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Fly ashes produced in huge amounts during coal combustion requires proper management. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of fly ash from burning hard coal used in large doses (250, 500, 1000 and 2000 t ha−1) on soil properties and vegetation of fresh mixed coniferous forest within 43 years from the ash application. The experiment was established in the Podzols in the forest habitat of Czułów, Katowice Forest district, Upper Silesia, Poland. Eight tree species were planted in ridges created by ploughing: Pinus sylvestris, P. nigra, Larix decidua, Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Q., Acer pseudoplatanus and Fagus sylvatica. The changes in soil morphology caused significant transformations in the physical and chemical properties of the soil such as soil texture, pH, macronutrients (P, K and Mg) content and C:N ratio. Increasing of ash doses changed the granulometric composition of the soil levels from loamy sand (250 t/ha−1) to silt loam (2000 t ha−1). Initially, the acidic Podzols were alkalized under the influence of the fly ash and then acidified, possibly due to the impact of accumulated litter layers, and the reaction of organic soil horizons changed from strongly acidic (250–1000 t ha−1) to alkalis (2000 t/ha−1). The macronutrients content increased in proportion to the fly ash dose, but the subsequent acidification resulted in a gradual decrease in the macronutrients share in the soil layers. The value of the C:N ratio grew after the ash application and then it gradually reduced, even by half. The transformations of soil horizons' properties also increased the capacity of the soil sorption complex (CEC). All these processes led to a change in the trophic status of the habitat expressed by the soil habitat index (SIG) and the initial coniferous forest site can be classified as a mixed forest habitat even with the lowest ash dose used. The composition of plant communities developed forty years after the ash application was similar at the lower ash doses and the most frequent and abundant tree species were L. decidua, P. nigra and P. silvestris. B. pendula was previously co-dominant, but it was eliminated from the tree stands during the experiment. Planted trees characteristic of late stages of succession, such as Q. robur, Q. rubra, F. sylvatica and A. pseudoplatanus either did not survive or remained in very low quantities. The herb and moss layers developed in the process of spontaneous colonization, and together with the trees led to phytostabilisation of the bare substrates. After acidification of the topsoil horizons, the herb layers consisted mostly of coniferous, mixed, and deciduous forest species, and the most frequent or abundant were Lysimachia europea and Pteridium aquilinum. The moss layers were represented by coniferous forest flora. At the ash dose of 2000 t ha−1, Tilia cordata settled in one of the seral stages of spontaneous succession and this species dominated in the community and formed a dense tree stand. After the soil acidification, a shift from calcicole to calcifuge plant strategy took place among species of the herbaceous layer. The transformations of plant communities' composition occurred in relation to changes in the soil properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents research on the possibilities of utilising the Lean Management method to increase the profitability of coal mining operations through cost rationalisation and production optimisation. The Lean Management method has its roots in the automotive industry, but its significant benefits can allow it to be transferred to other industries. Based on the analysis of global literature describing examples of its application in general mining, as well as the authors' own observations related to Polish hard coal mining, it was determined that the Lean Management method is not being utilised in this field. This article outlines the course and results of an original expert-mathematical study to assess the usefulness of specific Lean Management tools and techniques in hard coal mining. The study drew on knowledge obtained from selected, competent experts who demonstrated high levels of agreement in their assessments. Five core production areas were identified, and twelve widely used Lean Management tools and techniques were selected. The obtained assessments of the usefulness of Lean tools could serve as valuable guidance for mining management in the selection of methods for improving mining production in coal mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main elements that shape the production process in an underground mining plant is, in the broadest sense of the word, transport. Currently, a large amount of rolling stock from cable cars or suspended railways is maintained in mining plants, along with extensive infrastructure used for transporting crew and materials. The development of conveyor belt transport systems, as well as system process management, is increasing efficiency levels. Mining transport is a complex process, requiring large amounts of energy, which incurs significant production costs. We conduct a comparative analysis of the human transport system using a suspended railway with belt transport at Lubelski Węgiel "Bogdanka" Spółka Akcyjna (the largest hard coal mine in Poland), in terms of energy efficiency levels. We found that the process of transporting the crew in an underground mining plant to the production site using a conveyor belt system was less energy-intensive, and therefore created less emissions than the currently used model based on suspended queues. The analyses for the above project were conducted according to a model that was based on the study and analysis phase of the project through to its implementation and transfer to operational activities. The analysis was carried out based on the created simulation model, taking into account all elements of the crew transport process to and from the mining area. The implementation of the technical solution allowed for nearly a threefold reduction in the level of energy consumption and emissivity. In the analyzed model, the energy consumption in the first phase of production was 3.04 kWh per employee using the diesel rails system and 1.13 per employee using the belt conveyor system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Inzynieria Mineralna is the property of Polskie Towarzystwo Przerobki Kopalin 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.)

