Search

Introduction and purpose An adrenal incidentaloma is any lesion found unexpectedly during an imaging study performed for an unrelated reason. The detection rate of incidental adrenal tumors is steadily increasing. The clinical presentation of these tumors is influenced by the specific hormones production, which are determined by their origin. Most lesions are hormonally inactive and may go undetected by physicians, although some can be malignant. The aim of this work is to summarize the utility of different imaging modalities in clinical practice. State of knowledge All adrenal incidentalomas have to undergo an imaging procedure to determine if the mass is homogeneous and lipid-rich and therefore benign or if there are some malignant features. Noncontrast computed tomography is the primary imaging technique used to evaluate adrenal lesions based on their size, structure, and density. It is worth remembering that density

The solvolysis reaction with ionic liquids is one of the most frequently used methods for producing nanometer-sized cellulose. In this study, the nanocellulose was obtained by reacting microcrystalline cellulose with 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate (EmimOAc). The aim of this research was to determine the influence of various antisolvents used in the regeneration of cellulose after treatment with ionic liquid on its properties. The following antisolvents were used in this research: acetone, acetonitrile, water, ethanol and a mixture of acetone and water in a 1:1 v/v ratio. The nanocellulose was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and elemental analysis (EA). The results show that the antisolvent used to regenerate cellulose after the solvolysis reaction with EmimOAc affects its properties. Water, ethanol and a mixture of acetone and water successfully removed the used ionic liquid from the cellulose structure, while acetone and acetonitrile were unable to completely remove EmimOAc from the cellulosic material. The results of the XRD analysis indicate that there is a correlation between the ionic liquid content in the regenerated cellulose and its degree of crystallinity. Among the tested solvents, water leads to the effective removal of EmimOAc from the cellulose structure, which is additionally characterized by the smallest particle size and non-formation of agglomerates.

Kidney transplantation is the most effective treatment for end-stage renal failure but is associated with complications, including post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM). It affects the quality of life and survival of patients and the transplanted organ. It can cause complications, including infections and episodes of acute rejection, further threatening graft survival. The prevalence of PTDM, depending on the source, can range from 4 to 30% in transplant patients. This article aims to discuss issues related to diabetes in kidney transplant patients and the latest treatments. Knowledge of the mechanisms of action of immunosuppressive drugs used after transplantation and their effect on carbohydrate metabolism is key to the rapid and effective detection of PTDM. Patient therapy should not only include standard management such as lifestyle modification, insulin therapy or pharmacotherapy based on well-known oral and injection drugs. New opportunities are offered by hypoglycemic drugs still in clinical trials, including glucokinase activators, such as dorzagliatin, ADV-1002401, LY2608204, TMG-123, imeglimine, amycretin and pramlintide. Although many therapeutic options are currently available, PTDM often creates uncertainty about the most appropriate treatment strategy. Therefore, more research is needed to individualize therapeutic plans and monitor these patients.

Subject of the study Clinical practice guidelines are an effective strategy for optimizing health care by promoting evidence-based recommendations. Appropriate methodology and a rigorous strategy when formulating the recommendations of clinical guidelines has a significant impact on their quality, reliability and ability to be effectively implemented in practice. Purpose of the study The purpose of our study was to assess the quality of clinical practice guidelines for asthma management using the AGREE II tool. The analysis compared the quality of Polish clinical guidelines with those from other countries and international organizations. Nine guidelines were evaluated: Management of Asthma Exacerbations in Adults - Guidelines for General Practitioners (author: Supreme Medical Council, Poland), Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention (author: The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)), Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ Adolescent and Adult Asthma Guidelines 2020: a quick reference guide (author: Asthma and Respiratory Foundation New Zealand), Australian Asthma Handbook V2.0 (author: National Asthma Council Australia), National Clinical Guideline: The Diagnosis and Management of Asthma in Adults V2. 1 (author: Ministry of Public Health Qatar), SIGN 158 British guideline on the management of asthma (author: Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) British Thoracic Society), Management of Asthma in Adults (author: Malaysian Health Technology Assessment Section (MaHTAS)), Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management (author: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)), and The Spanish Guideline on the Management of Asthma (author: Guía Española para el Manejo del Asma (GEMA)). Results The highest scored domains were transparency and presentation of recommendations (all guidelines scored 100% or close to 100%), guideline scope and purpose, and editorial independence. The domains that scored lowest were in the areas of stakeholder engagement and applicability (79.3% and 69.2%, respectively). The largest differences were observed in the area of editorial independence, ranging from 100% (the maximum possible score) to 16.7%. The guidelines developed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network received the highest overall score. The Polish guidelines received the maximum number of points in areas related to scope and purpose, transparency and presentation, and editorial independence. Conclusions A properly conducted guideline development process, including the involvement of experts and adherence to methodological standards, results in high-quality clinical practice guidelines. High-quality clinical practice guidelines can be used as tools to support clinical decision-making, however, guideline authors should pay special attention to the applicability of guidelines in practice and the involvement of all stakeholders. To improve the process of guideline development and patient access to the newest therapies, it is also important to consider the synergies between the recommendations in clinical practice guidelines and health technology assessment reports.

