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Introduction: Non-adherence to treatment recommendations is a significant problem, as it contributes to the progression of the disease and to the exacerbation of distressing symptoms. Failure to cope with the disease and elevated levels of stress, in turn, influence the choice of strategy for coping with a difficult situation, and thus adherence to recommendations. Objectives: The purpose of our study was to evaluate the impact of the subjects' stress coping styles on therapeutic adherence, life satisfaction, disease acceptance and quality of life (QoL) in people with mood disorders. Methods: This survey-based study included 102 respondents diagnosed with mood disorders, living in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship. It was performed using the sociodemographic questionnaire and standardized tools: The Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS), The Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), The Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey, The Adherence to Refills and Medication Scale (ARMS), and The Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS). Results: Some 47.06% of the respondents suffered from depressive disorders, while 34.31% had depression or mixed anxiety disorder. Patients who made greater use of an emotion-focused style were found to have significantly lower life satisfaction than other patients. Moreover, this style was related to such SF-36 domains as general health, social functioning, role emotional, vitality, and mental health, as well as to physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS). Conclusion: Treatment non-adherence is a serious challenge in the treatment of patients with mood disorders. Individuals who do not adequately follow treatment recommendations often resort to alternative activities as a mechanism for coping with difficult situations. Patients who predominantly adopt an emotion-oriented coping style tend to experience lower life satisfaction and greater difficulty accepting their condition compared to their peers. Conversely, patients who adopt a task-oriented coping style report better quality of life than those who rely on emotion-oriented coping or alternative activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. The aim of the study was to analyse the level of cultural intelligence and multicultural personality profile of novice nurses in Poland in the context of the increase of migration and refugee crises. Material and methods. A cross-sectional study of 234 novice nurses working in clinical, district or city hospitals was conducted. The Polish version of the Cultural Intelligence Scale and the Multicultural Personality Questionnaire were used. Statistica™ 13.3 software was used for analysis. Results. The results indicate a moderate level of cultural intelligence and diversity in the levels of intensity of the multicultural personality traits. The highest levels were found in cultural empathy. A positive correlation was found between cultural intelligence and multicultural personality. The global dimension of cultural intelligence and its four domains were found to be related to three multicultural personality traits – cultural sensitivity, social initiative and open-mindedness. Conclusions. The study highlights the importance of cultural competence in healthcare and the need to strengthen it among novice nurses, especially amidst contemporary social changes and challenges associated with migration. The implementation of systematic training programmes aimed at increasing cultural competence among nurses is recommended to enhance and develop these skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palliative care patients with malignant bowel obstruction are particularly at risk of developing malnutrition, which in turn directly shortens survival time and worsens quality of life (QoL). According to the available data, the survival time in this patient group is often less than three months. To avoid further complications related to malnutrition and poor outcomes in oncological therapy, nutritional therapy such as home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is offered. The aim of this study was to investigate whether nutritional status is a prognostic factor for survival in palliative care patients with malignant inoperable bowel obstruction qualified for home parenteral nutrition and which nutritional assessment tool has the most accurate prognostic value. This retrospective observational analysis included 200 patients with malignant bowel obstruction referred for home parenteral nutrition between January 2018 and August 2023. The analysis included laboratory test results, body mass index (BMI), Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), Nutritional Risk Index (NRI), Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) and malnutrition as defined by the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM). The average survival time of the patients was 75 days. Patients with higher NRI and PNI scores were more likely to survive (NRI: p < 0.001; PNI: p < 0.001). The GLIM criteria, SGA scores and BMI values did not prove to be good prognostic factors for survival (GLIM p = 0.922, SGA p = 0.083, BMI p = 0.092). The results suggest that the use of NRI and PNI may be helpful in prognosing survival in these patients and that prevention of the development of malnutrition through earlier nutritional assessment and intervention should be considered in this patient group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) The aim of our study was to determine the attitudes of medical students toward organ donation in the case of brain death. (2) The study was conducted among 1348 medical students from three medical universities in Poland. The research tool was the Polish version of the standardized questionnaire concerning attitudes toward organ donation