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(1) Background: Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a crucial functional receptor of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Although the scale of infections is no longer at pandemic levels, there are still fatal cases. The potential of the virus to infect the skin raises questions about new preventive measures. In the context of anti-SARS-CoV-2 applications, the interactions of antimicrobial nanomaterials (silver, Ag; diamond, D; graphene oxide, GO and their complexes) were examined to assess their ability to affect whether ACE2 binds with the virus. (2) Methods: ACE2 inhibition competitive tests and in vitro treatments of primary human adult epidermal keratinocytes (HEKa) and primary human adult dermal fibroblasts (HDFa) were performed to assess the blocking capacity of nanomaterials/nanocomplexes and their toxicity to cells. (3) Results: The nanocomplexes exerted a synergistic effect compared to individual nanomaterials. HEKa cells were more sensitive than HDFa cells to Ag treatments and high concentrations of GO. Cytotoxic effects were not observed with D. In the complexes, both carbonic nanomaterials had a soothing effect against Ag. (4) Conclusions: The Ag5D10 and Ag5GO10 nanocomplexes seem to be most effective and safe for skin applications to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection by blocking ACE2-S binding. These nanocomplexes should be evaluated through prolonged in vivo exposure. The expected low specificity enables wider applications.

Background: Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a joint disorder predominantly affecting the knee, elbow, and ankle of children and adolescents. This comprehensive review delves into the epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment of OCD. Results: The most common cause of OCD is repetitive microtrauma, typically associated with sports activities, alongside other significant factors such as genetic predisposition, ischemia, and obesity. In early stages or when lesions are small, OCD often presents as non-specific, vaguely localized pain during physical activity. As the condition progresses, patients may experience an escalation in symptoms, including increased stiffness and occasional swelling, either during or following activity. These symptom patterns are crucial for early recognition and timely intervention. Diagnosis in most cases is based on radiographic imaging and magnetic resonance imaging. Nonsurgical treatment of OCD in young patients with open growth plates and mild symptoms involves activity restriction, immobilization methods, and muscle strengthening exercises, with a return to sports only after symptoms are fully resolved and at least six months have passed. Surgical treatment of OCD includes subchondral drilling in mild cases. Unstable lesions involve methods like restoring the joint surface, stabilizing fractures, and enhancing blood flow, using techniques such as screws, anchors, and pins, along with the removal of fibrous tissue and creation of vascular channels. The specifics of OCD treatment largely depend on the affected site. Conclusions: This synthesis of current research and clinical practices provides a nuanced understanding of OCD, guiding future research directions and enhancing therapeutic strategies.

(1) Background: Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a crucial functional receptor of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Although the scale of infections is no longer at pandemic levels, there are still fatal cases. The potential of the virus to infect the skin raises questions about new preventive measures. In the context of anti-SARS-CoV-2 applications, the interactions of antimicrobial nanomaterials (silver, Ag; diamond, D; graphene oxide, GO and their complexes) were examined to assess their ability to affect whether ACE2 binds with the virus. (2) Methods: ACE2 inhibition competitive tests and in vitro treatments of primary human adult epidermal keratinocytes (HEKa) and primary human adult dermal fibroblasts (HDFa) were performed to assess the blocking capacity of nanomaterials/nanocomplexes and their toxicity to cells. (3) Results: The nanocomplexes exerted a synergistic effect compared to individual nanomaterials. HEKa cells were more sensitive than HDFa cells to Ag treatments and high concentrations of GO. Cytotoxic effects were not observed with D. In the complexes, both carbonic nanomaterials had a soothing effect against Ag. (4) Conclusions: The Ag5D10 and Ag5GO10 nanocomplexes seem to be most effective and safe for skin applications to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection by blocking ACE2-S binding. These nanocomplexes should be evaluated through prolonged in vivo exposure. The expected low specificity enables wider applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The study aimed to assess the association between the key predictive foot structure variables and its loading paradigm in 625 school-aged children. Clinical appraisal relied primarily on having the plantar parts of their feet comprehensively assessed with Podoscan 2D Foot CAD, and a dynamometer platform, the research tools of choice widely acknowledged for their overall accuracy and reliability, with a view to determining the distribution of respective foot loads, as well as addressing both balance and gait issues. The Clarke's angle, Wejsflog index, length and width of the feet, regardless of gender, proved the key predictive variables for the foot-loading paradigm. Notably the Clarke's angle, construed the most sensitive variable in assessing flat-footedness, offered an extra added value in overall investigative effort. The actual design of the study protocol effectively complements a standard clinical assessment procedure, whereas by comprehensively addressing those variables, it is also believed to aid clinicians in gaining an extra, hands-on, diagnostic potential, so that any teenagers exposed to the highest risk of developing foot deformities could effectively be identified through pertinent screening tests, and consequently offered a task-oriented, therapeutic management, specifically aimed at preventing potential postural complaints in later life.

