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Introduction: The rationalization of nursing care can be a direct consequence of the low employment rate or unfavorable working environment of nurses. Aim: The aim of the study was to learn about the factors influencing the rationing of nursing care. Methods: The study group consisted of 209 nurses working in internal medicine departments. The study used the method of a diagnostic survey, a survey technique with the use of research tools: the BERNCA-R questionnaire and the PES-NWI questionnaire (which includes the occupational burnout questionnaire). Results: The mean total BERNCA score for rationing nursing care was 1.94 ± 0.75 on a scale from 0 to 4. A statistically significant relationship was demonstrated between the work environment and the rationing of nursing care. The results of the BERNCA-R scale correlated statistically significantly and positively (r > 0) with two (out of three) subscales of the occupational burnout questionnaire (MBI—Maslach Burnout Inventory): emotional exhaustion and depersonalization (p < 0.001), and with all types of adverse events analyzed (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The higher the frequency of care rationing, the worse the assessment of working conditions by nurses, and, therefore, more frequent care rationing determined the more frequent occurrence of adverse events. The more frequent the care rationing, the more frequent adverse events occur.

Various animal models are used in the study of alcoholism, with the honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) among them. Here, we tested the hypothesis that foragers show higher intoxication resistance to alcohol than nurses, an issue thus far not investigated. To this end, we measured the latency to full sedation when exposed to alcohol in foragers, nurses and reverted nurses. In addition, we measured alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) levels in these worker castes. Caste status was confirmed by comparison of the size of their hypopharyngeal glands. We detected high intoxication resistance to alcohol and presence of ADH in foragers. In nurses, we detected significantly lower intoxication resistance to alcohol and no ADH. These between-caste differences cannot be explained by the age difference between castes as in reverted nurses, characterized by similar age to foragers, we detected an intermediate intoxication resistance to alcohol and no ADH. Our results suggest possible natural exposure to alcohol in different castes of workers. As such, we further develop the honeybee as a model in alcoholism-related research and open new research avenues.

Delta/Serrate/LAG-2 (DSL) proteins, which serve as ligands for Notch receptors, mediate direct cell–cell interactions involved in the determination of cell fate and functioning. The present study aimed to explore the role of androgens and estrogens, and their receptors in the regulation of DSL proteins in Sertoli cells. To this end, primary rat Sertoli cells and TM4 Sertoli cell line were treated with either testosterone or 17β-estradiol and antagonists of their receptors. To confirm the role of particular receptors, knockdown experiments were performed. mRNA and protein expressions of Jagged1 (JAG1), Delta-like1 (DLL1), and Delta-like4 (DLL4) were analyzed using RT-qPCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence. Testosterone caused downregulation of JAG1 and DLL1 expression, acting through membrane androgen receptor ZRT- and Irt-like protein 9 (ZIP9) or nuclear androgen receptor (AR), respectively. DLL4 was stimulated by testosterone in the manner independent of AR and ZIP9 in Sertoli cells. The expression of all studied DSL proteins was upregulated by 17β-estradiol. Estrogen action on JAG1 and DLL1 was mediated chiefly via estrogen receptor α (ERα), while DLL4 was controlled via estrogen receptor β (ERβ) and membrane G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). To summarize, the co-operation of nuclear and membrane receptors for sex steroids controls DSL proteins in Sertoli cells, contributing to balanced Notch signaling activity in seminiferous epithelium.

Background: Health is a value of paramount importance for human existence. It has a special place in every religious system, both on the doctrinal and practical levels. Most religions view health as a priority value to be cared for, and require followers of individual religious groups to take care of their physical and mental health, and to maintain a balance between body and spirit. The aim of the study was to verify whether the level of religious commitment significantly influences health behaviors and whether in selected religions the faithful have a different approach to health behaviors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on a group of 296 people—118 Seventh-day Adventists (SDA), 134 Catholics, and 14 Jews living in southern Poland, and 31 Muslims living in southern and north-eastern Poland. The following research tools were used as part of the diagnostic survey method: a questionnaire survey designed by us; the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ); the Inventory of Health Behaviours (IHB); the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS 10) and anthropometric measurements, physical examination, laboratory tests. Results: Only 75% of Catholics who participated in the study declared a high level of religious commitment. On the other hand, all (100%) of SDA, Jews, and Muslim respondents declared their religious commitment at a high level. SDA were characterized by the most desirable health behaviors on the IHB (high and average levels), especially eating habits. They did not consume alcohol, did not smoke cigarettes. The physical activity of most ADS was high and moderate. Most of the SDA subjects were characterized by an average and low level of stress intensity. The most common correct scores for homocysteine, triglycerides, and CRP were SDA, cholesterol by Jews, glucose by Muslims, and HDL by Catholics. The most common negative results were: homocysteine, glucose and triglycerides among Jews, cholesterol and CRP among Catholics, HDL among Muslims. Optimal blood pressure was most common among Catholics, and hypertension was most often diagnosed among Jews. Most often, Muslims had the correct body weight, and at the same time it was the group of respondents most often diagnosed with obesity. In contrast, underweight was observed only among Catholics. The SDA subjects were most often overweight. Conclusions: The results suggest that public health professionals and nurses should develop culturally specific educational interventions, especially among Catholics.

