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Higher teacher education in European countries has undergone a remarkable transformation due to the constant convergence of educational systems and institutions of higher education in Western Europe. The aim of the article is to analyze the experience of using innovative technologies in higher pedagogical education in the European Union countries. Methods of analysis and synthesis, prediction, comparison, and abstraction were used to realize this main task. The results traced the main innovative technologies popular in European pedagogical universities. The effectiveness of interactive learning, modular education system, technology of level differentiation, methods of learning through research (use of the project method), E-learning, and deep use of digital platforms, which contributes to the formation of theoretical and practical knowledge, development of critical thinking and creative potential in higher education applicants is demonstrated. It is pointed out that e-learning based on university platforms allows users to actively participate in various international educational projects, creatively interact with other users and even create new content. Several European universities (from France, Germany, Austria, and other countries) have merged their e-learning platforms into one professional global service called web2.0. Important directions for the further development of teacher education will be heutagogy, peeragogy, or paragogy and cybergogy. The conclusions stressed the importance of further integration of digital innovative methods to teaching pedagogical disciplines.

Aconitum bucovinense Zapał. is the European species of monkshood, endemic to the Eastern and Southern Carpathians. A protocol has been developed for the in vitro regeneration of adventitious shoots by indirect organogenesis from leaf explants. An initiation of cultures carried out on a medium with picloram and kinetin allowed obtaining a callus. More than a 200% FM increase of the callus and at the same time differentiation of adventitious buds were obtained on IBA and BAP supplemented media. Excised buds were used to establish shoot cultures and multiplied after a transfer to nutrient media with an addition of BAP with IBA, IAA or NAA. Almost 70% of rooted shoots were obtained on a 1.5 mg L− 1 IBA and 1.0 mg L− 1 BAP supplemented medium with simultaneous efficient multiplication. An analysis of peroxidase activity revealed its gradual increase in shoots until the appearance of roots. For the first time, an efficient way to regenerate, multiply and root A. bucovinense shoots has been developed and can be used for ex situ conservation of this species.

Background: Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints in the elderly. Pain symptoms can be chronic and aggravated by comorbidities. Back pain leads to reduced function, difficulty performing activities of daily living, and prevents physical activity. Massage is one of the more commonly used forms of physiotherapy for these complaints. Aim of the study: The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of therapeutic massage for spinal pain in older adults. Material and methods: Twenty-three participants, including 18 females and 5 males aged 61–85 years old, participated in the study. All patients had degenerative lesions of the spine that were diagnosed by their primary care physician. Patients received classical therapeutic back massages for a period of 3 weeks at a frequency of 2 times a week. Each treatment session was 40-minute-long. Analysis of pain was performed before and immediately after therapy to assess changes in pain. The McGill (short form) and the WHOQL-BREF questionnaires were used to assess the level and quality of life of the study participants. Pain intensity was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS). Results: There was a reduction in pain intensity (VAS) and pain perception after massage therapy, with changes in the sensory and emotional components of the pain score. The changes were statistically significant. Quality of life measured by the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire was at a good level. Elderly participants rated social relationships the highest and physical components the lowest. Conclusions: Massage therapy resulted in a reduction of spinal pain in older adults. Massage is an effective form of therapy for reducing back pain in older adults.

Abstract Old lead–zinc (Pb–Zn) mining sites in Greenland have increased the environmental concentration of Pb in local marine organisms, including the shorthorn sculpin. Organ metal concentrations and histopathology have been used in environmental monitoring programs to evaluate metal exposure and subsequent effects in shorthorn sculpins. So far, no study has reported the impact of heavy metals on gene expression involved in metal-related stress and immune responses in sculpins. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of exposure to environmentally relevant waterborne Pb (0.73 ± 0.35 μg/L) on hepatic gene expression of metallothionein (mt), immunoglobulin M (igm), and microRNAs (miRNAs; mir132 and mir155) associated with immune responses in the shorthorn sculpin compared to a control group. The mt and igm expression were upregulated in the Pb-exposed group compared to the control group. The transcripts of mir132 and mir155 were not different in sculpins between the Pb-exposed and control group; however, miRNA levels were significantly correlated with Pb liver concentrations. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between liver Pb concentrations and igm, and a positive relationship between igm and mir155. The results indicate that exposure to Pb similar to those concentrations reported in in marine waters around Greenland Pb–Zn mine sites influences the mt and immune responses in shorthorn sculpins. This is the first study to identify candidate molecular markers in the shorthorn sculpins exposed to waterborne environmentally relevant Pb suggesting mt and igm as potential molecular markers of exposure to be applied in future assessments of the marine environment near Arctic mining sites.

