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Introduction: Up to 96% of patients after bariatric surgery struggle with excess skin, which negatively affects their daily functioning due to frequent skin infections, difficulties with sexual activity and physical exercise, as well as discomfort, especially in social situations. Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that allows post-bariatric patients to resolve these problems. At the same time, like any surgical intervention, the incidence of complications is relatively low. These potential complications after surgery include mainly superficial wound dehiscence or other minor complications. Purpose of the work: This study aims to detail the stages of abdominoplasty performed on a post-bariatric surgery patient and to demonstrate the outcomes achieved. Materials and methods: In this study, the individual case study method was used. The subject of the study was a 36-year-old woman after bariatric surgery who, having lost more than fifty kilograms and already having a normal BMI= 23.88 kg/m², applied for an abdominoplasty procedure. For practical reasons, despite indications for a circular abdominoplasty, the patient underwent a classic abdominoplasty complemented by liposuction. Results: During the abdominoplasty procedure, liposuction of the lateral fat tissue was performed, along with the removal of a skin-fat fold weighing over 1 kilogram, reinforcement of the abdominal muscles, and repositioning of the navel. The patient left the clinic without any drainage in place. After 8 days, the sutures placed during the operation were removed and after 4 weeks, the effects of the surgery were also verified by photo documentation. The abdominoplasty performed in the post-bariatric patient allowed for the successful removal of the excess skin after a considerable amount of weight loss. The procedure required meticulous planning and adaptation of surgical methods and techniques to the patient's living situation.

Introduction Mental health is a crucial component of overall well-being for everyone, and it becomes particularly important in the context of young student-athletes who must simultaneously meet educational and athletic challenges. Athletes, like their peers, struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, sleep deficits, burnout, and overtraining. The additional activity of engaging in competitive sports, compared to those who do not, can exacerbate these symptoms. The aim of study • Identify and analyze specific sources of stress and mental health issues among young student-athletes and young individuals. • Compare different research groups. Conclusion Student-athletes face the unique challenge of balancing intense training and sports competitions with educational demands. The constant pursuit of peak performance and coping with high expectations can lead to significant psychological stress. Factors such as injuries, overtraining, social identity issues, and sleep problems further impact their mental health, often leading to the development or worsening of existing mental health issues. It is important to note that professional psychological care is essential in managing the training schedule of a young athlete. For their development to be balanced across various dimensions such as proper physical growth, well-being, and mental wellness, this support is crucial.

Introduction: Metagenomic research has allowed the identification of numerous viruses present in the human body. Viruses may significantly increase the likelihood of developing intrauterine fetal growth restriction (FGR). The goal of this study was to examine and compare the virome of normal and FGR placentas using proteomic techniques. Methods: The study group of 18 women with late FGR was compared with 18 control patients with physiological pregnancy and eutrophic fetus. Proteins from the collected afterbirth placentas were isolated and examined using liquid chromatography linked to a mass spectrometer. Results: In this study, a group of 107 viral proteins were detected compared to 346 in the controls. In total, 41 proteins were common in both groups. In total, 64 proteins occurred only in the study group and indicated the presence of bacterial phages: E. coli, Bacillus, Mediterranenean, Edwardsiella, Propionibacterium, Salmonella, Paenibaciilus and amoebae Mimiviridae, Acanthamoeba polyphaga, Mimivivirus, Pandoravirdae, Miroviridae, Pepper plant virus golden mosaic virus, pol proteins of HIV-1 virus, and proteins of Pandoravirdae, Microviridae, and heat shock proteins of the virus Faustoviridae. Out of 297 proteins found only in the control group, only 2 viral proteins occurred statistically significantly more frequently: 1/hypothetical protein [uncultured Mediterranean phage uvMED] and VP4 [Gokushovirus WZ-2015a]. Discussion: The detection of certain viral proteins exclusively in the control group suggests that they may play a protective role. Likewise, the proteins identified only in the study group could indicate a potentially pathogenic function. A virome study may be used to identify an early infection, evaluate its progress, and possible association with fetal growth restriction. Utilizing this technology, an individualized patient therapy is forthcoming, e.g., vaccines.