Tick-borne microorganisms belong to important etiological agents of many infectious diseases affecting humans and animals. Among them, there are haemoprotozoans of the Babesia genus, which infect erythrocytes of a host and may cause many clinical symptoms. Canine babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease in Southern and Central Europe. In this study, we report two cases of symptomatic canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis in domestic dogs from the Silesian Voivodeship, Poland, as well as the presence of Dermacentor reticulatus ticks detected on one of the Babesia-infected dogs (D. reticulatus-free zone). The molecular analysis confirmed the presence of Babesia canis in the dogs’ blood, and the sequencing analysis showed that the obtained sequence is 100% identical to the sequence of Babesia canis isolate 3469 (sequence ID: KX712122.1). Our findings should raise awareness of B. canis infection among dog owners and veterinarians in the region where B. canis was not previously reported in residential, non-traveling dogs, as well as ensuring that adequate diagnostic methods are available.

Objective. Hemophilic arthropathy is characterized by recurrent bleeding episodes in patients with hemophilia leading to irreversible joint degeneration. The involvement of CX3CL1 (fractalkine) and its receptor CX3CR1 was observed in the pathogenesis of numerous arthritis-associated diseases. Taking this into account, we have presented a study investigating the role of the CX3CL1/CX3XR1 axis in the course of hemophilic arthropathy, including the CX3CL1-dependent expression of CD56+, CD68+, and CD31+ cells along with evaluation of articular cartilage and synovial membrane morphology. Methods. The study was carried out using cases (n=20) of end-stage hemophilic arthropathy with a severe type of hemophilia A and control cases (n=20) diagnosed with osteoarthritis. The biofluids including blood serum and synovial fluid were obtained intraoperatively for the evaluation of CX3CL1 using the ELISA test. Tissue specimens including articular cartilage and synovial membrane were similarly collected during surgery and stained immunohistologically using selected antibodies including anti-CX3CR1, anti-CD56, anti-CD68, and anti-CD31. Additionally, the analysis included the assessment of articular cartilage, synovial membrane, and blood vessel morphology. Results. In our study, we have documented increased average concentration of CX3CL1 in the blood serum of the study group (7.16±0.53 ng/ml) compared to the control group (5.85±0.70 ng/ml) without statistically significant difference in synovial fluid concentration at the same time. We have observed an increased macrophage presence with more marked proliferation and fibrosis of the synovial membrane in the study group. Remaining results such as expression of CX3CR1 presence of NK cells and larger surface area of blood vessels within the synovial membrane were noted also without statistical significance. Conclusions. This study has demonstrated collective CX3CL1/CX3CR1 axis involvement in hemophilic arthropathy pathogenesis introducing new interesting diagnostics and a therapeutic target.

