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Fresh meat has a limited shelf life and is prone to spoilage. Drying serves as a common method for food preservation. Non-thermal techniques such as ultrasound treatment (US) can positively affect the drying processes and alter the final product. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of US pre-treatment on the hot air (HA) and freeze-drying (FD) of chicken breast meat and the quality of the dried products. US pre-treatment had a varied impact depending on the drying method used. The contact US method extended the HA drying time (about 50%) but improved water removal during FD (about 30%) compared to the untreated samples. Both methods resulted in low water content (

By increasing the permeability of the cell membrane of the treated material, pulsed electric fields (PEF) enhance the internal transport of various chemical substances. Changing the distribution of these components can modify the chemical and thermal properties of the given material. This study aimed to analyze the impact of PEF (1 kV/cm; 1 and 4 kJ/kg) applied to strawberries prior to drying by various methods (convective, infrared-convective, microwave-convective, and vacuum) on the chemical and thermal properties of the obtained dried materials (sugars content, total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity (ABTS and DPPH assays); thermal properties (TGA and DSC); and molecular composition (FTIR)). PEF could have induced and/or enhanced sucrose inversion because, compared to untreated samples, PEF-pretreated samples were characterized by a lower share of sucrose in the total sugar content but a higher share of glucose and fructose. Reduced exposure to oxygen and decreased drying temperature during vacuum drying led to obtaining dried strawberries with the highest content of antioxidant compounds, which are sensitive to these factors. All PEF-pretreated dried strawberries exhibited a lower glass transition temperature (Tg) than the untreated samples, which confirms the increased mobility of the system after the application of an electric field.

Pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment is known as a method that can intensify heat- and mass-transfer-based processes such as osmotic dehydration, drying, or freeze-drying. However, the literature about its impact on quality of freeze-dried products is limited to a few raw materials. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of PEF on the cell disintegration index, selected bioactive compounds, and physical quality parameters of freeze-dried pumpkin. The final quality of the freeze-dried product was evaluated by residual moisture content, color analysis, total phenolic content, total carotenoid content, sugars content, and hygroscopic properties. The application of PEF treatment induced the disintegration of pumpkin cells even at low energy input (0.11 kJ/kg), and the saturation level of electroporation was reached after 4 kJ/kg. PEF treatment at 2 kJ/kg allowed 40% more total carotenoids to be retained in comparison to the untreated sample. Furthermore, all PEF-treated freeze-dried pumpkin samples exhibited lower sucrose content but had higher glucose and fructose contents in comparison to the reference samples. However, this effect was more pronounced when the shelf temperature was equal to 40 °C.

Beetroots are sources of bioactive compounds and valued pigments such as betalains. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of ultrasound pretreatment on the beetroot infrared–hot air drying process and the functional properties of the obtained product. In this study, there were two used frequencies—21 and 35 kHz—and three different periods of time—10, 20, and 30 min. Since beetroots are usually subjected to thermal treatment, another aim was to examine the influence of blanching and soaking on the beetroot tissue properties in order to compare traditional and ultrasound-treated methods. As a result of this study, it was found that ultrasound pretreatment changed the dry matter content, water activity, thickness of the tissue, total color difference, and contents of betanin pigments in the beetroot. It was revealed that the drying process is shorter after ultrasound pretreatment using a 21 kHz frequency. Drying tissue exposed to ultrasounds showed a significant increase in the L* parameter; however, the decrease in the a* parameter was caused by a reduced content of betalain pigments. Taking into consideration parameters important from a technological point of view, it was found that the best condition for beetroot pretreatment is 20 min treatment, regardless of the frequency used.

