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Shortage of highly-skilled STEM workers, lack of critical technical skills, and persistence of underrepresentation are key problems for our nation's future. The Arkansas Summer Research Institute (ASRI) incorporates novel approaches to broaden participation in STEM, research, and data analytics, especially among URM students (over 50% of ASRI participants). The ASRI has evolved from in-person to a virtual model that includes innovations in organization, engagement technologies, personalization, gamification, mentoring, and networking. Students conduct independent research projects and present their findings. Student confidence in coding, research, statistics, and visualization skills improved significantly (p<0.001) during this two-week summer program. Furthermore, the use of continuous communication, ongoing help, extremely low student-to-mentor ratios, and one-on-one coaching led to excellent overall satisfaction scores on a 5-point scale, which were surprisingly higher in a virtual environment (N = 148, M = 4.73, SD = 0.53) than an in-person one (N = 133, M = 4.11, SD = 0.87, p < 0.001). The ASRI has trained over 300 students and involved over 130 STEM professors and professionals from across Arkansas in the pursuit of equitable and productive training and can serve as a model for other groups seeking to develop similar programs in the future.

BackgroundGestational nutrition can protect against adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.ObjectivesWe developed a short tool for collecting maternal nutritional intake during pregnancy to facilitate research in this area and compared its retrospective use to prospectively-collected food frequency questionnaires (FFQ).MethodsMaternal nutritional intake was retrospectively assessed using three versions (full interview, full self-administered online, and shortened interview) of the Early Life Exposure Assessment Tool (ELEAT) among participants of the MARBLES pregnancy cohort study of younger siblings of autistic children. Retrospective responses were compared with responses to supplement questions and the validated 2005 Block FFQ prospectively collected in MARBLES during pregnancies 2-7 years prior. ELEAT nutrient values were calculated using reported food intake frequencies and nutrient values from the USDA nutrient database. Correlations between retrospectively- and prospectively-reported intake were evaluated using Kappa coefficients, Youden's J, and Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficients (rs).ResultsMARBLES FFQ dietary intakes were compared among 54 women who completed the ELEAT full form including 12 online, and among 23 who completed the ELEAT short form. Correlations across most foods were fair to moderate. Most ELEAT quantified nutrient values were moderately correlated (rs = 0.3-0.6) with those on the Block FFQ. Supplement questions in both MARBLES and the ELEAT were completed by 114 women. Kappas were moderate for whether or not supplements were taken, but modest for timing. Correlations varied by version and child diagnosis or concerns, and were higher when mothers completed the ELEAT when their child was 4 years old or younger.ConclusionsWith recall up to several years, ELEAT dietary and supplement module responses were modestly to moderately reliable and produced nutrient values moderately correlated with prospectively-collected measures. The ELEAT dietary and vitamin supplements modules can be used to rank participants in terms of intake of several nutrients relevant for neurodevelopment.

Children on the autism spectrum have been shown to have immune dysregulation that often correlates with behavioral deficits. The role of the post-natal environment in this dysregulation is an area of active investigation. We examined the association between plasma levels of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) and immune cell function in age-matched autistic children and non-autistic controls. Plasma from children on the autism spectrum (n = 38) and typically developing controls (TD; n = 60) were analyzed for 14 major PBDE congeners. Cytokine/chemokine production was measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) supernatants with and without ex vivo BDE-49 exposure. Total plasma concentration (∑PBDE14) and individual congener levels were also correlated with T cell function. ∑PBDE14 did not differ between diagnostic groups but correlated with reduced immune function in children on the autism spectrum. In autistic children, IL-2 and IFN-γ production was reduced in association with several individual BDE congeners, especially BDE-49 (p = 0.001). Furthermore, when PBMCs were exposed ex vivo to BDE-49, cells from autistic children produced elevated levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, MIP-1α and MCP-1 (p

