Search

As part of the infective process, Porphyromonas gingivalis must acquire heme which is indispensable for life and enables the microorganism to survive and multiply at the infection site. This oral pathogenic bacterium uses a newly discovered novel hmu heme uptake system with a leading role played by the HmuY hemophore-like protein, responsible for acquiring heme and increasing virulence of this periodontopathogen. We demonstrated that Prevotella intermedia produces two HmuY homologs, termed PinO and PinA. Both proteins were produced at higher mRNA and protein levels when the bacterium grew under low-iron/heme conditions. PinO and PinA bound heme, but preferentially under reducing conditions, and in a manner different from that of the P. gingivalis HmuY. The analysis of the three-dimensional structures confirmed differences between apo-PinO and apo-HmuY, mainly in the fold forming the heme-binding pocket. Instead of two histidine residues coordinating heme iron in P. gingivalis HmuY, PinO and PinA could use one methionine residue to fulfill this function, with potential support of additional methionine residue/s. The P. intermedia proteins sequestered heme only from the host albumin–heme complex under reducing conditions. Our findings suggest that HmuY-like family might comprise proteins subjected during evolution to significant diversification, resulting in different heme coordination modes. The newer data presented in this manuscript on HmuY homologs produced by P. intermedia sheds more light on the novel mechanism of heme uptake, could be helpful in discovering their biological function, and in developing novel therapeutic approaches.

This study was undertaken in order to estimate the effect of in vitro propagation on antioxidant activity in strawberry. Results of this research exhibited differences between conventionally and in vitro propagated plants in respect of all traits analyzed. In spite of the decrease in range and mean content of vitamin C and polyphenols as well as antioxidant activity, the genetic gain expressed as percent of mean was higher in microplants regarding phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant activity in contrast to conventional plants (22.39-20.83, 21.79-15.61, 9.52-3.39; resp.). Correlation and path coefficients showed changes of antioxidants inter-relations between micropropagated and conventional plants. Phenolics and vitamin C correlated positively with antioxidant activity in all genotypes. The highest positive direct effect on antioxidant activity was observed via vitamin C in microplants (0.705), while in conventional plants via phenolics (0.834). Flavonoids affected directly and positively antioxidant activity in microplants (0.103) and negatively in conventional plants (-0.143).

Surgical procedure has immense impact on the immune balance. However, little is known about perioperative changes in T regulatory and Th17 lymphocyte subpopulations in patients undergoing colorectal resection. Patients with resectable colon cancer were enrolled in the study. Blood samples were obtained on two occasions, i.e. before the procedure and two days after the surgery. We also recruited a control group of young, healthy individuals. Lymphocyte subpopulations were analyzed with the use of flow cytometry. Investigated subpopulations consisted of total lymphocyte count, CD4+, CD8+, T regulatory Foxp3+ (Tregs), Th17 lymphocytes and white blood cell (WBC) count. There were significant differences in immune cell levels before and after the surgery. Reduction was recorded in the CD4+, CD8+, Tregs and total lymphocyte counts (p=0.002, p=0.01, p=0.008 and p=0.001, respectively). Increase was observed in total WBC and Th17 cells, however, Th17 lymphocytes did not reach statistical significance (p=0.01 and p=0.5, respectively). In conclusion, surgical intervention caused changes in all lymphocyte subpopulations investigated in patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer. However, it seemed to be an effect of perioperative trauma. Further studies are needed to investigate the impact of surgical intervention on lymphocyte subpopulations., Kirurški zahvat ima golem učinak na ravnotežu imunog sustava. Međutim, malo se zna o perioperacijskim promjenama u subpopulacijama T regulatornih i Th17 limfocita u bolesnika podvrgnutih resekciji kolorektuma. U istraživanje su bili uključeni bolesnici s resektabilnim karcinomom kolona. Uzorci krvi prikupljeni su dva puta: prije zahvata i dva dana nakon operacije. Uključena je bila i kontrolna skupina sastavljena od mladih i zdravih osoba. Subpopulacije limfocita analizirane su protočnom citometrijom. Istraživane su sljedeće subpopulacije: ukupan broj limfocita, CD4+, CD8+, T regulatorni Foxp3+ (Tregs), Th17 i bijela krvna slika. Utvrđene su značajne razlike u razinama imuno stanica prije i nakon operacije. Snižene razine zabilježene su za CD4+, CD8+, Tregs i ukupni broj limfocita (p=0,002, p=0,01, p=0,008 odnosno p=0,001). Povišenje je zapaženo za bijelu krvnu sliku i Th17 stanice, međutim, Th17 limfociti nisu postigli statističku značajnost (p=0,01 odnosno p=0,5). Zaključujemo da je kirurški zahvat uzrokovao promjene u svim istraživanim subpopulacijama limfocita kod bolesnika podvrgnutih operaciji kolorektalnog karcinoma. Međutim, čini se da je to bio učinak perioperacijske traume. Potrebna su daljnja istraživanja kako bi se ispitao utjecaj kirurškog zahvata na subpopulacije limfocita.