Introduction: Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is common inflammatory dermatology disease. It’s affect up to 3-8% of the population. SD is characterized by erythema yellowish plaques and different level of itching and scaling. The last two symptoms are important factors that affect the quality of life of patients. This condition is usually a reaction to growth of Malassezia spp and commonly develop in regions of strong sebaceous glands such as the scalp, facial area, chest, back. Other factors include increased activity of sebaceous glands, immunosuppression, and stress. Aim of the study: A review of current stage of knowledge on the pathophysiology, epidemiology of Seborrheic Dermatitis. Recommended management with newest guidelines of this disease. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the use of masks on the incidence of Seborrheic Dermatitis. Material and methods: This review was based on available data searched in the PubMed and Google Scholar by using key words: Seborrheic dermatitis, pathophysiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, clinical presentation, scalp, infant. Conclusion: The Pathogenesis of Seborrheic dermatitis is not fully understood, the exact molecular process needs to be examined. SD is chronic disease with episode of remission and relapse of symptoms. Patients should be informed that ongoing maintenance treatment will be required. Treatment include topical antifungal (ketoconazole, Ciclopirox olamine, zinc pyrithione) and topical anti-inflammatory drugs like mild or mid-strength corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors (off-label use). In severe or resistance cases systematic therapy could be necessary. In this situation antifungal drugs (terbinafine, itraconazole) or low dose of isotretinoin are available options. Also new synergic treatments were introduce like cannabinoids or vitamin D which could make therapy more efficiency.

Introduction: Lung cancer is characterized by the highest mortality among cancers and is the second most frequently diagnosed type of cancer in the world. Targeted therapies are a promising therapeutic option for patients with this disease, however, one of the most common and most malignant mutations (KRAS) remains a challenge. Purpose: The aim of this study is to bring closer the problem of the KRAS mutation, in particular KRASG12C, and to present the most important information about the compounds created for therapies targeted at it. For a better understanding of the issue, the study contains information about the mechanisms of both mutation and drugs, as well as the most important statistical data and research results. Materials and methods: The review was based on articles available in the PubMed database. Conclusions: Two drugs targeting KRASG12C (sotorasib and adagrasib) have proven their clinical effectiveness and represent a milestone in the development of targeted therapies for lung cancer with this mutation. However, they are not without side effects, and the emerging resistance and presence of commutations that reduce drug potency continue to challenge the scientific community. Research is underway to refine therapies using existing inhibitors as well as to develop further compounds targeting KRASG12C.

Introduction Itching is an unpleasant sensation that is commonly experienced in the general population. It accompanies many diseases. This sensory experience is burdensome and significantly reduces the quality of life. The mechanism of itching is complex. It involves receptors, the histaminergic and non-histaminergic pathways, cytokines, neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, proteases, and enzymes. External factors such as temperature or capsaicin also influence itching. Aim of the study This review presents the current state of knowledge regarding therapy in the treatment of itching. Also aims to show that it is a complicated process. Pruritus is a very bothersome sensory sensation and is a common symptom. Material and methods This review was based on scientific books on human physiology and dermatology were used, which are listed in the bibliography and available data collected in the PubMed and Google Scholar database. Using key words: itch, management, pathogenesis, pathophysiology, pruritus, therapeutics, treatments. Conclusion The latest research on itching has led to a better understanding of this complex mechanism. As a result, there is a possibility of discovering new, innovative treatment methods that are targeted at specific elements of this process or work systemically. Understanding the broad etiology assists in identifying the cause and in implementing an appropriate therapeutic strategy. Further research will enable improvements in treatment and enhance patient comfort.

Photolysis of molecular oxygen (O2) sustains the stratospheric ozone layer and is thereby protecting living organisms on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation. In the past, atmospheric O2 levels were not constant, and their variations are thought to be responsible for the extinction of some species due to the thinning of the ozone layer. Over the Phanerozoic Eon (last ∼500 Mio years), the O2 volume mixing ratio ranged between 10% and 35% depending on the level of photosynthetic activity of plants and oceans. Previous estimates, mostly performed by simplified 1-D models, showed different ozone (O3) responses to atmospheric O2 changes within this range, such as monotonically positive or negative correlations, or displaying a maximum in the O3 column around a certain O2 level. Here, we assess the ozone layer sensitivity to atmospheric O2 varying between 5% and 40% with a state-of-the-art 3-D chemistry-climate model (CCM). Our findings show that the O3 layer thickness maximizes around the current mixing ratio of O2, 21% ± 5%, while lower or higher levels of O2 result globally in a reduction of total column O3. At low latitudes, the total column O3 is less sensitive to O2 variations, because of the “self-healing” effect, namely, a vertical dipole in the tropical ozone response. Mid- and high-latitude O3 columns that are largely affected by transport of O3 from the tropics, however, are much more sensitive to O2 with changes up to 20 DU even for small (±5%) O2 perturbations. We show that these variations are largely driven by the radiative impact of O3 on stratospheric temperatures and on the strength of the Brewer-Dobson circulation (BDC), indicating chemistry-radiation-transport feedback. High O2 cases result in an acceleration of the BDC and vice versa, which always works in favor of the negative part of the O3 anomaly dipole in the tropics being more effectively transported to the mid- and high-latitudes than the positive one. Although there are other factors strongly influencing O3/O2 relationship on the Phanerozoic Eon timescales that have not been considered here, our results and the presented mechanism bring useful insights for other studies focusing on the long-term O3/O2 relationship.