Background: Stress incontinence affects 25–60% of women of all ages and causes constant discomfort, significantly lowering quality of life. The most common causes of urinary incontinence are weakened sphincter muscles or bladder failure. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of therapeutic massage therapy for stress urinary incontinence and to determine whether therapeutic massage can restore the normal function of the bladder sphincters. Material and methods: The study involved eleven women with a diagnosis of primary stress urinary incontinence, aged 50–79 years. The women attended therapeutic massage sessions twice a week for four weeks. A sanitary pad test was performed before starting and immediately after ending the therapy to verify its effectiveness. Results: In eight women, the amount of urine that leaked decreased after therapy. This result was statistically significant (p = 0.02). In three cases, urine leakage was reduced to zero. Conclusions: Therapeutic massage, acting locally, improves the function of the bladder sphincters, their flexibility and the ability to contract and relax. Massage eliminates or significantly reduces the symptoms of stress urinary incontinence.

The paper discusses the problem of post-penitentiary assistance as a form of support to prisoners whoundergo a process of preparation to live at large and need help in their local communities.A major aim of post-penitentiary assistance is not only to prevent social exclusion of prisoners and theirfamilies but also their relapse into crime.Various assistance activities are undertaken to achieve this aim including those organised by post-penitentiaryand local council institutions and district offices, welfare centres, culture and educational establishments andnon-goverment organisations which function at the municipal level .These activities could be observed in particular Polish towns during the partition of Poland when schools andlocal associations undertook initiatives regarding assistance to prisoners .It is worth noting that in 1918-1939, various forms of support activities were organised by associations suchas the ones mentioned above, including ”Patronat” and municipalities, welfare centres, museums, schoolsand local parishes.Nowadays, local policy plays an important role in post-penitentiary assistance, particularly when a sentenceis served. Remand centres, correction institutions cooperate under various projects with local councils andnon-government institutions to prepare convicts to live at large.

The educational impact of contact with culturein the context of post-penitentiary assistanceThe paper deals with the impact of culture on convicted offenders. Culture is an important element of post-penitentiary assistance, indicating to inmates the possibility of focusing their efforts on spiritual values, with which many of them have not identified themselves before. Culture as part of the everyday life of society encompasses, among others, customs, ways of satisfying basic needs, superstitions, beliefs, broadly defined ideology, everyday life including family relations, questions of upbringing and, finally, fashion. An extremely important element of culture is the need to promote it, i.e. a planned process of its dissemination the objective of which is to make cultural goods accessible to as many people as possible.

Adults education in the sphere of culture plays a significant role in a personal development of a particular person, their skills, abilities, and interests. It enables self –realization and helps in the area of developing social competences. It is considerably important in the case of people serving a sentence of imprisonment, regardless of singular experiences regarding culture. Education activities carried out in penitentiaries have an important pedagogical dimension and their significant aim is to prepare inmates to live at large. A broad culture dimension helps inmates in finding their music, art, and acting interests and abilities and allows to form plans for life at large. Meeting with culture becomes for them a chance to gain knowledge in intersting for them culture spheres including inmates for whom it is the fist contact with culture. It is a chance for them to find some areas of their identity. Finally, a range of organised workshops in penitentiaries and outside in culture institutions allows to experience culture at large. Education in the sphere of culture becomes a voluntary choice and a participation in workshops becomes inmates’ manifestation of creative activities.