Introduction. Nowadays, due to the “morphine effect”, the screening of methods that provide quick and effective platelet inhibition with oral P2Y12 inhibitors administrated simultaneously with morphine in patients with acute coronary syndromes are extensively investigated by numerous scientists. Metoclopramide, which stimulates the motility of gastrointestinal tract, may become a potential method of overcoming the negative morphine effect. The present study was designed to demonstrate the influence of metoclopramide administration on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of ticagrelor between patients with unstable angina pectoris treated with morphine and crushed ticagrelor. Methods/design. A study was designed as a phase IV, single-centre, randomized, investigator-initiated, parallel-group, open-label, interventional trial. Patients will be randomized in a 1:1 manner into two arms: 1) patients treated with a combination of crushed ticagrelor and morphine and 2) patients treated with a combination of crushed ticagrelor followed by morphine and metoclopramide. Blood sample collection will be scheduled directly before the administration of ticagrelor loading dose and 15, 30, 45, 60, 120, 180, 240, and 360 minutes after the loading dose. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic assessment of ticagrelor and its active metabolite will be evaluated in all pre-defined time points. Discussion. The current study is, to our knowledge, the first one to provide data on the influence of metoclopramide in patients with acute coronary syndromes, who received intravenous opioid analgesia. It is expected to contribute to the development of contemporary knowledge on the treatment of patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes, and should enable clinicians to implement strategies of quick platelet inhibition.

The main topic assumed in the deliberations of the present article is the phenomenon of dynamic changes in the demographic structure of the Polish society and their influence on the direction of changes in the development of selected aspects of the residential real estate market and its financing. As it turns out, the increasingly evident aging of the Polish society, on the one hand, and high emigration of working-age youth, who set up families abroad, on the other, have their multidirectional determinants and implications also in the context of the residential real estate market. This interesting and relatively new - as far as the Polish economy is concerned - phenomenon requires a more in-depth diagnosis and analysis by various experts Based on the newest available GUS, NBP, ZBP, BIK and KNF reports and statistics, as well as documents of developers, the development strategies of real estate development companies and the functioning of the banking sector engaged in financing the residential real estate market were analyzed in terms of their suitability to the occurring and forecasted demographic changes in society. The aim of the study is to indicate the need to reduce the risk of developers' projects and entities engaged in servicing the real estate market by continuously adapting their offers to changing socioeconomic conditions.

BACKGROUND Genome-wide and allelic association studies have shown the contribution of CHRNA5-A3-B4 nicotinic receptor subunit gene cluster within chromosome 15 to nicotine dependence (ND). While an association between several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at that locus and smoking quantity (cigarettes per day; CPD) has been well recognized, there are some inconsistencies in demonstrating the influence of these SNPs on other ND phenotypes. This uncertainty motivated us to examine the association of 3 selected SNPs (CHRNA3 rs1051730, rs6495308, and CHRNA5 rs55853898) with ND in an isolated population of Kashubians from Poland. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study sample consisted of 788 current daily smokers. ND was assessed by CPD, the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), its brief version - Heavy Smoking Index (HSI), and time to first cigarette after waking (TTF). The correlation between studied SNPs and dichotomized values of ND measures was assessed in the regression analysis. Bonferroni corrected p-value of 0.017 was set for a type 1 error. RESULTS We found a robust association between risk allele A of rs1051730 and CPD >10 (odds ratio (OR)=1.77, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.20-2.59, p=0.004), and a weak association, which did not survive correction for multiple testing, with FTND ³4. No associations between studied SNPs and HSI or TTF were demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS Our findings confirm that rs1051730 influences ND phenotype, as defined by CPD.

Introduction Many clinicians consider chronic gastritis to be equivalent to Helicobacter pylori infection. However, it is known that there are numerous other causes of the condition. Aim Determination of the incidence of gastritis in patients with dyspepsia referred for diagnostic endoscopy of the upper part of the digestive tract, identification of the parts of the stomach most frequently affected by the inflammation, as well as the impact of an insufficient number of collected samples on the correct diagnosis. Material and methods Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy due to dyspepsia was performed in 110 patients. In the course of gastroscopy two biopsy specimens were collected for histopathological examination and towards H. pylori infection from the lesser and greater curvature in the antrum 3 cm from the pyloric sphincter, in the body - 4 cm proximally to the stomach angular incisure on the lesser curvature, and in the middle of the greater curvature, as well as in the subcardiac region on the side of the lesser and greater curvature. Results In patients with dyspepsia H. pylori-negative chronic gastritis is more common than gastritis with accompanying H. pylori infection. Collection of too small a number of biopsy specimens results in failure to detect inflammatory changes and/or H. pylori infection, which may be limited to one part of the stomach. Biopsy specimens of gastric mucosa should be collected in compliance with the assumptions of the Sydney System. Helicobacter pylori infection in people with dyspepsia is now being reported more rarely than in the past (36%). Conclusions In patients with dyspepsia chronic H. pylori-negative gastritis is more common than gastritis with an accompanying H. pylori infection. Helicobacter pylori infection is not always equivalent to the presence of chronic gastritis.

