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Biomass pyrolysis is an advanced process which leads to obtaining products as chars, primary tars and gases. Depending on pyrolysis conditions and reactor construction, the pyrolysis could be divided into three categories: slow, intermediate and fast. This work concerns the experimental analysis of an intermediate pyrolysis of biomass residues in a fixed bed reactor. As raw materials, pine bark and wheat straw were selected. Experiments were carried out at three temperatures: 400, 500 and 600 °C under constant volume flow rate of inert gas equal to 100 ml/min. Biomass samples were kept for 150 seconds in the hot zone. The main goal was to compare yields, elemental composition, and calorific values of received products under studied process conditions. The ultimate analysis of chars and organic fractions of oils was performed. Obtained results from ultimate analysis allowed to determine higher heating values by a theoretical correlation. The products of pyrolysis obtained at 600 °C characterized by the most energetic parameters. The higher heating value for organic fraction of tars was 31.62 MJ/kg while for char was 29.47 MJ/kg.

In response to international regulations, natural refrigerants such as carbon dioxide are more and more frequently used in the refrigeration industry. Due to thermodynamic properties, R-744 is used in the transcritical cycle as an individual refrigerant. In the hereby article, high pressure of CO2 and air temperature values were analysed. The measurements were conducted on the gas cooler side and involved external air temperature values in the summer period between 1 June to 30 September 2018. The “Booster” installation was used in one of Polish supermarkets. Correlations required to determine the optimal pressure of carbon dioxide depending on ambient temperature were presented in the article. The equations presented hereby allowed to maximize the energy efficiency ratio. An optimal high pressure for one of the correlations from literature was calculated on the basis of the measurement of ambient temperature. Actual and optimal pressure values of carbon dioxide were compared in the analysed period of time.

Representatives of retail chains emphasize in their statements how much importance they attach to conducting business according to the idea of CSR, especially in terms of limiting the amount of food wasted. On the other hand, when presenting product specifications to food producers, they require them to provide products that comply with specific standards. The aim of this article is to present the potential financial loss for the surveyed producers resulting from aesthetic/cosmetic losses at the stage of primary carrot production. The source material was subject literature, accounting documentation for the years 2019–2022, and information obtained during expert interviews with carrot producers. The size of the losses was presented based on the mass balance index. It was found that only 43.86% of the collected raw material is sold as a full-value product (accepted by retail chains).

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin disease that affects hair follicles, typically developing after puberty. It is characterized by painful, deep-seated inflammatory lesions that appear in anatomical regions where apocrine glands are located, mainly in the axillar, inguinal, and anogenital areas. The pathogenesis of hidradenitis suppurativa is multifactorial, with follicular occlusion representing the initial stage of the disease and subsequently leading to the formation of neutrophilic abscesses and infiltration by various inflammatory cells. The treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons, as well as physicians of other medical specialties. The primary pharmacological treatments for hidradenitis suppurativa involve antibiotics and biologic disease-modifying drugs, which can be used either in monotherapy or in combination with surgical interventions. The following guidelines provide up-to-date information on the management of patients with hidradenitis suppurativa.

Summary: Despite numerous neuropathological criteria for the evaluation of microscopic tissue slides, there are no systemic standards for sectioning postmortem human brain tissue. Here, we present a protocol for postmortem brain hybrid structured-light scanning to facilitate 3D printing of sectioning matrices. We describe steps for tissue preparation, 3D scanning and printing, and matrix-guided sectioning. This protocol can be used for streamlining tissue histopathology as well as in brain morphology volumetric analyses and applications in medical education.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Barannikov et al.1 : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

This study presents the influence of major weather factors during the blackcurrant blossoming period on the yields of the ‘Ojebyn’, ‘Titania’ and ‘Roodknop’ cultivars, cultivated in Warmia (Olsztyn). The study was conducted for five years (2003-2007). Among the factors analysed were the currant yield, the duration of the blossoming period, average daily air temperature, the number of days with frost at the height of 2 m and at the ground level, total rainfall during the blossoming period and the number of days with rainfall during the blossoming period.