BACKGROUND Notch signaling pathway is involved in contact-dependent communication between the cells of seminiferous epithelium, and its proper activity is important for undisturbed spermatogenesis. OBJECTIVES The aim was to assess the effect of Notch pathway inhibition on the expression of nuclear (AR) and membrane (ZIP9) androgen receptors and androgen-regulated genes, claudin-5 and claudin-11, in TM4 mouse Sertoli cell line. MATERIALS AND METHODS DAPT (γ-secretase inhibitor) treatment and recombination signal binding protein silencing were employed to reduce Notch signaling, whereas immobilized ligands were used to activate Notch pathway in TM4 cells. To reveal specific effect of each androgen receptor, AR or ZIP9 silencing was performed. RESULTS Notch pathway inhibition increased the expression of AR and ZIP9 mRNA and proteins (p

Our present knowledge on interrelation between morphology/ultrastructure of mitochondria of the Leydig cell and its steroidogenic function is far from satisfactory and needs additional studies. Here, we analyzed the effects of blockade of androgen receptor, triggered by exposure to flutamide, on the expression of steroidogenic proteins (1) and ultrastructure of Leydig cells’ constituents (2). We demonstrated that increase in the expression level of steroidogenic (StAR, CYP11A1, 3β-HSD, and CYP19A1) proteins (and respective mRNAs) in rat testicular tissue as well as elevation of intratesticular sex steroid hormone (testosterone and estradiol) levels observed in treated animals correspond well to morphological alterations of the Leydig cell ultrastructure. Most importantly, up-regulation of steroidogenic proteins’ expression apparently correlates with considerable multiplication of Leydig cell mitochondria and subsequent formation of local mitochondrial networks. Interestingly, we showed also that the above-mentioned processes were associated with elevated transcription of Drp1 and Mfn2 genes, encoding proteins implicated in mitochondrial dynamics. Collectively, our studies emphasize the importance of mitochondrial homeostasis to the steroidogenic function of Leydig cells.

The aim of the research was to determine the influence of sociodemographic factors on older people&rsquo, s care dependency in their living environment according to the Care Dependency Scale (CDS). Methods: The research was conducted in a group of 151 older people staying in their own homes. The methods applied in the research included a sociodemographic questionnaire and scales including the Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTS), CDS, Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADL), Lawton&rsquo, s Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (I-ADL), Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Results: Gender had a significant impact on the level of care dependency. The surveyed females obtained the medium or high level of dependency more often than males (22.4% vs. 6.1%), and the low level of dependency was significantly more frequent among men than women (p = 0.006). Moreover, the age of the respondents determined their level of care dependency. The subjects with a medium or high level of care dependency were significantly older (p = 0.001). The subjects with a low level of care dependency were more likely to be married than people with a medium/high level (p &lt, 0.001). The level of education had a significant impact on care dependency. A higher level of education correlated with a medium/high level of dependency (p = 0.003). Conclusions: The survey results confirmed that sociodemographic factors have a significant impact on the level of care dependency. When planning care in the home environment, special attention should be paid to older women, who are more likely to lose their independence than men. These women should be given additional support.

Background: A review of epidemiological data demonstrates relationships between defined health behaviours linked with religious affiliation and a reduced risk of developing and dying from Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). The aim of the study was to compare the lifestyle of Seventh-day Adventists (SDA) and Catholics (CA), to determine the relationship between the lifestyle of SDA, CA and the level of serum homocysteine as a risk factor for CVD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 252 SDA and CA. The following tools were used: interview questionnaire, anthropometric measurement, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Inventory of Health Behaviours (IHB), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), laboratory tests (homocysteine level), and the Fagerstr&ouml, m Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND). Results: Selected lifestyle elements, such as smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, physical activity, diet, Body Mass Index (BMI), health behaviours on the IHB, psychosocial factors and level of stress for CA were significantly different in comparison to SDA. The religion professed by the respondents was not significantly associated with the increased level of homocysteine as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The level of homocysteine for CA were significantly different in comparison to SDA. The studied group of CA was significantly influenced by socio-demographic factors: gender, age, education, place of residence, BMI and lifestyle: drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes, consumption of dark bread, pasta, and groats. For the studied group of SDA, the level of homocysteine was significantly influenced by socio-demographic factors such as gender, age, professional activity, and consumption of legumes. Conclusions: Public health professionals and nurses should develop culturally specific educational interventions.