Introduction Expiratory central airway collapse is defined by excessive inward bulging of either tracheobronchial posterior membrane or cartilage. The former is called excessive dynamic airway collapse (EDAC), and the latter, depending on the site of collapse, tracheomalacia, bronchomalacia or tracheobronchomalacia. Due to their non-specific symptoms and lack of awareness amongst clinicians they tend to be mislabeled as common obstructive lung disorders, or complicate their course undetected. Particular controversies refer to EDAC sometimes considered just as a symptom of obstructive lung disease and not a separate entity. Nonetheless, a growing body of evidence indicates that EDAC might be present in patients without apparent obstructive lung disease or it might be an independent risk factor in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma patients. Patient concerns Patient #1 was admitted because of idiopathic chronic cough whereas patient #2 was admitted for differential diagnosis of dyspnea of uncertain etiology. In both patients symptoms were unresponsive to bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids. Findings and diagnosis In both patients an excess collapse of tracheobronchial posterior membrane was detected during bronchoscopy; in patient #1, of right main bronchus and right upper lobe bronchus and in patient #2 of right upper lobe bronchus and both main bronchi. Excess central airway collapse in patient #2 was also visualized on expiratory chest CT. In patient #1 spirometry did not reveal obturation, whereas in patient #2 only mild, irreversible, obstruction was revealed, disproportionate to patients significant breathlessness. Interventions Both patients were treated with N-acetylcysteine and adjustable positive expiratory pressure valves. Outcomes Due to aforementioned treatment chronic cough in patient #1 subsided almost completely whereas patient's #2 dyspnea improved significantly. Conclusions In presented cases EDAC was an unexpected finding, even though, it firmly corresponded with reported symptoms. Treatment modification led to improvement of patients quality of life.

The phytochemical characteristic analysis of a group of 30 haskap berry genotypes was carried out bearing in mind the concern for the consumption of food with high nutraceutical value that helps maintain good health. Phytochemical fruit composition and antioxidant activity were assessed by the Folin&ndash, Ciocalteau, spectrophotometric, DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) as well as ABTS (2,2&prime, azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) method. Evaluation of antioxidant activity was referred to as the Trolox equivalent. The observed differences in the content of phenolics, flavonoids, vitamin C and antioxidant activity allowed us to select genotypes which, due to the high level of the analyzed compounds, are particularly recommended in everyone&rsquo, s diet. In addition, the analysis of the prospects of increasing the analyzed phytochemical properties, estimated by parameters such as heritability and genetic progress, indicates the effectiveness of breeding in relation to each of the analyzed traits. The results of the presented research can be used in the implementation of future breeding programs for this valuable species.

Strict connections of the real estate market with the financial market are an unquestionable phenomenon at every level of investing, starting from the lowest individual investor, and finishing with national and transnational players. One of the more interesting examples of such a dependency is the problem of the risk of financing the real estate market, which results from numerous macro-, mezo- and microeconomic conditions, including, inter alias, the phenomenon of capital migration, supranational bank regulations or the development of currency exchange rates on world markets. The most recent example of such a dependency is, among others, the decision of the National Bank of Switzerland from the beginning of 2015 to abandon the Swiss franc-euro cap, which will go down in the history of the world financial market. Its global effects will surely be very difficult to assess, while the resulting turbulences and consequences for many (institutional, corporation and individual) market participants cause, on the one hand, awaiting a reaction and actions aimed at helping entities affected by the consequences of the mentioned decision and, on the other, many questions and doubts. The paper will present current selected aspects concerning currency risk in the context of financing the residential real estate market and the directions of actions prepared in reaction to the abovementioned risk. Polish conditions will be presented against the background of examples of foreign solutions. The aim of the work is to present: the essence of currency risk in the context of the current financial situation of the Polish banking sector, the most important directions of proposals for remedial actions aimed at mitigating the effects of the significant increase in the exchange rate of the Swiss franc in relation to the Polish currency, a short overview of selected solutions/regulations regarding the exchange rate risk of mortgages taken out in a foreign currency in other countries. The method employed was the critical analysis of the most-recent reports and recommendations of the National Bank of Poland, Polish Financial Supervision Authority, Polish Banking Union, and other experts on the subject of financing the real estate market, as well as a comparative analysis of solutions regarding currency risk in selected countries.