Osteonecrosis is a debilitating condition characterized by the loss of blood supply to the bones, leading to bone death. This condition can impact various bones, including the jaw, which significantly affects patients' quality of life by causing difficulties in swallowing, feeding, chewing, and speaking, along with swollen, painful mucous membranes and chronic sinusitis. Osteonecrosis can arise due to treatment with antiresorptive drugs. However, there is a growing number of reports of osteonecrosis following novel targeted anti-cancer treatments, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and biological therapies. The pathogenesis of osteonecrosis is linked to the side effects of the antiangiogenic mechanisms of these medications, leading to a disrupted blood flow. Our review aims to examine recent insights into osteonecrosis triggered by new anti-cancer drugs. Most reports focus on the osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ); however, we discovered that some authors have described cases of osteonecrosis affecting the femoral head or elbow following novel anti-cancer treatments. Prevention is a key component in managing osteonecrosis. Therefore, a comprehensive risk assessment should always be performed before and during anti-cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a joint disorder predominantly affecting the knee, elbow, and ankle of children and adolescents. This comprehensive review delves into the epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment of OCD. Results: The most common cause of OCD is repetitive microtrauma, typically associated with sports activities, alongside other significant factors such as genetic predisposition, ischemia, and obesity. In early stages or when lesions are small, OCD often presents as non-specific, vaguely localized pain during physical activity. As the condition progresses, patients may experience an escalation in symptoms, including increased stiffness and occasional swelling, either during or following activity. These symptom patterns are crucial for early recognition and timely intervention. Diagnosis in most cases is based on radiographic imaging and magnetic resonance imaging. Nonsurgical treatment of OCD in young patients with open growth plates and mild symptoms involves activity restriction, immobilization methods, and muscle strengthening exercises, with a return to sports only after symptoms are fully resolved and at least six months have passed. Surgical treatment of OCD includes subchondral drilling in mild cases. Unstable lesions involve methods like restoring the joint surface, stabilizing fractures, and enhancing blood flow, using techniques such as screws, anchors, and pins, along with the removal of fibrous tissue and creation of vascular channels. The specifics of OCD treatment largely depend on the affected site. Conclusions: This synthesis of current research and clinical practices provides a nuanced understanding of OCD, guiding future research directions and enhancing therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Children and young people make up an age group most vulnerable to falls. Various stability disorders may become instrumental in sustaining more frequent falls and resultant fractures. Correct morphological structure impacts overall efficiency of the foot, as well as offers significant diagnostic potential. Even minor foot disorders may affect the entire bio kinematic chain, also impacting the foot’s motility. Structural alterations within a foot may also impair balance in the standing position, and contribute to more frequent injuries. The study aimed to assess the relationship between feet deformities and postural stability deficits in schoolchildren prone to sustain accidental falls. Methods The study involved 200 children (101 girls and 99 boys) aged 10–15 years, randomly selected from primary schools. A 2D podoscan was used to assess the plantar part of the foot, while stabilometric examination was aided by the FreeMed dynamometric platform. Results Correlation between respective variables was reflected by Spearman’s rank coefficient. The subjects’ age negatively correlated with the COP range of movement along the Y axis, and the COP surface area, while their BMI negatively correlated with the COP trajectory’s length. Step regression analysis indicated that the width of the left foot, the left foot Wejsflog index, the left foot Clark’s angle, the hallux valgus angle were the essential predictors of stabilometric variables in girls. In boys, though, predictive value was associated with Clarke’s angle of the left and right foot, Wejsflog index of the right foot, and the width of both the left and right foot. Conclusions There is a statistically significant correlation between morphological variables of the foot and postural stability. When assessing the key variables of the foot and their interrelationship with postural stability, the Clarke’s angle, Wejsflog index, hallux valgus angle, and foot width, should be granted due prominence in the girls. As regards the boys, the following variables were established as predictive in assessing postural stability: Clarke’s angle, Wejsflog index, and foot width.