The purpose of this study was to indicate the validity of using enzymatically interesterified fats as a fat emulsion base. A study was conducted to determine the stability of emulsion systems based on enzymatically interesterified fats and fats containing mixed fats. The fats used in the modifications were mutton tallow and hemp oil. It was found that emulsions based on esterified fats, regardless of the type of modified fat, showed a higher shelf life and had high homogeneity. On the other hand, emulsions based on mixed fats already showed destabilization characteristics in the first days. Their structure was heterogeneous. Microscopic evaluation clearly showed large droplets of the dispersed phase, indicating a tendency to delaminate. Consumer evaluation showed that the sensory quality of the presented emulsion systems based on enzymatically interesterified fats was fully accepted by the participating consumers. Based on the results of the study, it was concluded that all of the consumer-evaluated emulsions received good or very good acceptance in terms of the sensory characteristics evaluated.

ABSTRACTA study of biochar/polypropylene composites has been conducted to describe the influence of biochars on the supermolecular structure of PP. The first stage of the work described the influence of carbonization on the properties of carbon fillers (tomato and miscanthus). The biochar was added to the polymer matrix, and the composite samples were manufactured by extrusion and injection molding. The influence of the fillers was investigated using WAXS, hot-stage optical microscopy, PLM microscopy, FTIR and ASTM designation. There were showed the strong influence of the biochar fillers on the properties of polypropylene matrix in composite materials. Obtained composites were characterized by the satisfying properties.

Background: Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a retroperitoneal tumour, accounting for less than 0.2% of all malignancies in children. In pediatric patients, the most common clinical presentation is virilisation, either isolated or in combination with hypercortisolemia. Case report: A 4-year-old girl was admitted to the hospital for diagnostic evaluation of precocious puberty and features of hypercorticism. Ultrasonography revealed a heterogeneous neoplastic lesion between the left kidney and spleen. Computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed a pathological mass in the left adrenal region. The urine steroid profile was suggestive of adrenocortical carcinoma. The patient was qualified for surgery. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. A PET scan performed a few months later showed a metabolically active lesion in the left lobe of the liver. Due to the suspicion of a metastatic focus, it was proposed to implement systemic treatment, to which the patient's parents did not agree. After 15 months of no treatment and oncological follow-up, the girl was referred to the ED with symptoms of progression of the neoplastic process. In the face of a renewed lack of consent to the inclusion of treatment, the patient was referred to a home hospice, where she died a short time later. Conclusions: In the pediatric population, adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare neoplasm with a very poor prognosis. Prompt diagnosis enables early identification of the primary tumour and implementation of appropriate treatment. Imaging examinations are crucial in order to assess the size of the tumour, the extent of local invasion and the presence of potential metastases.

Pediatric trauma is a cause for over 750.000 visits to emergency departments each year. Of all types of traumas, head injuries represent the group at most risk. Computed tomography (CT) is still the most frequently used advanced imaging method to distinguish cases of severe injuries out of thousands of mild or apparently trivial injuries. The aim of this study was to review the results of CT in terms of clinical prediagnosis and radiological findings in children categorized into four age groups, who underwent a CT scan in the Pediatric Emergency Department (ED). Among all CT studies, no findings were found in 552 (80.23%) patients, whereas CT findings were detected in 98 (14.2%) boys and 38 (5.5%) girls from all participants. The incidence of lesions in the male group is 2 times higher than in the female group. The most common abnormality was hematoma representing 26.47% of all confirmed lesions and 5.23% among all head CTs performed from the ED. Head CT is an incredibly useful tool in the evaluation of some head emergencies. However, in the majority of cases, the clinical presentation with which children present to the ED does not correlate with the severity of neuroimaging results.