The objective of this study was to verify the response of 10 European asparagus cultivars grown for green spear production using post-harvest drip irrigation. Irrigation, used to compensate for periodic deficiencies in precipitation, allows for high and good quality crops for many species, and also keeps soil in good condition. The field experiment was carried out in 2006–2008 on a very light sandy soil in central Poland. Irrigation treatments were applied using the tensiometer indications. Water needs of asparagus were calculated on the base of reference evapotranspiration and crop coefficients. The following evaluations were made: height, diameter and number of summer stalks, as well marketable yield, weight and number of green spears. Drip irrigation applied for two years in the post-harvest period, had a positive effect on all studied traits, both summer stalks and green spears in 2007–2008. A significant increase in the height, number and diameter of summer stalks, as well as an increase in the marketable yield, weight and number of green spears was observed for most of the cultivars. Both factors, the irrigation used and the asparagus cultivars significantly modified the antioxidant content in asparagus spears. The Rapsody cultivar accumulated significantly more, and the Grolim cultivar significantly less, total polyphenols in asparagus spears at unirrigated plots. An inverse relationship was obtained in the Grolim cultivar with respect to the content of vitamin C, which accumulated the most of it under the irrigation conditions. The Ramada cultivar from irrigated plots contained significantly the highest amount of total carotenoids. In turn, the Cipres and Grolim cultivars from irrigated plots were characterized by the highest antioxidant activity.

Sustainable crop cultivation is a crucial goal in modern agriculture, aiming to attain high productivity while conserving natural resources. This requires the implementation of rational cultivation techniques, with proper irrigation and fertilization practices playing a crucial role in ensuring plant well-being and providing natural protection against biotic and abiotic stresses. The health-promoting properties of crops are also significantly influenced by irrigation and fertilization. This study investigated the productivity, nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacity of Vineta early potato cultivar tubers under drip irrigation conditions, combined with nitrogen fertilization through fertigation or broadcasting. Two-factor trials included drip irrigation (control or drip) and nitrogen application (broadcast or fertigation). Precise treatments, such as drip irrigation and N-fertigation were found to enhance all productivity traits. Both practices positively impacted tuber nutrient content. The highest levels of total polyphenols and chlorogenic acid were observed in non-irrigated and broadcasted tubers. Drip-irrigated and N-fertigated tubers exhibited high levels of vitamin C and antioxidant activity. In summary, the combination of drip irrigation with appropriate fertilization methods positively influenced potato crops, as evidenced by an increase in productivity and the quality of tubers.

Józef Robakowski’s cinematic oeuvre functions mainly as an experimental form of audiovisual art exhibited in gallery spaces. In his avant-garde activities, this intermedia artist, who originated from the Workshop of the Film Form, often reached for techniques characteristic of animated cinema, as evidenced by the author’s textual analysis of the films: Market (1970), Test 1 (1971), Attempt II (1971), Dynamic Rectangle (1971), 22x (1971), Impulsator (2000), Impulsator VI (2001), Attention light! (2004). The analysis focuses on the techniques used as well as potential or overt inspirations. Creating experimental animations, often in the spirit of ‘pure film’, the avant-gardist has been appropriated by other scientific disciplines such as art history or new media. The aim of this article is to include Józef Robakowski in the discourse of film studies, to demonstrate his stance as an animator over the course of his artistic output to date, but above all to embed the avant-gardist’s silhouette in the history of Polish animated cinema.

Józef Robakowski’s cinematic oeuvre functions mainly as an experimental form of audiovisual art exhibited in gallery spaces. In his avant-garde activities this intermedia artist, associated with the Film Form Workshop, often used techniques of animated film, as is evidenced by the author’s textual analysis of the films: Market (1970), Test 1 (1971), Test II (1971), Dynamic Rectangle (1971), 22x (1971), Impulsator (2000), Impulsator VI (2001), Attention Light! (2004). The analysis focuses on the techniques used by Robakowski as well as his potential or explicit inspirations. Creating experimental animations, often in the spirit of “pure film”, the avant-gardist has been appropriated by other scholarly disciplines such as art history or new media. The aim of this article is to include Józef Robakowski in the discourse of film studies: to demonstrate his stance as an animator over the course of his artistic work to date, but above all to place him in the history of Polish animated film.