1. To show hormonal differences between male turkeys with yellow semen syndrome (YSS) and white, normal semen (WNS), the expression of aromatase, oestrogen receptor α (ERα), and oestrogen receptor β (ERβ) as well as testosterone and oestradiol concentrations in YSS and WNS testes, epididymis, and ductus deferens were examined. 2. To measure gene expression levels of aromatase and oestrogen receptors (ERs), three complementary techniques (real-time PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry) were used, whereas steroid hormone levels were determined radio-immunologically. 3. Upregulation of aromatase and ERα mRNAs in YSS testes (P

Introduction. Migration of professional nurses is a global phenomenon. Polish nurses usually migrate to the relatively richer countries, especially in Europe, thanks to the opening of the borders of the European Union (2004) and legal regulations in the field of education of nurses (Directive 2005/36/EC). Aim. The analysis of symptoms and determinants of acculturative stress and acculturative strategies among Polish migrant nurses working in the UK. Material and methods. The study used a proprietary questionnaire and standardized tool the East Asian Acculturation Measure - Scale of Acculturative Strategy. The research was carried out through Internet among 62 people. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Dunn test, coefficient Spearman. Results. The main reason for the migration of respondents to the UK was the desire to improve financial situation and professional development. Responders found job as a nurse, including a charge nurse and managers in hospitals and nursing homes. Acculturative stress manifested most often in social functioning, then in the emotional, cognitive and physical aspects. It was characterized by a sense of lack of interest from British people, sadness, feelings of loneliness, lower self-confidence and shyness. It was determined significantly by the age of the respondents, the length of stay in the UK, knowledge of English and maintaining social contacts with the British. The most commonly used acculturation strategy was integration, conditioned by the length of stay in the UK and symptoms of acculturative stress. Conclusions. Working in a foreign country is associated with acculturative stress, implementation of acculturation adaptive and non-adaptive strategies.

To characterize polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) action on Leydig cells, PCBs congeners, low-chlorinated (delor 103; d103) and high-chlorinated ones (delor 106; d106) were selected. The cells were treated according to PCBs dose (d103 or d106 0.2 ng/ml in low doses:, or 2 ng/ml in high doses) and type (d103 + d106 in low doses or 103 + 106 in high doses). After 24 h treatment with PCBs, a distinct increase in estrogen-related receptors (ERRs type α, β and γ) expression was revealed. However, the dose- and type-dependent PCBs effect was mostly exerted on ERRα expression. A similar increase in ERRs expression was demonstrated by estradiol but not testosterone, which was without an effect on ERRs. PCBs caused no decrease in the membrane potential status of Leydig cells (either in dose or type schedule) but had severe effects on the mitochondria number and structure. Moreover, PCBs markedly increased calcium (Ca2+) concentration and sex steroid secretion (both androgens and estrogens were elevated). These findings suggest a similar estrogenic action of PCBs congeners (d103 and d106) on Leydig cell function. We report dose- and type-specific effects of PCBs only on Leydig cell ERRs expression. Both delors showed common effects on the mitochondria ultrastructural and functional status. Based on our results, ERRα seems to be the most sensitive to hormonal modulation. The increases in Ca2+ and sex steroid secretion may be due to the activation of ERRs by PCBs binding and/or direct effect of PCBs on ERRs mRNA/protein expression. Nevertheless, to confirm the existence of possible relationships between ERRs signaling (including PCBs as ligands) and mitochondria function in Leydig cells, further intensive studies are needed.

Adipokines influence energy metabolism and have effects on male reproduction, including spermatogenesis and/or Sertoli cell maturation, however, the relationship between these active proteins and androgens in testicular cells is limited. Here, we studied the impact of short-term exposure to flutamide (an anti-androgen that blocks androgen receptors) on the expression of chemerin, apelin, vaspin and their receptors (CCRL2, CMKLR1, GPR1, APLNR, GRP78, respectively) in adult rat testes. Moreover, the levels of expression of lipid metabolism-modulating proteins (PLIN1, perilipin1, TSPO, translocator protein) and intercellular adherens junction proteins (nectin-2 and afadin) were determined in testicular cells. Plasma levels of adipokines, testosterone and cholesterol were also evaluated. Gene expression techniques used included the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The androgen-mediated effects observed post-flutamide treatment were found at the gonadal level as chemerin, apelin, and vaspin gene expression alterations at mRNA and protein levels were detected, whereas the cellular targets for these adipokines were recognised by localisation of respective receptors in testicular cells. Plasma concentrations of all adipokines were unchanged, whereas plasma cholesterol content and testosterone level increased after flutamide exposure. Differential distribution of adipokine receptors indicates potential para- or autocrine action of the adipokines within the rat testes. Additionally, changes in the expression of PLIN1 and TSPO, involved in the initial step of testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells, suggest that testicular cells represent a target of flutamide action. Increase in the gene expression of PLIN1 and TSPO and higher total plasma cholesterol content indicates enhanced availability of cholesterol in Leydig cells as a result of androgen-mediated effects of flutamide. Alterations in adherens junction protein expression in the testis confirm the flutamide efficacy in disruption of androgen signalling and presumably lead to impaired para- and autocrine communication, important for proper functioning of adipokines.

