim of this study was to recognize the scale of common dietary misconceptions among lactating mothers in Poland and to compare knowledge and opinions between medical staff and mothers who have ever breastfed a child. In addition, the paper is an attempt to identify factors contributing to the still current practice of recommending prophylactic dietary restrictions to breastfeeding mothers by medical staff. Methods: The study was conducted in Poland, in January – February 2019. The study used a diagnostic poll method and was conducted mainly in an electronic form. A total of 1159 completed questionnaires data were analyzed: 35.1% completed by medical staff and 64.9% by mothers in non-medical professions. Statistical calculations were conducted with Chi-square test, logistic regression and U Mann Whitney test (level of significance set at 0.05). Results: The respondents presented a good level of knowledge and predominantly assessed the questioned statements correctly. Duration of breastfeeding was found to be the main factor determining respondents' knowledge (p < 0.05). Concerning medical staff, the parity (p < 0.001) and applying an elimination diet when themselves breastfeeding (p < 0.001) had a significant impact on recommendation of prophylactic dietetic restrictions to the lactating women. Conclusions: Regardless of a resonably good level of knowledge on maternal nutrition in the lactation period, both breastfeeding mothers and medical staff are still convinced of the beneficial effect of preventive dietary restrictions, which affects further lactational counselling and lactational performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, one of the most important economic and social phenomena is population ageing. Due to the low activity rate of older people, one of the most important challenges is to take various actions involving active ageing, which is supposed to extending working life, and along with it—improve the competencies of older people. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the relevance of different competencies for extending working life, with limiting the analysis for Poland. The paper also assesses the competencies of mature Polish people (aged 50+, but still in working age). In the statistical analysis, I used logistic regression, as well as descriptive statistics and appropriate statistical tests. The results show that among the actions aimed at extending working life, the most important are those related to lifelong learning, targeted at improving the competencies of the older generation. The competencies (both soft and hard) of people aged 50+ are more important than their formal education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

BACKGROUND: The incidence of stroke is growing in various parts of the world and the condition most commonly affects the adult population. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the study is to provide a narrative review of papers published in the last 11 years in English and in Polish and focusing on demographic characteristics of individuals returning to work after stroke, return to work rates, length of time post stroke to return to work as well as health conditions, or personal and environmental factors associated with return to work after stroke. The study also presents the situation regarding return to work after stroke in Poland in comparison to other countries. METHODS: The narrative review covers Polish and foreign literature published between 2007 and 2018. The number of records initially identified through English databases search amounted to 4,912. Five records were additionally identified through other sources (Polish databases). Ultimately 26 (21 foreign, 5 Polish) refereed publications were selected to be reviewed in this study, based on their relevance in terms of specific inclusion/exclusion criteria. RESULTS: The appraisal of Polish and English-language literature shows that stroke survivors' ability to return to work varies; in our country the rate being 43% and outside of Poland reaching the rate of 74.7%. Average time frames for return to work for stroke survivors include from 3 to 6 months, from 12 to 18 months and up to 3 years post stroke. One of the most frequently reported positive factors in the English-language literature is individually tailored vocational rehabilitation. There is a scarcity of studies related to return to work after stroke in Poland. CONCLUSIONS: The findings from studies included in this narrative review may suggest a need to improve the situation in Poland with regard to measures related to return to work after stroke, including vocational rehabilitation which is insufficiently available in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of the trial implementation of staff health promotion in the Health Promoting Schools (HPS) programme in Poland. The design and key results of the summative evaluation of the 3-year project and activities of schools after completion of the project are described. Over 900 teachers and non-teaching employees from 21 schools participated in the project. Its purpose was to verify the schools' ability to take action related to the promotion of staff health in the HPSs in Poland. The results of the summative evaluation of the project were considered positive and promising. The percentage of persons who declared that they take greater care of their health, and teachers who described their health as very good, increased. Most employees introduced beneficial changes in their health behaviours. In all schools, changes in working conditions and personnel relations were introduced. Eighty-two per cent of teachers and seventy-five per cent of other employees had a positive attitude to the project and ninety per cent declared that the activities ought to be continued. Nearly all the schools' project leaders considered it a valuable initiative, had personal benefits and satisfaction from its implementation. After completing the project, 16/20 schools continued activities promoting the health of employees. Since the trial implementation of health promotion among school staff was considered a success, in 2016 some indicators relating to school staff health were included in the self-evaluation of HPS, and work began to prepare coordinators of regional and district HPS networks to work with the schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A healthy lifestyle is a key determinant of health, especially for people with chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension. The health behaviours which contribute to a healthy lifestyle include the following: regular physical activity, preventive examinations, maintaining a proper diet and avoiding the consumption of alcohol or cigarettes. They have a significant impact on the disease process, controlling symptoms and preventing complications. The aim of this study was to examine the health behaviours related to diet, physical activity and prevention among Polish primary health care patients and to identify predictors of health behaviours. For this reason, the standardized Health Behaviour Scale (HBS) questionnaire was used. The study was conducted among 269 patients (including 61.71% women) in primary health care facilities. The mean age of participants was 52.89 years (±17.76). The mean HBS score was 36.93 ± 9.66. A statistically significant association was found between HBS scores and such sociodemographic variables as education (p = 0.0061, r = 0.17), body mass index (p = 0.0018, r = −0.20, β = −0.36) and self-assessed economic status (p = 0.0094, r = 0.16). Women's health behaviours as measured by HBS were significantly better than men's (p < 0.001, β = −6.82). A special focus should be given to the groups manifesting poorer health behaviours (e.g., men, older people and persons with low socioeconomic status) by offering them tailored health-promoting interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart failure (HF) is a common clinical syndrome in which the cardiac systolic and/or diastolic functions are significantly insufficient, resulting in an inadequate pump function. Currently, it is one of the leading causes of human death and/or hospitalization, and it has become a serious global public health problem. Approximately 1.2 million people in Poland suffer from HF, and approximately 140,000 of them die every year. In this article, we present the result of telemedicine intervention and its cost-effectiveness in a group of patients from a pilot program on telemedicine and e-health solutions reducing social inequalities in the field of cardiology. Based on the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire administered in the beginning of the project and after approximately 3 months, used for the health state utility values calculation, cost estimates of the project, and inclusion of supplementary data, the economic rationale behind telemedical intervention in HF patients using a cost–utility analysis was corroborated. The choice of a 3-month project duration was due to the top-down project assumptions approved by the bioethics committee. The average improvement in health state utility values was statistically significant, implying a 0.01 QALY improvement per patient. The cost of the telemedical intervention per QALY was well within the official limit adopted as a cost-effective therapy measure in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]