and transplantation (ODT) [PCID-DTO RIOS: A questionnaire designed by the 'International Collaborative Organ Donation project about organ transplantation and donation]. (3) Some sources of information on organ donation were found to have a significant impact on the recipients' knowledge of brain death. These were books, friends, family, lectures in other centers, social media, and the Church. Medical students holding the opinion that recovery and leading a normal lifestyle after brain death is impossible were significantly more likely to donate their organs after death, not for religious reasons and not because they wanted to survive their own death. (4) The medical students in our study showed a high level of awareness and favorable attitudes toward ODT. However, the number of registered donors was low. It is important to educate students on these issues to raise the awareness of both future medical professionals and the public on organ transplantation procedures. The public should be made aware that transplantation procedures are of a high standard, and that the law protects both donors and recipients. These measures would reduce recipients' waiting time, and certainly increase the statistics of the number of life-saving and health-saving procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundSupporters of the antivaccination movement can easily spread information that is not scientifically proven on social media. Therefore, learning more about their posts and activities is instrumental in effectively reacting and responding to the false information they publish, which is aimed at discouraging people from taking vaccines. ObjectiveThis study aims to gather, assess, and synthesize evidence related to the current state of knowledge about antivaccine social media users’ web-based activities. MethodsWe systematically reviewed English-language papers from 3 databases (Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed). A data extraction form was established, which included authors, year of publication, specific objectives, study design, comparison, and outcomes of significance. We performed an aggregative narrative synthesis of the included studies. ResultsThe search strategy retrieved 731 records in total. After screening for duplicates and eligibility, 18 articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Although most of the authors analyzed text messages, some of them studied images or videos. In addition, although most of the studies examined vaccines in general, 5 focused specifically on human papillomavirus vaccines, 2 on measles vaccines, and 1 on influenza vaccines. The synthesized studies dealt with the popularity of provaccination and antivaccination content, the style and manner in which messages about vaccines were formulated for the users, a range of topics concerning vaccines (harmful action, limited freedom of choice, and conspiracy theories), and the role and activity of bots in the dissemination of these messages in social media. ConclusionsProponents of the antivaccine movement use a limited number of arguments in their messages; therefore, it is possible to prepare publications clarifying doubts and debunking the most common lies. Public health authorities should continuously monitor social media to quickly find new antivaccine arguments and then create information campaigns for both health professionals and other users.

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]

(1) The objective of the study was to determine the relationship between depressiveness and the occurrence of eating disorders, i.e., emotional eating, uncontrolled eating, cognitive restraint of eating, and the risk of orthorexia. (2) The study was conducted among 556 women from the West Pomeranian Voivodeship (Poland). The study employed the diagnostic survey method using a questionnaire technique: The Beck Depression Inventory, the ORTO—15 Questionnaire, the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire, and a sociodemographic questionnaire. (3) Higher depressiveness severity is associated with a higher score on the "Cognitive Restraint of Eating" scale. The authors' original study demonstrated a statistically significant relationship only between depressiveness and the "Uncontrolled Eating" subscale (p = 0.001). (4) The results of this study suggest that depressiveness is an important factor that contributes to a better understanding of eating behaviors. In addition, the results of this study suggest that eating behaviors and psychological factors should be taken into account in psychological interventions in the treatment of eating disorders. The clinical goal can be considered to be an improvement in non-normative eating behaviors, such as a reduction in overeating episodes or eating less frequently in the absence of a feeling of hunger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Workplace nutrition interventions have garnered attention as a pivotal component of employee well-being and organisational productivity. However, the effectiveness of various intervention types remains inconclusive. This review aims to systematically evaluate the efficacy of cognitive, behavioural, and mixed nutrition interventions in the workplace, considering the nuances of intervention design, setting, and target demographics. (2) A comprehensive umbrella review was conducted, categorising the existing literature into person-oriented and environmental strategies. This review was prepared in line with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for umbrella reviews and the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses reporting standard. (3) The analysis revealed a lack of definitive evidence supporting the universal effectiveness of any single intervention type. Nonetheless, behavioural and mixed interventions demonstrated more favourable outcomes as compared to purely cognitive strategies. Factors such as intervention