Purpose: The aims: (1) to investigate the role of the in situ weathering of bedrock in providing substrate for soil formation; (2) to evaluate the aeolian contribution to the mountainous soils in the vicinity of thick loess cover; and (3) to determine the influence of aeolian silt on further soil development. Materials and methods: The sampled sites were arranged along the slope toposequence, where an aeolian/silt admixture possibly occurred. Each soil catena started at the top of a hill and ended at its foot. Such an arrangement of the soil profiles ensured the tracking of loess thickness variations and detection of the depth of the residuum-derived materials. One reference soil profile, consisting of aeolian silt deposits, was made. The following soil properties were determined: pH, organic carbon content, soil texture, exchangeable acidity, exchangeable ions and geochemistry. In addition, thin sections were prepared from rock samples to confirm the type of bedrock present. Results and discussion: The soils in the studied area were classified as Cambisols, Luvisols and Stagnosols, characterised by silt loam texture and a high content of elements indicating an aeolian silt contribution—Hf (7.4 to 14.8 ppm) and Zr (274.4 to 549.0 ppm). These values differ strongly from the residues typical of weathered quartzite, greywacke or catalasite substrates, which generally have low concentrations of Hf and Zr (0.7 to 7.0 ppm and 26.0 to 263 ppm, respectively). Based on the morphological, textural and geochemical data of the studied soils, three layers were distinguished, which show different inputs of aeolian silt: (1) an aeolian silt mantle; (2) a mixed zone in which loess was incorporated into the local material; and (3) a basal zone, free of the influence of aeolian silt. Based on the obtained results, a hypothetical pathway for soil formation in mountainous areas, influenced by aeolian silt admixing, was proposed. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that the soils developed in the Opawskie Mountains are characterised by an aeolian silt influence. This differentiates them from weakly developed soils, which comprise materials formed during in situ weathering only. Materials originating from bedrock weathering did not play an independent role as the parent material for the studied pedons. Aeolian silt was admixed with already existing autochthonous substrates, or completely replaced them. This influence on the soil formation resulted in the occurrence of Luvisols, Stagnosols and Cambisols. Such soils cannot be formed from the weathering of quartzites and greywackes, which contribute to a less structure-forming medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drainage and peat extraction may have a negative impact on existing hydrological conditions and, consequently, on the conditions of wetland ecosystems. The aim of this study was to assess human impact on the studied Trzcińskie Mokradła Peatland by comparing the concentrations and trace element (Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr and Ni) pools in the study area (extracted vs. non-extracted areas of peatland). The concentration of trace elements in organic soils and their pools were analysed in relation to their depth in the soil profiles, content of organic matter, soil pH values and the degree of decomposition of organic materials (peat, mursh). Fifteen soil profiles (90 samples) were examined. The total soil elements content was determined after digestion in a mixture of HCl+HNO3. The element pools were calculated and expressed in g m−2 of soil in 0–30 cm and 30–50 cm layers. Soils showed acidic or slightly acidic reactions. The high concentrations of Pb and Zn were mainly observed in the upper horizons. The deeper layers enriched with mineral fractions were also enriched in metals like Cr and Ni. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by a decline of lung function and symptoms such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema leading from lung tissue destruction. Increased activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and an imbalance between MMPs and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) are considered as factors influencing the pathogenesis of COPD. We investigated the role of genetic polymorphism and expression level of MMP-9 and concentration of its complexes with TIMPs in the development of COPD among Polish patients. We analyzed SNP in the promoter region of MMP-9 gene (rs3918242) using PCR-RFLP method among 335 COPD patients and 309 healthy individuals. Additionally, 60 COPD patients and 61 controls were tested for copy number variants (CNV) of MMP-9 (by quantitative real-time PCR) and serum levels of MMP-9 and its complexes with TIMP1 and TIMP2 (using ELISA). All subjects were analyzed for lung function using spirometry (FEV1% and FEV1/FVC parameters). We observed that allele and genotype frequencies of the SNP rs3918242, as well as the number of gene copies, were similar in COPD patient and controls groups. Serum levels of MMP-9 and MMP-9/TIMP1 complex were significantly higher in COPD patients in comparison to controls groups, although independently of analyzed gene polymorphisms. Additionally, the significant inverse relationships between parameters of lung function (FEV1% and FEV1/FVC) and proteins level were found in ridge regression models, especially we found that FEV1% decreased when MMP-9 level increased in controls and patients with COPD group. In conclusion, we found that COPD patients were predisposed to produce more MMP-9 and MMP-9/TIMP1 complex than healthy individuals. This phenomenon is probably associated with the disease-related lung environment but not with genetic features of the MMP-9. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based typings of HLA-A, B, C, DQB1 and DRB1 loci were performed from 2018 to 2019 in 23 595 newly recruited or re-typed adult potential bone marrow donors registered in Poltransplant Registry to characterize allele and haplotype frequencies of HLA system for loci important for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The donors were recruited for registry and not for any other purpose including controls in a disease association study. The population sample was collected in various regions of Poland including all voivodships. The data regarding the degree of relatedness among individuals in the sample were not collected. Typings were supported by public funds as a part of the Polish National Program for Transplant Medicine Development. HLA frequency data are available in the Allele Frequencies Net Database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to investigate the influence of a propolis and tee tree oil-containing hygienic agent on selected oral health parameters, oral microflora, and the condition of periodontal health. Thirty-seven patients who underwent oral rehabilitation with a removable acrylic denture were selected and randomly assigned into two groups: study group (A) which received a newly formulated propolis and tee tree oil-containing toothpaste or a control group (C) without an active ingredient. API, S-OHI, and mSBI were assessed in three subsequent stages. During each examination swabs were employed for microbiological inoculation: in the study group after 4 weeks use of the active toothpaste showed a decrease in the