Introduction: At the beginning of the 20th century, the idea of sightseeing as a social movement and a field of study was developing in the Kingdom of Poland. It had a special significance due to the socio-political conditions of the Polish lands. It was an attempt to oppose the russification activities, through activities aimed at preserving heritage and traditions to build and maintain national identity. Research Aim: The aim of the article is to show the idea of sightseeing and the role of the sightseeing movement as a tool for shaping the national identity of adolescents in the Kingdom of Poland at the beginning of the 20th century. Evidence-based Facts: Previous studies on the historical aspects of the sightseeing movement have mainly focused on the evolution of the idea, its origins, examples of practical implementation of activities and representatives of the sightseeing movement. Although some texts have discussed the issue of sightseeing as an educational tool, there has been a lack of in-depth analyses considering the impact of the idea of sightseeing on the shaping of the national identity of adolescents. Summary: The sightseeing activities were seen as a hope for shaping patriotic and civic attitudes. Forms of sightseeing activities at the beginning of the 20th century were regarded as a form of patriotic education. Despite the declarations about the democratic character of the sightseeing movement, it remained an exclusive movement especially for people from non-elite backgrounds and national minority.

Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), are examples of yet not entirely understood etiology. They are linked to immune system dysfunction, which becomes immunologically overactive, damaging the body’s tissues and organs. At least three major factors underlie the development of autoimmune disorders: environmental factors, including the oral and intestinal microbiomes, genetic predisposition, and aberrant autoimmune response. The dysbiosis of the oral microbiota, in particular, exerts a significant effect on RA, clinically manifested by damage of the joints. RA is significantly associated with periodontitis, which is caused by an increased abundance of Porphyromonas gingivalis in the subgingival niche, which disturbs the homeostasis of the oral microbial community. P. gingivalis is considered to contribute to the development and progression of RA. Although this bacterium may escape detection by the host immune system, it still induces an immune imbalance. RA and periodontitis also share similar pathological and clinical features. The progression of both chronic periodontitis and RA is linked to the dysregulation of the immune system and the damage caused by the immune response. Previous detailed studies have indicated that a specific enzyme of P. gingivalis, peptidyl-arginine deiminase, which catalyzes the citrullination of proteins, may trigger the autoimmune response resulting in the development of RA.

This study, rooted in patristics and social sciences, delves into the historical evolution of support for orphans and widows in the Christian and Catholic tradition, underscoring its profound significance in the identity of these faith-based communities. Tracing the modes of assistance from pre-Christian times through the Old and New Testaments and the teachings of the Church Fathers, the paper elucidates various aspects of the caregiving process. Additionally, it explores the evolving sensitivities across different epochs in modernity, encompassing the contemporary, postmodern and recent years, with a specific focus on the periods before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In light of this analysis, a fundamental question arises: What are the primary pastoral responsibilities of Catholic parishes in Poland regarding support to individuals who have experienced the loss of loved ones, borne multiple losses or endured severe traumas (such as war refugees from Ukraine in local communities)? This work provides guidance to over 10,000 Catholic parishes in Poland, considering the context of an aging society and the lessons derived from the COVID-19 pandemic. It extends an invitation for further research and the initiation of practical endeavours by pastoral theologians and specialists in social and healthcare, to ensure the highest quality of care in parish communities and local societies.

Background: Gestational nutrition can protect against adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Objectives: We developed a short tool for collecting maternal nutritional intake during pregnancy to facilitate research in this area and compared its retrospective use to prospectively-collected food frequency questionnaires (FFQ). Methods: Maternal nutritional intake was retrospectively assessed using three versions (full interview, full self-administered online, and shortened interview) of the Early Life Exposure Assessment Tool (ELEAT) among participants of the MARBLES pregnancy cohort study of younger siblings of autistic children. Retrospective responses were compared with responses to supplement questions and the validated 2005 Block FFQ prospectively collected in MARBLES during pregnancies 2–7 years prior. ELEAT nutrient values were calculated using reported food intake frequencies and nutrient values from the USDA nutrient database. Correlations between retrospectively- and prospectively-reported intake were evaluated using Kappa coefficients, Youden's J, and Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficients (rs). Results: MARBLES FFQ dietary intakes were compared among 54 women who completed the ELEAT full form including 12 online, and among 23 who completed the ELEAT short form. Correlations across most foods were fair to moderate. Most ELEAT quantified nutrient values were moderately correlated (rs = 0.3–0.6) with those on the Block FFQ. Supplement questions in both MARBLES and the ELEAT were completed by 114 women. Kappas were moderate for whether or not supplements were taken, but modest for timing. Correlations varied by version and child diagnosis or concerns, and were higher when mothers completed the ELEAT when their child was 4 years old or younger. Conclusions: With recall up to several years, ELEAT dietary and supplement module responses were modestly to moderately reliable and produced nutrient values moderately correlated with prospectively-collected measures. The ELEAT dietary and vitamin supplements modules can be used to rank participants in terms of intake of several nutrients relevant for neurodevelopment.