design, workplace setting, and target group characteristics were identified as significant determinants of the intervention success. (4) The review emphasises the imperative for additional investigations that utilise evidence-based approaches to formulate sound guidelines for efficacious nutrition interventions in occupational settings. This review functions as a foundational framework for guiding both scholarly research and the pragmatic execution of nutrition programs in the workplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Menopause is an important event in women's lives, possibly contributing to the development of CVD, which is associated with changes in the cardiovascular risk profile, markers of metabolic health, and subclinical atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to assess the association of menopause with CVD risk factors and subclinical markers of cardiometabolic disease. (2) Methods: The study involved 235 women from the general population at different stages of menopause. The methods used in this study were: diagnostic survey, anthropometric measurement (WC, height, BMI, WHtR), blood pressure measurement, biochemical analysis of venous blood (lipid profile, glucose, insulin, HbA1c), and CVD risk assessment (ASCVD Risk Calculator, POL-SCORE, SCORE-2). (3) Results: The vast majority of respondents had low cardiovascular risk, irrespective of the scale used for measuring the risk of CVD. The age at menopause was not an independent risk factor for CVD. In Model 1, the age at menopause and the time since menopause were found to be factors that increased CVD risk (OR = 1.186 and 1.267, respectively). In Models 2 and 3, the severity of menopausal symptoms was not a risk factor for CVD. Models 3 and 4 demonstrated that women with metabolic syndrome (MetS) were at a significantly higher risk of CVD. In model 5, the odds ratio of CVD with MetS as a standalone factor was 13.812. (4) Conclusions: Menopause predisposes women to an increased risk and MetS to a significantly higher risk of CVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Personality traits should be taken into account when diagnosing individuals with disordered eating behaviors in the hope of better understanding their etiology and symptom progression and when planning treatment. The objective of this study was to attempt to determine the moderating role of self-esteem in the relationships between personality traits included in the Big Five model among Polish women and estimated risk of eating disorders. Methods: The study was conducted among 556 Polish women from Zachodniopomorskie Voivodeship. The average age of the women under study was 34 years. A diagnostic survey was used as the research method, and the empirical data were collected using the following research tools: The NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES), ORTO - 15 Questionnaire, The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-13), and the authors' original questionnaire. A multivariate linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the influence of selected independent variables. The assumptions for the linear regression model were satisfied, as indicated by the Ramsey Regression Equation Specification Error Test, White's test, and the Jarque-Bera test. Results: Only the personality trait of neuroticism exhibits a statistically significant effect on the "Cognitive Restraint of Eating," "Uncontrolled Eating," and "Emotional Eating" scores (p < 0.001). The moderation effect was demonstrated between self-esteem and the personality trait of conscientiousness on the "Cognitive Restraint of Eating" scale score. There is a moderation effect between self-esteem and the personality trait of extraversion on the "Uncontrolled Eating" subscale score. There is a moderation effect between self-esteem and the personality trait of conscientiousness on the "Uncontrolled Eating" scale score. Conclusion: Self-esteem was not a predictor of the occurrence of risk of eating disorders while playing a moderating role in the relationship between certain personality traits and estimated risk of eating disorders. A higher level of neuroticism was identified as an important predictor of higher results for orthorexia, Cognitive Restraint of Eating, Uncontrolled Eating, and Emotional Eating. It was also demonstrated that the orthorexia risk index decreased with increased extraversion and openness to experience. The results of this study suggest that eating behaviors and psychological factors should be included in psychological interventions in the treatment of eating disorders. The clinical goal can be considered to be an improvement in non-normative eating behaviors, such as a reduction in overeating episodes or eating less frequently in the absence of a hunger feeling. In order to assist these individuals in their attempts to achieve healthy behaviors, variables related to mental functioning can be then identified as important goals to support individuals in their efforts to change health behaviors by achieving better mental well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of death worldwide. CVDs have become the dominant cause of death and have been a significant health challenge since the second half of the 20th century in the Polish population. The aim of our HDMI (hospital diet medical investigation) study was to examine the quality of the hospital diets given to cardiac patients and assess how much they adhere to the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) 2021 guidelines. By comparing the diets received by patients with the recommended dietary patterns outlined in the ESC 2021 guidelines, we sought to identify discrepancies. The study was conducted in two steps: creating a 7-day model menu and comparing it with the received diets and then making comparisons with ESC 2021 guidelines. Additionally, we designed a survey to obtain the characteristics of the