Introduction: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome increases after menopause; however, the role of concomitant subclinical hypothyroidism has not been completely elucidated. The aim of the study was to identify associations between thyrotropin, immune status, inflammation, and metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women. The specific goals were: to assess thyrotropin (TSH) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentrations in the serum of subclinical hypothyroid postmenopausal women with and without metabolic syndrome and compare them with euthyroid controls; to test whether immune status is related to metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women and determine the role of IL-6; to examine the relationships between TSH and different features of metabolic syndrome: insulin resistance, waist circumferences, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), BMI, metabolic parameters (triglycerides, total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6). Material and methods: Three hundred and seventy-two postmenopausal women were included in the study: 114 women had subclinical hypothyroidism (10.0 uIU/mL > TSH ≥ 4.5 uIU/mL, normal fT4), and 258 women were in euthyreosis (TSH 0.35–4.5 uIU/mL, normal fT4); both groups were matched by age. Anthropometric measurements were conducted (BMI, waist circumference, WHR) and blood pressure was measured. In all subjects the following were assessed in serum: lipid profile, glucose, insulin, TSH, fT4, thyroid antibodies (T-Abs) — TPO-Abs, TG-Abs, and IL-6 concentrations. Results: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 49.12% in subclinical hypothyroid women and 46.89% in euthyroid women. However, the proportion of subjects with one or two abnormalities was significantly higher in the subclinical hypothyroid group (45.61%) than in the euthyroid group (32.17%). When we compared subclinical hypothyroid women with and without metabolic syndrome, subjects with metabolic syndrome had higher BMI, abdominal circumferences, WHR, and HOMA-I. They presented higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Serum concentrations of cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting glucose, IL-6, TSH, T-Abs were also higher and serum cHDL was lower. There were no significant differences in fT4 concentrations. A similar comparison was made for euthyroid women with and without metabolic syndrome. Higher BMI, waist circumference, WHR, HOMA-I, and systolic blood pressure were observed in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Serum concentrations of TSH, triglycerides, glucose, and IL-6 were also higher, but the concentration of cHDL was significantly lower. There were no significant differences in fT4, T-Abs, cholesterol levels, and diastolic pressure. When we compared euthyroid women T-Abs (+) and T-Abs (–), the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was similar (48.68% vs. 46.15%). There were no differences in BMI, waist circumference, WHR, lipid profile, glucose, and HOMA-I, fT4. However, thyroid autoimmunity was associated with elevated TSH and IL-6 levels. When we analysed subclinical hypothyroid women with and without thyroid autoimmunity, there were no significant differences in glucose and lipid profile. However, Hashimoto`s subjects were more obese, had higher waist circumference, WHR, HOMA-I, and higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Serum concentrations of TSH and IL-6 were also higher and fT4 was lower. Among all of the women, serum TSH concentration was significantly correlated with BMI, waist circumference, WHR, systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, and TPO-Abs. When the variables of subjects with upper quartile of TSH were compared with lower quartile of TSH, we found significantly higher BMI, waist circumference, WHR, increased concentration of IL-6, cholesterol, triglycerides, and T-Abs, and concentrations of cHDL and fT4 were lower. OR for metabolic syndrome in subjects with upper quartile TSH vs. lower quartile was 1.35 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–1.60). Conclusions: Our study confirms that metabolic syndrome in both euthyroid and subclinical hypothyroid women is connected with obesity, visceral fat accumulation, and higher TSH and IL-6 concentrations. Immune thyroiditis is associated with higher TSH and IL-6 levels. Obese subclinical hypothyroid women with Hashimoto`s thyroditis have a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome when compared with subclinical hypothyroid women without thyroid autoimmunity. It is possible that in the crosstalking between subclinical hypothyroidism and metabolic syndrome, enhanced proinflammatory cytokine release in the course of immunological thyroiditis plays a role. (Endokrynol Pol 2015; 66 (5): 394–403)

Introduction Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism, and orbitopathy is the most frequent extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves’ disease. The aims of this study were as follows: (1) to evaluate the serum concentration of HGF and IL-8 in the blood of newly diagnosed Graves’ disease patients with the first episode of active GO and healthy controls; (2) to estimate the influence of the thyroid function (euthyreosis vs. hyperthyreosis) on HGF and IL-8 blood levels in patients with active GO; (3) to evaluate the influence of intravenous (i.v.) methylprednisolone (MP) pulse therapy and additional oral MP treatment on HGF and IL-8 blood levels in patients with active GO. Patients and methods Thirty-nine Graves’ disease patients with the first episode of clinically active GO (Group A) were enrolled in the study. To estimate the influence of the thyroid function on serum concentrations of the studied proangiogenic factors, Group A was divided into Group A I (n = 18) in euthyroid and Group A II (n = 21) in hyperthyroid stage of Graves’ disease in moderate-to-severe stage of GO. The control group consisted of 20 healthy volunteers age- and sex-matched to the GO group. Concentrations of the studied proangiogenic factors in serum samples were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay before (Group A) and after (Group A1) intensive pulse i.v.MP treatment and 1 month after the end of additional oral MP treatment (Group A2). Results We found a significant increase in serum concentrations of studied factors in the GO group before immunosuppressive therapy when compared with the control group and decrease after i.v.MP treatment. One month after the end of additional oral MP treatment (Group A2), serum concentrations of HGF and IL-8 still decreased and no significant difference was observed in HGF and IL-8 concentrations when compared with the control group. We did not find the difference in serum concentration of the studied proangiogenic factors between patients in euthyroid and hyperthyroid stage of Graves’ disease before MP therapy. Conclusions Serum HGF and IL-8 concentrations are elevated in Graves’ disease patients with active Graves’ orbitopathy as compared to the healthy control group. Successful management of active Graves’ orbitopathy with glucocorticoids is associated with a decrease in HGF and IL-8 serum concentrations.