The properties of fresh meat, such as high water activity, a slightly acidic reaction, and the availability of carbohydrates and proteins, make it a microbiologically unstable and easily perishable raw material. One of the oldest food preservation techniques is drying. Furthermore, non-thermal food processing techniques such as pulse electric field (PEF) treatment can be used to support the drying process and change the properties of the obtained product. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the impact of pulsed electric field treatment on the hot air-drying and freeze-drying of poultry meat as well as on the quality of the dried meat. The PEF pretreatment and drying methods significantly altered the physical characteristics of the poultry meat. The PEF treatment enhanced the efficiency of freeze-drying by electroporation, reducing drying time and shrinkage. However, in the hot air-drying, the PEF-treated samples prolonged drying, potentially due to muscle structure damage and increased shrinkage. The pretreatment techniques affected the structure of the meat and positively influenced the higher porosity and lower shrinkage. Also, drying decreased the water activity and increased the dry matter content, which ensured the safety of the final product. The freeze-dried material exhibited a higher rehydration rate, improved hygroscopic properties, and better meat color compared to the hot air-dried material. Nevertheless, the selection of the process parameters, for both the pretreatment and drying process, is crucial to ensure a high quality of the dried meat product and should be selected carefully in order to guarantee that the highest quality of the dried product is obtained.

Currently, the demands of consumers are growing, and they expect safe and natural products of higher quality compared to products processed using thermal methods. Thermal treatment influences the sensory as well as quality and nutritional value of processed plant material. This results in the development of innovative, non-thermal methods of food preservation and processing. Hence, the study was conducted to examine how ultrasound (US) and pulsed electric field (PEF) affect the osmotic dehydration process of strawberries. An US treatment with a power of 400 W and a frequency of 24 kHz for 30 and 90 s and a PEF treatment were used, adopting the appropriate energy consumption of 1 and 2.5 kJ/kg. Then, strawberries after both processes were osmotically dehydrated in 0.5; 1, and 2 h at 30 °C. Dehydration was carried out in a 50% sucrose solution. Research findings have indicated that the pretreatment positively enhanced the efficiency of osmotic dehydration. An improvement in the dry weight gain rate was noted. Strawberries dehydrated with the use of pretreatment had similar or lower color values and the content of bioactive components compared to strawberries subjected to dehydration only. The material treated with the PEF turned out to be the softest. Significant differences in sugar content were noted in fruits after pretreatment. Sucrose levels increased, glucose levels decreased, and fructose remained at a comparable level.

The study aimed to determine the influence of a pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment on vacuum drying (VD) of apples and their selected quality parameters. The apples were treated with a PEF at 1 kV.cm-1 (with a variable amount of the specific energy input: 1, 3.5, and 6 kJ.kg-1) before VD at 4 kPa (with a variable drying temperature: 40 °C, 55 °C, and 70 °C). The drying time, microstructure, retention of total phenolics (TPC) as well as the antioxidant activity of the obtained dried materials were studied. As a result of opening the cell structure of the apple tissues, the PEF significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the drying time - depending on the used process parameters - by 6-22%. Moreover, an increase in the drying temperature also shortened the drying time. The electroporation led to obtaining porous materials after drying, and with the higher amount of specific energy during the PEF pre-treatment that was applied, a higher porosity was observed in the dried apples. After the PEF-assisted VD, a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in the TPC (by 12-40%) and antioxidant activity (by 23-81%) were observed.

The benefits of using hybrid drying are increasingly remarked. Microwave-convective drying (MW-CD) links the advantages of both microwave and convective drying methods and allows the negative phenomena that appear when the methods are used separately to diminish. Most importantly, reduced specific energy consumption and relatively short drying time are observed, which can be additionally decreased by the application of various preliminary treatments, e.g., pulsed electric field (PEF). Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the impact of PEF pretreatment on the MW-CD of apples and its chosen physicochemical properties. This research was designed using response surface methodology (RSM). The first variable was microwave power (100, 200, and 300 W), and the second was specific energy input (1, 3.5, and 6 kJ/kg). Optimization responses were assumed: drying time to MR = 0.02, water activity, hygroscopicity after 72 h, rehydration ratio, relative dry matter content, total phenolic content, ability to scavenge ABTS•+ radical cations, and DPPH• radicals based on the EC50 values. The most optimal parameters were comprised of specific energy intake of 3.437 kJ/kg and microwave power of 300 W (desirability equalled 0.624), which provided the most minimized drying time and obtaining of apples with the most desired properties.