hospitals. The results show that the nutrition in hospitals remains substandard. None of the diets had an appropriate salt supply or predominance of plant-based food patterns. Only 1/7 diets avoided sweetened beverages, and 2/7 diets had an appropriate amount of fiber. This underscores a gap in the healthcare system to improve patients' health by implementing dietary interventions that foster the development of healthy eating habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Eradication of HCV in the global population remains one of the greatest challenges faced by the WHO. An insufficient level of knowledge and the lack of a national screening test strategy are obstacles to HCV eradication. Aim: This work aimed to summarize surveys assessing risk factors and awareness of the respondents regarding the prevention and course of HCV infection. The summary also includes the most important European and global attempts at eliminating HCV. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted in the Mazowieckie district in Poland using anonymous surveys and conducted on people who willingly reported for a test. Results: In the study cohort of n = 7397 adults, there were 5412 women (73.16%). The analysis of the quota sample (n = 1303) reflected the actual proportions in the population of the Mazowieckie Voivodeship. Conclusions: Insufficient knowledge about HCV decreases the probability of higher detection of infections, fast diagnostics, and treatment. According to the WHO model, assuming a 90% detection rate and treatment of 80% of infected by 2030, and taking into account 120–150 thousand infected persons in Poland, the number of detections of HCV should be increased 4–5 times and all diagnosed persons should be offered antiviral treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abdominal obesity is a common feature of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and it is known to exacerbate insulin resistance (IR). Improper dietary and physical activity patterns are crucial environmental factors involved in the development of obesity, and they can significantly influence the central deposition of adipose tissue. Therefore, in this cross-sectional study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between abdominal adiposity (measured by VAT (visceral adipose tissue), SAT (subcutaneous adipose tissue), VAT/SAT ratio (visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio), and WHR (waist-to-hip ratio)) and the prevalence and odds ratios of IR (measured by the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), the homeostatic model assessment-adiponectin (HOMA-AD) and leptin to adiponectin ratio (L/A ratio)) in 56 PCOS women. Furthermore, we investigated the relationship between these abdominal obesity indices and diet and physical activity. An original food frequency questionnaire and Actigraph GT3X-BT were used to assess adherence to the diet recommended in IR and the level of physical activity, respectively. We observed a higher prevalence of IR among women with higher VAT, VAT/SAT, and WHR values compared to women with normal values of those abdominal obesity indices. Moreover, VAT/SAT seemed to be the best predictor of IR measured by HOMA-IR and HOMA-AD. However, VAT appeared to be the best and strongest predictor of IR measured by the L/A ratio. We also observed that higher adherence to the diet recommended in IR and higher levels of vigorous physical activity were associated with lower values of central fat accumulation indices and a greater chance of their normal values. Our findings indicate that central obesity increases the odds of IR and supports the beneficial role of diet and physical activity in the management of abdominal obesity in PCOS women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A large percentage of people with type 1 diabetes experience stigma, which may directly affect diabetes management. Moreover, it may adversely influence the acceptance of the disease and, thus, the treatment process, including compliance with medical and dietary recommendations. Therefore, it is important to seek adequate forms of counteracting the phenomenon of stigmatization. Thus, the aim of the study was to determine the factors influencing the level of perceived stigma by T1D patients, with particular emphasis on sociodemographic factors (including sex, place of residence, and education) and clinical factors related to the course of the disease. Methods: An observational cross-sectional online questionnaire was conducted in a group of 339 people with T1D. The link to the questionnaire was shared via social media. The DSAS-1 questionnaire translated into Polish was used as the research tool. Results: A moderate level of stigmatization was found (49.78 ± 14.54 points). It was significantly lower in people living in small towns compared to rural residents (ß = −0.121, p = 0.038), lower in people in relationships compared to those who are single (ß = −0.175, p = 0.001), in people diagnosed with T1D at an older age (ß = −0.107, p = 0.048), and in those who rated their financial situation as very good vs. bad (ß = −0.314, p < 0.001). It was also found that the level of stigma significantly decreased with age (ß = −0.181, p = 0.001). In addition, a significantly higher stigma perception was uncovered in the group of people with HbA1C > 7% than in the group ≤ 7% (ß = 0.118, p = 0.030). Conclusions: Due to the occurrence of stigma among people with T1D, which can directly affect the management of diabetes, effective and comprehensive efforts should be made to provide support to people with diabetes. It is also necessary to raise awareness among the general public and disseminate knowledge about diabetes, which can reduce stigmatization as a result. Anti-stigma messages should be included in the prevention programs about the potential side effects and risks associated with mistreating people with