This study addresses challenges faced by the packaging industry in finding suitable natural and biodegradable materials that can replace plastics while preserving the superior quality and freshness of the items contained within. Chitosan, a biodegradable natural polymer, shows great potential as a matrix for ecofriendly and biodegradable composite materials. In the present study, bioactive substances such as caffeine (CAF) and propolis extract (EP) were used for the enhancement of the bioactivity of chitosan-based films. Two acidic solvents, acetic acid and citric acid, were used to produce chitosan films. The study examined the antioxidant capabilities of the solutions used for film formation; similarly, the characteristics of the resultant films were also examined, encompassing antimicrobial, barrier, and mechanical characteristics. The findings suggested that the use of additives exhibiting antioxidant activity, such as CAF and EP in the chitosan matrix can be an effective method to counteract oxidative stress in food packaging. The study also showed that films produced with citric acid exhibit antimicrobial activity against many strains of bacteria, including foodborne pathogens. In addition, the antimicrobial activity of chitosan/citric acid film can be increased by adding CAF and EP. The results confirmed that both the additives and the acids used affect the mechanical and barrier features of the obtained chitosan-based films. This study suggests that chitosan films supplemented with natural bioactive substances have the potential to serve as viable replacements for traditional plastics in the packaging sector.

Introduction Perivascular epithelioid cell tumour (PEComa) is a rare family of mesenchymal tumours composed of epithelioid cells. Due to its very rare occurrence, little information is available on the imaging characteristics of this type of lesion. Case Report A 16-year-old patient was admitted for diagnosis of an incidentally found lesion of unclear origin on MRI of the lumbar spine. Targeted MRI revealed a pathological solid-cystic mass within the pelis, in the left rectovesical pouch, infiltrating the bladder wall. A biopsy of the tumour was performed. On histopathological examination, a PEComa tumour was diagnosed. Control examinations were performed. The tumour was treated with embolization, surgical resection and Sirolimus therapy. Conclusions The tumour showed the characteristic features of PEC-oma on imaging studies reported in the literature. Radiological diagnosis is not fully specific, therefore histopathological examination is necessary for a definitive diagnosis

Abstract The work mainly focused on a validation of the method for determining the content of salicylic acid and individual unknown impurities in new pharmaceutical product—tablets containing: 75, 100 or 150 mg of acetylsalicylic acid and glycine in the amount of 40 mg for each dosage. The separation of the components was carried out by means of HPLC, using a Waters Symmetry C18 column (4.6 × 250 mm, 5 μm) as the stationary phase. The mobile phase consisted of a mixture of 85% orthophosphoric acid, acetonitrile and purified water (2:400:600 V/V/V). Detection was carried out at a wavelength of 237 nm, with a constant flow rate of 1.0 ml min−1. In order to verify the method, linearity, precision (repeatability and reproducibility), accuracy, specificity, range, robustness, system precision, stability of the test and standard solution, limit of quantification and forced degradation were determined. Validation tests were performed in accordance with ICH (International Conference on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use) guidelines. The method was validated successfully. It was confirmed that the method in a tested range of 0.005–0.40% salicylic acid with respect to acetylsalicylic acid content is linear, precise and accurate.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the stability of new emulsions prepared on the basis of modified fats with varying amounts of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose. Selected techniques for evaluating the stability of emulsion systems, such as Turbiscan analysis, and the evaluation of microstructure, texture, particle size and viscosity were used. The evaluation of the above-mentioned studied parameters allowed us to indicate differentiated stability and their properties. The most desired results in terms of stability evaluation were determined for the emulsion prepared on the basis of modified mutton tallow with hemp seed oil in a ratio 3:1 (by weight) containing 0.6% (by weight) of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose. In addition, as the hemp seed oil content in the interesterified fat phase increased, a decrease in the stability of the emulsion systems was noted. Mentioned emulsions were characterized with the lowest value of TSI. Moreover, for those emulsions, the smallest increment in the droplet diameter values of systems after 31 days was recorded. The prepared model formulation can serve as a starting material for new emulsion chemical, cosmetic or food systems.