This article focuses on the streaming series Riverdale (Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, 2017–2023) distributed by Netflix. The creators of the series overtly refer to postmodern cinema, especially the works of David Lynch. In doing so, they use various kinds of disorientation techniques, that is, narrative devices that complicate the interpretation of what is presented. The author of the article performed a textual analysis on the 6 available seasons, focusing on demonstrating the correlation between the series and postmodern cinema. Then the various aspects of the series were assigned to the possible techniques of disorientation proposed by Andrzej Zalewski. The purpose of this text is to identify the “Lynchianism” in Riverdale and to demonstrate what techniques of disorientation are used by the creators of this series. A further intention is to resolve whether this is in fact a technique (seen by many as a deriving from ineptitude) or a strategy (resulting from deliberate action). The article attempts to view the contemporary work from a postmodern perspective.

The rapidly changing quality of irrigation water requires urgent attention to understand and predict the long-term effects on soils and food crops, especially in a situation of global freshwater scarcity. The aim of the research was to assess changes in water quality in two selected lakes located in Poland in 2009–2016. The study was carried out in terms of the possibility of using selected reservoirs as sources of water for sprinkler irrigation of agricultural crops. The presented analysis was compared with a similar one carried out in 1999–2006 and 2004–2009 to determine the historic and present water quality state. Results indicate, that the source of pollution of the lakes is most often outflows from sewerage systems, the precipitation and surface runoff from the catchment areas of these lakes, which are mainly used as agricultural land. In Lake Niepruszewskie, the oxygen conditions, water transparency, phosphorus content, sestone dry matter and coliform titre increased, while the biological oxygen demand (BOD5), nitrogen, and chlorophyll content decreased. According to present research, in the Strykowskie Lake, the phosphorus content and BOD5 decreased, while the sanitary condition, nitrogen content and oxygen conditions deteriorated. The reduction of mineral fertilization in recent years has reduced the degradation of the lakes and allowed the water quality to remain in Class III of purity. Despite the visible improvement in the general condition of both studied lakes, constant monitoring of their quality is necessary, which is obligatory for the water from these reservoirs to be used for sprinkler irrigation of crops.

ABSTRACTThe fate of herpesvirus genomes following entry into different cell types is thought to regulate the outcome of infection. For the Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), latent infection of neurons is characterized by association with repressive heterochromatin marked with Polycomb silencing-associated lysine 27 methylation on histone H3 (H3K27me). However, whether H3K27 methylation plays a role in repressing lytic gene expression in non-neuronal cells is unclear. To address this gap in knowledge, and with consideration that the fate of the viral genome and outcome of HSV-1 infection could be heterogeneous, we developed an assay to quantify the abundance of histone modifications within single viral genome foci of infected fibroblasts. Using this approach, combined with bulk epigenetic techniques, we were unable to detect any role for H3K27me3 during HSV-1 lytic infection of fibroblasts. By contrast, we could detect the lesser studied H3K27me2 on a subpopulation of viral genomes, which was consistent with a role for H3K27 demethylases in promoting lytic gene expression. In addition, viral genomes co-localized with the H3K27me2 reader protein PHF20L1, and this association was enhanced by inhibition of the H3K27 demethylases UTX and JMJD3. Notably, targeting of H3K27me2 to viral genomes was enhanced following infection with a transcriptionally defective virus in the absence of Promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies. Collectively, these studies implicate a role for H3K27me2 in fibroblast-associated HSV genome silencing in a manner dependent on genome sub-nuclear localization and transcriptional activity.IMPORTANCEInvestigating the potential mechanisms of gene silencing for DNA viruses in different cell types is important to understand the differential outcomes of infection, particularly for viruses like herpesviruses that can undergo distinct types of infection in different cell types. In addition, investigating chromatin association with viral genomes informs on the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation of DNA processes. However, there is a growing appreciation for heterogeneity in the outcome of infection at the single cell, and even single viral genome, level. Here we describe a novel assay for quantifying viral genome foci with chromatin proteins and show that a portion of genomes are targeted for silencing by H3K27me2 and associate with the reader protein PHF20L1. This study raises important questions regarding the mechanism of H3K27me2-specific targeting to viral genomes, the contribution of epigenetic heterogeneity to herpesvirus infection, and the role of PHF20L1 in regulating the outcome of DNA virus infection.