T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Obesity in the perimenopausal period is associated with hormonal changes, lifestyle, and environment. In obesity, elevated levels of IL-6 and TNF-α and reduced levels of adiponectin are observed, and the associated chronic inflammation favors the development of cardiometabolic diseases. Therefore, the aim of our study was to assess the relationship between selected measures of obesity (BMI, WC, RFM, VAI, WHtR) and parameters of chronic inflammation (CRP, TNF-α, IL-6) in perimenopausal women. (2) Methods: The study involved 172 perimenopausal women. The methods used in this study were diagnostic surveys, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure measurements, and venous blood sampling. (3) Results: Preliminary multivariate linear regression analysis showed that CRP moderately positively correlated with IL-6 (β = 0.25; p = 0.001) and weakly negatively correlated with adiponectin (β = −0.23; p = 0.002). Similar associations were noted in preliminary multivariate linear regression analysis adjusted for age, menopausal status, and smoking status. Preliminary multivariate linear regression analysis also showed that BMI positively correlated with IL-6 (β = 0.16; p = 0.033). VAI weakly positively correlated with CRP (β = 0.25; p = 0.001) and negatively correlated with adiponectin (β = −0.43; p = 0.000). (4) BMI, WC, RFM, VAI, and WHtR are clearly related to selected parameters of chronic inflammation. Our study suggests that each of the anthropometric variables provides distinct information on metabolic processes associated with inflammatory parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Front-of-pack labelling (FOPL) systems, such as the Nutri-Score, play a crucial role in promoting healthy diets and raising consumer awareness. Our study aimed to gather the opinions of Polish experts on the Nutri-Score and its relation to an ideal information system. We conducted a Poland-wide expert opinion study using a cross-sectional design survey with 75 participants, who had an average of 18 ± 13 years of experience and were mainly employed at medical and agricultural universities. The data were collected with the CAWI method. The results showed that the most important features of an FOPL system were clarity, simplicity, consistency with healthy eating recommendations, and the ability to objectively compare products within the same group. While more than half of the respondents believed that the Nutri-Score provides an overall assessment of a product's nutritional value and facilitates quick purchasing decisions, it falls short in helping consumers compose a balanced diet and cannot be applied to all product groups. The experts also expressed concerns about the system's ability to account for a product's degree of processing, full nutritional value and carbon footprint. In conclusion, Poland's current labelling system needs expansion, but the Nutri-Score requires significant and detailed changes and validation against national guidelines and expert expectations before implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. To assess the impact of the covid-19 epidemic in the research area (Łuków county) on the number of visits by National Emergency Medical Services teams to patients with mental disorders. Method. The study included a retrospective analysis of EMS departures from the Łuków county (northern part of the Lublin province) in the two-year period from March 2019 to the end of February 2021 (one year before the epidemic - period I, and the year of the epidemic in Poland - period II). The material consisted of Departure Request Cards and Medical Rescue Cards of EMS. Results. In the 2-year period there were 862 events that met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis (442 in period I and 420 in period II). In both periods, men were analyzed more often (68.7% Pre-Pan; 71.1% Pan). Interventions were more frequent in cities (60.3% Pre-Pan; 60.7% Pan). The share of alcohol and psychoactive substances as a cause of EMS interventions in psychiatric conditions was higher during the pandemic. Conclusions. The COVID-19 pandemic did not significantly affect the number of EMS interventions related to mental disorders in the area covered by the analysis, the average duration of EMS interventions to psychiatric conditions slightly increased during the epidemic period. In both analyzed periods, men were significantly more likely to be EMS patients. The age of the patients included in the analysis did not change significantly before and during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a life-saving therapy for patients with intestinal failure, but it carries the risk of complications, including an increase in liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) after long-term use. Patients receiving chronic TPN are also exposed to metabolic stress from both the underlying disease and parenteral nutrition. The aim of this study was to compare the concentration of liver transaminases AST and ALT in relation to the rate of oxygen consumption in platelet mitochondria in patients receiving long-term TPN with the degree of oxidative stress induced by lipid emulsions, and to explain their role in cellular energy metabolism and changes in the liver based on the percentage of genomic DNA damage. The study group consisted of 86 TPN patients, while the control group consisted of 86 healthy volunteers who were fed only orally. The results of the study showed that the percentage of molecular oxygen depended on the type of lipid emulsion supplied. Analyzing time on TPN as a factor, we observed a decrease in percentage genomic DNA damage and an increase in percentage molecular oxygen in cells. It remains unclear whether TPN has a direct effect on genomic DNA damage and the level of molecular oxygen in cells during the course of treatment. In conclusion, this study provides important insights into the potential effects of TPN on liver enzymes and cellular metabolism. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and to develop strategies to minimize the risk of complications associated with TPN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin resistance (IR) is a prominent feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The importance of lifestyle interventions in the management of PCOS is strongly highlighted and it is suggested that diet and physical activity may significantly influence insulin sensitivity. Therefore, we evaluated the link between diet and physical activity and various indices of insulin resistance, including adipokines secreted by the adipose tissue in 56 PCOS and 33 healthy control women. The original food frequency questionnaire and Actigraph GT3X-BT were used to assess the adherence to the diet recommended in IR and the level of physical activity, respectively. We observed that higher levels of physical activity were associated with lower HOMA-IR and a greater chance of its normal value in PCOS group. No such relationship was observed for other IR indices and adipokines or for the diet. However, we noted a strong correlation between HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) and HOMA-AD (Homeostatic Model Assessment-Adiponectin) in PCOS women. Additionally, when we used HOMA-AD we observed a higher prevalence of IR among PCOS women. Our study supports the beneficial role of physical activity in the management of insulin resistance in PCOS women. Moreover, our findings indicate that HOMA-AD may be a promising surrogate marker for insulin resistance assessment in women with PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The use of a validated scale, Spirituality and Spiritual Care Rating Scale (SSCRS) to measure nurses' perceptions of spirituality and spiritual care. Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyse selected psychometric properties of the Polish version of the SSCRS, among them the applicability of the dimensions of spiritual care in nursing, ie, spirituality, spiritual care, religiosity and personalized care, to Polish conditions. Methods: Poland-wide multicentre study with a cross-sectional validation design. The study was conducted between March and June 2019. Seven Polish Nursing Faculties accepted the invitation to participate in the study. A representative sample of 853 nurses enrolled in MSc (postgraduate) programs in nursing participated. After translation and cultural adaption of the SSCRS, the instrument underwent a full psychometric evaluation of its construct validity using (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis), internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha and correlation analysis), reliability (test−retest analysis), known-group validity (Student's t-test) analysis. Results: The exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated that the Polish version of the SSCRS was a three-factor model with "Activity-centred spiritual care" (9 items), "Emotional support-centred spiritual care" (5 items) and "Religiosity" (3 items) domains. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the whole scale was 0.902, and the alpha values for the individual domains were 0.898, 0.873 and 0.563, respectively. The three domains mentioned above seemed to provide a comprehensive understanding of spiritual care perceived subjectively by Polish MSc in nursing students. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a substantial degree of similarity in the selected psychometric characteristics of the Polish version of SSCRS and the original scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of serum selenium on PPAR-γ and the selected proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) in relation to depressive symptoms and obesity in middle-aged women. The research procedure was as follows: a survey was performed using the authors' questionnaire and the BDI, anthropometric measurements, and the analysis of blood for the levels of selenium, cytokines, and genetic analysis of the PPAR-γ polymorphism (n = 443). It was found that the BMI increased along with the concentration of IL-6. No moderating effect of selenium was observed, although the cut-off values for "p" were established for IL-β*Se (p = 0.068) and IL-6*Se (p = 0.068), so there was a potential association with these two markers. At high selenium levels, the effect of higher IL-β levels on a decrease in BMI was stronger, as was the effect of an increase in IL-6 levels on an increase in BMI. No effect of selenium on PPAR-γ was found in relation to depressive symptoms and obesity. Higher selenium levels may have a beneficial effect on BMI even at high IL-β concentrations, however, at high IL-6 concentrations, this effect was not observed. Selenium levels had no impact on depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective. Research to date indicates that student competencies in various dimensions of social media use vary depending on, for example, the field of study or stage of education. The aim of the study was assessment of social media literacy in a group of undergraduate nursing students, based on the year of study. Materials and method. Respondents: 679 nursing students from 11 Polish medical universities who began or continued their education during the COVID-19 pandemic. First-year students (N = 397, 58.73%) and women (N = 589, 87.13%) constituted the largest group. The Perceived Social Media Literacy Scale was used. Statistical analysis used the Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis-of-variance-by-ranks to analyse differences in PSML scores, and Dunn's test to analyse differences in PSML scores between individual years of study (α= 0.05). Results. The level of social media literacy between students differed significantly (p < 0.001). Students rated their technical competency the highest (H = 29.722, p < 0.001), social relationships (H = 20.946, p < 0.001) and informational awareness (H = 21.054, p < 0.001) the lowest. The lowest scores in the self-assessment of social media literacy were noted among first-year students (M = 55.85, Max = 70.0; p < 0.001), and the highest among second-year students (M = 60.99, Max = 70.0; p < 0.001). Conclusions. Nursing students rated their competency lowest in the sphere related to verifying the content of messages appearing on social media, which may have a significant impact on their professional competencies. Differences in the level of social media literacy among students of different years of study should be taken into account when designing training in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective. The COVID-19 pandemic led to the introduction of sanitary restrictions in many countries which necessitated numerous lifestyle changes, especially in the diet. The study aimed to compare the diet and selected lifestyle elements in the Polish population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and method. The study group consisted of 964 individuals: 482 before the COVID-19 pandemic (composed using the Propensity Score Matching method) and 482 during the pandemic. The National Health Programme 2017--2020 results were used. Results. During the pandemic increased, e.g. the intake of: total lipids (78.4 g vs. 83 g; p<0.035), saturated fatty acids (SFA) (30.4 g vs. 32.3 g; p=0.01), sucrose (56.5 g vs. 64.6 g; p=0.0001), calcium (602.5 mg vs. 666.6 mg; p=0.004), and folate (261.6 mcg vs. 284.7 mcg; p=0.003). When nutrient densities of pre-Covid-19 and COVID-19 diets were compared, some differences were noted; per 1,000 kcal the amounts decreased of plant protein (13.7 g vs. 13.1 g; p=0.001), carbohydrates (130.8 g vs. 128.0 g; p=0.021), fibre (9.1 g vs. 8.4 g; p=0.000), sodium (1,968.6 mg vs. 1,824.2 mg; p=0.000); while the amounts increased of total lipids (35.9 g vs. 37.0 g; p=0.001), SFA (14.1 g vs. 14.7 g; p=0.003), and sucrose (26.4 g vs. 28.4 g; p=0.001). The COVID-19 pandemic had no effect on alcohol consumption, the number of smokers increased (from 131 to 169), sleep duration during weekdays, and the number of persons with low physical activity (182 vs. 245; p<0.001). Conclusions. Numerous unfavourable changes occurred in the diet and lifestyle during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may contribute to the exacerbation of health problems in the future. Nutrient density in the diet combined with well-designed consumer education may underlie the development of diet recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Assessment of the effectiveness and efficiency of three mobile (portable) rescue aspirators models in the opinion of state fire service officers. Comparison with the use of the medical simulation element. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in organizational units of the State Fire Service (24-hour officers). The research consisted in carrying out the task with the use of three models of mobile rescue aspirators (manual, hand-foot, battery). Each participating firefighter had the task of sucking up an equal amount of fluid (100 ml, respectively) with each model of an aspirator. The test fluid was water at room temperature in a homogeneous 1:1 mixture with sugar (increased viscosity and density, simulated real conditions). Immediately after three suction attempts (with measured suction time), each officer completed a questionnaire on the three models used. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the variables. The following measures were calculated for the variables: mean (M) and standard deviation (SD), minimum, maximum. The following measures were calculated for categorical variables: number (n) and frequency (%). Results: 184 officers (182 M and 2 F) took part in the study, including commanders 18.43%, rescuers 65.22%, drivers 16.30%. In the study area 1,609 officers serve in the combat division as at the end of 2021. The studied group accounts for 11.43%. Age of respondents M 34.04 SD 8.24 Min 21 Max 52, length of service M 8.48, SD 7.20 Min 1, Max 25. The longest mean time of completing the task was recorded for model 2 (hand-foot) and it was 6.77 sec. Conclusions: SFS officers highly appreciated the usefulness and effectiveness of the battery-operated automatic aspirator. This assessment may contribute to the widespread introduction of such a model to rescue sets in the SFS. Time of performing the task by mode 1 was significantly longer by elderly people. People with experience with the model 1 during rescue and firefighting operations had a significantly shorter time of performing the task with the use of the model 2. According to the subjective assessment of firefighters, the most effective is model 3, which is confirmed by the suction time obtained at the work station. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Building awareness and safety culture in the field of first aid among Polish schoolchildren through additional, non-obligatory classes in medical rescue. Establish baseline knowledge and motor skills for CPR. Materials and methods: The study included 97 pupils from primary schools in Lubelskie Voivodeship. The study group were pupils from grades 6 through 8 (aged 12-14). The training station was connected to a computer with the SkillReporter QCPR (Laerdal) software, which allowed controlling and archiving test results. Subsequently, each pupil provided CPR within the specific timeframe of 2 minutes (i.e. for the maximum of 120 seconds). Results: The study included 97 pupils: 60 boys (61.9%) and 37 girls (38.1%). Age profile of the pupils: 12 years old (n=31), 13 years old (n=34) and 14 years old (n=32). 