Abstract Introduction: The glymphatic system is the equivalent of the lymphatic system in the brain. This system is responsible for the exchange of metabolism waste products between the cerebrospinal fluid and the interstitial fluid. The glymphatic system functions mainly during sleep, and this is when the removal of interstitial metabolism waste products take place. A proper diet and physical activity are also needed for the glymphatic system to work effectively. Abnormal function of the glymphatic system can contribute to the development of diseases of the central nervous system, including neurodegenerative diseases and migraine. Aim of the study: The aim of our study is to review the latest knowledge linking the glymphatic system with the pathogenesis of selected neurological diseases and other lifestyle-related factors such as sleep, diet and physical activity. The study included Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, migraines and ischemic stroke. Materials and methods: We have reviewed the literature available in the pubmed database using keywords: “glymphatic system”; “aquaporin-4”; “Alzheimer’s disease”; “Parkinson’s disease”; “migraines”; “sleep” Conclusions: The studies discussed here show a clear correlation between the glymphatic system and neurological diseases. The glymphatic system may definitely be involved in the pathophysiology of neurological disorders. A thorough investigation of this issue will help uncover potentially new strategies for the prevention and treatment of neurological diseases. Key words: glymphatic system; aquaporin-4; Alzheimer’s disease; Parkinson’s disease; migraine; sleep

Previous research indicates that carcinogenesis involves disrupting the functions of numerous genes, including factors involved in the regulation of transcription and cell proliferation. For these reasons, in endometrial carcinogenesis, we decided to investigate the expression of TSG101 (a suppressor of tumor transformation) and LSF (a transcription factor involved in numerous cellular processes, such as cell cycle regulation, cell growth, development, and apoptosis). LSF may be involved in the regulation of TSG101 expression. The research material consisted of endometrial cancer samples from 60 patients. The control group consisted of normal endometrium samples donated by 60 women undergoing surgery for benign diseases of the female reproductive organs. The samples were subjected to immunohistochemical staining with antibodies specific to TSG101 and LSF. Specific antibodies were used to identify TSG101 and LSF in the examined histopathological preparations. An approximately 14-fold lower risk of endometrial cancer development was observed in patients with TSG expression in more than 75% of the assessed cells (4% vs. 36%; OR = 0.07; p = 0.0182). There was a four-fold lower risk of endometrial cancer development in patients with LSF expression in more than 50% of the assessed cells (32% vs. 64%; OR = 0.26; p = 0.0262). A more than three-fold lower risk of endometrial cancer development was observed in patients with LSF expression in more than 75% of the assessed cells (24% vs. 52%; OR = 0.29; p = 0.0454). Endometrial cancer was diagnosed in those with a lower level of TSG101 expression than in those with a cancer-free endometrium. Decreased expression of TSG101 may be a marker of endometrial cancer, and increased expression of LSF when diagnosed with endometrial cancer may indicate greater advancement of the disease. These markers might be used as diagnostic and prognostic markers—however, there is a lack of a correlation between them.