The conditions of convective drying induce a negative effect on the quality of the dried products, and thus, innovative solutions, such as the utilization of ultrasound and dehumidified air are gaining importance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of ultrasound pretreatment and variable air temperature on the kinetics of convective drying with dehumidified air and the quality of dried apples. Apples were dried with dehumidified and non-dehumidified air at 55, 70 and 85 °C. Preliminary ultrasound treatment was conducted by immersion for 60 min. The effect of both ultrasound and dehumidified air utilization was more prominent in the terms of drying time reduction, when lower drying temperatures were used. Drying of apples with dehumidified air, preceded by ultrasound pretreatment, resulted in a greater rehydration capacity of the products, and limited the browning process. Dehumidified air increased the lightness of the dried products, while sonication darkened them. The use of ultrasound before drying coupled with a drying with dehumidified medium at a temperature of 70 °C reduced the exposure of the product to a high temperature and oxygen. Products treated before dehumidified air drying with ultrasounds were characterized by high total phenolic content and the greatest antioxidant activity. This was because such technological treatment reduced exposure of the product to a high temperature and oxygen.

The aim of this work was to compare selected physicochemical properties of air dried ‘Golden Delicious’ apples, pretreated either by high-pressure processing (HPP), ultrasound (US) or pulsed electric field (PEF). Following parameters of pretreatment were used: HPP–400 MPa for 15 min, US–21 kHz, 180 W for 45 min, PEF–1 kV/cm, 3.5 kJ/kg. The quality of materials was evaluated by their rehydration properties, hygroscopicity, color and total phenolic content. To compare the effectiveness of the utilized methods, determined properties were expressed as relative comparison values against the reference sample obtained without any pretreatment in the same conditions. The performed research demonstrated that properties can be shaped by the application of proper pretreatment methods. For instance, PEF was shown to be the best method for improving water uptake during rehydration, whereas HPP was the most effective in decreasing hygroscopic properties in comparison with untreated dried apples. Among the investigated methods, HPP resulted in the deepest browning and thus total color difference, while the effects of US and PEF were comparable. For all pretreated dried apples, the total phenolic content was lower when compared with reference material, though the smallest drop was found in sonicated samples.

The portrayal of women in the advertising industry has been a topic of ongoing debate for over four decades. Advertisers worldwide have been consistently accused of perpetuating inappropriate and degrading stereotypes of women, including their bodies and their perceived roles in a male-dominated society. Although recent years have seen increased public awareness of such harmful practices, with #metoo movement and some prominent brands promoting the concept of women’s empowerment, significant progress towards portraying women in a manner that respects their dignity and avoids reducing them to sexual objects still remains rather elusive. The primary objective of this paper is to analyse the representation of women in selected printed advertisements from the past two decades of advertising and determine whether there has been any significant shift in recent years. Additionally, the paper seeks to examine the possible implications of sexual objectification in contemporary advertising, with a particular focus on the potential transition from sexual objectification to sexual subjectification. The primary objective of this paper is to analyse the representation of women in selected printed advertisements from the past two decades of advertising and determine whether there has been any significant shift in recent years. Additionally, the paper seeks to examine the possible implications of sexual objectification in contemporary advertising, with a particular focus on the potential transition from sexual objectification to sexual subjectification.

The accessibility and multimodality of modern technologies make them particularly beneficial for pronunciation learning and teaching. Google Play Store offers more than 300 English pronunciation apps, many of which have received high ratings ranging from 4.5 to 4.9 out of 5 stars. Most of these apps are available for free. Due to their capacity for individualized, customized, self-paced “anytime – anywhere” learning and automated feedback on individual performance and progress, these apps are gaining increasing popularity among English learners worldwide. This paper reports on a small-scale study that examined five of the highest-rated free apps: Elsa Speak – Learning English Pronunciation by ELSA, English Pronunciation 2019 – Correct Pronunciation by Grounders, English Pronunciation by NVG Std, Pronounce It by Maclo Studios, and Quick Pronunciation Tool by Tiago English Tutor. Twenty first-year BA students of English Philology from the University of Łódź participated in the study by testing the five apps and answering questions related to their overall design, utility, potential for learning, teaching, and pronunciation assessment. The results of the study revealed the learners’ practical uses of the apps and their views on the value of using these apps for practising, teaching, and assessing English pronunciation skills.