Chitosan is a natural and biodegradable polymer with promising potential for biomedical applications. This study concerns the production of chitosan-based materials for future use in the medical industry. Bioactive substances—caffeine and ethanolic propolis extract (EEP)—were incorporated into a chitosan matrix to increase the bioactivity of the obtained films and improve their mechanical properties. Acetic and citric acids were used as solvents in the production of the chitosan-based films. The obtained materials were characterized in terms of their antibacterial and antifungal activities, as well as their mechanical properties, including tensile strength and elongation at break. Moreover, the chemical structures and surface morphologies of the films were assessed. The results showed that the solution consisting of chitosan, citric acid, caffeine, and EEP exhibited an excellent antiradical effect. The activity of this solution (99.13%) was comparable to that of the standard antioxidant Trolox (92.82%). In addition, the film obtained from this solution showed good antibacterial activity, mainly against Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis. The results also revealed that the films produced with citric acid exhibited higher activity levels against pathogenic bacteria than the films obtained with acetic acid. The antimicrobial effect of the chitosan-based films could be further enhanced by adding bioactive additives such as caffeine and propolis extract. The mechanical tests showed that the solvents and additives used affected the mechanical properties of the films obtained. The film produced from chitosan and acetic acid was characterized by the highest tensile strength value (46.95 MPa) while the chitosan-based film with citric acid showed the lowest value (2.28 MPa). The addition of caffeine and propolis to the film based on chitosan with acetic acid decreased its tensile strength while in the case of the chitosan-based film with citric acid, an increase in strength was observed. The obtained results suggested that chitosan films with natural bioactive substances can be a promising alternative to the traditional materials used in the medical industry, for example, as including biodegradable wound dressings or probiotic encapsulation materials.

Background Childhood ischemic stroke (AIS) is a relatively rare disease with an estimated incidence of 1.3-13/100,000/year. It most commonly affects children under the age of 5. Major risk factors include arteriopathies, heart disease, hypercoagulable states and infections. Case report A 2-year-old patient was admitted to the Department of Neurology at the University Children's Hospital in Lublin after suffering a head injury 3 days earlier. Neurological examination revealed features of left hemiparesis. A CT scan revealed an uncharacteristic hypodense, poorly demarcated area, an indication for further diagnostics. MR imaging revealed diffuse ischemic lesions. Angio-MR showed a lack of signal within the branches of the right posterior cerebral artery. Based on the clinical picture and additional examinations, a diagnosis of ischemic stroke was made and pharmacological treatment was implemented. To determine the cause of the stroke, an echocardiogram was performed, which showed flaccid atrial septal tissue with a defect and a trace left-right leak. Genetic testing for congenital thrombophilia confirmed a 4G/4G polymorphism in the PAI-1 gene. Conclusions Ischemic stroke is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The relatively rare occurrence among children and nonspecific symptoms may result in difficulties in making a definitive diagnosis. Each case of stroke in children requires a comprehensive diagnosis including neuroimaging studies and identification of specific risk factors.

In recent years commensal microorganisms are not just “passive occupants”, but important element of homeostasis. There are numerous reports documenting the composition and role of the gut, skin or vagina microbiome but the role of commensal organisms living in the lungs is relatively unknown. Pulmonary microbiome impact on the immune response of the host organism and may indicate new therapeutic directions. Lung microbiome, by modulating the expression of innate immunity genes, causes an increase in the concentration of IL-5, IL-10, IFNγ and CCL11, affects the TLR4 dependent response of pulmonary macrophages and modulate the production of antibacterial peptides contained in the mucus. It is documented that disorders of the lung microbiome contribute to asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However it is known that pulmonary dysbiosis also occurs in critically ill patients. It is possible, therefore, that microbiota-targeted therapy may constitute the future therapeutic direction in ICU.