Introduction: Chronic liver disease caused by HBV and HCV infections, due to its great prevalence and serious medical consequences, is at the present time a significant clinical problem. An impaired liver function can provoke severe disturbances in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, and consequently in the bone metabolism resulting in hepatic osteodystrophy. The aim of this study was to determine whether there are significant differences in bone mineral density (BMD) and/or circadian levels of hormones connected with bone metabolism and bone turnover markers in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. Material and methods: Circadian levels (AUC, area under the curve) of GH, IGF-I, IGFBP-3, osteocalcin (BGLAP), C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP), PTH, 25(OH)D, total calcium and total phosporus were measured in the blood of members of the study group (n = 80). BMD was assessed using the dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry method of the L2-L4 lumbar spine. Data was compared to that of healthy individuals (n = 40). Results: BMD (1.05 g/cm3 vs. 1.20 g/cm3), total calcium concentration (2.20 mmol/L vs. 2.45 mmol/L), total phosphorus concentration (1.06 mmol/L vs. 1.33 mmol/L), IGF-I (AUC 3,982.32 ng/mL vs. 5,167.61 ng/mL), IGFBP-3 (AUC 725.09 ng/L vs. 944.35 ng/L), 25(OH)D (AUC 356.35 ng/mL vs. 767.53 ng/mL) and BGLAP (AUC 161.39 ng/L vs. 298 ng/L) were lower in the study group. GH (AUC 88.3 ng/mL vs. 48.04 ng/mL), iPTH (AUC 1,201.94 pg/mL vs. 711.73 pg/mL) and ICTP (AUC 104.30 μg/L vs. 54.49 μg/L) were higher in patients with hepatitis. Positive correlations were noted between bone mineral density and IGF-I, IGFBP-3, and BGLAP levels. Conclusions: Chronic viral hepatitis causes a decrease in bone mineral density. Impaired liver function disrupts homeostasis of the calcium– vitamin D–parathyroid hormone axis and provokes secondary hyperparathyroidism. Chronic viral hepatitis induces a decrease in the synthesis of IGF-I and IGFBP-3 and an increase in GH secretion. Hepatic osteodystrophy is probably caused by both changes in calciotropic hormones as well as in the somatotropin hormone axis.

The main purpose of the paper is to present some of the mechanisms connected with the functioning of the Polish housing market, with due regard to demand and supply volatility as well as the changing financial conditions at the time of the global financial crisis of the first decade of the present century. Special attention is given to the financial and legal regulations concerning the housing market, which were introduced in response to the economic downturn. On the basis of research conducted by the authors, as well as available reports and statistics for 2007-2013, the article will explore market phenomena (the size and pattern of demand, supply and prices on the housing market, and the changes they undergo) on the one hand, and the legal and financial regulatory changes directly affecting them, on the other. It will also study the effects of the implementation of the recommendations made by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF) by banks in the wake of the global financial crisis. These cause banks to tighten their credit policies and, accordingly, have an impact on their loan portfolios. Information from secondary sources has also been used, notably from the Central Statistical Office (GUS), the KNF, the National Bank of Poland (NBP), as well as the Polish Bank Association (ZBP) and the Credit Information Bureau (BIK). Changes that occurred during the period of economic crisis in the availability of housing have also been examined.

Phenoloxidases are oxidoreducting enzymes whose main function is the oxidation of phenols. The term phenoloxidase is often used interchangeably to describe three different enzymes: tyrosinase (EC 1.14.18.1), catechol oxidase, and laccase. Of these, only tyrosinase has two activities: (1) oxygenase activity to hydroxylate monophenols to ortho-diphenols and (2) oxidase activity responsible for further oxidation of ortho-diphenols to ortho-quinones. Tyrosinase is a key enzyme involved in the melanogenesis process, resulting in the formation of black-brown eumelanin and yellow-red feomelanin. In addition to the pigmentary role, human melanin protects against harmful ultraviolet radiation, while in invertebrate animals melanin is involved in the process of cuticle hardening, wound healing, clot formation, maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and defense reactions. In invertebrates, the tyrosinase is synthesized as a proenzyme that is activated by a serine proteases' cascade known as the phenoloxidase system. This system is considered as one of the innate immunity mechanisms.Oksydazy fenolowe są enzymami z klasy oksydoreduktaz, których główną funkcją jest utlenianie fenoli. Termin oksydaza fenolowa jest często używany zamiennie na określenie trzech różnych enzymów: tyrozynazy (EC 1.14.18.1), oksydazy katecholowej oraz lakazy. Spośród nich, jedynie tyrozynaza wykazuje dwie aktywności: (1) aktywność oksygenazy umożliwiającą hydroksylację monofenoli do orto-difenoli oraz (2) aktywność oksydazy odpowiedzialną za dalsze utlenianie orto-difenoli do orto-chinonów. Tyrozynaza jest kluczowym enzymem procesu melanogenezy, w wyniku którego powstają czarno-brązowa eumelanina i żółto-czerwona feomelanina. Poza rolą pigmentacyjną, melanina u człowieka pełni funkcję ochronną przed szkodliwym promieniowaniem ultrafioletowym, natomiast u zwierząt bezkręgowych zaangażowana jest w procesy twardnienia oskórka, gojenie ran, formowanie skrzepu, utrzymanie homeostazy jelita oraz reakcje obronne. U bezkręgowców tyrozynaza jest syntetyzowana jako proenzym, a jej aktywna forma pojawia się w wyniku uruchomienia kaskady proteaz serynowych nazywanej układem oksydazy fenolowej. Układ ten stanowi jeden z mechanizmów odporności wrodzonej.