Introduction and purpose. The proper process of body shaping in children is extremally important in preventing present and future pain complaints. According to the source literature, a proper body weight is one of the most important factors in children which have an influence on body shaping . The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlations between the body mass index and body posture parameters as well as selected parameters of the dynamic feet analysis. Material and method. The study involved 106 children aged 10‒15 years old from the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship. While undergoing the examination, the children were dressed in sportswear and had no shoes. The body height was measured using the SECA 213 stadiometer with an accuracy of 0.01 m, the body weight with the Tanita device with an accuracy of 0.01 kg. The next stage involved the assessment of the body posture using Diers Formetric 4D system. Then the child had to walk several times on FreeMed platform. Results. The dependencies of selected parameters of the dynamic feet analysis from the BMI of the examined children were assessed using Spearmann's correlation. All examined correlations were statistically significant. The dependencies between body posture parameters assessed using Diers Formetric 4D and the BMI of the examined children were assessed by Spearmann's correlation. A statistically significant negative correlation were observed only between the pelvic torsion and the body mass index. Conclusions. The majority of parameters of the dynamic feet analysis evaluated in the paper increase with the increase of the body mass index of the examined children. Only the parameter, namely the number of steps per minute decreases when the BMI of the examined children grows. Higher values of the body mass index in children were observed when the pelvic torsion to the left was assessed. The BMI of the examined children did not affect the remaining parameters assessing the body posture.

Objectives This paper evaluates the efficacy of using the McKenzie and Vojta methods for patients with low back pain and the use of the DIERS Formetric 4D system as an objective diagnostic tool. Material and Methods The study enrolled 28 patients aged 15–17 years old. The patients were hospitalized at the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology of the Świętokrzyskie Center for Pediatrics in Kielce with a diagnosis of back pain associated with a discopathy. The patients were rehabilitated according to the McKenzie and Vojta methods. Assessment by means of the DIERS Formetric system had taken place before the first therapy session and on the day that pain was eliminated to evaluate trunk inclination, angle of thoracic kyphosis, angle of lumbar lordosis, lateral deviation, trunk torsion, surface rotation and pelvic obliquity. Pain intensity and change in pain intensity over time were assessed by means of a numerical rating scale. Results Pain intensity was reduced to 0 over 3–12 days. The study participants demonstrated reduction in anterior trunk inclination of the mean value at 1.83°. The angle of thoracic kyphosis was also reduced by 7.95°. The angle of lordosis increased by 7.6°. The lateral spinal curvature was reduced by 8.92 mm. There was a reduction of 4.64° in trunk torsion. Surface rotation was reduced by 1.61° and pelvic obliquity was reduced by 3.78°. Conclusions In discopathic patients, postural parameters comprising trunk inclination, angle of thoracic kyphosis, angle of lumbar lordosis, lateral deviation, trunk torsion, vertebral rotation and pelvic obliquity fail to reach Hartzmann’s physiological reference ranges. A therapeutic intervention based on the Vojta and McKenzie methods may normalize the posture to physiological reference ranges and is effective in the treatment of patients with back pain. The DIERS system is an objective tool for tracing the effects of therapy in patients with back pain. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2019;32(1):33–41

Objectives This paper assesses the effect of neurophysiological rehabilitation in children with postural defects on the depth of thoracic kyphosis, lateral spinal deviation and rotation of spinal motor segments. Material and Methods A total of 201 patients aged 8–15 years old with a postural defect diagnosed by medical examination were enrolled. The analyzed parameters were determined using the DIERS system before the first therapeutic session and after 4 weeks of therapy. The angle of thoracic kyphosis, lateral deviation of the spine and spinal rotation were assessed. The therapy employed techniques associated with the proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and Vojta’s approaches. The results were analyzed separately for both sexes and for patients rehabilitated solely with Vojta’s techniques vs. patients rehabilitated according to combined Vojta’s and PNF techniques. The χ2 test was used for statistical analyses, at p < 0.05. Results There was improvement in the angle of thoracic kyphosis, ranging from 0.14 (among boys with kyphosis < 42°) to 5.47 (among girls with kyphosis ≥ 42°), spinal rotation, from 0.37 (among boys with kyphosis ≥ 42°) to 4.33 (among patients with kyphosis ≥ 42° rehabilitated solely according to Vojta’s method), and lateral deviations, ranging from 1.32 mm (among boys with kyphosis < 42°) to 2.99 mm (among patients with kyphosis ≥ 42° rehabilitated solely according to Vojta’s method). Conclusions Neurophysiological rehabilitation of patients with postural defects produced positive effects by improving the angle of thoracic kyphosis, spinal rotation and lateral deviation of the spine. Children with reduced thoracic kyphosis achieved less improvement in the kyphosis angle, lateral spinal deviation and spinal rotation than children with kyphosis ≥ 42°. The DIERS Formetric System enables precise monitoring of therapeutic outcomes. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2019;32(1):25–32