number of isolated microorganisms. In the control group, after 4 weeks use of the toothpaste without active ingredients resulted in increase in the number of the isolated microorganisms. Improvements in hygiene and the condition of periodontium were observed in patients using active toothpastes. In the study group the oral flora diversity was reduced by the decrease in the number of cultured microorganism species, while in the control group an increase in the number of cultured microorganisms and their species was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to determine the intensity of nitrogen mineralization in forestry drained ombrotrophic peatland soils in the Stołowe Mountains National Park, SW Poland. Additionally discussion about the shallow organic soils classification according to Polish Soil Classification (2011) is presented. For the study three research transects were established on forestry drained ombrotrophic peatlands in the Stołowe Mountains. Each of the transect consisted of four (site A and B) or five (site C) sampling plots. Sampling was conducted in the year 2012. The soil samples for the basic soil properties analysis were sampled in April, whereas undisturbed soil samples were collected in stainless steel rings (100 cm³) every 10 cm in April (spring), July (summer) and October (autumn) to show the seasonal dynamics of nitrogen mineralization. Statistical analysis showed that the content of N-NH4 was mainly determined by actual soil moisture and precipitation rate, whereas the content of N-NO3 was positively correlated with air temperature. Among investigated peatlands the highest concentrations of mineral nitrogen forms was observed in the Długie Mokradło bog, situated on the Skalniak Plateau-summit. Additionally, the results obtained showed that implementation of new subtype: shallow fibric peat soils (in Polish: gleby torfowe fibrowe płytkie) within the type of peat soils (in polish: gleby torfowe) should be considered during developing of the next update of Polish Soil Classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eryngium planum L. (EP) is as a rare medicinal plant with a lot of potentials as pharmaceutical crops. The aim of our study was to assess the effect of subchronic (28-fold) administration of a 70% ethanol extract of EP roots (200 mg/kg, p.o.) on behavioral and cognitive responses in Wistar rats linked with acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and beta-secretase (BACE-1) mRNA levels and AChE and BuChE activities in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. On the last day of experiment, 30 min after the last dose of EP or Huperzine A (HU), scopolamine (SC) was given at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg b.w. intraperitoneally. The results of a passive avoidance test showed an improvement in long-term memory produced by the EP extract in both scopolamine-induced rats and control group. EP caused an insignificant inhibition of AChE and BuChE activities in the frontal cortex and the hippocampus. EP decreased mRNA AChE, BuChE, and BACE-1 levels, especially in the cortex. Our results suggest that the EP extract led to the improvement of the long-term memory in rats coupled with total saponin content. The mechanism of EP action is probably complicated, since HPLC-MS analysis showed 64 chemical compounds (phenolics, saponins) in the extract of EP roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Postmenopausal osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease with important genetic factors. We evaluated the frequency of polymorphism 283G/A of the vitamin D VDR gene receptor. The study included 800 women at the postmenopausal (505) and reproductive (295) age. Statistically significant changes, depending on the genotype, were shown. Introduction: Postmenopausal osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease of strong genetic origin with population variability determined by the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Recognition of different genetic variants underlying development of osteoporosis would make it possible to administer individual symptomatic treatment as well as early prophylactics of osteoporosis. Methods: The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of polymorphism 283G/A of the vitamin D VDR gene receptor and assessment of its relations with the clinical parameters of osseous turnover and degree of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The study included 800 women at the postmenopausal (505) and reproductive (295) age throughout the Wielkopolska region in Poland. The postmenopausal group included women with osteoporosis and osteopenia and the healthy ones. Women at the reproductive age were healthy. Frequency of the tested gene polymorphism was evaluated in the group where bone mineral density (BMD) was marked and in the control group. Results: The obtained test results pointed to correlation of polymorphism VDR 283G/A with the BMD scores for the lumbar vertebrae in women with osteopenia and osteoporosis, therefore the ones at risk of fractures. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphism correlated with reduced BMD values. Conclusions: Polymorphism 283G/A of the vitamin D receptor gene has been proved to be the genetic factor of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The polymorphism mentioned above has been proved to be a factor of mineral bone density changes of women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale river regulation, drainage and intense farming in the Barycz valley initiated in 17th century activated a transformation of the initial alluvial and swamp-alluvial soils. Soils on the Holocene flooded terraces have deep, acid humus horizons (umbric) and gleyic properties at shallow depth, but have no stratification of parent material to a depth of 100 cm. Despite the location in the floodplain, soils cannot be classified as black-earth alluvial soils (mady czarnoziemne) using the criteria of Polish soil classification (2011). The soils on the Pleistocene non-flooded terraces have a deep, base-saturated humus horizon (mollic) and gleyic properties in the lower part of soil profile, which allows to classify them as the black earths (czarne ziemie). Prominent stratification of the parent material well preserved in these soils has no influence on their classification (due to the age sediments). Almost all humus horizons of these soils meet the definition of anthric characteristics, and more than half of the studied soils can be classified as culturozemic soils - rigosols - which emphasises the important role of man in the transformation and gaining of morphological features of these soils. The lack of precise criteria for identifying soil types in the chernozemic order of the Polish soil classification (2011) causes difficulties in the classification of soils on the river terraces, in particular, in distinguishing between black-earth alluvial soils and black earths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of Mining Sciences is the property of Polish Academy of Sciences 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 Archives of the History & Philosophy of Medicine / Archiwum Historii i Filozofii Medycyny is the property of Polskie Towarzystwo Historii Medycyny i Farmacji 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.)