Background: Heart defects are the most popular congenital disease noticed among infants. Aortic Coarctation (CoA) forms 5 - 10 % of congenital heart diseases. The heart defect consist on aortic coarctation between inlet of the left subclavian artery and origin of the arterial ligament. In the during neonatal and early infantile period, in case of delayed diagnosis, it may lead to acute heart failure and the death of the child. Case report: A female infant born at 37 weeks of gestation, by caesarean section, in good condition, was admitted to the Neonatal Department. There was a suspicion of CoA in the fetus in the pregnancy history. The Echocardiography showed a narrowing of the carpal tunel, prostin was included in the treatment. In the second day of life, the child was transferred to the Cardiology Department. Four-extremity blood pressures test showed higher values in the upper limbs than in the lower limbs. Echocardiography revealed hypoplasia of the aortic arch in the section below the exit of the second cephalic vessel with coarctation at the isthmus site. Laboratory tests showed a high level of pro-BNP. The control echocardiography showed the anatomy of the defect as before, an unobstructed wide arterial duct with a dominant R-L flow, a flow in the descending aorta of 2.7 m/s, with a coartable flow spectrum. The child was transported to the Department of Cardiac Surgery, Heart Transplantation and Mechanical Circulatory Support for Children in Zabrze for surgical treatment. Conclusions: In neonates and infants with critical aortic stenosis, ensure the patency of the ductus arteriosus with continuous intravenous infusion of prostaglandin E1. Currently, echocardiography is the basic method in the diagnosis of aortic stenosis.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) in childhood is a rare disorder, occurring most often in the neonatal period, with mortality approaching 10%. This condition has multifactorial etiology including common childhood illnesses such as fever, infection, dehydration, and anemia, as well as acute and chronic medical conditions such as congenital heart disease, nephrotic syndrome, and malignancy. Thrombosis can also develop and propagate in response to local venous stasis. A large number of children have coincident local head or neck pathology, including head trauma, brain tumors, or recent intracranial surgery. Clinical symptoms are frequently nonspecific and include seizures, depressed level of consciousness, coma, lethargy, nausea, vomiting, headache, visual impairment, papilledema, and hemiparesis, which may often obscure the diagnosis and delay treatment. In the case of patients with neurological symptoms, imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are invaluable in diagnostics of various pathologies of the nervous system, because of their non-invasiveness, high sensitivity, and specificity. Early diagnosis with management along with a plan for secondary prevention can save from catastrophic consequences.

The anatomy, physiology and embryology of the spleen are essential fields of study for the determination of congenital varieties as well as the pathological processes occurring in this organ.The aim of this study is to summarize the current knowledge on the proper development of the spleen and to present structural variants that may be of clinical significance or be important from the radiologist's point of view.Structural changes of the spleen may result in non-specific clinical symptoms, which may confuse an inexperienced physician. Inaccurate diagnosis and late diagnosis have various negative, often even fatal, consequences. In order to make an appropriate diagnosis, and thus help the patient in a timely manner, it is necessary to have extensive knowledge about the variants of the structure of the spleen. Knowledge of anatomical variations is essential for the development of a differential diagnosis, which enables the correct diagnosis to be made.