One-hundred seventy-two households were recruited from regions with high outdoor air pollution (Fresno and Riverside, CA) to participate in a randomized, sham-controlled, cross-over study to determine the effectiveness of high-efficiency air filtration to reduce indoor particle exposures. In 129 households, stand-alone HEPA air cleaners were placed in a bedroom and in the main living area. In 43 households, high-efficiency MERV 16 filters were installed in central forced-air heating and cooling systems and the participating households were asked to run the system on a clean-air cycle for 15 min per hour. Participating households that completed the study received true air filtration for a year and sham air filtration for a year. Air pollution samples were collected at approximately 6-month intervals, with two measurements in each of the sham and true filtration periods. One week indoor and outdoor time-integrated samples were collected for measurement of PM2.5 , PM10 , and ultrafine particulate matter (UFP) measured as PM0.2 . Reflectance measurements were also made on the PM2.5 filters to estimate black carbon. True filtration significantly improved indoor air quality, with a 48% reduction in the geometric mean indoor PM0.2 and PM2.5 concentrations, and a 31% reduction in PM10 . Geometric mean concentrations of indoor/outdoor reflectance values, indicating fraction of particles of outdoor origin remaining indoors, decreased by 77%. Improvements in particle concentrations were greater with continuously operating stand-alone air cleaners than with intermittent central system filtration. Keeping windows closed and increased utilization of the filtration systems further improved indoor air quality.

Immune dysregulation has been found to be related to a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, investigations in very early childhood examining immunological abnormalities such as altered neonatal cytokine/chemokine profiles in association with an aberrant developmental trajectory, are sparse. We assessed neonatal blood spots from 398 children, including 171 with ASD, which were subdivided according to severity (121 severe, 50 mild/moderate) and cognitive/adaptive levels (144 low-functioning, 27 typical to high-functioning). The remainder were 69 children with developmental delay (DD), and 158 with typical development (TD), who served as controls in the Childhood Autism Risks from Genetics and the Environment (CHARGE) study. Exploratory analysis suggested that, in comparisons with TD and DD, CTACK (CCL27) and MPIF-1 (CCL23), respectively, were independently associated with ASD. Higher neonatal levels of CTACK were associated with decreased odds of ASD compared to TD (odds ratio [OR] = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [Cl] 0.21, 0.77), whereas higher levels of MPIF-1 were associated with increased odds of ASD (OR = 2.38, 95% Cl 1.42, 3.98) compared to DD but not to TD. MPIF-1 was positively associated with better scores in several developmental domains. Dysregulation of chemokine levels in early life can impede normal immune and neurobehavioral development, which can lead to diagnosis of ASD or DD. This study collectively suggests that certain peripheral chemokines at birth are associated with ASD progression during childhood and that children with ASD and DD have distinct neonatal chemokine profiles that can differentiate their diagnoses.