94 pupils completed the planned task fully (a 2-minute cycle of chest compressions on a training model). Three pupils ended the task after 102, 105 and 114 seconds out of the planned 120. Children who have a lower BMI much more frequently carried out CPR incorrectly as they compressed the chest too shallowly compared to children with higher BMI (rho = 0.216, p = 0.033) Conclusions: Children with a lower BMI value were characterized by significantly more frequent errors in CPR in terms of too shallow pressure performance than children with higher BMI values. There was no statistically significant influence of age group and gender on the quality of CPR performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The outbreak of the SARS-CoV2 pandemic resulted in a paralysis of healthcare systems. The most important problem was the provision of an appropriate number of healthcare personnel. One of the ways was to enable final-year students of medical sciences to start professional work. Aim. To analyse the available literature dealing with student study-to-work transition during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic outbreak. Method. The resources of five databases: PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Web of Science, CINAHL Complete via EBSCOhost were researched. The inclusion criteria: 1) English language, 2) papers published in peer-reviewed journals, 3) type of publication, 4) papers published between 01.01.2020 and 31.12.2020. We have found 2,341 articles. The 17 papers were included in the final analysis. Results. The analysis pointed to soft competences as one of the most important group of competences enabling efficient study-to-work transition (n=13). Students pointed to the ethical problems encountered at the start of work in the pandemic (n=8). Two important factors should be highlighted as crucial for the future formation of the professional identity of a group of students starting their professional career in the pandemic: the impact of the disturbed process of professional adaptation and the need to implement changes to the processes of education of students of medical sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This systematic review analyzed the prevalence of malnutrition in patients with Parkinson's Disease. Study design: a systematic review. Method: Four databases—Cochrane, PubMed, Embase and Web of Science—were searched from October 2021 to June 2022 by two independent researchers. The inclusion criteria were as follows: patients above 18 years old with confirmed Parkinson's Disease, performed screening nutritional assessment, cohort studies, case-control studies, and cross-sectional studies. Patients without Parkinson's Disease and with other parkinsonian syndromes were excluded. Results: 49 studies were included in this systematic review. Patients ranged in age from 20 to 96 years. There were 5613 subjects included. According to Mini Nutritional Assessment, 23.9% (n = 634) participants were at risk of malnutrition and 11.1% (n = 294) were malnourished. According to BMI score, most patients were either obese or overweight. Conclusions: the prevalence of malnutrition or risk of malnutrition in the study group was significant. Therefore, more specific and detailed studies on the prevalence of malnutrition in patients with Parkinson's Disease are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) The aim of the research was to try to define the mediating role of depression in the relationship between addiction to shopping and work and loneliness, understood in terms of general loneliness among Polish women. (2) The study was conducted among 556 women. The research was carried out with the use of the diagnostic survey method, using the questionnaire technique: the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, the Purchasing Behavior Scale, the Work Addiction Risk Test, Beck Depression Inventory, and our own questionnaire. (3) Depression is a mediator in the relationship between the feeling of loneliness and the degree of addiction to shopping (β = −0.0246, z = −2.03, p = 0.043) and in the relationship between the feeling of loneliness and the degree of addiction to work (β = −0.0722, z = −4.002, p < 0.001). The direct impact of the feeling of loneliness on the degree of addiction to shopping (p = 0.237) and work (p = 0.576) is statistically insignificant. (4) Depression plays the role of a mediator between the feeling of loneliness and the degree of addiction to shopping and work. An increase in the level of depression increases the degree of addiction to shopping and work. The mediator's participation lowers the loneliness feeling level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Metabolic syndrome is a set of factors that considerably increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and their cardiovascular complications. Studies show that menopause and the levels of elements may be significantly associated with increased risk of MetS. The present study evaluated the relationship between element levels (Ca, P, Na, K, Fe, Mg, Cu, Zn, Sr) and the incidence of MetS and concomitant metabolic disorders in peri-menopausal women. (2) The study involved 170 perimenopausal women. The methods used were: survey, anthropometric measurement (WC, height, BMI, WHtR), blood pressure measurement, and biochemical analysis of venous blood (lipid profile, glucose, insulin, HbA1C). (3) The study demonstrated statistically significantly higher WC, WHtR, SBP, and DBP values in women with pre-Mets than in those with Mets and the control group. Significantly higher FPG, TG, LDL, HbA1C, insulin, TG/HDL ratio, and TC/HDL ratio were recorded in the MetS group compared to the rest of respondents. In addition, post hoc analysis revealed statistically significant differences in mean K concentrations between pre-MetS and MetS women. (4) Low blood K levels in perimenopausal women are associated with an increased risk of MetS. Significantly higher Cu levels were observed in overweight women. The concentration of Cu negatively correlates with the values of TC, LDL, and SBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]