Wstęp: Ostre zapalenie wyrostka robaczkowego jest najczęstszą ostrą chorobą jamy brzusznej u dzieci wymagającą leczenia chirurgicznego. Charakteryzuje się ostrym bólem brzucha, wymiotami oraz gorączką. W ostatnim czasie zapalenie wyrostka robaczkowego u dzieci łączone jest z wieloukładową chorobą zakaźną związaną z zakażeniem SARS-Cov-2. Opis przypadku: 15- letni chłopiec został przyjęty do szpitala z powodu dolegliwości bólowych. W badaniach laboratoryjnych stwierdzono wysoką leukocytozę oraz neutrofilię. Rozpoznano zgorzelinowe, perforowane zapalenie wyrostka robaczkowego z naciekiem kątnicy. Wykonano laparoskopową appendektomię. Dwa dni później w badaniu fizykalnym obecny był obustronnie dodatni objaw Goldflama. Podejrzewano kamicę moczową. W badaniu RTG nie stwierdzono cieni wapiennych w rzucie nerek i dróg moczowych, w prawej jamie opłucnowej stwierdzono obecność płynu. Następnie dołączyła gorączka oraz duszność. Założono drenaż opłucnowy i ewakuowano około 500ml płynu przesiękowego. Otrzymano również dodatni wynik testu PCR na obecność SARS-CoV-2. W kolejnych dniach ewakuowano ponownie około 500ml płynu z jamy opłucnowej. W badaniach laboratoryjnych obserwowano wzrost wskaźników zapalnych. Zmieniono antybiotykoterapię oraz włączono leczenie przeciwzakrzepowe. W badaniach ultrasonograficznych zdiagnozowano ropień w operowanej okolicy, który po kilku dniach uległ samoistnej inwolucji. Chłopiec przestał gorączkować, parametry zapalne stopniowo zmniejszały się. Pacjent również nie zgłaszał dolegliwości ze strony układu oddechowego. Wnioski: Analizując powyższy przypadek kliniczny można stwierdzić, że infekcja COVID-19 wpłynęła na przedłużenie hospitalizacji chłopca i mogła przyczynić się do nasilenia powikłań po appendektomii. Należy wziąć pod uwagę wystąpienie wieloukładowego zespołu zapalnego związanego z COVID-19. Warto rozważyć przeprowadzenie testów w kierunku SARS-CoV-2 u dzieci, które mają ciężkie objawy ze strony układu pokarmowego.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of chemical compounds generated as a result of the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels or wood. PAHs are known for their negative effect on living organisms, including teratogenic, carcinogenic and mutagenic activity. The objective of this study is to determine the contamination of three popular herbal species showing pro-health properties, i.e., lavender, parsley and mint, with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, collected from three different backyard gardens in Poland. The concentration of PAHs in plant material was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography with a fluorescence detector (HPLC-FL). The concentration of eleven PAHs in plant material was determined with high-pressure liquid chromatography after extraction using the QuEChERS purification technique. Mint collected within an area of a mining and energy production complex (the city of Konin) was characterized by the highest Σ of 11 PAHs, equaled to 902.35 µg/g FW, with anthracene being the most abundant compound. However, it contained the lowest sum of PAHs, among all tested plants, with high carcinogenicity. Parsley from the city of Poznań showed the highest content of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), showing the strongest carcinogenicity, while the highest value of BaP equivalent was calculated for mint collected in Konin. The obtained results suggest that the level and profile of plant contamination with PAHs depend on the species and the location of herb cultivation. In particular, mining and energy industry facilities are sources of PAHs, which contaminate plant material for further direct use or as bioactive herbal extracts.

Propolis is one of the bee products, with multiple biological properties used in numerous applications. The research objective was to determine the chemical composition and biological properties (antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, and cytoprotective activity) of propolis extracts collected from various regions of Poland. The results indicated that the total content of phenols (116.16–219.41 mg GAE/g EEP) and flavonoids (29.63–106.07 mg QE/g EEP) in propolis extracts depended on their geographic origin. The high content of epicatechin, catechin, pinobanksin, myricetin, and acids: vanillic and syringic in propolis samples was confirmed by chromatographic analysis. Moreover, the presence of caffeic acid phenethyl ester was confirmed in all samples. The origin of propolis also influenced the biological properties of its extracts. The propolis extracts were characterized by moderate DPPH free radical scavenging activity (29.22–35.14%), and relatively low ferrous iron chelating activity (9.33–32.32%). The results indicated also that the propolis extracts showed high activity in the protection of human red blood cells against free radicals generated from 2,2’-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH). The extracts exhibited diversified activity against the tested pathogenic bacteria and limited activity against fungal strains. The research of selected propolis extracts showed that only 2 of 5 examined samples showed moderate activity against HPV (human papillomaviruses) and the activity depended on its geographical distribution.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease in which the TSH receptor (TSHR) is an autoantigen. Its stimulation by antibodies inhibiting thyrotropin binding causes increased secretion of free thyroid hormones and consequently symptoms of thyrotoxicosis. Due to the presence of the same antigen also on orbital and skin fibroblasts, after activating the cell response mechanisms, non-thyroid symptoms of the disease appear, i.e. ophthalmopathy. In most patients, ophthalmopathy is mild and resolves spontaneously. However, in about 10% of patients the disease develops severe to moderate form and requires intensive therapy. Purpose: The aim of this paper is to present the treatment options for ophthalmopathy, which is the most common manifestation of non-thyroid symptoms of Graves’ disease, as well as to draw attention to the fact that treatment may be difficult and requires an interdisciplinary approach, and the treatment plan should be individually adapted to each patient. 1,2,3 State of knowledge: The first-line treatment according to the guidelines published in 2016 by the European Group on Graves Orbitopathy (EUGOGO) are high doses of glucocorticosteroids administered intravenously. The second-line treatment is repeated use of intravenous steroid cycle, oral therapy with glucocorticoids, then combined with orbital or cyclosporine radiation therapy, rituximab or expectant management approach. Rehabilitation treatment is necessary in most patients after the disease has been inactive and maintained for at least 6 months with vision impairment and/or reduced quality of life.1,2,3,7,9 Summary: Ophthalmopathy is the most common non-thyroid manifestation of Graves’ disease. This is a relatively rare disorder, but it has a significant negative impact on the quality of life of people affected by this disease. Therefore, it is very important, both among physicians and patients, to increase the awareness of this disease, apply effective preventive measures and inhibit its progress. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are of crucial importance.