Proteolytic enzymes and their inhibitors are crucial in host-pathogen interaction. Metalloproteases secreted by pathogenic microbes play an important role in destroying not only host tissues but also their immune proteins. Metalloproteinase inhibitors, in contrast, may serve as effective therapeutic agents, which is especially important because of the increasing number of microorganisms resistant to known antibiotics. The role of metalloproteases produced by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the colonization of the host organism is described. Attention has also been paid to the role of inhibitors of these enzymes in defense responses and underlined their potential role in inhibiting the development of infection.Ważną rolę w oddziaływaniach gospodarz-patogen odgrywają enzymy proteolityczne i ich inhibitory. Metaloproteinazy wydzielane są przez drobnoustroje patogenne jako czynniki wirulencji, w celu niszczenia nie tylko tkanek gospodarza, ale także jego białek odpornościowych. Dlatego inhibitory tych enzymów mogą służyć jako skuteczne środki terapeutyczne, co jest szczególnie ważne ze względu na rosnącą liczbę drobnoustrojów opornych na znane antybiotyki. W niniejszej pracy opisano rolę metaloproteaz wytwarzanych głównie przez bakterię pałeczki ropy błękitnej Pseudomonas aeruginosa w zasiedleniu organizmu gospodarza. Zwrócono również uwagę na udział inhibitorów tych enzymów w reakcjach obronnych i podkreślono ich potencjalną rolę w hamowaniu rozwoju infekcji.

This article presents updated diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines for the management of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNEN), proposed by the Polish Network of Neuroendocrine Tumours. The guidelines contain new data received in the years 2013-2016, which confirm previous recommendations, and have led to modification of previous guidelines or have resulted in the formulation of new guidelines. Biochemical and imaging (anatomical and functional) tests are of great importance in diagnostics, as well as histopathological diagnosis to determine the management of PNEN patients, but they must be confirmed by an immunohistochemical examination. PNEN therapy requires collaboration among the members a multidisciplinary team of specialists experienced in the management of these neoplasms. Surgery is the basic form of treatment in many cases. Further therapy requires a multidirectional procedure; therefore, the rules of biotherapy, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, molecular targeted therapy, and chemotherapy are discussed.

Hyperhomocysteinemia is considered an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis and thrombosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate plasma homocysteine, red blood cell folate, plasma folate, and plasma vitamin B12 concentration in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (ARMD).The participants of this study included 30 patients aged 60 to 71 years (mean age 66.2+/-3.6) with exudative ARMD. Plasma homocysteine levels were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Red blood cell folate, plasma folate, and plasma vitamin B12 concentration were determined using a standard kit (Dualcount Solid Phase No Boill radioassay kit for B12/folic acid, DPC Diagnostic, USA) by radioassay method.The plasma concentration of Hcy (14.88+/-6.23 micromol/L) in ARMD patients was significantly increased (p0.0001) compared with the control group (8.72+/-3.34 micromol/L). We found not a significant decrease of the plasma vitamin B12 concentration in the ARMD group (476.88+/-220.91 pg/mL) compared with the control group (527.08+/-208.97 pg/mL). Red blood cell folate (158.44+/-56.30 ng/mL) and plasma folate (6.5+/-3.4 ng/mL) in ARMD patients were also not significantly decreased when compared with the control group (183.86+/-59.33 ng/mL and 7.93+/-5.05 ng/mL).Hyperhomocysteinemia might be one of the risk factors for the exudative form of ARMD.

Neuroendocrine neoplasms/tumours (NENs/NETs) of the large intestine are detected increasingly often, especially rectal tumours, which is probably associated with the widespread use of screening colonoscopy. There is a growing body of evidence supporting the thesis that the NENs of the rectum and the NENs of the colon are two different diseases. Rectal NENs are usually small lesions, of low to moderate histological malignancy, associated with good prognosis, and most may be treated endoscopically. NENs of the colon, however, are often aggressive, poorly differentiated, associated with a poor or uncer-tain prognosis, and require surgical treatment. The management guidelines regarding these groups of patients are constantly changing. On the basis of the recent literature data and conclusions reached by the working meeting of the Polish Network of Neuroendocrine Tumours (December 2016), this study completes and updates the data and management guidelines regarding colorectal NENs published in Endokrynologia Polska 2013; 64: 358-368.

Tobacco smoking is the single most important modifiable factor in increased morbidity and premature mortality. Numerous factors—including genetics, personality, and environment—affect the development and persistence of tobacco addiction, and knowledge regarding these factors could improve smoking cessation rates. This study compared personality traits between never, former, and current smokers, using the Five-Factor Model of Personality in a country with a turbulent smoking reduction process.: In this cross-sectional study, 909 Polish adults completed the Revised Neuroticism-Extraversion-Openness Personality Inventory. Our results showed that current smokers’ scores for extraversion, one of the five global dimensions of personality, were higher relative to never smokers. Neuroticism, openness to experience, agreeableness, and conscientiousness did not differ significantly according to smoking status. Facet analysis, which described each dimension in detail, showed that current smokers’ activity and excitement seeking (facets of extraversion) scores were higher relative to those of never and former smokers. In turn, current smokers’ dutifulness and deliberation (facets of conscientiousness) scores were lower than those found in former and never smokers. Never smokers scored the highest in self-consciousness (a facet of neuroticism) and compliance (a component of agreeableness). The study conducted among Polish individuals showed variation in personality traits according to their smoking status; however, this variation differed from that reported in countries in which efforts to reduce smoking had begun earlier relative to Poland. Knowledge regarding personality traits could be useful in designing smoking prevention and cessation programs tailored to individuals’ needs.