W kręgu zainteresowań specjalistów zdrowia publicznego i pielęgniarek jest identyfikacja tych elementów stylu życia, które zapobiegają chorobom w określonych populacjach ludzkich, w tym w grupach religijnych. Określenie związku stylu życia katolików ze stężeniem homocysteiny w surowicy krwi, jako czynnika ryzyka chorób układu krążenia (CVD). Badania przekrojowe przeprowadzono wśród 134 katolików. Wykorzystano kwestionariusz ankiety własnego autorstwa, Międzynarodowy Kwestionariusz Aktywności Fizycznej, Inwentarz Zachowań Zdrowotnych (IZZ), Skalę Odczuwanego Stresu PSS-10, badania laboratoryjne (stężenie homocysteiny), Test Uzależnienia od Nikotyny Fagerströma. U ponad połowy badanych katolików zdiagnozowano podwyższone stężenie homocysteiny. Wiedza niespełna połowy badanych na temat CVD była w pełni zadowalająca. Wybrane elementy stylu życia katolików, jak aktywność fizyczna, nałogi, odczuwany stres, zachowania zdrowotne w IZZ, czynniki psychospołeczne oraz dieta odbiegały od zaleceń istotnych w prewencji CVD i nie były istotnie powiązane z wynikami stężenia homocysteiny w surowicy krwi, z wyjątkiem istotnej zależności pomiędzy jej prawidłowym poziomem a spożywaniem mleka, płatków wielozbożowych, makaronów i kasz pszennych oraz niepaleniem papierosów. Specjaliści w zakresie zdrowia publicznego i pielęgniarki powinni rozwijać specyficzne kulturowo interwencje edukacyjne, uwzględniające styl życia i stężenie homocysteiny, jako czynniki ryzyka chorób układu krążenia wśród wyznawców różnych religii. Public health specialists and nurses are interested in identifying the elements of lifestyle that prevent disease in specific human populations, including religious groups. The term lifestyle catholic compound with the level of homocysteine in blood serum, as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The cross-sectional study was conducted among 134 catholics. Use of a questionnaire of own authorship, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Inventory Behavioral Health (HBI), Scale Experienced Stress PSS-10, laboratory tests (homocysteine), Test Fagerström Nicotine Dependence. In more than half of catholics diagnosed increased homocysteine levels. Knowledge of about halves of the respondents on CVD was fully satisfactory. Selected elements of life style catholics, like physical activity, addictions, perceived stress, health behaviors in the HBI, psychosocial factors and diet deviate from the recommendations relevant to the prevention of CVD and were not significantly linked to the performance level of homocysteine in the blood serum, with the exception of a significant relationship between its proper level and the consumption of milk, whole wheat flakes, pasta and wheat groats and also not smoking cigarettes. Public health professionals and nurses should develop culturally specific educational interventions, taking into the life style and homocysteine level account cardiovascular risk factors among followers of different religions.

Leydig cell tumors (LCT) are the most common type of testicular sex cord-stromal tumor. In this report, we implicate the G-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) and peroxisome proliferator receptor (PPAR) in regulation of lipid homeostasis and the expression of steroidogenesis-controlling molecules in clinical specimens of LCTs and cell line (mouse tumor Leydig cells; MA-10). We also show the general structure and morphology of human LCTs with the use of scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy, respectively. In LCTs, protein immunoblotting and immunohistochemical analysis revealed increased expression of GPER and decreased expression of PPARα, β and γ. Concomitantly, changes in expression pattern of the lutropin receptor (LHR), protein kinase A (PKA), perilipin (PLIN), hormone sensitive lipase (HSL), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), translocator protein (TSPO), HMG-CoA synthase (HMGCA), and HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) were observed.Using MA-10 cells treated with GPER and PPAR antagonists (alone and in combination), we demonstrated there is a GPER-PPAR mediated control of cholesterol concentration. In addition, GPER-PPARα regulated estradiol secretion, while GPER-PPARγ affected cGMP concentration. It is assumed that GPER and PPAR can be altered in LCT, resulting in a perturbed lipid balance and steroidogenesis. In LCTs, the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway was disturbed. Thus, PI3K-Akt-mTOR, together with cGMP, can play a role in LCT proliferation, growth, and metastasis as well as lipid balance control.In conclusion, we discuss the implications of GPER-PPAR interaction with lipid metabolism and steroidogenesis controlling-molecules in LCT biology that can be used in future studies as potential targets of diagnostic and therapeutic implementations.