Introduction and purpose: Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a rare condition, however it is the leading medical cause of death in population of athletes. This study reviews the epidemiology and common causes of SCD in this group. The literature on the role of pre-participation screening and of the other preventive measures was also reviewed. Review methods: A review of the available literature on sudden cardiac death in athletes was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Description of the state of knowledge: SCD is the leading cause of death in athletes. However, the incidence is difficult to estimate and varies in different populations. The etiology is age-dependent, in young individuals the most common cause of sudden cardiac death are hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congenital coronary artery anomalies. In the older athlete population (over 35 years old) atherosclerotic coronary artery disease is the main cause. Screening process varies between countries and besides taking the medical history and physical examination can involve electrocardiogram, echocardiography and other examinations. Conclusions: A review of the following studies has shown, that pre-participation screening of athletes may help to reduce the incidence of sudden death. Equal focus should be put on the availability of medical facilities during sports events, including experienced medical team and access to automated external defibrillation.

Introduction: Melatonin is a well-known drug and dietary supplement that is steadily growing in popularity on the pharmaceutical market. This indolamine, which has been known for more than 50 years, is produced by the pineal gland depending on the circadian rhythm. Also referred to as the "darkness hormone" and secreted mainly during nighttime hours, it is primarily associated with the treatment of sleep-wake rhythm disorders or disorders associated with sudden shifting time zones (jet lag). However, many scientific studies have shown that melatonin has multidirectional effects. It is used both as a chronobiotic, i.e., a drug that regulates circadian rhythms, as well as having anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-carcinogenic properties, regulating mitochondrial function, and affecting many systems and organs, keeping the organism in a state of homeostasis. Purpose: This review article aims to provide an overview of the mechanism of action of melatonin, its current indications in clinical practice, and potential future directions for therapy use. Materials and methods: A summary of reports available in publications and scientific studies posted in medical information databases: Pubmed, CrossRef, Google Scholar, and book positions. Results: The pleiotropic effect of melatonin can be used as an supportive drug in the treatment of sleep disorders, disorders of the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, the gastrointestinal system, and many oncological diseases. Conclusions: Despite a number of important reports on the positive effects of melatonin in the treatment of disorders in many areas of medicine, it is necessary to deepen research with its participation and the emergence of recommendations for its use in order to safely introduce the drug into common clinical practice.

Introduction and purpose: Scaphoid fractures are the most common fractures in the wrist area, yet they are still a diagnostic problem. This injury is usual among athletes, especially soccer players, basketball players, and cyclists. Early diagnosis allows for making an appropriate therapeutic decision, and thus a more efficient recovery. Imaging methods for a scaphoid fracture include X-ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, bone scintigraphy and ultrasonography. This paper discusses and compares available diagnostic strategies and their impact on recovery in athletes. Brief description of the state of knowledge: The article contains the current knowledge about the epidemiology, anatomy, mechanism of injury and complications of scaphoid fractures, as well as illustrates and compares the possibilities in the field of imaging diagnostics of the injury. Conclusion: The commonness and availability of the X-ray image does not translate into a better diagnostic result. The use of computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging as the first choice gives certain confirmation or exclusion of a scaphoid fracture, and thus accelerates the therapeutic process and return to sport