The paper describe possibilities of energy generation using various rotor types but especially with multi-blade wind engine operates in the areas with unfavourable wind condition. The paper presents also wind energy conversion estimation results presented based on proposed solution of multi-blade wind turbine of outer diameter of 4 m. Based on the wind distribution histogram from the disadvantage wind condition zones (city of Basel) and taking into account design and estimated operating indexes of the considered wind engine rotor an annual energy generation was estimated. Also theoretical energy generation using various types of wind turbines operates at disadvantage wind conditions zones were estimated and compared. The conducted analysis shows that introduction of multi-blade wind rotor instead of the most popular 3- blades or vertical axis rotors results of about 5% better energy generation. Simultaneously there are energy production also at very disadvantages wind condition at wind speed lower then 4 ms-1. Based on considered construction of multi-blade wind engine the rise of rotor mounting height from 10 to 30 m results with more then 300 % better results in terms of electric energy generation.

This paper reports the results of a study into operating parameters of an system consisting of an SI engine and a driver train in a Fiat Panda passenger car in the conditions of a variable load. The analysis was primarily concerned with the variability of fuel consumption resulting of the changing load applied to the driving wheels in the conditions of a test performed on dynamometer rollers. The bench test included a dedicated driving cycle in which a constant linear speed of the car was changed every 10 km/h and subsequently maintained for registration and analysis purposes. The focus of the study involved the identification of the points characterized with the minimum specific fuel consumption. Throughout the test, the load applied to the transmission was alternated by simulating an increase of road inclination for which the variability of the engine efficiency was analyzed.

THE IMPORTANCE AND ROLE OF AFRICAN COUNTRIES FOR TURKISH FOREIGN POLICY UNDER THE RULE OF THE JUSTICE AND DEVELOPMENT PARTY (AKP) The main aim of the article is to trace an evolution of Turkey’s foreign policy towards African countries. Assuming that during the rule of the Justice and Development Party a qualitative change took place in Turkey’s approach to this area, the paper will analyse its particular importance in the process of shaping the new identity of Ankara’s foreign policy after 2002. In addition, the ambition of the submitted paper is also to indicate the reasons for the change that took place in the way of building relations with some countries of the region, so characteristic for overall Turkey’s international activities during the rule of R.T. Erdoğan and his political party.

Polish Konik remains one of the most important horse breeds in Poland. The primitive, native horses with a stocky body and mouse-like coat color are protected by a conservation program, while their Polish population consists of about 3,480 individuals, representing 16 dam and six sire lines. To define the population’s genetic structure, mitochondrial DNA and Y chromosome sequence variables were identified. The mtDNA whole hypervariable region analysis was carried out using the Sanger sequencing method on 233 Polish Koniks belonging to all dam lines, while the Y chromosome analysis was performed with the competitive allele-specific PCR genotyping method on 36 horses belonging to all sire lines. The analysis of the mtDNA hypervariable region detected 47 SNPs, which assigned all tested horses to 43 haplotypes. Most dam lines presented more than one haplotype; however, five dam lines were represented by only one haplotype. The haplotypes were classified into six (A, B, E, J, G, R) recognized mtDNA haplogroups, with most horses belonging to haplogroup A, common among Asian horse populations. Y chromosome analysis allocated Polish Koniks in the Crown group, condensing all modern horse breeds, and divided them into three haplotypes clustering with coldblood breeds (28 horses), warmblood breeds (two horses), and Duelmener Pony (six horses). The clustering of all Wicek sire line stallions with Duelmener horses may suggest a historical relationship between the breeds. Additionally, both mtDNA and Y chromosome sequence variability results indicate crossbreeding before the studbooks closure or irregularities in the pedigrees occurred before the DNA testing introduction.