Tight, adherens, and gap junctions are involved in the regulation of reproductive tissue function in male mammals. In birds, including domestic turkeys, intercellular interactions performed by junctional networks have not yet been studied. Furthermore, the cellular and molecular basis of yellow semen syndrome (YSS) in the turkey population remains poorly understood. Thus, the aim of the present study was 2-fold: first, to provide new information on the localization and expression of cell-cell junction proteins in the testis, epididymis, and ductus deferens of domestic turkeys and second, to compare expression of junctional protein genes between 2 turkey population, one that produces white normal semen (WNS) and the other that produces yellow abnormal semen. Expression of occludin, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), connexin 43 (Cx43), N- and E-cadherin, and β-catenin genes were investigated using 3 complementary techniques: quantitative real-time PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Compared to WNS testis, epididymis, and ductus deferens, YSS tissues exhibited downregulation of occludin and β-catenin mRNA (P < 0.05) and protein (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) and upregulation of N- and E-cadherin mRNA (P < 0.001, P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively) and protein (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, and P < 0.05, respectively). In contrast, ZO-1 and Cx43 mRNA and protein were upregulated in YSS testis (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively) but not in epididymis and ductus deferens; both mRNAs and proteins were downregulated (P < 0.05) compared to the respective WNS epididymis and ductus deferens. Altered staining intensity of immunoreactive proteins in YSS vs. WNS reproductive tissue sections confirmed the gene expression results. The present study is the first to demonstrate altered levels of junctional protein gene expression in reproductive tissues of male YSS turkeys. These findings may suggest that subtle changes in junctional protein expression affect the microenvironment in which spermatozoa develop and mature and thus may have an impact on the appearance of yellow semen in domestic turkeys.

Wstep. Choroby ukladu sercowo-naczyniowego pozostają niezmiennie od pol wieku najwazniejszą przyczyną umieralności mieszkancow Polski. Nie ma zbyt wielu badan określających czynniki ryzyka tych chorob wśrod grup wyznaniowych, choc zainteresowanie tym tematem wśrod praktykow zdrowia publicznego wzrasta. Cel. Celem badan byla proba określenia wybranych czynnikow ryzyka sercowo-naczyniowego oraz ryzyka incydentu sercowo-naczyniowego wśrod Adwentystow Dnia Siodmego (ADS). Material i metody. Badania przeprowadzono wśrod 118 wyznawcow Kościola ADS i oparto na wynikach: pomiarow antropometrycznych, badania przedmiotowego i badan laboratoryjnych (bialko C-reaktywne [CRP], homocysteiny, stezenia glukozy, cholesterolu calkowitego, frakcji HDL i triglicerydow) oraz ocenie ryzyka wystąpienia incydentow sercowo-naczyniowych na podstawie skali SCORE. Analize statystyczną wykonano na podstawie testu chi2 i analizy wariancji ANOVA. Zalozony poziom istotności wynosil 0,05. Wyniki. U ponad polowy badanych zdiagnozowano podwyzszone stezenie homocysteiny oraz otylośc pośladkowo-udową. Niespelna polowa badanych miala podwyzszone stezenie cholesterolu calkowitego i wartości ciśnienia tetniczego krwi, niemal jedna czwarta stezenie triglicerydow, u jednej dziesiątej podwyzszone bylo stezenie glukozy i CRP. Istotną zmienną modyfikującą zagrozenie czynnikami ryzyka okazala sie plec badanych. Wnioski. Ocena zagrozenia chorobami ukladu sercowo-naczyniowego przedstawicieli Kościola ADS ujawnila, ze wśrod modyfikowalnych czynnikow biochemicznych — stezenie homocysteiny okazalo sie byc najbardziej istotnym nowym czynnikiem ryzyka, natomiast spośrod czynnikow klasycznych — wartośc ciśnienia tetniczego. Istnialo male i umiarkowane ryzyko wystąpienia incydentow sercowo-naczyniowych w badanej grupie. Problemy Pielegniarstwa 2015; 23 (2): 190–196

The study was designed to examine the effects of model plastic derived compounds, bisphenol A (BPA) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), on juxtacrine communication in adult rat testis, by evaluating the expression of Notch pathway components. Testicular explant were exposed in vitro to BPA (5 × 10−6 M, 2.5 × 10−5 M, 5 × 10−5 M) or DBP (10−6 M, 10−5 M, 10−4 M) for 24 h. To determine the expression of Notch1, Dll4, Hey1, Hes1 and Hey5 real-time RT-PCR was used. Protein levels and localization of NOTCH1 receptor, its ligand DLL4 as well as HEY1, HES1 and HEY5 factors were detected by western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Upregulation of Notch1, Dll4 and Hey1 at the mRNA and protein level was demonstrated in testis explants after BPA and DBP treatment (p