Shorthorn sculpin (Myoxocephalus scorpius) has been used as a sentinel species for environmental monitoring, including heavy metal contamination from mining activities. Former lead-zinc (Pb-Zn) mines in Greenland resulted in elevated concentrations of metals, especially Pb, in marine biota. However, the potential accumulation of Pb and effects of the presence of Pb residues in fish on health of sculpins observed in the field have not been validated in laboratory experiments. Therefore, our aim was to validate field observation of shorthorn sculpin via controlled laboratory exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of dissolved Pb. We evaluated the effects of a short-term (28 days) exposure to Pb on Pb residues in sculpin blood, gills, liver, and muscle and the morphology of gills and liver. The highest level of Pb was found in the gills, followed by muscle and then liver. Pb levels in liver, gills, and blood of Pb-exposed sculpins were significantly higher than those in control fish, showing that blood is suitable for assessing Pb accumulation and exposure in sculpins. Histopathological investigations showed that the severity score of liver necrosis and gill telangiectasia of Pb-exposed sculpins was significantly greater than in control fish. The number of mucous cells in gills was positively correlated with Pb concentrations in organs. Overall, the results validated field observation for the effects of Pb on wild sculpin and contributed to the improved use of the shorthorn sculpin as sentinel species for monitoring contamination from Pb mines in the Arctic.

This chapter provides a brief overview of crustacean parasites that infect commercially important fish and shellfish. Crustaceans are a diverse group of arthropods, with over 60,000 species that are significant to the aquaculture and fisheries sector, including parasitic species affecting other crustaceans, mollusks, and fishes. This chapter focuses on parasitic caligid copepods (sea lice), cymothoid isopods, and pea crabs of high economic impacts on commercially important aquatic species. The biology of the parasites, their effects on their hosts, the epidemiology of the infections, and economic impacts of these groups are described. Chemical treatments and husbandry modifications as management options for a range of crustacean parasites are presented, which includes the use of cleaner fish to remove parasites, specially designed cages to reduce infestation of parasites, or moving farms to deeper waters. The utilization of crustacean parasites as marine pest controls is further discussed, with emphasis on either its potential benefits or the negative effects on native crab populations. Despite the continuous adverse impacts parasitic crustaceans have on aquaculture, the progressive understanding of their biology and ecology may eventually lead to mitigation, if not complete eradication, of the parasites.

BackgroundMicrobial succession in vertebrates has primarily focused on vertical transmission and ontogenetic development in the mammalian gut. Teleosts comprise the majority of vertebrate diversity, yet little is known about how the microbiome develops in fish, particularly when vertical transmission is limited or absent for broadcast spawners. Biological factors such as diet, age, phylogeny, and trophic level along with environmental factors such as water salinity, temperature, and depth have been shown to influence the mucosal microbiomes of fish. Here we investigate how various microbial-rich surfaces from the built environment ‘BE’ influence the development of the mucosal microbiome (gill, skin, and digesta) of an economically important marine fish, yellowtail kingfish, Seriola lalandi, over time.ResultsFor the first experiment, we sampled gill and skin microbiomes from 36 fish reared in three tank conditions, and demonstrate that the gill is more influenced by the surrounding environment than the skin. In a second experiment, fish microbiomes (gill, skin, and digesta) and the BE (tank side, water, inlet pipe, airstones, and air diffusers) were sampled from indoor reared fish at three ages (43 dph, 137 dph, 430 dph; n=12 per age). At 430 dph, 20 additional fish were sampled from an outdoor ocean net pen. A total of 304 samples were processed for 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Gill and skin alpha diversity increased while gut diversity decreased with age. Diversity was much lower in fish from the ocean net pen compared to indoor fish. We quantified the change in community dynamics driven by the BE and show that the gill and skin are most influenced by the BE early in development, with aeration equipment having more impact in later ages, while the gut microbiome becomes increasingly differentiated from the environment over time.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that fish mucosal microbiomes are differentially influenced by the built environment with a high turnover and rapid succession occurring in the gill and skin while the gut microbiome is more stable. We demonstrate how individual components of a hatchery system, especially aeration equipment, may contribute directly to microbiome development in a marine fish. In addition, results demonstrate how early life (larval) exposure to stressors in the rearing environment may influence fish microbiome development which is important for animal health and aquaculture production.

Herein, we describe the rapid synthesis of a focused library of trisubstituted imidazo[4,5-b]pyridines and imidazo[4,5-c]pyridines from 2,4-dichloro-3-nitropyridine using the combination of solution-phase/solid-phase chemistry as new potential anti-inflammatory agents in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Structure-activity relationship studies, followed by the structure optimization, provided hit compounds (17 and 28) which inhibited phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) with IC50 values comparable to rolipram and displayed different inhibitory potency against phosphodiesterase 7 (PDE7). Among them, compound 17 showed a beneficial effect in all the studied animal models of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases (concanavalin A-induced hepatitis, lipopolysaccharide-induced endotoxemia, collagen-induced arthritis, and MOG35-55-induced encephalomyelitis). In addition, compound 17 showed a favorable pharmacokinetic profile after intraperitoneal administration; it was characterized by a fast absorption from the peritoneal cavity and a relatively long terminal half-life in rats. It was found to penetrate brain barrier in mice. The performed experiments sheds light on the impact of PDE7A inhibition for the efficacy of PDE4 inhibitors in these disease conditions.