Progress in the diagnostics and therapy of gastro-entero-pancreatic (GEP) neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN), the published results of new randomised clinical trials, and the new guidelines issued by the European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society (ENETS) have led the Polish Network of Neuroendocrine Tumours to update the 2013 guidelines regarding management of these neoplasms. We present the general recommendations for the management of NENs, developed by experts during the Third Round Table Conference - Diagnostics and therapy of gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms: Polish recommendations in view of current European recommenda-tions, which took place in December 2016 in Żelechów near Warsaw. Drawing from the extensive experience of centres dealing with this type of neoplasms, we hope that we have managed to develop the optimal management system, applying the most recent achievements in the field of medicine, for these patients, and that it can be implemented effectively in Poland. These management guidelines have been arranged in the following order: gastric and duodenal NENs (including gastrinoma); pancreatic NENs; NENs of the small intestine and appendix, and colorectal NENs.

Experiments leading to the procurement of subsequent inbred generations were conducted in the years 2006- 2013. Seeds obtained from open pollination and after self-pollination of four strawberry cultivars (Teresa, Senga Sengana, Kent and Chandler) and clone 1387 were used. These genotypes were evaluated for their tolerance to strong inbreeding under in vitro culture conditions. The aims of this study were to estimate the inbreeding depression of each of the progenies. During the investigation, the germination percentage as well as seedling viability were evaluated. The highest seed germination was shown for populations derived from ‘Teresa’ × open pollination (82%) and ‘Kent’ (7) S4 (78%). Seeds derived from self-pollination resulted in the lowest germination - an average of 16.8%. Generally, seed germination was significantly lower for the five S1 offspring, whose depression was 0.62, in comparison with the S4 seedlings, whose depression was 0.31. Inbred offspring showed a depression in relation to the average weight of a single seedling of 0.08 in the case of S1 progeny, whereas in the case of S4 progeny it was 0.23. The highest germination energy was shown by ‘Kent’ (7) S4 seeds (74%) and hybrids of ‘Teresa’ derived from open pollination (75%); whereas seeds obtained at the same time from self-pollination germinated 10.8% on average.

Wstep: Pierwsza cześc pracy dotyczy ludzi zdrowych — dostarcza dane o stezeniach TGFβ1 i VEGF we krwi (z podzialem i bez podzialu na plec), ich wartości punktowe (godz. 8), średniodobowe stezenie (MDC), pole pod krzywą (AUC; calkowite dobowe wydzielanie), rytm okolodobowy. Druga cześc pracy dotyczy orbitopatii Gravesa (GO). Celem pracy bylo: 1) określenie fizjologicznego wzoru wydzielania TGFβ1 i VEGF; 2) porownanie okolodobowych surowiczych stezen TGFβ1 i VEGF u chorych z nowo rozpoznaną nadczynnością tarczycy i aktywną fazą GO oraz u ludzi zdrowych (H); 3) ocena wplywu wysokodawkowej dozylnej pulsacyjnej terapii metyloprednizolonem (MP) na stezenia TGFβ1 i VEGF we krwi chorych z GO. Material i metody: Przebadano 22 zdrowych (H); 16 pacjentow z nadczynnością tarczycy i GO leczonych MP (6 g/14 dni) obserwowanych okulistycznie. Krew pobierano przed i po 2 tygodniach terapii MP. Stezenia TGFβ1 i VEGF oznaczono metodą ELISA. Wyniki: Nie stwierdzono roznic w stezeniu TGFβ1 i VEGF we krwi miedzy zdrowymi kobietami i zdrowymi mezczyznami — dalszym analizom poddawano wiec grupe zdrowych (H) skladającą sie z kobiet i mezczyzn. Krew pobierano przed i po 2 tygodniach terapii MP. Choc wykazanie braku rytmow okolodobowych stezen TGFβ1 i VEGF we krwi umozliwia zastosowanie ich oceny punktowej to jednak stwierdzono, ze bardziej precyzyjną jest ocena MDC i AUC. Nie wykazano roznicy w TGFβ1 MDC/AUC miedzy GO i H. VEGF MDC/ AUC byly wyzsze u GO niz u H. MP zwiekszyl TGFβ1 MDC/AUC, tym samym u GO po MP, TGFβ1 MDC/AUC byly tez wyzsze niz u H. Nie stwierdzono roznicy w VEGF MDC/AUC podczas MP. MP byl skuteczny u 15/16 chorych. Wnioski: 1. Terapia MP zwieksza MDC i AUC TGFβ1. Skutecznośc MP u chorych z aktywną fazą GO moze byc związana z jego wplywem na stezenia TGFβ1 we krwi, co sugeruje istnienie nieznanego dotąd mechanizmu dzialania glikokortykosteroidow polegającego na zwiekszaniu wydzielania TGFβ1. 2. Podwyzszone stezenia VEGF we krwi u chorych z nadczynnością tarczycy i aktywną fazą GO mogą byc odzwierciedleniem dlugotrwalego procesu autoimmunologicznego w tkankach oczodolu i tarczycy oraz nasilonej angiogenezy w gruczole tarczowym. (Endokrynol Pol 2014; 65 (5): 349–356)