Introduction : Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the most frequent cause of mortality of Polish residents. In Poland, there are few publications regarding research on the influence of people’s religiosity on their health. Aim of the research : To determine some factors of cardiovascular risk and the risk of cardiovascular events among Catholics. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 134 randomly selected Catholics and based on the results of: questionnaire survey, anthropometric measurements, physical examination, the SCORE scale, laboratory tests (CRP, homocysteine. glucose, total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides) and assessing the risk of cardiovascular events based on the SCORE scale. Statistical analysis was based on the χ 2 test. Founded significance level was 0.05. Results: More than half of the respondents were diagnosed delevated homocysteine level and gluteal-femoral obesity. A little more than half of those surveyed had elevated total cholesterol levels and increased blood pressure, a little more than one-quarter of the respondents had raised triglyceride levels, and one-tenth had heightened glucose and C-reactive protein levels. The higher the age of the respondents, the more often the results of their biochemical exceed standards. Over half of those examined were diagnosed with overweight or obesity. Among examined gynoid obesity prevailed over android obesity. The risk assessment of CVD Catholics revealed that among the modifiable factors, biochemical levels of homocysteine proved to be the most important new risk factor, but among the classic factors it was blood pressure value. More than half of the respondents had moderate risk of cardiovascular events in the study group. Conclusions : Nurses should promote pro-health attitudes, and should encourage the elimination of risk factors and biochemical testing and measurement among Catholics, who are a religious group at higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Introduction. A review literature concerning the religious affiliation and that of cardiovascular disease did not show any clear correlations between these variables. Aim. To determine selected cardiovascular risk factors and the risk of a cardiovascular event among Seventh-day Adventists (SDA) and Catholics. Material and Methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out in the years 2014-2015 among 252 people, including 118 Seventhday Adventists and 134 Catholics over 18 years of age, residents of southern Poland. The results of the following were analysed: anthropometric measurements, an interview questionnaire, physical examination and laboratory tests, as well as the SCORE scale. Results. The mean concentration of homocysteine and triglycerides in Catholics was significantly higher than in Adventists. Adventists had significantly higher blood pressure and mean HDL cholesterol concentration than Catholics. On the basis of BMI, overweight and obesity were ascertained in a somewhat greater percentage of Catholics than Adventists, and on the basis of waist circumference, android obesity was found to be more common in Catholics than in Adventists. Conclusions. Based on the SCORE scale, the risk of a cardiovascular event was significantly higher in Catholics than in Adventists.

This study aimed to investigate rapid effect of anti-androgen 2-hydroxyflutamide (HF) on cadherin/catenin complex and androgen receptor (AR) phosphorylation in prostate cancer cell lines. In addition, a role of PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK1/2 pathways in mediating these effects was explored. We have demonstrated that in androgen-sensitive LNCaP cells HF induced rapid increase of E-cadherin phosphorylation at Ser 838/840 (p0.05) in MAPK/ERK1/2-dependent manner, whereas phosphorylation of β-catenin at Tyr 654 was unchanged. Concomitantly, the reduction of the level of AR phosphorylated at Ser210/213 was found (p0.01). In androgen-independent PC3 cells HF decreased Tyr 860 N-cadherin and Tyr 645 β-catenin phosphorylation (p0.01), acting via both MAPK/ERK1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways. Further, we evidenced that MAPK/ERK1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways were differentially influenced by HF in LNCaP and PC3 cells. In LNCaP cells, both Akt (p0.01) and ERK1/2 (p0.001) phosphorylation were negatively regulated and this effect was mediated by Raf-1 (p0.05). In contrast, in PC3 cells HF stimulated Akt (p0.001) and ERK1/2 (p0.001) activation, but had no effect on the crosstalk between PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK1/2 pathways at the Raf-1 kinase level. Our findings expand the role of anti-androgen into non-genomic signaling, creating a link between anti-androgen action and phosphorylation of adherens junction proteins in prostate cancer cells.

We report the effects of polychlorinated napthalanes (PCNs) on the mRNA expression of estrogen-related receptors (ERRs) α, β and γ, calcium (Ca2 + ) concentration, and sex steroid secretion in mouse primary and tumor Leydig cells. The cells were exposed to a mixture of PCNs (10 nM) alone or in combination with one of sex steroid receptor antagonists; 182,780 (ICI; 10 μM); hydroxyflutamide (HF; 10 −4 M) and G-coupled estrogen receptor antagonist (G15; 10 nM) respectively. The expression of mRNAs and protein for ERRα, β, and γ was detected in primary and tumor Leydig cells. The expression of ERRs was always lower in primary Leydig cells. Exposure of Leydig cells to PCNs significantly increased the expression of ERRs mRNA irrespective of the cell type. Concomitantly, an increased concentration of Ca2+ and sex steroids was revealed in exposed cells. After ICI, HF or G15 was added no changes in expression of ERRs was found. In Leydig cells changes in ERRs expression at mRNA level are clearly linked to changes in Ca2+ level and steroid secretion. Estrogen and androgen receptors are not involved in PCNs action in Leydig cells. The effect of PCNs on mouse Leydig cells is independent on the cell of origin (primary or tumor).