Introduction: Human plasma contains valuable proteins such as albumin, globulins and coagulation factors. These ingredients are used to obtain medicinal products (PDMPs - plasma-derived medicinal products) used in many fields of medicine. The growing number of indications for their use causes an increase in the demand for plasma collected from blood donors. Most donors, however, choose to donate whole blood, which provides a lower amount of plasma than plasmapheresis. Purpose of the study: This study aims to indicate the reasons why donors do not decide to donate plasma by apheresis, to show the role of informing donors about the plasmapheresis, about the uses of plasma collected and about the safety of the process. The work also presents examples of PDMPs applications that can be used in the process of educating donors, which may contribute to increasing the number of plasma donors and, at the same time, the availability of PDMPs. Material and methods: A review of scientific research (using Pubmed, Google Scholar databases), medical books and materials published on websites of institutions related to blood donation regulations was conducted. Results: The reasons why blood donors do not decide to donate plasma include, among others, longer donation time and lack of knowledge about plasmapheresis. The decision to donate plasma via plasmapheresis is influenced not only by the fact of informing the donor about such a possibility, but also by the content and manner of providing the information. Due to the greater amount of plasma obtained each time by plasmapheresis compared to the separation of whole blood, an increase in the number of donors undergoing plasmapheresis may indirectly positively affect the availability of plasma-derived medicinal products

Introduction and purpose: Number of new cases of skin cancers grows every year. Melanoma malignum is responsible for approximately 75 percent of death from skin cancer. General practitioners are often first medical professionals who see patients with suspicious skin lesions. Early diagnosis can benefit in improving survival rates. Dermoscopy is a useful tool for dermatological diagnostic purposes not only for dermatologists, but also for Primary Care Physicians.This review aims to analyze the role of easy 3-step Triage Amalgamated Dermoscopy Algorithm performed by family medicine physicians in skin cancers detection. Material and methods: We searched PubMed database in order to collect relevant studies about skin cancers diagnoses by family medicine physicians using dermoscopy algorithms. Results: An analysis of multiple studies shows that short Triage Amalgamated Dermoscopy Algorithm training taken by primary care physicians resulted in better diagnosis accuracy of skin cancer identification. After education about 3 benign skin lesion patterns and 7 signs of potential malignancy general practitioners reported more confidence in the diagnostic process and both sensitivity and specificity of examination increased post-training. Conclusion: Teaching Primary Care Physicians how to diagnose patients with suspicious skin lesions using Triage Amalgamated Dermoscopy Algorithm may have a beneficial effect on increasing the number of early-diagnosed skin cancers which may result in improving survival rates.

Background Riding a motorcycle involves a risk of suffering from ailments of the musculoskeletal system. These can be caused, i.a., by long-term persistence of a unfavorable body position, vibrations or the necessity of wearing a protective helmet. One of the occupational groups that use motorcycles are road traffic police officers. There are few literature reports of ailments related to riding a motorcycle, especially as regards police officers using these vehicles while on duty. The key objective of this research was to investigate the occurrence of locomotor system disorders during a motorcycle ride or after it, among Polish police officers who actively ride motorcycles. Factors which can affect the occurrence and characteristics of those disorders were also verified. Material and Methods A survey including 42 questions was used in the research. After obtaining the consent from the Police Commander-in-Chief, 485 questionnaires were distributed to selected Provincial Police Headquarters, 377 of which were eventually approved for statistical analysis. Results In 57.37% of the investigated police officers who regularly rode motorcycles while on duty, ailments of the locomotor system were reported, which most often appeared after a long ride (53.46%), and usually disappeared within a few hours after its end (60.65%). The ailments were found to mostly occur in the lumbosacral (76.17%) and cervical spine (50.93%); however, the highest intensity was observed in the lumbosacral spine (5.86%) and knee joints (5.11%). Also, there was a direct connection between pain and years of service on a motorcycle (p = 0.014), the average monthly distance (p = 0.036), and past motorcycle accidents (p = 0.001), or other accidents (p = 0.002). Conclusions The Polish police officers experience locomotor system disorders related to riding a motorcycle while on duty. The factors affecting their occurrence include experience in riding a motorcycle, the monthly distance covered, and accidents. Med Pr. 2020;71(2):177–86