Introduction: In recent years, the medical community has witnessed a significant breakthrough in the treatment of Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA), a rare and debilitating genetic disorder affecting the nervous system. This neurological condition, characterized by progressive muscle weakness, impaired coordination, and cardiomyopathy, has long posed challenges for both patients and healthcare professionals alike. However, there is newfound hope with the recent approval of Omaveloxolone by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Aim of the study: This review article aims to present a detailed summary of the FDA's approval of Omaveloxolone as a therapeutic option for Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA), focusing on the positive results obtained from the MOXIe trial. It covers various aspects of FRDA and explains how Omaveloxolone works as an activator of NRF2, a transcription factor that helps reduce oxidative stress. The MOXIe trial, which examined the safety and effectiveness of Omaveloxolone in FRDA patients, is discussed in detail, including its methodology, primary and secondary goals, and results. Materials and methods: This review was based on available data collected in the PubMed and Google Scholar database, using the key words: FRDA, Friedreich’s Ataxia, Omaveloxolone, RTA 408, NRF2, MOXIe trail. Conclusion: Omaveloxolone has shown significant efficacy in improving neurological function and mFARS scores compared to a placebo in the MOXIe trial. It is well-tolerated with minimal adverse events. Early intervention with Omaveloxolone offers enhanced benefits for managing Friedreich's ataxia progression.

Enzymatic solid-state fermentation can improve the nutritional quality of feed materials. The current study aimed to determine the effect of the solid-state fermentation of rapeseed meal (RSM) with carbohydrase/s and phytases in various combinations. RSM was fermented for 24 h at 25 °C with eight commercial preparations and mixtures thereof to prepare eleven products (PHYL—liquid-6-phytase; RON NP—6-phytase; RON HI—6-phytase; RON R—α-amylase; RON WX—β-xylanase; RON VP—β-glucanase; RON A—α-amylase, β-glucanase; RON M—xylanase, β-glucanase; RON NP+M; RON NP+A; RON NP+M+R). Afterward, the enzymes were deactivated at 70 °C within 15 min, and the biomass was dried for 24 h at 55 °C. Carbohydrase and/or phytase additives did not positively affect crude or true protein content or reduce crude fiber (p > 0.05). Among the products after fermentation, a significant reduction in the content of the raffinose family oligosaccharides, glucosinolates, and phytate was found. In the presence of phytase, the phytate reduction was more significant (p < 0.01) than that in the presence of carbohydrases only. The addition of carbohydrases together with phytases did not improve the results in comparison with phytases alone (p > 0.05). The most valuable effect was found for liquid-6-phytase (PHYL).

(1) Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections in the pediatric population. This study aimed to analyze the urine culture results and antimicrobial patterns over the last 5 years in children diagnosed with UTI. (2) Methods: Retrospective analysis of medical records of 242 patients hospitalized in the Pediatric Nephrology Department diagnosed with a UTI in the years 2018–2022. (3) Results: The most common causative agent was E. coli, responsible for 64% of UTIs, followed by Klebsiella spp. (16%), Pseudomonas spp. (6%), Enterobacter spp. (4%), Proteus spp. (4%), and Enterococcus spp. (3%). Non-E. coli UTIs were significantly more frequently observed in patients with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract or neurogenic bladder and patients receiving antibiotic prophylaxis. For the whole study period, 32% of E. coli were resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, 23.3% to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, 12.2% to ciprofloxacin, and 4.4% to nitrofurantoin. During 2018–2022, the prevalence of E. coli resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid varied from 16.7% to 41.2%, and resistance to cefuroxime increased four times (from 4% in 2018 to 16.7% in 2022). Starting in 2021, all isolated E. coli strains were classified as susceptible-increased exposure or resistant to cefuroxime. (4) Conclusion: Managing pediatric UTIs remains challenging in clinical practice. The choice of optimal empiric treatment should be considered following local recommendations and individual risk factors assessment and require careful dosage adjustment. Observed changes in antimicrobial resistance indicated the need for frequent updating of local recommendations for the management of pediatric patients with UTIs.