Purpose This study aimed to assess the activity of two phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, namely GRMS-55 and racemic lisofylline ((±)-LSF)) in vitro and in animal models of immune-mediated disorders. Methods Inhibition of human recombinant (hr)PDEs and TNF-alpha release from LPS-stimulated whole rat blood by the studied compounds were assessed in vitro. LPS-induced endotoxemia, concanavalin A (ConA)-induced hepatitis, and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) animal models were used for in vivo evaluation. The potency of the investigated compounds was evaluated using PK/PD and PK/PD/disease progression modeling. Results GRMS-55 is a potent hrPDE7A and hrPDE1B inhibitor, while (±)-LSF most strongly inhibits hrPDE3A and hrPDE4B. GRMS-55 decreased TNF-alpha levels in vivo and CIA progression with IC50 of 1.06 and 0.26 mg/L, while (±)-LSF with IC50 of 5.80 and 1.06 mg/L, respectively. Moreover, GRMS-55 significantly ameliorated symptoms of ConA-induced hepatitis. Conclusions PDE4B but not PDE4D inhibition appears to be mainly engaged in anti-inflammatory activity of the studied compounds. GRMS-55 and (±)-LSF seem to be promising candidates for future studies on the treatment of immune-related diseases. The developed PK/PD models may be used to assess the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic potency of new compounds for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

W latach 1918-1939 aresztanci stanowili grupę osób szczególnie narażoną na marginalizację i wykluczenie społeczne, co dotyczyło także członków ich rodzin. Sytuację pogarszał jeszcze fakt, że osoby skazane najczęściej pochodziły z rodzin doświadczających biedy, ubóstwa, a zachowania przestępcze były niejednokrotnie wynikiem trudnej sytuacji życiowej, której doświadczali zarówno w życiu rodzinnym, jak i społecznym. Szczególnie trudna była sytuacja ówczesnych aresztantek, jak również rzeszy sierot żyjących na ulicach miast, utrzymujących się z żebractwa, drobnych kradzieży czy rozbojów. Jedyną szansą na zmianę ich sytuacji życiowej były działania pomocowe w obszarze wychowania i edukacji, które dawały im możliwość nie tylko poprawy moralnej, ale niejednokrotnie odmieniały ich życie poprzez zdobycie wykształcenia, pracy, jak również mieszkania. Podejmowane działania w wielu przypadkach dotyczyły też dzieci aresztantów, ich wychowania i edukacji. Wsparciem aresztantów i ich rodzin były przede wszystkim działania dobroczynne realizowane przez stowarzyszenia, towarzystwa, bractwa religijne, działania podejmowane przez pracowników sądowych, więziennych i nauczycieli szkół. Wiele z tych inicjatyw pomocowych można zaobserwować we współczesnych działaniach obejmujących wsparcie osadzonych i ich rodzin. Niezmiernie interesujące jest, iż współcześnie, w zmienionej już rzeczywistości społecznej znajdują zastosowanie między innymi te same metody oddziaływania wychowawczego i wsparcia edukacyjnego. Between 1918 and 1939 detainees were a group of people particularly vulnerable to marginalisation and social exclusion, which also concerned members of their families. The situation was aggravated by the fact that convicted persons most often came from families experiencing poverty and deprivation, and criminal behaviour was often the result of a difficult life situation which they experienced both in family and social life. Particularly difficult was the situation of the then women-detainees, as well as a significant number of orphans, living on the streets of cities, living off begging, petty thefts or robberies. The only chance of changing their life situation were assistance activities in the area of upbringing and education, which gave them the opportunity not only to improve their morality but often changed their lives by gaining education, work, as well as housing. The actions taken in many cases also concerned the children of detainees, their upbringing and education. The initiators of support for the detainees and their families were primarily charitable activities carried out by associations, societies, religious fraternities, actions taken by the court, prison staff and school teachers. Many of these aid initiatives can be seen in contemporary actions involving support for detainees and their families. It is extremely interesting that the same methods of educational impact and educational support are applied in the changed social reality today.