During their first practical classes at a clinical ward nursing students face a new environment; they take on new roles which is associated with stress and a need to handle it.The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a sense of self-efficacy on the level of stress and the ways of coping by Polish nursing students during the first practical classes at a clinical ward.The study included 394 undergraduate subjects studying nursing at two universities in Southern Poland. The study used the method of diagnostic questionnaire and estimation. The research tools included: an original questionnaire, Stress Scale (PSS10), Inventory to measure coping with stress (Mini Cope) and Generalized Self-efficacy Scale (GSES). Data analysis was performed using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 21 for Windows. The verification of differences between variables was performed using χ(2) independence test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Spearman rank correlation coefficient. The level of significance was accepted at α=0.005.The level of stress and a sense of self-efficacy in majority of tested nursing students were high. The people with low levels of perceived stress had a significantly higher sense of self-efficacy (rhoSpearman=-0.196; p=0.0001). The people with a higher sense of self-efficacy significantly more often used active strategies in stressful situations, such as Active coping (rhoSpearman=0.284; p0.0001), Planning (rhoSpearman=0.318, p≤0.0001), Positive revaluation (rhoSpearman=0.228, p0.0001), Acceptance (rhoSpearman=0.188; p=0.0002), Seeking Emotional Support (rhoSpearman=0.123; p=0.0143).A sense of self-efficacy had a significant impact on the level of stress and the ways of coping with difficult situations in nursing students.

Background Present study was designed to establish a causal connection between changes in the cell-cell junction protein expression at the blood-testis barrier and alterations in the adult rat testis histology following an anti-androgen flutamide exposure. Particular emphasis was placed on the basal ectoplasmic specialization (ES) in the seminiferous epithelium and expression of gap junction protein, connexin 43 (Cx43). Methods Flutamide (50 mg/kg body weight) was administered to male rats daily from 82 to 88 postnatal day. Testes from 90-day-old control and flutamide-exposed rats were used for all analyses. Testis morphology was analyzed using light and electron microscopy. Gene and protein expressions were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively, protein distribution by immunohistochemistry, and steroid hormone concentrations by radioimmunoassay. Results Seminiferous epithelium of both groups of rats displayed normal histology without any loss of germ cells. In accord, no difference in the apoptosis and proliferation level was found between control and treated groups. As shown by examination of semi-thin and ultrathin sections, cell surface occupied by the basal ES connecting neighboring Sertoli cells and the number of gap and tight junctions coexisting with the basal ES were apparently reduced in flutamide-treated rats. Moreover, the appearance of unconventional circular ES suggests enhanced internalization and degradation of the basal ES. These changes were accompanied by decreased Cx43 and ZO-1 expression (p

W Polsce kontakty z osobami mówiącymi innym językiem, o innym kolorze skóry, innego wyznania, należącymi do innego kręgu kulturowego, mającymi inne obyczaje i wierzenia, znacznie się nasiliły po wejściu Polski do rodziny krajów Unii Europejskiej. Celem pracy było poznanie opinii mieszkańców Małopolski na temat stereotypów, uprzedzeń i dyskryminacji oraz ich postaw wobec osób z odmiennych obszarów kulturowych. Badania przeprowadzono wśród 120 osób zamieszkujących teren południowej Małopolski. Do przeprowadzenia badania wykorzystano kwestionariusz ankiety własnego autorstwa oraz Skalę Bogardusa, jako narzędzie badawcze wystandaryzowane. Do analizy statystycznej użyto testu U Manna-Whitneya, Spearmana. Większość osób badanych miała kontakt ze stereotypami na temat mniejszości kulturowych. Wszyscy ankietowani potrafili wymienić kilka stereotypów o Romach, muzułmanach oraz Żydach. Największy dystans ankietowani wykazali wobec mniejszości romskiej, najmniejszy w stosunku do mniejszości muzułmańskiej. Małopolska jest regionem, który zamieszkany jest przez wiele osób należących do mniejszości kulturowych i narodowościowych. Codzienny kontakt z tymi osobami powinien sprowadzać się do zrozumienia ich kultury, tradycji i zachowań, a nie do dyskryminacji, szykanowania, odtrącania. Bardzo ważne jest, aby zapobiegać potencjalnym konfliktom społecznym, do których może dochodzić, jeśli będziemy kierować się uprzedzeniami, które najczęściej wynikają ze stereotypów. In Poland, contacts with people who speak a different language, a different skin color, different religion, belonging to a different culture, and thus having different customs and beliefs, has grown significantly after Polish accession to the European Union family. The aim of the study was to determine the opinion of the inhabitants of Malopolska about stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination and their attitudes towards people with different cultural areas. The study was performed on a group of 120 people living in the southern Malopolska. To carry out the study used a questionnaire of his own authorship and Bogardus scale, standardized as a research tool. Used for statistical analysis the U Mann-Whitney, Spearman. Most of the respondents had contact with stereotypes about minority cultures. All the respondents were able to replace the existing stereotypes about the the Gypsies, Muslims and Jews. Respondents showed the greatest distance towards the Gypsies minority, the smallest in relation to the Muslim minority. Malopolska is a region which is inhabited by a number of persons belonging to cultural and national minorities. Daily contact with these people should lead to the understanding of their culture, tradition and behavior, and not to discrimination, harassment, rejection. It is very important to prevent potential social conflicts, which may occur if we act with prejudice usually resulting from established negative stereotypes.