The influence of β-glucans on the properties of gluten-free dough and bread is still not fully explained, with the literature suggesting both positive and negative effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the molar mass of oat β-glucans on the properties of gluten-free bread. Gluten-free breads were baked under standardized conditions from a model gluten-free mix without and with a 1% or 2% share of oat β-glucans of a low molar mass of 24,540 g/mol, a medium molar mass of 85,940 g/mol and a high molar mass of 1,714,770 g/mol. The share of β-glucans affected the increase in water addition to the baking mix and dough yield proportionally to the molar mass and amount of β-glucans. The β-glucans of the highest molar mass, particularly at a 2% share, were most effective in increasing bread volume, reducing hardness and increasing the moisture content of the bread crumb on the day of baking, as well as reducing the increase in hardness and maintaining a high moisture content of the bread crumb after 1 day of storage, compared to bread without added β-glucans.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a tauopathy associated with repetitive mild head impacts characterized by perivascular hyperphosphorylated tau (p-tau) in neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and neurites in the depths of the neocortical sulci. In moderate to advanced CTE, NFTs accumulate in the hippocampus, potentially overlapping neuroanatomically with primary age-related tauopathy (PART), an age-related tauopathy characterized by Alzheimer disease-like tau pathology in the hippocampus devoid of amyloid plaques. We measured p-tau burden using positive-pixel counts on immunohistochemically stained and neuroanatomically segmented hippocampal tissue. Subjects with CTE had a higher total p-tau burden than PART subjects in all sectors (p = 0.005). Within groups, PART had significantly higher total p-tau burden in CA1/subiculum compared to CA3 (p = 0.02) and CA4 (p = 0.01) and total p-tau burden in CA2 trended higher than CA4 (p = 0.06). In CTE, total p-tau burden in CA1/subiculum was significantly higher than in the dentate gyrus; and CA2 also trended higher than dentate gyrus (p = 0.01, p = 0.06). When controlling for p-tau burden across the entire hippocampus, CA3 and CA4 had significantly higher p-tau burden in CTE than PART (p

Introduction: Mastocytosis is a rare hematologic neoplasm characterized by the abnormal proliferation and accumulation of mast cells in various tissues. Its clinical manifestations vary widely, ranging from cutaneous lesions to systemic involvement with potentially life-threatening symptoms. Understanding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of mastocytosis is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Aim of the Study: The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of mastocytosis, including its epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies. By synthesizing current knowledge on mastocytosis, this study aims to enhance understanding of the disease and guide clinical practice. Description of the State of Knowledge: Mastocytosis is classified into cutaneous and systemic forms, with various subtypes based on clinical and histopathological features. Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical suspicion, serum tryptase levels, histological examination of bone marrow biopsies, and genetic testing. Management strategies include symptomatic treatment, avoidance of triggers, and targeted therapies such as monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Advanced forms may require cytoreductive therapy or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT). Conclusions: Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, achieving lasting remission in mastocytosis remains challenging, especially in advanced cases. Further research into the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease and the development of novel therapeutic modalities are needed to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Introduction: Adolescent pregnancy remains a contentious issue despite improvements in quality of life and increased access to sexual education. The average age of first pregnancy has shifted due to financial instability among young people, leading to delayed pregnancies until financial stability is achieved. Teenage mothers face social stigma, and early sexual initiation not only increases the risk of pregnancy but also sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Often, adolescent pregnancies are unwanted, resulting in delayed medical consultation due to fear or ignorance. Aim of the Study: This study aims to investigate the medical and social implications of adolescent pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of early sexual education and comprehensive healthcare support. Description of the State of Knowledge: Adolescent pregnancy, defined as pregnancy between ages 10 and 19, is a global concern with millions of cases annually. It poses significant health risks, including premature birth, low birth weight, and intrauterine growth restriction. Socially, it affects educational attainment and financial stability, with adolescents from lower socioeconomic backgrounds facing greater challenges. Early sexual initiation and risky sexual behaviors further compound the issue, increasing the risk of STIs. Lack of comprehensive sexual education exacerbates these risks, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary support from healthcare professionals. Conclusions: Adolescent pregnancy requires a holistic approach encompassing medical, social, and legal dimensions. Effective sexual education programs, involving gynecologists, pediatricians, and educators, are essential for prevention. Legal frameworks must protect adolescents and address issues of consent and sexual health. Additionally, access to comprehensive healthcare services, including prenatal care and contraception, is crucial for mitigating the adverse effects of adolescent pregnancy on both individuals and society.