The paper reviews and analyses the creating of new innovations in the field of public services, established under the cooperation of non-government and public organisations (local administration generally) in Poland, indicates the key types of innovations and public service sectors in which they appear, as well as reconstructs the process of creating innovations in the service sector in the context of collaboration of these two types of organisations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Polish Journal of Sports Medicine / Medycyna Sportowa is the property of Agencja Wydawnicza Medsportpress Sp. z o. o. 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.)

Lowering of groundwater levels caused by anthropogenic changes in the environment gives rise to global problems, most of which relate to soil degradation such as land desertification or organic soil degradation. The transformation of drainage-sensitive organic soils causes many irreversible changes during organic matter (OM) transformation. Phosphorous (P) behaviour is one of the aspects of OM transformation that requires further investigation, due to the P transformations' complex dependency on many environmental factors. Our study aimed to characterise behaviour of P and find indices reflecting P changes under the influence of OM transformation in drained organic soils in the Odra river valley. The studies were carried out on soils representing different stages of soil degradation in which basic soil properties, including different P forms, were determined with commonly used methods. The results showed significantly higher content of soluble P forms (Pw, PCaCl2, PM3), particularly in the most drained postmurshic soil (P1). The indices used in this study—Ip, PSD, C:Pt, N:Pt—reflected well the P and OM transformations in organic soils degraded by drainage. This was indicated by numerous statistically significant relationships between the indices and basic soil properties (e.g., Ash, C, N), as well as different P forms (Pt, Pmin, Pox, Porg, Pw, PCaCl2, PM3). The PSD and Ip values increased and the C:Pt and N:Pt ratios decreased with the degree of OM mineralisation and the degree of site drainage (P3 < P2 < P1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies in Poland. Based on the findings of clinical trials, it is safe to conclude that genetic predisposition and environmental factors are the main factors responsible for the formation of colorectal cancer.The NQO1 gene plays an important role in reducing endogenous and exogenous quinones as well as quinone compounds to hydroquinones. It is an enzyme which is a part of the body's antioxidant defense system. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the 609C > T polymorphism of the NQO1 gene and colorectal cancer risk in the Polish population. A total of 512 people were recruited for the study, including 279 patients with colorectal cancer, diagnosed at the University Hospital, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood and the analyzed polymorphism was determined by PCR-RFLP. In the present study, we analyzed the clinical valuesand frequency of NQO1 609C > T polymorphism in patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer and controls. In case of the carriers of the TT genotype of the NQO1 polymorphism, an elevated risk for colorectal cancer was observed (OR = 2.96; 95% CI: 1.02–10.40). The analysis of the clinical parameters concerning the location and characteristics of the tumor stage revealed a statistically significant increase in the risk for colorectal cancer in the carriers of the TT genotype of the NQO1 polymorphism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The conversion of spruce monocultures towards mixed and deciduous tree stands has been undertaken in central European countries, including south-western Poland. There is, however, still insufficient knowledge on the results of this transformation on the soil organic matter pools and humus forms. Thus, this study was focused on the relationship between altitude (a climatic factor), bedrock and soil type (trophic factors) and tree stand composition (a biotic factor steered by humans), and humus form, taking into account the forest litter and (mineral) humus horizon characteristics. The research was conducted as a part of environmental monitoring program in the Stolowe Mountains National Park (south-western Poland). Five aeromorphic humus forms (mull, moder–mull, moder, moder–mor, and mor) were noted in the soils of the Stolowe Mountains, and among them the mull, moder–mull and mor were distinctly correlated to specified sets of environmental factors. Litter thickness, SOC pools, and the concentrations of Pb and Cu increased with altitude and were higher on less fertile soils (Podzols developed from sandstone) under Norway spruce stands. Litter pH, in turn, decreased with altitude and was significantly higher on Eutric Cambisols and Luvisols under European beech stands. Among the compared environmental factors, bedrock geology was the least influencing factor, both on humus forms and forest litter characteristics, possibly due to the relatively small differences between the bedrocks (more or less acid regoliths, carbonate-free). Replacement of the Norway spruce by European beech will change the composition of forest litters and may transform the present-day moder and moder–mor humus forms into moder–mull and moder in those environments where spruce has previously been introduced in place of beech, against native soil trophic status. This transformation will restore natural ecological relationships in the forest ecosystems in south Poland and other Central European countries; however, it may reduce the topsoil organic carbon pools in the converted forest stands. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Central European forestry has started an ecologically-oriented conversion of spruce monocultures to broadleaf and mixed forests. Spruce stands in the mountains of south Poland are replaced mainly by beech. However, there is limited knowledge about the effects of “native” forest reconstruction on soil organic carbon (SOC) pools on a regional scale. We approximated the present SOC stocks and probable total SOC losses based on an inventory conducted on 373 monitoring plots in the Stolowe Mountains National Park, SW Poland, where Norway spruce prevails in 83% of forest stands. SOC pools are in relation to an altitude, soil and bedrock type; however, on all soils SOC are the lowest in pure beech stands. SOC pools in the forest litter under spruce monocultures are twofold larger than under beech. Mean present-day SOC stocks are 202 and 152Mgha−1 (0–100cm mineral soil+forest litter), respectively under spruce and beech. However, this 25%-difference in mean soil carbon stock between pure spruce and beech stands does not define the real SOC losses followed species replacement on a regional scale. When taking into account the present and target forest structures (evaluated in relation to soil quality, local climate and land morphology) an approximated long-term regional decrease of SOC stock is no larger than 7% in a 100cm-thick soil profile or 10% in upper 20cm layer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The unfavourable environmental conditions to Chernozem development in Central Europe has led to questions regarding their origin and age, and conditions necessary for Chernozem persistence in Central Europe under a humid climate. This paper deals with Chernozem transformation during the Holocene period in SW Poland in relation to land morphology. The study was based on a catenary approach, with additional remarks on parent material homogeneity and soil classification. Based on textural and geochemical indices, the homogeneity of aeolian material (loess) was proven in the main part of the catena, which confirmed that the differentiation of “dry” and “wet” chernozemic soil across the catena did not result from the variability of parent material. No differences in morphological or physicochemical characteristics of mollic horizons were identified between the well-drained and wet sections of the catena. The strong redoximorphic features (manifested as stagnic or gleyic properties) in the lowermost part of catena are, therefore, secondary features, i.e. developed after the mollic horizon development, presumably in late Holocene period. Chernozems with chernic horizon, weakly developed subsurface argic horizon and free of redoximorphic features prevail in the central, well-drained and not eroded section of the catena. It has been hypothesized that the loess soils in the uppermost, more inclined part of the catena have been truncated by erosion during the first agricultural period, then afforested and transformed into Luvisols, probably due to temporary abandonment of those sites less favourable for farming. The soils in the transitional zone received the colluvial addition of humus material from the eroded hill summit; however, the colour of the humus layer has a chroma too high for a chernic horizon that surprisingly shifted these soils to the Kastanozems group. This study showed that the direction of transformation of native Chernozems in the Holocene period was strongly related to their position in the landscape, which affected the erosion/accumulation intensity and water drainage conditions (soil moisture regime). As a final result of these transformations, a relief-related zonality of soils has developed with Stagnic/Gleyic Chernozems – Luvic Chernozems – colluvial “Kastanozems” – Haplic Luvisols, in the lower (moist), middle (well-drained), and upper colluvial/eroded sections of the undulating loess plain, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Water erosion leads to Chernozems' transformation to Phaeozems and Calcisols. • Chernozems and Chernic Rendzic Phaeozems may persist in elevated slope positions. • Sustainable agriculture plays crucial role in preservation and restoration of mollic horizons. Chernozems are considered to degrade under the temperate humid climate of Central Europe, particularly in the arable and undulating areas and, thus, exposed to erosion. The present study was carried out in the loess-covered Proszowice Plateau (southern Poland), which was found to have a continuous cover of chernozemic soils in the past. Ten soil profiles located in two neighbouring slope catenas have documented the sequence of chernozemic and non-chernozemic soils (Chernozems, Phaeozems, and Calcisols), impacted by water erosion under intense arable land use and spatially dependent on the relief intensity. Soils in elevated, strongly inclined (and, thus, intensely eroded) slope positions lost their mollic horizons and gained the features of Calcisols. However, soils in elevated, slightly inclined positions preserved the morphological and physicochemical features of Chernozems, even if their chernic horizons were thinned to a ploughing depth. Also the colluvial soils located on the short slopes, in close proximity to eroded hilltops, are saturated with secondary carbonates throughout the profile and retain their chernozemic features (Calcic Chernozems). Whereas, the colluvial soils located on the long, slightly inclined slopes, at a large distance to eroded hilltops, are deeply leached from carbonates and meet the criteria of Haplic Phaeozems (in well drained sites) or Gleyic Phaeozems (in poorly drained foothills and depressions). Moreover, the Chernic Rendzic Phaeozems with thick mollic/chernic horizons are present in elevated (thus expectedly eroded) parts of hills with thin loess overlying the limestone bedrock. The presence of chernic horizons in soils threatened by erosion indicates that the persistence of Chernozems and Chernic Rendzic Phaeozems is possible in undulating arable lands threatened by erosion in temperate humid climate of Central Europe if supported by sustainable agriculture, preventing soil erosion and organic matter loss from humus horizons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate radon in the vicinity of geologic fault zones within the Krakow region of Poland, and to determine the influence of such formations on enhanced radon concentrations in soil. Radon (222Rn and 220Rn) concentration measurements in soil gas (using ionization chamber AlphaGUARD PQ2000 PRO and diffusion chambers with CR-39 detectors), as well as radioactive natural isotopes of radium, thorium and potassium in soil samples (using gamma ray spectrometry with NaI(Tl) and HPGe detectors), were performed. Site selection was based on a geological map of Krakow. Geophysical methods (ground penetrating radar and shallow acoustic seismic) were applied to recognize the geological structure of the area and to locate the predicted courses of faults. Elevated levels of radon and thoron in soil gas were found in the study area when compared with those observed in an earlier survey covering Krakow agglomeration. For 222Rn, the arithmetic mean of registered concentration values was 39 kBq/m3 (median: 35.5 kBq/m3). For 220Rn, the arithmetic mean was 10.8 kBq/m3 and median 11.8 kBq/m3. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) is involved in the process of estrogen conjugation and elimination. The aim of the study was to analyze whether the UGT1A1 genetic variants are associated with the development of osteopenia and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. The analysis of the rs4148323 (UGT1A1*6) and rs3064744 (UGT1A1*28) variants in the UGT1A1 gene was conducted using real-time PCR. A significant correlation was observed between the genotypes of the rs3064744 (UGT1A1*28) sequence variant and body mass in women with osteoporosis. The analysis of the Z-score values revealed that women with osteoporosis and carrying the 6/6 variant had the lowest Z-score values as compared to women with the 6/7 and the 7/7 variants (- 1.966 ± 0.242 vs. - 1.577 ± 0.125 and - 1.839 ± 0.233). In addition, the odds ratio for the investigated genotypes (6/6, 6/7, 7/7) indicated an increased risk for osteopenia and osteoporosis in women with the 7/7 homozygous genotype. The analysis of the frequencies of the GG, GA and AA genotypes of the rs4148323 UGT1A1 gene showed no statistically significant differences between the groups. Our analysis revealed that the UGT1A1 rs3064744 variant may affect the risk of developing osteoporosis in postmenopausal Polish women. The UGT1A1 rs4148323 variant is not directly associated with the development of osteopenia and osteoporosis., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between the levels of select adipocytokines (adiponectin, visfatin and apelin) and angiotensin in converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (ID) polymorphism in lean women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The PCOS group ( N  = 94) was identified according to the Rotterdam criteria. The Control group ( N  = 68) included age- and body mass index (BMI)-matched healthy volunteers. Serum levels of adipocytokines were measured using enzyme immunoassays (EIA) and ACE genes were evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCOS group, when compared to the Control group had lower adiponectin ( p  < .001) but higher visfatin ( p  < .001) and apelin ( p  = .003). There was no significant correlation of the levels of these adipocytokines with BMI, fasting glucose, fasting insulin or Homeostasis Model Assessment-Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). The PCOS and the Control groups also differed with regard to the ACE ID genotype distribution ( p  < .001). The ID, DD, and II genotype frequencies were, respectively, 34, 57 and 9% in the PCOS group and 49, 22 and 29% in the Control group. When stratified according to individual ID genotypes, the levels of adipocytokines in the PCOS and the Control groups remained significantly different. There was no statistically significant relationship between the levels of adipocytokines and ACE ID genotypes.

Material and Methods: The study included 675 unrelated women (109 women with osteopenia, 333 women with osteoporosis, and 233 healthy women). Genomic DNA was extracted from the blood samples and the CYP19A1 polymorphisms were determined using the polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Bone mineral density at the lumbar spine (L1-L4) was measured with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)., Results: The analysis of the CYP19A1 rs749292 polymorphism showed that there were no statistically significant differences in the distribution of genotypes between the study groups with osteoporosis and osteopenia and the control group. However, it was noted that the GG genotype occurred more often in the group with osteopenia (35.8%; OR = 1.44) than in the control group (27.9%). Also, a difference was noted in the distribution of genotypes in women with osteoporosis. In addition, it can be assumed that the G allele may lead to an increased susceptibility to osteopenia and osteoporosis. The analysis of the CYP19A1 rs700518 polymorphism showed that heterozygotes were more common in the group with osteoporosis (58.3%) than in the control group (52.8%)., Conclusions: Our results suggest that the rs749292 polymorphism of the CYP19A1 gene may contribute to an elevated risk for fractures in postmenopausal Polish women.

Background: Postmenopausal osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease among women. The Wnt signaling pathway has been known to be the critical regulator of osteoblastogenesis. Alterations in this mechanism may have consequences for bone remodeling in humans., Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of genotypes and alleles of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs4988321 and rs312009 of LRP5 in Polish postmenopausal women with osteopenia (n = 109) and osteoporosis (n = 333). Potential correlations between genetic polymorphisms, bone mineral density (BMD), risk for bone fractures, and other clinical parameters were analyzed., Material and Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from the blood samples and the sequence polymorphisms of LRP5 gene were detected using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) methods with melting curve analysis. We also calculated the odds ratio (OR) for the LRP5 genotypes and the alleles. Then, we evaluated the effect of the LRP5 polymorphism on T-score, Z-score, L2L4AM, L2L4YA, L2L4BMD, body mass index (BMI), and other clinical parameters., Results: No statistically significant differences in the distribution of LRP5 rs312009 genotypes between the groups were observed. Furthermore, our findings indicate that there is no correlation between LRP5 genotypes and the clinical characteristics of women with osteopenia/osteoporosis. In contrast, there was an increased value of OR in heterozygotes for rs4988321, both in patients with osteopenia (OR = 1.47) and in those with osteoporosis (OR = 1.33). In our study, we were not able to calculate the OR parameter for the AA genotype due to its low prevalence in the population., Conclusions: Our results suggest that the Val667Met LRP5 (rs312009) polymorphism may contribute to an elevated risk for fractures in postmenopausal Polish women.