Introduction. Very often, the elderly are experiencing feelings of loneliness. Factor in affecting the sense of loneliness are social and cultural conditions. Also, the state of health — both physical and mental - of man, has an influence on the feeling of loneliness of older people. Often people who are hospitalized feel isolated, marginalized, alone. Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the loneliness of elderly people treated in hospital. Material and methods. The research method was a diagnostic survey and research-survey technique. Research tools in this study were: the author’s questionnaire, and a scale for measuring loneliness Jenny De Jong Gierveld i Frans Kamphuis. Data analysis was performed using basic descriptive statistics test and Mann-Whitney U, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient using SPSS 17.0.0. The study was conducted in hospitals Cracow internal medicine wards of 115 patients. Results. Almost half of the respondents felt the general emptiness, a lack of really close friend, the people around you and the company of other people and felt disapproved. Subjects can count on little support from family, grandchildren and children. Key factors affecting loneliness by respondents are: the personality of the person, poor health, not having a hobby. Main ways to combat loneliness is a cultural activity and good time management. Conclusions. The feeling of loneliness was found in almost half of the patients in the hospital, wherein the more often it refers to women. Nursing Topics 2015; 23 (2): 233–238

Wstep. Czerniak zlośliwy skory (melanoma malignum) to nowotwor powstający z komorek melanocytowych obecnych w warstwie podstawnej naskorka. Czestośc wystepowania, jak rowniez śmiertelnośc z powodu czerniaka skory mają stalą tendencje wzrostową zarowno w Polsce, jak i na świecie. Związane jest to glownie z nadmiernym korzystaniem z naturalnych i sztucznych źrodel promieniowania ultrafioletowego oraz z nieodpowiednimi zachowaniami związanymi z fotoprotekcją. Cel. Celem badania bylo określenie poziomu wiedzy mlodziezy w wieku 13–30 lat na temat czerniaka zlośliwego skory oraz zachowan związanych z jego profilaktyką. Material i metody. Badania przeprowadzono w Stowarzyszeniu „SIEMACHA” w Krakowie z zastosowaniem metody sondazu diagnostycznego, techniki ankiety. Grupe badaną stanowilo 109 osob. Material zgromadzono za pomocą autorskiego kwestionariusza ankiety. Wyniki i wnioski. Na podstawie przeprowadzonych badan mozna stwierdzic, ze wiekszośc badanych (60,55%) posiadala niski poziom wiedzy na temat czerniaka zlośliwego skory. Preferowanym sposobem uzyskania opalenizny dla wiekszości badanych (74,31%) bylo naturalne źrodlo promieniowania UV — slonce. Badani nie potrafili bezpiecznie korzystac ze slonca czy z solarium, zdecydowana ich wiekszośc (76,15%) nie wiedziala, co oznacza wskaźnik SPF, ani jak powinien byc dobierany. Środki ochrony przed szkodliwym promieniowaniem UV, ktore badani stosowali najcześciej, to byly preparaty z filtrami przeciwslonecznymi. Problemy Pielegniarstwa 2015; 23 (2): 166–170

Wstep. Studenci pielegniarstwa w trakcie realizacji pierwszych zajec praktycznych, mają kontakt z nowym środowiskiem, podejmują nowe dzialania, co wiąze sie z wystepowaniem sytuacji trudnych. Cel. Celem pracy byla analiza sytuacji trudnych z jakimi spotykają sie studenci pielegniarstwa w czasie realizacji pierwszych zajec praktycznych. Material i metody. Badaniami objeto 105 studentow studiow licencjackich na kierunku pielegniarstwo UJ CM w Krakowie. Zastosowano metode sondazu diagnostycznego i szacowania. Wykorzystano Skale Uogolnionej Wlasnej Skuteczności autorstwa Schwarzera i Jerusalem, w adaptacji Juczynskiego (GSES) i kwestionariusz ankiety wlasnej konstrukcji. Analiza statystyczna zostala przeprowadzona testem chi2, za poziom istotności przyjeto p < 0,05. Wyniki. Prawie polowa badanych studentow pielegniarstwa przyznala, ze w czasie realizacji pierwszych zajec praktycznych w szpitalu bardzo czesto doświadczala sytuacji trudnych. Sytuacji takich istotnie rzadziej doznawali studenci mlodsi wiekiem (p = 0,00219; chi2 = 11,6908). Najcześciej sytuacje trudne dotyczyly kontaktu z pacjentem. Ich przyczyną byly: brak doświadczenia (47,5%), brak wiedzy (18,8%) oraz brak wsparcia (15%). Najcześciej stosowanym sposobem radzenia sobie z takimi sytuacjami bylo poszukiwanie wsparcia emocjonalnego (49,2%). Wnioski. Wiedza na temat wystepowania sytuacji znaczących w czasie realizacji pierwszych zajec praktycznych dla studentow, poza celami poznawczymi, moze rowniez spelniac funkcje prewencyjne. Problemy Pielegniarstwa 2015; 23 (2): 160–165