This study aimed to assess the activity of two phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, namely GRMS-55 and racemic lisofylline ((±)-LSF)) in vitro and in animal models of immune-mediated disorders.Inhibition of human recombinant (hr)PDEs and TNF-alpha release from LPS-stimulated whole rat blood by the studied compounds were assessed in vitro. LPS-induced endotoxemia, concanavalin A (ConA)-induced hepatitis, and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) animal models were used for in vivo evaluation. The potency of the investigated compounds was evaluated using PK/PD and PK/PD/disease progression modeling.GRMS-55 is a potent hrPDE7A and hrPDE1B inhibitor, while (±)-LSF most strongly inhibits hrPDE3A and hrPDE4B. GRMS-55 decreased TNF-alpha levels in vivo and CIA progression with ICPDE4B but not PDE4D inhibition appears to be mainly engaged in anti-inflammatory activity of the studied compounds. GRMS-55 and (±)-LSF seem to be promising candidates for future studies on the treatment of immune-related diseases. The developed PK/PD models may be used to assess the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic potency of new compounds for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

Background: Quinazoline α1-adrenoceptors antagonists have been shown to exert moderately favorable effects on the metabolic profile in hypertensive patients. However, based on AntiHypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) results, they are no longer recommended as a first line therapy of hypertension. Recent studies have shown that quinazoline-based α1-adrenoceptors antagonists (prazosin, doxazosin) induce the apoptosis and necrosis, which may be responsible for ALLHAT outcomes, however, these effects were proven to be independent of α1-adrenoceptor blockade and were associated with the presence of quinazoline moiety. MH-76 (1-[3-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)propyl]-4-(2-methoxyphenyl)piperazine hydrochloride)) is a non-quinazoline α1-adrenoceptor antagonist which, in fructose-fed rats, exerted antihypertensive effect, and, contrary to prazosin, reduced insulin resistance and abdominal adiposity. In this study we aimed to further investigate and compare the effects of MH-76 and prazosin on inflammation in adipose tissue of fructose-fed rats. Methods: Abdominal adipose tissue was collected from four groups of fructose-fed rats (Control, Fructose, Fructose + MH-76 and Fructose + Prazosin) and subjected to biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical studies. Moreover, selected tissue distribution studies were performed. Results: Treatment with MH-76 but not with prazosin improved endothelial integrity, reduced adipose tissue inflammation and infiltration by immune cells, resulting in lowering leptin, MCP-1, IL-6, TNF-α and PAI-1 levels. In adipose tissue from Fructose + MH-76 animals, a higher amount of eosinophils accompanied with higher IL-4 concentration was observed. Treatment with MH-76 but not with prazosin markedly reduced phosphorylation of IRS-1 at Ser307. Conclusion: MH-76 may improve insulin signaling in adipose tissue by reducing the pro-inflammatory cytokine production and inhibiting the inflammatory cells recruitment. In contrast, in adipose tissue from animals treated with prazosin, the inflammatory effect was clearly enhanced.

Eight school nurses attended the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Campaign for Dental Health meeting in March 2018, which focused on community water fluoridation programs. Because of aging infrastructure and antifluoridation community activists, some communities are considering stopping fluoridation programs. The benefits of water fluoridation have been demonstrated since the 1950s. School nurses can play a vital role in advocating for evidence-based fluoridation programs within their community. This article informs the school nurse on the benefits of water fluoridation for promoting community health and methods to advocate for those measures—key practice components of the leadership and community/public health principles of “Framework for 21st Century School Nursing Practice™.”