Introduction : Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) causes disorders in the functional capabilities of the limb, both in daily life and during attempts to return to full physical activity, and in a later period it contributes to the development of degenerative disease. Aim of the research : Determination of the level of quality of life in patients after ACL reconstruction using the LARS synthetic ligament or autogenous ST/GR graft 4 years after surgery. Material and methods : Into the study were qualified 96 patients who had undergone reconstruction due to injury to the anterior cruciate ligament. The patients were divided into two groups according to the type of material used for reconstruction. The study group included 44 (45.8%) patients who were operated on using the LARS synthetic ligament. The control group comprised 52 (54.2%) patients who were implanted with an autogenous graft from semitendinous or gracilis muscle. The study was conducted using the SF36v2 questionnaire for the assessment of quality of life. Results: The patients expressed the most negative evaluations of quality of life in the domain of General Health (GH) (x– = 62.5 scores) and Mental Health (MH) (x– = 70.4 scores), whereas most positive evaluations concerned the domain related with role limitations – caused both by physical health (Role Pysical – RP) and emotional problems (Role Emotional – RE) (x– > 95 scores). No statistically significant differences in the level of the quality of life were observed in the two selected groups; however, the evaluation of the quality of life in the area of social functioning and psychological health were slightly higher in the group of patients who had undergone surgery using the LARS method. Conclusions : The quality of life of patients within the period of 4 years after ACL reconstruction procedure using the LARS method and autogenous graft was on a similar, high level.

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a concentration of blood platelets suspended in a small volume of plasma, and it can be obtained by centrifuging the patient’s whole blood. It is used in many fields of medicine, including orthopaedics and traumatology. The range of indications for PRP therapy has been extended. The mechanism of action of PRP is based on function of growth factors. The application of PRP can be considered for tendinopathy and enthesopathy treatment, osteoarthritis treatment, muscle and ligament injuries, bone lesion treatment, bone infections and many other diseases. There are no standardised guidelines concerning PRP therapy, and the most efficient and optimal method of PRP preparation is yet to be determined. This article aims to present the opportunities of PRP therapy in orthopaedics and traumatology and evaluate its effectiveness.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders. It limits patients’ functionality and life satisfaction significantly. Although there are numerous types of therapy, the success rate of conservative treatment is limited, and it is often necessary to introduce surgical treatment. Therefore, new effective methods of therapy for OA are being tested and submitted. Endogenous hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural ingredient of many tissues in the human organism, including synovial fluid. Viscosupplementation with the usage of HA is a relatively new method for treating degenerative joint changes. By virtue of its good safety profile and simplicity of application, it is increasingly used as an alternative or addition to classic conservative treatment. In this work, we attempted to summarise the current state of knowledge of HA usage in OA treatment based on literature.

Revision hip arthroplasty procedures have been extensively discussed in the literature. At the same time, discussions of the management of acetabular component protrusion into the pelvic cavity, and, more specifically, the subperitoneal space, necessitating an additional abdominal approach for the revision arthroplasty, have only been published as case reports and descriptions of transperitoneal approaches have been even rarer. This paper presents the case of a 63-year-old female patient in whom a peritoneal approach was necessary to access a migrated acetabular component. The outcome of the treatment, which represented a complex orthopedic and general surgical problem, was good. We believe that the complexity of revision hip arthroplasty in patients with protrusion of the acetabular component together with the head and proximal part of the stem of the implant into subperitoneal space calls for a careful re-analysis of the category of Type III bony acetabulum defects according to Paprosky, where the recognition of two subtypes would facilitate analysis of such cases.