This study aims to present a case of acute mercuric chloride poisoning at a potentially lethal dose treated with the antidote – 2,3-dimercapto- 1-propanesulfonic acid (DMPS) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) combined with CytoSorb. A 21-year-old woman was admitted to a hospital with abdominal pain, vomiting, and suspected gastrointestinal bleeding after taking 5000 mg of mercuric chloride for suicidal purposes. Due to the patient deteriorating general condition and multiple organ damage, on the third day she was transported to the Clinic of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (CAaIC), Łódź, Poland. Laboratory tests confirmed features of acute kidney injury and high mercury levels in the blood (1051 μg/l) and urine (22 960 μg/l) – DMPS therapy and CRRT combined with CytoSorb were instituted. Due to nervous system complaints (headache, dizziness), a lumbosacral puncture was performed – the mercury concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was 5.45 μg/l. During a colonoscopy, significant diagnostic abnormalities revealed features of colonic mucosal necrosis. The treatment resulted in a decrease in subjective complaints, decreased mercury levels in biological material, and improved parenchymal organ function. On the 15th day of therapy, the patient was transferred to the primary care center for further treatment. The case confirms the possibility of improvement of patient condition following ingestion of a potentially lethal dose (5 g) as a result of the initiation of appropriate therapy even on the third day. The presence of mercury in CSF confirms that inorganic mercury compounds (mercuric chloride) can pass through the blood-brain barrier after oral ingestion. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2023;36(5):685–92

The upper respiratory tract, including the nasopharynx, is inhabited by many microbial species. Still, the nasopharyngeal microbiota (or microbiome) of pregnant women is not well understood and may be influenced by a number of factors, including place of residence. Many changes occur during pregnancy, and their association with the respiratory microbiota is important for the health of the mother and for the developing fetus. The aim of this study was to compare the colonisation of the nasopharyngeal cavity by culturable aerobic bacteria in the microbiota of women with a physiological pregnancy course according to rural or urban place of residence. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from 37 pregnant women (17 from rural and 20 from urban areas) to detect the colonisation of aerobically growing culturable bacteria. Isolates were identified using microbiological culture methods and the MALDI-TOF MS technique. Bacteria were colonisers of the nasopharynx cavity in all cases tested. Accordingly, 97.3% (36/37) of the pregnant women were colonised by Gram-positive bacteria, mainly coagulase-negative (CoNS) and -positive (CoPS) Staphylococcus spp. and Corynebacterium spp. in both the rural and urban groups. Gram-negative Klebsiella variicola, Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas congelans colonised only 17.6% (3/17) of rural women and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia only 5.0% (1/20) of the urban women. To summarise, all pregnant women were colonised with bacteria in the nasopharyngeal cavity. The majority from both rural and urban residences were colonised with Gram-positive bacteria only. Gram-negative bacteria were isolated mainly from samples in the rural group.

Prenatal exposure to phthalates, a family of endocrine-disrupting plasticizers, is associated with disruption of maternal metabolism and impaired neurodevelopment. We investigated associations between prenatal phthalate exposure and alterations of both the maternal third trimester serum metabolome and the placental metabolome at birth, and associations of these with child neurodevelopmental outcomes using data and samples from the Markers of Autism Risk in Babies Learning Early Signs (MARBLES) cohort. The third trimester serum (n = 106) and placental (n = 132) metabolomes were investigated using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Children were assessed clinically for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and cognitive development. Although none of the urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations were associated with maternal serum metabolites after adjustment for covariates, mixture analysis using quantile g-computation revealed alterations in placental metabolites with increasing concentrations of phthalate metabolites that included reduced concentrations of 2-hydoxybutyrate, carnitine, O-acetylcarnitine, glucitol, and N-acetylneuraminate. Child neurodevelopmental outcome was not associated with the third trimester serum metabolome, but it was correlated with the placental metabolome in male children only. Maternal phthalate exposure during pregnancy is associated with differences in the placental metabolome at delivery, and the placental metabolome is associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes in males in a cohort with high familial ASD risk.

The use of fossil fuel-based energy systems that provide heat and electricity to a building has adverse environmental impacts. These impacts can be mitigated, to a certain extent, through the incorporation of renewable energy sources (RES). The primary objective of this study was to conduct an environmental assessment of the performance of energy systems in existing public facilities located in Poland. Based on the findings, we proposed and implemented changes to these systems and validated the environmental impact of the RES systems used. SimaPro 8.1 software and the Ecoinvent 3.0 database were employed for the analysis, which entailed an environmental assessment of six public facilities located in Poland. The installation of RES resulted in an average 27% reduction in electricity consumption from the national electricity grid. This reduction was observed to be the least in the hospital and the most in the religious building. This was reflected in the environmental assessment of heating systems. The implementation of RES reduced the environmental impact of the religious building by an average of 20%. Concurrently, the CO2 emissions decreased by 35%, SO2 by 44%, and PM10 by 42%. Significant investments and the installation of advanced RES will not prevent the occurrence of unintentional environmental consequences unless the demand for electricity and thermal energy is reduced. The use of RES in the analyzed buildings and the associated avoided emissions do not entirely offset the negative emissions resulting from the utilization of other (conventional) energy sources in the analyzed energy systems of public buildings. Consequently, the analyzed facilities collectively exert a detrimental impact on the environment.