A total of 160 Ross 308 male chickens were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design to examine the effects of anticoccidial vaccination (ACV; lack or 1× dose recommended by the manufacturer) and dietary supplementation with Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) extract (DE; with or without) on growth performance, immunity, biochemical parameters, and intestinal morphology in broiler chickens challenged with Eimeria spp. At 20 days of age, all birds were challenged with a 25× dose of ACV, including Eimeria acervulina, E. maxima, E. mitis, and E. tenella. No interaction between ACV and DE was observed in terms of growth performance. Vaccinated birds showed increased feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the 11–20 day period. Meanwhile, DE supplementation led to decreased FI and body weight gain (BWG) during the 1–10 day period. ACV effectively induced immunity against Eimeria, as evidenced by reduced oocyst shedding and less intestinal lesions, decreased levels of pro-inflammatory interleukin-6, and improved BWG during both the post infection (PI) period (21–35 days) and the entire growth period. DE supplementation lowered FCR and increased BWG during the 35–42 day period, increased the concentration of butyric acid in the cecal digesta, and lowered oocyst shedding PI. In vaccinated birds, DE elevated levels of plasma total protein and immunoglobulin M, and influenced tight junction proteins zonula occludens-1 and claudin-3, indicating a more robust epithelial barrier. DE also lowered alanine aminotransferase activity in unvaccinated birds. Both ACV and DE independently improved intestinal morphology in the jejunum, decreasing crypt depth and increasing the villus height-to-crypt ratio. These findings suggest that both ACV and DE could be effective strategies for managing coccidiosis in broiler chickens.

Background: The ectopic ureter is any single or duplex ureter that enters beyond the anatomical area of the triangle of the urinary bladder. Abnormal ureter opening is one of the rare defects resulting from abnormalities in fetal development. The present study focuses on an up-to-date narrative review of the clinical and anatomical aspects of the ectopic ureter and coexisting urinary tract abnormalities. Materials and methods: This review includes an analysis of the literature on the ectopic ureter and coexisting urinary tract anomalies. A query was conducted in electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect) to investigate the abovementioned topic. The literature search was based on the following criteria and keywords: ectopic ureter, duplication of the ureter, and ureterocele. The date and language of publication were not the exclusion criteria. Conclusion and outcome of the review: The ectopic ureter is one of the anomalies among congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract. In about four out of five cases, it coexists with other defects of the upper urinary tract, such as ureter duplication and ureterocele. Urinary incontinence is the main symptom of ectopic ureter among women due to the most common location of the ureter orifice below the bladder sphincter. It may be asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic in men and cause recurrent epididymitis or urinary tract infections. Treatment of this disease consists of constant observation by regular control visits, and when the abnormality becomes symptomatic, a surgical procedure should be performed. It should be underlined that after finding an anatomical defect of the urinary system, clinicians should consider whether it causes disturbing symptoms and whether its corrective maintenance operation will be beneficial to the patient.