Abstract Inroduction and aim of the study. Hallux valgus is a deformity where there is a lateral deviation of the proximal phalanx of the big toe. The objective of the study was investigation of the occurrence of hallux valgus based on the image from a podoscope in children, examination of the effect of ill-fitted footwear on the development of this complaint. Material and method The study covered 184 children, aged 7-13. The children were examined in their underwear, without shoes and socks. Body weight and body height was measured. The image of the feet on a podoscope was done at full load. The hallux valgus angle α, the Clarke’s angle and the Wejsflog’s index were calculated. The software calculated the correct size of the footwear which should be worn by the children. This size was compared with the size of the shoes which a child had during the examination. Results. The problem of hallux valgus affects 26% of the children. Hallux valgus more frequently concerned the left foot. In 8% of cases hallux valgus concerned both feet. Conclusions. Hallux valgus in the examined group more often concerned girls than boys. The hallux valgus angle α increased with age. Children who had a normal hallux valgus angle α had higher values of the Clarke’s angle. In the group of children examined, no statistically significant relationship was found between hallux valgus angle α and the fitting of footwear, Wejsflog’s index and the BMI.

Introduction and aim of the study. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among the children and adolescents is particularly dangerous, in 60% of children and adolescents, this problem will occur in adulthood, and also increases the risk of diseases such as: type 2 diabetes, hiprelipidemia, hypertension, or emotional disturbances. The aim of the study was evaluation of nutritional status among children aged 7-10 years old from Masłów and Górno District measured by BMI index. Material and methods The research was conducted in 2015 and 2016among the group of 486 primary school children aged 7-10 from Masłów and Górno District. The child body mass was studied on the Tanita weight, for body height was used the Seca measure system. Based on the results BMI was calculated. In relation to BMI centile charts, based on Olaf’s and Ola’s study, determined whether the child was obese, overweight or underweight. Results. The level of somatic development for the whole group in the study, taking into account the results averaged, is within normal limits. Children who are overweight in the examined group was 14.81%, and obesity occurred in 1.02%. Overweight and obesity more often concerned examined boys, overweight - 17,36%, obesity - 1.65%. Among girls overweight was determined in 12,03% of children while obesity - 0,41%. Conclusion. Most of the girls examined were overweight among 9-year-olds, while the problem in boys usually appeared in 10-year-olds. Obesity was present in 7-year-old girls and 8-year-old boys. There is no statistically significant dependence between categories of BMI - overweight and obesity, underweight andthe norm, and also age. BMI increases with age, so it is reasonable to use centile charts for different age groups of children. Education on nutrition and physical activity among both parents and children is needed.

Total knee replacement in patients with haemophilia A is a challenging procedure with high risk of complications. Due to the massive destruction of the joint and significantly reduced range of motion, total knee replacement should be performed only by a surgeon with high degree of expertise and experience. During the perioperative period, patients require factor VIII (FVIII) replacement therapy supervised by a haematologist, under control of plasma activity levels. Possible early complications include delayed wound healing, soft tissue and joint bleeding, development of pseudoaneurysm and early infection. Once complications occur, prompt detection and introduction of proper treatment is fundamental.

Introduction : The increase observed in the size of the elderly population is related to an increase in the average life span. Involutional changes in the human body concern all organs and systems. Multiple morbidities, to a considerable extent, contribute to the limitation of motor fitness. Recently, a change has been noted in the age of patients hospitalized in rehabilitation departments. The majority of these patients are aged over 60, and are admitted due to aggravation of polyarticular pain, arterial hypertension, problems with knee or hip joints (degeneration, pain), ischemic heart disease, or degenerative polyarthritis. Hospitalization in the rehabilitation department contributes to the improvement in their state of health. Aim of the research: The objective of the study was to analyse the causes of hospitalization and functional fitness of patients hospitalized in the Rehabilitation Department at the Regional Polyclinical Hospital in Kielce. Material and methods : The study included 102 patients of the Rehabilitation Department at the Regional Polyclinical Hospital in Kielce, 79 female and 23 male, mean age 72.6. Results: The majority of patients (74%) were admitted to the department with the diagnosis of aggravation of polyarticular pain, followed by arterial hypertension (as many as 64%), problems concerning knee and hip joints (degeneration, pain), ischemic heart disease, and polyarticular changes. Conclusions : Patients aged over 60 comprised the largest group in the study, and the dominant causes of hospitalization were aggravation of pain and arterial hypertension.