Introduction: Thyroid orbitopathy (TO) is the most frequent extrathyroid manifestation of Graves’ disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum concentration of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Plated-Derived Growth Factor-AA (PDGF-AA) in the blood of patients with active OT before and after immunosuppressive therapy. Patients and Methods: The study was performed in group of 39 patients with clinically active TO (Group A) in euthyroid (n=18, Group A I) and hyperthyroid (n=21, Group A II) stage of Graves’ disease in moderate or severe stage of TO. Control group consist of 20 healthy age-matched control subjects. Concentration of studied proangiogenic factors in serum samples were measured by an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) before (group A) and after (group A1) intensive pulse methylprednisolone treatment and one month after the end of additional oral methylprednisolone treatment (Group A2). Results: We have found significant increased serum levels of VEGF in patients with TO (reg­ardless to treatment) when compared with control group (542.4±328.1 pg/ml vs. 94.6±55.3 pg/ml, p=0.0002) and increased serum levels of ­PDGF-AA in patients before treatment (3 173.6±1 480.3 pg/ml) in comparison with controls (1 768.9±520.0 pg/ml) and patients after intensive pulse methyloprednisolone treatment (2 325.9±1 456.8 pg/ml). One month after the end of additional oral methylprednisolone treatment (Group A2) concentration of PDGF-AA still decreased and were was not significant difference with value in control group (1 853.1±795.4 vs. 1 769.9±520.0 pg/ml, p=0.99). Serum concentration of VEGF was still significantly higher compared with control. We have not observed difference in serum concentration of studied proangiogenic factors between patients in euthyroid or hyperthyroid stage of Graves’ disease. Conclusions: Results of the present study confirm the fact that angiogenesis could play a role in pathogenesis of thyroid orbitopathy.

Fragaria vesca (wild strawberry) belongs to the Rosaceae family. Besides the leaves (Fragariae folium) and roots (Fragariae radix), the aromatic fruits (Fragariae fructus) of wild strawberry are also herbal materials used in medicine. The aim of this study was to compare the value of phytochemical and antioxidant activity of wild strawberry fruits (Fragaria vesca L.). The fruits were analyzed regarding their secondary metabolites contents (flavonoids, sum of phenolic acids, tannins, anthocyanins, DPPH), depending on the origin of the raw material (from natural habitats vs. cultivation). According to the obtained results, raw material originating from natural habitats contained significantly more flavonoids (0.559 mg∙g -1 ), compared to fruits harvested from cultivation (0.472 mg∙g -1 , on average). Mean concentration of phenolic acids ranged from 1.648 mg∙g -1 – 2.348 mg∙g -1 , although the wild form was characterized by higher levels of examined substances. Tannins are an important fraction of phenolic compounds; their content in studied fruits ranged from 2.2% (from cultivation) – 3.0% (from natural habitats). When comparing the average contents of anthocyanins in the studied materials, it was revealed that remarkably more of these compounds were recorded in wild strawberry fruits harvested from natural habitats vs. those from cultivations: 132 mg∙100 g -1 vs. 90 mg∙100 g -1 . A difference was indicated with respect to the ability of DPPH radical

[i]Fragaria vesca[/i] (wild strawberry) belongs to the Rosaceae family. Besides the leaves ([i]Fragariae folium[/i]) and roots ([i]Fragariae radix[/i]), the aromatic fruits ([i]Fragariae fructus[/i]) of wild strawberry are also herbal materials used in medicine. The aim of this study was to compare the value of phytochemical and antioxidant activity of wild strawberry fruits ([i]Fragaria vesca L[/i].). The fruits were analyzed regarding their secondary metabolites contents (flavonoids, sum of phenolic acids, tannins, anthocyanins, DPPH), depending on the origin of the raw material (from natural habitats vs. cultivation). According to the obtained results, raw material originating from natural habitats contained significantly more flavonoids (0.559 mg∙g [sup]-1[/sup] ), compared to fruits harvested from cultivation (0.472 mg∙g [sup]-1[/sup] , on average). Mean concentration of phenolic acids ranged from 1.648 mg∙g[sup] -1[/sup] – 2.348 mg∙g [sup]-1[/sup] , although the wild form was characterized by higher levels of examined substances. Tannins are an important fraction of phenolic compounds; their content in studied fruits ranged from 2.2% (from cultivation) – 3.0% (from natural habitats). When comparing the average contents of anthocyanins in the studied materials, it was revealed that remarkably more of these compounds were recorded in wild strawberry fruits harvested from natural habitats vs. those from cultivations: 132 mg∙100 g [sup]-1[/sup] vs. 90 mg∙100 g [sup]-1[/sup] . A difference was indicated with respect to the ability of DPPH radical reduction to diphenylpicrylhydrazine by extracts made of examined fruits.