Objectives: The goal of this study was to evaluate the frequency of Sp1 +1245G>T (rs 1800012) and -199 7G>T (rs 1107946) COL1A1 gene polymorphisms in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis and osteopenia as well as assessing their relations with the clinical parameters and parameters of bone turnover., Study Design: The study included 538 (236 postmenopausal and 302 healthy reproductive) Polish women. The postmenopausal group included women with osteoporosis (n = 90), osteopenia (n = 90), as well as healthy individuals (n = 56). All women of reproductive age were healthy BMD was marked in the L2-L4 lumbar region of the spine using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood, the genotype frequency of investigated polymorphisms was determined by PCR-RFLP technique., Results: The frequency of Sp1 +1245G>T and -1997G>T polymorphisms of COL1A1 gene showed no statistically significant differences between group with osteoporosis, osteopenia and correct T-score and women of reproductive age. In postmenopausal women it was found that osteopenia and osteoporosis were correlated with age, birth weight, age of last menses occurrence, height, body weight and BMI value. Clinical parameters in all groups of women did not show any statistically significant correlation with frequency of Sp1 +1245G>T and -1997G>T COL1A1 polymorphisms., Conclusions: An evaluation of Sp1 +1245G>T (rs1800012) and -1997G>T(rs 1107946) COL1A1 polymorphisms showed any influence of these genetic variants on osteoporosis development in Polish postmenopausal women. The presented correlation between osteoporosis and age, birth weight, age of last menses occurrence, height, body weight and BMI value confirms the important role of environmental factors in disease etiology.

Objectives: The aim of our study was to evaluate the frequency of genotypes and alleles of the -11391G>A and +45T>G polymorphisms of the ADIPOQ gene in Polish women with excessive weight gain during pregnancy. A possible correlation between these polymorphisms and selected clinical and anthropometric parameters has been analyzed., Material and Methods: A total of 153 pregnant Caucasian women of Polish origin with normal pre-pregnancy body mass were analyzed: 78 women with excessive weight gain (study group) and 75 women with normal weight gain during pregnancy (control group). The analysis of the polymorphisms was performed by PCR/RFLP., Results: The influence of the -11391G>A polymorphism on body mass and BMI values at the end of pregnancy (p < 0.05) was observed. We also detected a correlation of the +45T>G polymorphism with body mass at the end of pregnancy and pre-pregnancy WHR values (p < 0.05)., Conclusions: The observed effect of the -11391G>A polymorphism on the parameters assessed at the end of pregnancy (BMI and body mass), suggests a protective role of the -11391A genetic variant in excessive weight gain. It is claimed that the mutated +45G allele of the +45T>G ADIPOQ polymorphism shows a possible connection with higher pre-pregnancy WHR values and body mass at the end of pregnancy Our findings suggest a possible contribution of the -11391G>A and +45T>G polymorphisms of the ADIPOQ gene to the pathomechanism of excessive weight gain in pregnant women from the Polish population. This observation should be confirmed in a larger sample size study

Objective: Preeclampsia (PE) is a major cause of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. The studies suggest that both polymorphisms and changes of expression in genes encoding enzymes involved in the methionine and homocysteine metabolism (MHM), such as methylenetetrahydrofolate, reductase (MTHFR), methionine synthase (MTR), methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) and cystathionine gamma-lyase (CSE), could play a role in the development of hypertension during pregnancy. The aim of the study was to determine the expression level of MTHFR, MTR, MTRR and CSE genes in the development of PE in Caucasian women., Study Design: The control group consisted of 74 healthy pregnant women and 90 patients with diagnosed pre-eclampsia. Total RNA was isolated from placenta and the mRNA level of examined genes was to determine using real-time PCR., Results: The expression level of MTHFR gene showed no statistically significant difference in the study group as compared to the control group. An increase of mRNA levels for MTR and CTH was observed by 124.7% (p<0.0001) and 26.6% (p>0.05), respectively. However, a decrease of placental expression was noted for MTRR by 50% in preeclamptic women as compared to control group (p<0.0001)., Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the elevated RNA expression of MTR in placenta of preeclamptic patients is probably results of a potential compensation mechanism of the MHM while elevated CSE expression indicates that homocysteine may be eliminated through the alternate transsulfuration pathway., (Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.)

Objectives: Osteoporosis is a chronic, generalized bone disease conditioned by many factors among which the genetic background plays the significant role. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP2), a growth factor belong to su- perfamily of TNF- proteins, is actively involved in bone tissue metabolism. BMP2 protein shows the osteoinduction potential and regulates growth of cartilage plate, and the same directly influences the process of osteogenesis., The Aim: The aim of study was to examine the frequency of genotypes and alleles of 570A>T and 5375G>A of BMP2 gene polymorphisms in population of Polish postmenopausal women, as well as to analyze the relationship between investigated polymorphic variants and bone turnover parameters., Material and Methods: Into the study 117 postmenopausal women, Caucasian race (average age 55,1 years) living in Wielkopolska region were classified. The analysis of 570A>T and 5375G>A BMP2 polymorphisms was performed by polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR/RFLP) while bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by DEXA method. In the research the chosen clinical and bone turnover parameters were analysed., Results: In both 570A>T and 5375G>A BMP2 polymorphisms the similar frequency of genotypes and alleles in investigated groups of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, osteopenia and in the group with correct T-score were noted. The analysis do not show the relationship of clinical and bone turnover parameters with particular genotypes of BMP2 polymorphisms in women with osteoporosis, osteopenia and in the group with correct T-score., Conclusions: The research did not confirm directly relationship of 570A>T and 5375G>A BMP2 polymorphisms with osteoporosis development in population of Polish postmenopausal women. The investigation also shows lack of correlation of 570A>T and 5375G>A BMP2 polymorphisms polymorphisms with analysed clinical and bone turnover parameters.