Introduction : One of the regulations governing employment on the open labour market is the Act for vocational and social rehabilitation and employment of people with disabilities, which defines disability in the context that it impacts upon a person’s ability to work. Aim of the research : To evaluate the level of hospital staff awareness of the financial impacts of employing people with disabilities at the Central Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of the Interior in Warsaw. Material and methods: The sample and control groups consisted of people working at the hospital, comprising 247 individuals, including 194 women and 53 men, aged between 25 and 60 years. The sample group consisted of people with disabilities. The control group consisted of colleagues with disabilities, of both sexes, and of the same age range. There was also a separate sample group comprising 60 people from middle management and senior management. The sample and control groups were provided with a questionnaire about issues relating to the economic aspects of employing people with disabilities. The results were compared with data from the questionnaire for management and from hospital statistics. The methodology of mathematical statistics was used. Results : Discrepancies were found between sample and control groups, and hospital statistics pertaining to people with disabilities as employees in terms of the burden placed on the business, such as sick leave, breaks from work in the general sense, additional leave, accessing specialist tests during working hours, and earnings, in particular reimbursement of the cost of workplace equipment and funding for salaries. Conclusions: There is a significant degree of divergence between managers’ and employees’ notions of privileges for disabled workers and their actual scale. There is misunderstanding and lack of knowledge of the applicable provisions of the Act for the Vocational and Social Rehabilitation and Employment of People with Disabilities amongst a considerable portion of employees and managers.

The purpose of this paper is to present the innovative design of microwave plasma system for modification of detonation nanodiamond particles (DNP) using a special rotating drum placed inside the reactor. Nanodiamond particles manufactured by detonation method reveal the biological activity depending on surface functionalization. Plasmachemical modification of detonation nanodiamond particles gives the possibility of controlling surface of nanodiamonds particles in biological tests. In this paper we would like to compare detonation nanodiamond (the grain sizes from 2 to 5 nm) with modified detonation nanodiamond in rotary reactor chamber, by microwave plasma activated chemical vapour deposition (MW PACVD) method in materials research (Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy) and in vitro examinations with full of human blood. The results indicate haemocompatibility of non-modified detonation nanodiamond and modified nanodiamond by MW PACVD method in rotary reactor chamber (modified ND-3) and the presence of haemolysis in commercial detonation nanodiamond.

Introduction : High quality of medical services is essential to proper healthcare functioning and to achieve aims. High quality of nursing care should have the same characteristics as the whole healthcare system. Although current healthcare systems focus on best quality medical services, the number of adverse events is increasing. It sometimes happens that a patient suffers injuries not due to his/her illness, but because of poorly organised healthcare. Aim of the research : To assess the influence of adverse events and their identification on nursing care quality and to analyse the correlation between patient safety and adverse events identification and reporting. Material and methods: The research was conducted in hospital wards that have and do not have a Certificate of Quality Management System. In the research, the Hospital Survey on Patient Culture prepared by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality was used as well as the author’s own survey. Results: In the survey, nurses’ activities were evaluated in the context of adverse events identification. As the most common undesirable events, the following were considered: discrepancy connected with organisation and administration (35%), medical equipment (24%), hospital infections (23%), medication administration (22%), doctor’s (20%) and nurse’s (19%) activity, and blood and blood related specimen transfusion (10%). However, these areas were not disastrous. Conclusions: It has been stated that nurses, for fear of disciplinary consequences, are more unwilling to report such events. Therefore, it is essential to introduce legal regulations.