This article discusses the potential of using computer-simulation methods in processes such as thermal waste conversion, i.e., pyrolysis, gasification, combustion and torrefaction. These methods are gaining in importance, among others, due to the difficulties in execution and high costs associated with conducting experimental research in real conditions or the need to obtain detailed data on the phenomenon under study in a relatively short time. Computer simulation also allows for numerous errors to be avoided, such as those that may occur during optimization activities, the effects of which may have serious consequences, both economic and environmental. In addition to their many advantages, the limitations and disadvantages of using computer-simulation methods were also indicated, mainly related to the interpretation and validation of the results obtained using modelling. Owing to the complexity of the phenomena occurring during thermal conversion, special attention was focused on models based on chemical kinetics, thanks to which it is possible to predict the quantitative and qualitative composition of products in these processes. The aim of this research is to identify the research gap in the field of issues related to models of chemical kinetics of thermal waste conversion processes.

The correct assessment of the vertical jump height depends on an accurate and reliable measurement tool. This study aimed to determine the concurrent validity and reliability of the My Jump 2 app used for estimating the maximum height (MH) of the counter-movement jump (CMJ). Twenty-one male adults participated in this study. The MH of the CMJ was estimated based on the displacement of the jumper’s center of mass (force platform), the displacement time of the reflective marker placed on the jumper’s sacrum (smartphone, My Jump 2-DT) and the flight time of the jumper (smartphone, My Jump 2-FT). The assessment of the concurrent validity showed a poor agreement (ICC = 0.362; Bland–Altman bias = 12.4 cm) between the My Jump 2-FT and force platform (p < 0.001), and a good agreement (ICC = 0.858; Bland–Altman bias = −0.2 cm) between the My Jump 2-DT and force platform (p < 0.001). The ICC values for internal consistency (>0.9) indicated the excellent reliability of all measurement tools (p < 0.001). The findings revealed the high accuracy and good reliability of the My Jump 2 app for the new method of MH estimation for the CMJ, including the displacement time of the marker placed on the jumper’s sacrum.

The process of passing loss and bereavement is a difficult period for any human being. At this particular time, it is important to remember to support the child in dealing with loss and grief. Unfortunately, it can happen that the closest environment, such as family and school is not able to help the mourner properly, especially the children and youth in this silent fight. Support from family and teachers is as needed as help from the various professionals. This article is a review of forms of support in bereaved children and youth, with emphasize on practical methods performed by educators. The paper includes the analysis of forms used in order to help bereaved children in returning to better function in society.

Children on the autism spectrum have been shown to have immune dysregulation that often correlates with behavioral deficits. The role of the post-natal environment in this dysregulation is an area of active investigation. We examined the association between plasma levels of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) and immune cell function in age-matched autistic children and non-autistic controls. Plasma from children on the autism spectrum (n = 38) and typically developing controls (TD; n = 60) were analyzed for 14 major PBDE congeners. Cytokine/chemokine production was measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) supernatants with and without ex vivo BDE-49 exposure. Total plasma concentration (∑PBDE14) and individual congener levels were also correlated with T cell function. ∑PBDE14 did not differ between diagnostic groups but correlated with reduced immune function in children on the autism spectrum. In autistic children, IL-2 and IFN-γ production was reduced in association with several individual BDE congeners, especially BDE-49 (p = 0.001). Furthermore, when PBMCs were exposed ex vivo to BDE-49, cells from autistic children produced elevated levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, MIP-1α and MCP-1 (p

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.