We investigated the therapeutic effect of MH-76 and MH-79, which are non-quinazoline α1-adrenoceptor antagonists with an additional ability to stimulate the nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)/K + pathway, on deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt induced hypertension in rats. Prazosin was used as a reference compound, as quinazoline-based α1-adrenolytics may potentially exert unfavorable proapoptotic and necrotic effects. DOCA-salt hypertension was induced by DOCA (20 mg/kg s.c., twice weekly) administration plus 1% NaCl and 0.2% KCl solutions in drinking water for 12 weeks. The studied compounds MH-76, MH-79 (10 mg/kg i.p.) or prazosin (0.4 mg/kg i.p.) were administered to the DOCA-salt-treated rats, starting from the 6th week of DOCA-salt treatment and continuing for 6 weeks. This study showed that the administration of MH-79 and, to a lesser extent, MH-76 decreased elevated systolic blood pressure and heart rate, reduced heart and kidney hypertrophy, and reversed the histopathological alterations of the heart, kidney, and vessels in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. MH-79 reversed endothelial dysfunction, which reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, arteriosclerotic alterations in renal and coronary arteries, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Prazosin showed a potent hemodynamic effect and reduced cardiac and renal fibrosis but exerted detrimental effects on blood vessels, potentiating fibroplasia of the media of the intrarenal artery and causing calcification of coronary arteries. Prazosin did not reverse endothelial dysfunction. Our results show the beneficial effect of non-quinazoline α1-adrenolytics on cardiac, vascular, and renal dysfunction in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. Our findings also support the idea that targeting endothelial protection and endothelial integrity would yield beneficial effects against cardiac, blood vessel and renal injury related to hypertension.

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is the practice in some immigrant populations of cutting or causing injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The incidence of FGM/C has increased by 314% in school-aged children according to a study published in 2016. The school nurse is in an optimal position to identify children at risk and build collaborative relationships to treat the students affected by the practice. FGM/C is child abuse and carries both federal and state legal consequences. It is important for the school nurse to understand the cultural context, legal guidance, and social consequences of this practice within the greater community. The school nurse should work to develop interagency guidelines to provide safe processes for the child and the family. The most effective programs use a combination of educational strategies for families and communities along with law enforcement to help abolish the practice.

Amoebic gill disease (AGD) is the major disease negatively impacting Atlantic salmon aquaculture in Tasmania, Australia. From an epidemiological perspective, it is essential to determine the reservoirs of AGD etiological agent Neoparamoeba perurans. During tank-based experimental infections it was demonstrated that the concentration of N. perurans was significantly higher in the water column (13 ± 7 cells/L after 22 days) than on the interface surface air–water-tank (0.01 ± 0.1 cells/L) in a recirculation system with Atlantic salmon in a stocking density of 7.5 kg/m3 and weekly water changes. These are lower numbers compared to those found on farmed Atlantic salmon chronically affected with AGD that can reach 100 times more cells/swab. This suggests that fish themselves and not water are reservoirs of this pathogen. A similar concentration was observed in a different system, the recirculating seawater system where N. perurans infection is perpetuated with 1.7 kg/m3 stocking density of Atlantic salmon but no water changes. This suggests that a critical maximum concentration of the amoeba in seawater and time exposure for fish are what need to be corroborated in field studies. Statement of relevance Reservoirs of the pathogenic N. perurans in recirculation systems.

The objective of the study was to determine the order of muscle recruitment during the active hip joint extension in particular positions in young visually impaired athletes. The average recruitment time (ART) of the gluteus maximus (GM) and the hamstring muscle group (HMG) was assessed by the means of surface electromyography (sEMG). The sequence of muscle recruitment in the female and male group was also taken into consideration. This study followed a prospective, cross – sectional, randomised design, where 76 visually impaired athletes between the age of 18–25 years were enrolled into the research and selected on chosen inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, 64 young subjects (32 men and 32 women) were included in the study (age: 21.1 ± 1.05 years; body mass: 68.4 ± 12.4 kg; body height: 1.74 ± 0.09 m; BMI: 22.20 ± 2.25 kg/m2). All subjects were analysed for the ART of the GM and HMG during the active hip extension performed in two different positions, as well as resting and functional sEMG activity of each muscle. Between gender differences were comprised and the correlations between the ART of the GM and HMG with their functional sEMG activity during hip extension in both positions were shown. No significant differences between the ART of the GM and HMG were found (p>0.05). Furthermore, there was no significant difference of ART among both tested positions, as well in male as female subjects (p>0.05).