Introduction: Toll-like receptors (TLR) may play a key role in initiating cellular signaling pathways by increasing the levels of inflammatory cytokines which, cooperating with osteoclasts, influence bone turnover Numerous research articles focused on the genetic background of this condition, among others on polymorphic variants in TLR genes. The aim of the study was to examine the role of 20877G>A (Arg753GIn) in TLR2 gene and 8993C>T (Thr399lle) in TLR4 gene in the etiopathogenesis of postmenopausal osteoporosis in Polish women., Material and Methods: This study included 180 postmenopausal women (t-score < or = -2.5), 153 postmenopausal women with osteopenia (t-score between -2.5 and -1), and 91 postmenopausal healthy women with correct t-score (t-score >-1). The 20877G>A TLR2 and 8993C>T TLR4 polymorphisms were determined by PCR/RFLP analysis., Results: The analysis did not reveal statistically significant differences in the distribution of genetic variants of 20877G>A TLR2 polymorphism between the investigated groups of women. The most interesting results were connected with 8993C>T TLR4 polymorphism. Comparison of the group with osteoporosis and controls revealed overrepresentation of heterozygous 8993CT genotype (13.3 vs. 5.5%, OR=2.65, p=0.03). Also, mutated 8993T allele was overrepresented in the group with osteoporosis (6.7 vs. 2.7%, OR=2.52, p=0.04). Higher frequency of heterozygous 8993CT genotype (13.3 vs. 4.6%, OR=3.21, p=0.004) and mutated 8993T allele (6.7 vs. 2.3%, OR=3.05, p=0. 005) was noted in osteoporotic women as compared to the group with osteopenia. Higher frequency of heterozygous 8993CT genotype (13.3% vs. 5.3%, OR=2.73, p=0.003) and mutated 8993T allele (6.7 vs. 2.7%, OR=2.67, p=0.004) was observed in the group with osteoporosis as compared to women with osteopenia and with correct t-score., Conclusions: Results of our study suggest an important role of mutated 8993T allele of 8993C>T TLR4 polymorphisms in the etiology of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Nevertheless, this observation requires further investigation with larger sample size comprised of Polish women.

Background: Recurrent miscarriages (RM) are significant social and clinical problem. One of suggested reason of RM is hyperhomocysteinemia. Polymorphic genes involved in homocysteine and folate metabolism, including 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene, are considered as an important risk factors for homocysteine accumulation and modulator of RM susceptibility. Therefore the aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of MTHFR polymorphisms (677C>T, 1298A>C, and 1793G>A) in women with recurrent miscarriages., Material and Methods: We have analyzed 104 Polish women with a history of 3 or more unexplained recurrent miscarriages in the first pregnancy trimester (6-13 gestation week). The control group consisted of 169 women without obstetrical complication, any history of miscarriage and with at least one live birth in anamnesis. The investigated polymorphisms were determined by PCR/RFLP methods., Results: For MTHFR 1793G>A polymorphism we have observed significant overrepresentation of heterozygotic GA genotypes in RM group (15.38% vs. 4.14% in the controls, OR=4.21, p=0.003). For 677C>T and 1298A>C we have shown lack of significant association with RM. Nevertheless, such significant association was observed if more than one mutated MTHFR variant was present in one patient., Conclusions: Our research indicate the possible role of MTHFR 1793G>A polymorphism in pathogenesis of RM. The noticed tendency to more frequent occurrence of haplotypes of MTHFR gene including two or three mutated alleles showed the possibility of summarized amplification of these variants effect influencing RM susceptibility.

Risk factors associated with differentiated thyroid carcinoma depend on its histotype. Follicular carcinoma is described as a predominant type in the areas with iodine deficiency, in opposite to papillary thyroid cancer. The incidence of thyroid cancer and its histotypes varies considerably throughout Silesia (data obtained from the Institute of Oncology Cancer Register, Gliwice). The factors responsible for these differences are unknown. The aim of our study was to evaluate the present iodine supply in Silesia region and to relate it to the incidence of the various histotypes of thyroid carcinoma. Urinary iodine excretion observed in 7-11 year-old-children was used as a parameter of iodine supply and measured in the group of 1037 school children in sixteen localities, equally dispersed throughout Silesia. Urine samples were obtained to measure iodine concentration by the modified Sandell-Kolthoff's catalytic method. Mean incidence rates of papillary and follicular thyroid carcinoma were calculated for regions of Silesia by averaging the rates of the communities in each region. Despite the intensive iodine prophylaxis the persistent symptoms of iodine deficiency were observed. There were significant differences in children's ioduria among investigated regions. The percentage of low ioduria (lower then 100 micrograms/l) varied from 35.7% to 87.7%. We observed no correlation between age-adjusted rates for histotypes of thyroid carcinoma and the percentage of urine iodine below 100 micrograms/l, which served as an estimation of iodine deficiency. Our study indicates that Silesia is still an area of moderate iodine deficiency. We were unable to explain the factors responsible for the observed differences in the incidence rates of papillary and follicular thyroid carcinoma.