Celem niniejszego opracowania jest wskazanie wysokości potencjalnych, utraconych przychodów dla badanych producentów marchwi wynikających ze strat w produkcji podstawowej. Nadmierne straty spowodowane są koniecznością stosowania kryteriów estetycznych narzuconych przez sieci handlowe. Materiałem źródłowym była literatura przedmiotu, dokumentacja księgowa za lata 2019-2022 oraz informacje pozyskane podczas wywiadów eksperckich z producentami marchwi, które zostały przeprowadzone w styczniu 2023 roku. Badaniem objęto dobranych celowo 7 producentów, których zagregowana wielkość zbiorów marchwi stanowiła w 2021 roku około 15% wielkości zbiorów w województwie kujawsko-pomorskim i około 2,8% w kraju. Rozmiary strat przedstawiono na podstawie wskaźnika bilansu mas. Stwierdzono, że tylko 43,86% zebranego surowca jest sprzedawana jako pełnowartościowy produkt (zaakceptowany przez sieci handlowe). Pozostała część jest dostarczana jako pokarm dla zwierząt, surowiec do przetwórstwa bądź paliwo do biogazowni. Wartość potencjalnych, utraconych korzyści oszacowano na podstawie różnicy uzyskanego przychodu ze sprzedaży produktów odrzuconych, a wartością potencjalnego przychodu uzyskanego przy założeniu, że producenci mogliby sprzedać 50% masy odrzuconej marchwi po średniej cenie rynkowej produktu spełniającego „normy” z upustem cenowym w wysokości 30%, 50% lub 70%. Z przeprowadzonej analizy wynika, że średnie przychody producenta (przy uwzględnieniu przyjętych założeń) mogłyby być wyższe od 30% do 173%, co dałoby wyższy przychód od 0,34 mln zł do 1,92 mln zł rocznie.

We elaborate on the cosmological implications of the recently established non-perturbative O(D,D)-symmetric approach. Following the α′-complete Friedmann equations, we provide a qualitative description of the dynamics of anisotropy perturbations. We find that the spacetime stability depends on the sign of the generalized dilaton time derivative. We consider isotropic limits and find possible mechanism for pre-big bang cosmology, governed by the value of cosmological constant.

Abstract Operant conditioning was shown to be a mechanism of placebo hypoalgesia; however, only verbal rewards and punishers were applied in the previous study. We aimed to induce placebo hypoalgesia using more clinically relevant consequences: token-based and social. Participants were divided into three experimental groups (with verbal, social, and token-based rewards and punishers); and two control groups (with and without placebo application). During operant conditioning, participants in the experimental groups received thermal stimuli of equal intensity and were rewarded for reporting lower pain and punished for reporting higher pain compared to their pretest pain levels. The control groups did not receive any consequences. Our results revealed placebo hypoalgesia was induced by operant conditioning only in the experimental groups with social and token-based reinforcement, compared to the control groups. The hypoalgesic effect found in the group that received verbal reinforcement did not differ significantly from the control group with the placebo application. Moreover, expectations about upcoming pain intensity were found to be a mediator, and the number of reinforcers received during conditioning was a predictor of placebo hypoalgesia. These findings highlight the potential benefits of incorporating token-based and social consequences for optimizing treatment outcomes in pain management.