There is inadequate morphological nomenclature and definition of organ pathology when using wild fish in biomonitoring of environmental pollution. The aim of this investigation was to provide a guide that assesses histology of Shorthorn (Myoxocephalus scorpius) and Fourhorn (Myoxocephalus quadricornis) sculpins obtained from a study using these two fish species as bioindicator organisms to evaluate environmental impact attributed to a dumpsite located in East Greenland. Specific histopathological lesions were quantified on the basis of Bernet et al. and all lesions were photomicrographed, evaluated, and placed into specific categories of five reaction patterns. These were circulatory disturbances, regressive changes, progressive alterations, inflammation, and tumors based on anatomical location, type, and severity. This method is postulated to enable an objective assessment of the histological integrity of fish gills and liver; thus, making it possible to compare sculpin pathology and reaction patterns at different locations. Data suggest that this updated histological guide might be used for identification and quantification of histological lesions when applying sculpins in biomonitoring programs in Greenland and other Arctic regions.

Introduction: Propolis is used in Poland as an active ingredient of some drugs administered externally, dietary supplements and cosmetics. According to the literature, propolis is a non-toxic and safe substance, although it may cause allergic contact dermatitis. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the allergenic properties of propolis and Balsam of Peru. Material and methods: The study was conducted according to the OECD Guideline for testing of chemicals-Skin sensitization with use of Guinea pig maximization test (GPMT). Guinea pigs have similar sensitivity to allergens as human body. Sensitization properties of propolis were tested in comparison with sensitization properties of Balsam of Peru because of the possibility of cross-reaction between those two substances. Results: The skin of guinea pigs in the propolis group showed no visible change compared to the control group during the first (48 h) and second observation (72 h). The skin of guinea pigs from Balsam of Peru group showed discrete erythema in only one case at the first observation (8.33% of the animals). During the second observation, no visible changes were observed compared to the control group. Conclusions: Guinea pig maximization test showed no sensitizing properties of propolis and weak sensitizing properties of Balsam of Peru in concentration of 5%.

Histological analysis of gill samples taken from individuals of Latris lineata reared in aquaculture in Tasmania, Australia, and those sampled from the wild revealed the presence of epitheliocystis-like basophilic inclusions. Subsequent morphological, in situ hybridization, and molecular analyses were performed to confirm the presence of this disease and discovered a Chlamydia -like organism associated with this condition, and the criteria set by Fredericks and Relman's postulates were used to establish disease causation. Three distinct 16S rRNA genotypes were sequenced from 16 fish, and phylogenetic analyses of the nearly full-length 16S rRNA sequences generated for this bacterial agent indicated that they were nearly identical novel members of the order Chlamydiales . This new taxon formed a well-supported clade with “ Candidatus Parilichlamydia carangidicola” from the yellowtail kingfish ( Seriola lalandi ). On the basis of sequence divergence over the 16S rRNA region relative to all other members of the order Chlamydiales , a new genus and species are proposed here for the Chlamydia -like bacterium from L. lineata , i.e., “ Candidatus Similichlamydia latridicola” gen. nov., sp. nov.

Several Chlamydiales families are associated with epitheliocystis, a common condition of the fish gill epithelium. These families share common ancestors with the Chlamydiaceae and environmental Chlamydiae. Due to the lack of culture systems, little is known about the biology of these chlamydial fish pathogens. We investigated epitheliocystis in cultured Orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) from North Queensland, Australia. Basophilic inclusions were present in the gills of 22/31 fish and the presence of the chlamydial pathogen in the cysts was confirmed by in situ hybridization. Giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus) cultured in the same systems were epitheliocystis free. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed a novel member of the Candidatus Parilichlamydiaceae: Ca. Similichlamydia epinephelii. Using metagenomic approaches, we obtained an estimated 68% of the chlamydial genome, revealing that this novel chlamydial pathogen shares a number of key pathogenic hallmarks with the Chlamydiaceae, including an intact Type III Secretion system and several chlamydial virulence factors. This provides additional evidence that these pathogenic mechanisms were acquired early in the evolution of this unique bacterial phylum. The identification and genomic characterization of Ca. S. epinephelii provides new opportunities to study the biology of distantly-related chlamydial pathogens while shining a new light on the evolution of pathogenicity of the Chlamydiaceae.