Introduction: Metagenomic research has allowed the identification of numerous viruses present in the human body. Viruses may significantly increase the likelihood of developing intrauterine fetal growth restriction (FGR). The goal of this study was to examine and compare the virome of normal and FGR placentas using proteomic techniques. Methods: The study group of 18 women with late FGR was compared with 18 control patients with physiological pregnancy and eutrophic fetus. Proteins from the collected afterbirth placentas were isolated and examined using liquid chromatography linked to a mass spectrometer. Results: In this study, a group of 107 viral proteins were detected compared to 346 in the controls. In total, 41 proteins were common in both groups. In total, 64 proteins occurred only in the study group and indicated the presence of bacterial phages: E. coli, Bacillus, Mediterranenean, Edwardsiella, Propionibacterium, Salmonella, Paenibaciilus and amoebae Mimiviridae, Acanthamoeba polyphaga, Mimivivirus, Pandoravirdae, Miroviridae, Pepper plant virus golden mosaic virus, pol proteins of HIV-1 virus, and proteins of Pandoravirdae, Microviridae, and heat shock proteins of the virus Faustoviridae. Out of 297 proteins found only in the control group, only 2 viral proteins occurred statistically significantly more frequently: 1/hypothetical protein [uncultured Mediterranean phage uvMED] and VP4 [Gokushovirus WZ-2015a]. Discussion: The detection of certain viral proteins exclusively in the control group suggests that they may play a protective role. Likewise, the proteins identified only in the study group could indicate a potentially pathogenic function. A virome study may be used to identify an early infection, evaluate its progress, and possible association with fetal growth restriction. Utilizing this technology, an individualized patient therapy is forthcoming, e.g., vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the validity of estimated apparent metabolizable energy (AME) regression models for Hermetia illucens (HI) larval fat in broiler chicken diets during various feeding periods. Additionally, it investigated the effects of HI larval fat on selected serum biochemical, immunological, and humoral indices. The experiment involved 300 7-day-old male Ross 308 chicks assigned to two dietary groups (15 replicate pens). The trial lasted 28 days and the following treatments were applied: a basal diet enriched with soybean oil (SO) or larval fat (HI) as the sole source of dietary fat energy, respectively. To obtain an equal energy value of both diets, the AME values for SO and HI were set as follow: 34.2 and 37.54 MJ/kg (7-14 days), 38.4 and 37.72 MJ/kg (15-28 days), and 37.1 and 37.70 MJ/kg (29-35 days), respectively. No differences in body weight gain, feed intake, or feed conversion ratio were observed between the treatments. However, increased coefficients of apparent ileal digestibility (CAID) of crude protein and apparent ileal digestible energy (AIDE), with elevated lipase activity, were recorded in the HI treatment. The inclusion of insect fat led to reduced serum immunoglobulin G and thyroxine (T4) concentrations. Moreover, the HI group showed a decreasing trend in aspartate aminotransferase, free T4, and interleukin 6 levels. In conclusion, the regression models for HI larval fat used in broiler diets proved to be effective. Additionally, insect fat demonstrated superiority over SO in promoting favourable CAID of crude protein and AIDE. Furthermore, HI may contribute to improved liver function and immune status of birds, as well as affect thyroid hormone metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noise is one of the major environmental concerns nowadays. The problem is especially significant around large urban agglomerations where high levels of noise can have a negative impact on physical or psychological well-being of citizens while a long-term exposure can be harmful to health. Residential areas are protected by the introduction of maximum allowable sound pressure levels according to appropriate norms. There are also similar regulations concerning natural areas under environmental protection. Different measures used in order to reduce levels of noise should be applied primarily to the source of the sound. This is the task mainly for the manufacturers of all kinds of machines as well as means of transport. However, noise levels can be also controlled by the introduction of appropriately designed or chosen elements or materials in civil engineering structures. The noise levels emitted by the rail traffic depend on the number, kind and speed of trains, night and day traffic organization as well as on the type of the railroad structure and its location (e.g. on an embankment, on a bridge or flyover). Railway noise mainly develops between wheels and rails and depends on the roughness of both these elements, rolling speed and dynamic characteristics of the railroad. The paper presents the mathematical formulation of a coupled acoustic-structure problem. Solving the problem with finite element method gives the possibility to predict sound pressure levels in the vicinity of a railway structure. A numerical model of a certain type of a railroad structure was built in order to simulate the acoustic wave propagation caused by a wheel-rail interaction. The harmonic analysis was carried out using the Abaqus software. The acoustic pressureobtained based on the harmonic analysis was evaluated in certain points of the acoustic medium for various excitation frequencies. The final results were presented in the form of one-third octave bands. In the article, a possible methodology for estimating noise levels from railway structures based on a numerical analysis was shown. In the future works, the numerical model will be validated by field test data and applied to evaluate different types of technological solutions (silencers) used to reduce railway noise levels. This paper is part of the project “Innovative solutions for the protection of people and building against noise from rail traffic”. The project is co-financed by the European Union from the European Regional Development Fund within the framework of the Smart Growth Operational Programme and by PKP PLK S.A. within the framework of a joint venture BRIK. Keywords: Finite Element Method; Acoustics; Railway Noise

This study aimed to assess the applicability of eleven different products of solid-state fermentation of rapeseed cakes with commercial enzyme additives. Ground rapeseed cakes were mixed with water (1:2) and the enzymatic preparation (0.1%) according to the different variants and fermented at 25 °C for 24 h under anaerobic conditions. For fermentation, different enzymes were used: (1) α-amylase, (2) endo 1,4-β-xylanase, (3) endo-1,3(4)β-glucanase, (4) endo 1,4-β-xylanase, endo-1,3(4)β-glucanase, (5) α-amylase, endo-1,3(4)β-glucanase, (6) 6-phytase, (7) RONOZYME HiPhos 6-phytase, (8) liquid exogenous-6-phytase; and mixed combinations: (9) endo 1,4-β-xylanase, endo-1,3(4)β-glucanase, liquid exogenous-6-phytase, (10) α-amylase, endo-1,3(4)β-glucanase, liquid exogenous-6-phytase, and (11) α-amylase, endo 1,4-β-xylanase, endo-1,3(4)β-glucanase, liquid exogenous-6-phytase. After fermentation, the crude protein content in the products was similar, but the true protein content was significantly higher than in nonfermented rapeseed cakes (p < 0.05). Fermentation significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the levels of phytate phosphorous, raffinose family oligosaccharides, and glucosinolates in the products. In the next step, the most advantageous fermentation product obtained using liquid exogenous-6-phytase was selected in terms of nutritional value, produced on the technical scale, and incorporated into the diets for broilers. Six diets containing 12, 17, or 22% raw or fermented rapeseed cakes, respectively, were prepared. Up to 22% fermented rapeseed cakes did not adversely affect broiler production rates. Replacing raw rapeseed cakes with fermented products improved body weight gain in the grower phase, lowered feed intake in the finisher phase, and lowered the feed conversion ratio in all periods. A level of 22% of naturally fermented rapeseed cakes with liquid exogenous-6-phytase in the diet of broilers could be recommended.