Preliminary report on ethnographic research conducted by a team of 4 researchers from Poland in Scotland with the participation of group of economic, migrants from Poland in, employed legally in home-based care in Edinburgh & Livingston. The project was developed and undertaken from April 2017 to April 2018. The main research question was: What kind of disability and care concepts held migrants from Poland employed in home-based care? The collected data from focus groups and individual interviews allowed to generate basic codes and categories of disability and care concepts in the opinions of migrants from Poland. Among them are: the concept of disability and care and detailed subcategories of care, such as: care tasks & duties, care norms & rules, care & taboo, care burdens & difficulties, care values for caregivers, caregivers and artifacts related to home-based care. The research allowed for the development of 3 main themes related to: femininity issues and care for elderly females, concepts of implemented independent living and features of support system.

Energy production and storage has become a pressing issue in recent decades and its solutions bring new problems. This paper reviews the literature on the human and environmental risks associated with the production, use, and disposal of increasingly common lithium-ion batteries. Popular electronic databases were used for this purpose focused on the period since 2000. Assessment of the toxicological and environmental impact of batteries should then have a holistic scope to precede and guide the introduction of appropriate safety measures. In this short review the authors will try to touch upon this complex subject and point out some important issues related to an unprecedented development of lithium ion batteries-powered world. Given the multi-billion dollar business with the risks associated with the development of new technologies requires careful consideration of whether the balance of profits and losses is beneficial to humans and the planet. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2023;36(1):3–20

Introduction and objective Female physiological urinary incontinence may occur in the reproductive age, but the incidence of uncontrolled urination increases in the postmenopausal period. Urinary incontinence is playing an increasingly important social and economic role. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the number of patients affected by incontinence symptoms presenting to the doctor due to urinary tract diseases. The main aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of urinary incontinence among patients receiving medical care in selected institutions located in the Łódz region of Poland, and factors increasing risk of the disease. Material and methods The study was conducted between January – September 2021 among women receiving health care in selected facilities in the Łódż region. The study was conducted with the use of the authors’ original, anonymous survey questionnaire consisting of 43 questions. The patients were asked to complete the survey questionnaire while waiting for an appointment at the doctor’s surgery. Completed survey questionnaires were returned by 117 women. Results Of the 117 interviewed women, the majority, i.e. 63 people (53.9%), admitted that they had noticed the problem of incontinence. Of these 63 women, the largest number, i.e. 25 (f=0.4), admitted to losing urine 2–3 times a week. Conclusions In view of the high prevalence of urinary incontinence among the studied women, there is a need to take action to disseminate knowledge about risk factors and methods of prevention of incontinence.

Objectives The variety of clinical presentation on the topic of carbon monoxide (CO) intoxication ranges from slight headache to coma or death. YouTube allows patients to search not only for entertainment but also medical advice. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the content and quality of YouTube videos concerning CO poisoning as a source of knowledge for non-medical audience. Material and Methods On the December 8, 2020 a YouTube search was conducted for the following phrases: “carbon monoxide poisoning,” “carbon monoxide symptoms,” “CO poisoning,” “carbon monoxide asphyxiation,” “carbon monoxide intoxication” using the “incognito mode” and without attachment to Google Account. The search results were set as: “default” in the YouTube browser. The first 50 results were taken into consideration. Two raters, a specialist in emergency medicine and a specialist in clinical toxicology rated videos with Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information (DISCERN), Global Quality Score (GQS) and Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). “VidIQ Vision for YouTube” plug-in was used. Results Ninety-five videos were included. The interclass coefficient for DISCERN, GQS and JAMA scores were: 0.8, 0.74 and 0.62 reaching good and moderate reliability. The mean DISCERN/GQS/JAMA was 28.1 (SD 7.9), 2.5 (SD 0.8) and 1.1 (SD 0.7) respectively. Higher DISCERN/GQS/JAMA had videos providing information on: exposure time, treatment options, hyperbaric chamber indications as well as physician speaker (p < 0.05). Video Power Index was higher when the video contained animations and presented patients own history of CO exposure but not influenced the DISCERN/ GQS/JAMA scores. Videos providing misleading information had a higher like ratio. Conclusions The overall video quality was poor indicating inappropriate educational and informative value for patients who search information about carbon monoxide poisoning. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(3):285–95