Background Zinc transporters (ZnTs) and metallothioneins (MT) are important in maintaining Zn homeostasis in the brain. The present study was designed to find out whether alterations in ZnTs and MTs are associated with the pathophysiology of depression and the mechanism of antidepressant action. Methods Messenger RNA and proteins of ZnT1, ZnT3, ZnT4, ZnT5, ZnT6 and MT1/2 were measured in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (Hp) of rats subjected to olfactory bulbectomy (OB) (a model of depression) and chronic amitriptyline (AMI) treatment by Real Time PCR and Western Blot/Immunohistochemistry (IHP). Results Results in the OB rats showed: increases in the protein levels of ZnT1 in the PFC and Hp and MT1/2 in the PFC; a decrease in ZnT3 protein level in the PFC; no changes in ZnT4, ZnT5 and ZnT6 in the PFC and Hp. IHP labeling revealed increases in the optical densities of ZnT1-IR in the PFC and Hp and decreases in ZnT3 and ZnT4-IR in the PFC of OB rats. Although OB had no effects on gene expression of ZnTs, mRNAs for MT1/2 were increased. Chronic AMI treatment did not influence protein levels of ZnTs and MT1/2 in Sham and OB rats; however decreased mRNA levels of ZnT4 and ZnT5 in PFC and ZnT1, ZnT3, ZnT4 and ZnT6 in Hp of Sham rats and normalized OB induced increase in MT1/2 gene expression. Conclusions Changes in ZnTs and MT1/2 suggest altered cortical distribution of Zn in the OB model which further supports the hypothesis that Zn dyshomeostasis may be involved in the pathophysiology of depression.

BioMetals 29(3), 487 - 494(2016). doi:10.1007/s10534-016-9930-8, Most studies have focused on the biodistribution of titanium(IV) oxide as nanoparticles or crystals in organism. But several reports suggested that titanium is released from implant in ionic form. Therefore, gaining insight into toxicokinetics of Ti ions will give valuable information, which may be useful when assessing the health risks of long-term exposure to titanium alloy implants in patients. A micro synchrotron radiation-induced X-ray fluorescence (µ-SRXRF) was utilized to investigate the titanium distribution in the liver, spleen and kidneys of rats following single intravenous or 30-days oral administration of metal (6 mg Ti/b.w.) in ionic form. Titanium was mainly retained in kidneys after both intravenous and oral dosing, and also its compartmentalization in this organ was observed. Titanium in the liver was non-uniformly distributed—metal accumulated in single aggregates, and some of them were also enriched in calcium. Correlation analysis showed that metal did not displace essential elements, and in liver titanium strongly correlated with calcium. Two-dimensional maps of Ti distribution show that the location of the element is characteristic for the route of administration and time of exposure. We demonstrated that µ-SRXRF can provide information on the distribution of titanium in internal structures of whole organs, which helps in enhancing our understanding of the mechanism of ionic titanium accumulation in the body. This is significant due to the popularity of titanium implants and the potential release of metal ions from them to the organism., Published by Springer Science + Business Media B.V, Dordrecht [u.a.]

W pracy przedstawiono zmienność cech agronomicznych odmian jęczmienia jarego w latach 2008–2010 zgromadzonych w Banku Genów IHAR — PIB Radzików. Praca jest kontynuacją wcześniejszych badań. Wykonano obserwacje i pomiary: wczesności (liczba dni od 1 stycznia do kłoszenia), odporności na podstawowe choroby i wyleganie (w skali 9-stopniowej), wysokości roślin, długości i wagi kłosa, liczby ziaren w kłosie, masy 1000 ziaren. Odmiany znacznie różniły się pod względem badanych cech. Pozwoliło to na wstępne wyodrębnienie genotypów jęczmienia jarego o pożądanych cechach agronomicznych i ewentualne włączenie ich do programów hodowlanych.

Reductions in the number and size of neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) have been documented in many post-mortem studies of depressed patients and animals exposed to stress. Here, we examined the effect of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) and chronic mild stress (CMS) on specific populations of neurons in the rat mPFC. Antibodies directed against parvalbumin (PV), calbindin D-28K (CB) and active caspase-3 have been used to quantify the numerical density of PV-immunoreactive (PV-ir), CB-ir and active caspase-3-ir cells, and to measure the relative optical density of neuropil. CUS decreased the density of CB-ir neurons and the optical density of CB-ir neuropil. In turn, CMS increased the densities of both CB-ir neurons and neuropil, while PV-ir neurons and PV-ir neuropil were not changed. The frequency distribution of neuronal surface areas was significantly different only for PV-ir neurons, and only between the control and CUS group. CMS reduced the density of active caspase-3-ir cells while CUS did not. We concluded that the mPFC reveals a different pattern of changes in neurons containing calcium binding proteins and active caspase-3 immunoreactivity in response to CUS and CMS.