Estrogens enhance cellular mitochondrial activity. The diminution of female hormones during menopause may have an effect on the mitochondrial genome and the expression of mitochondrial proteins. Hence, oxidative stress and the pro-inflammatory state contribute to the formation of systemic illnesses including arterial hypertension (AH). This study aimed to determine the types and frequency of mutations in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) nucleotide sequence in the hypervariable regions 1 and 2 (HV1 and HV2) and the 12S RNA coding sequence of the D-loop in postmenopausal women with hypertension. In our study, 100 women were investigated, 53 of whom were postmenopausal and 47 of whom were premenopausal (53.9 ± 3.7 years vs. 47.7 ± 4.2 years, respectively). Of those studied, 35 premenopausal and 40 postmenopausal women were diagnosed with AH. A medical checkup with 24 h monitoring of blood pressure (RR) and heart rate was undertaken (HR). The polymorphism of the D-loop and 12S rDNA region of mtDNA was examined. Changes in the nucleotide sequence of mtDNA were observed in 23% of the group of 100 women. The changes were identified in 91.3% of HV1 and HV2 regions, 60.9% of HV1 segments, 47.5% of HV2 regions, and 43.5% of 12S rDNA regions. The frequency of nucleotide sequence alterations in mtDNA was substantially higher in postmenopausal women (34%) than in premenopausal women (10.6%), p = 0.016. A higher frequency of changes in HV1 + HV2 sections in postmenopausal women (30.2%) compared to the premenopausal group (10.6%) was detected, p = 0.011. Only postmenopausal women were found to have modifications to the HV2 segment and the 12S rDNA region. After menopause, polymorphism in the mtDNA region was substantially more frequent in women with arterial hypertension than before menopause (p = 0.030; 37.5% vs. 11.5%). Comparable findings were observed in the HV2 and HV1 regions of the AH group (35% vs. 11.5%), p = 0.015, in the HV1 segment (25% vs. 11.5%), p = 0.529, and in the HV2 segment, 12S rDNA (25% vs. 0%). More than 80% of all changes in nucleotide sequence were homoplasmic. The mtDNA polymorphisms of the nucleotide sequence in the HV1 and HV2 regions, the HV2 region alone, and the 12S RNA coding sequence were associated with estrogen deficiency and a more severe course of arterial hypertension, accompanied by symptoms of adrenergic stimulation.

This study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent effect of black soldier fly (BFL) larvae fat inclusion in broiler chicken diets on breast meat quality. Four hundred 1-day-old male birds (Ross 308) were assigned to the following four treatments (10 replicates with 10 birds each): HI0, a basal diet without dietary fat inclusion, and HI03, HI06, and HI09, basal diets enriched with 30 g/kg, 60 g/kg, and 90 g/kg of BSF larvae fat, respectively. Principal component analysis showed noticeable differentiation between the selected plant, animal, and insect-origin dietary fats. The BSF fat exhibits a strong relationship with saturated fatty acids (SFAs), resulting in a high concentration of C12:0 and C14:0. The fatty acid (FA) profile in breast muscle obtained from broilers fed diets with increasing insect fat inclusion showed a significant linear effect in terms of C12:0, C15:0, C18:2, C18:3n6, and total FAs. The proportion of dietary insect fat had a quadratic effect on meat color. The water-holding capacity indices have stayed consistent with the meat color changes. Throughout the experiment, favorable growth performance results were noticed in HI06. The present study confirmed that BSF larvae fat negatively affects the n3 level in meat. However, the physicochemical indices related to consumer acceptance were not altered to negatively limit their final decision, even when a relatively high inclusion of insect fat was used.