Introduction: Hypoglycemia is metabolic state of ogranism characterized by abnormally low blood glucose level. Due to International Hypoglycemia Study Group (2017) and following Polish Diabetes Association Guidelines is is recognized with serum glucose below 70mg/dl – with or without accompanying symptoms, such as tremor or altered mental status or even hypoglycemic coma. Symptoms mentioned above may have huge impact on personal or social functioning of the patient. Purpose: To present a list of known causes of hypoglycemic state. Summary: Hypoglycemia is quite unpleasant and dangerous metabolic state that may be caused by multiple etiological factors. The most common cause of this condition is useing too much insulin in treatment of diabetes mellitus. Other diabetic drugs, such us for example sulphonylureas may result in hypoglycemia. Chemicals containing sulfhydryl group in their structure may result in severe hypoglycemia in progress of Insulin Autoimmune Syndrome (IAS). Organic basis of hypoglycemia due to increased amount of producing insulin may be recognized, in progress of pancreatic secreting tumor, called insulinoma. From the other hand functional abnormality of carbohydrate metabolism may be found. It’s called functional hypoglycemia and may develop due to presence of hyperinsulism and insulin resistance secondary to incorrect lifestyle and diet. Partly organic and functional cause of hypogycemia may be recognized after bariatric surgery. Fairy seldom hypoglycemia with low blood insulin level may be found. The example of this state constitutes Dodge-Potter Syndrome, when tumor is able to produce insulin-growth factor 2 (IGF-2) stimulating insulin receptor, what results in serum glucose reduction. Hypoglycemia, as very adverse state for human organism, should be closely diagnose and efficiently treated.

Introduction: Thyroid gland, despite of its small average size, is a crucial organ of human body. Hormones produced by the thyroid i.e. thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are necessary for proper functioning the whole organism. Excess or deficiency of these hormones manifest as multiple symptoms of different organs or systems. In this review we focused on special complaints of gastrointestinal tract. Worth to notice is that some thyroid disorders are present in particular gastrointestinal disorders more frequently. Purpose: The aim of this review is to indicate co-occurrence disorders of the thyroid gland, especially autoimmune thyroiditis with disorders of some organs of gastrointestinal tract. State of knowledge: By this time we can enumerate series of thyroid diseases, i.e. hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodular goiter, neoplasms or multiple forms of thyroiditis. Generally chronic autoimmune thyroiditis is the most frequent disorders of the gland. That’s the reason why we focused on coexisting this state with gastritis, chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, steatosis of the liver or with neoplasms of gastrointestinal tract. We aim to prove the necessary of constitute diagnosis towards other autoimmune diseases, when the one has bed diagnosed. Thyroid disorders may result in abnormalities of functioning particular organs of the human body. This fact may have an impact on blood tests results – for example elevation of transaminases evaluating function of the liver is often noted in thyroid diseases, what should sensitize clinicians towards performing diagnostics of thyroid function during treatment of liver or intestines or stomach dysfunction. Summary: Diseases of the thyroid gland may coexist with particular diseases of gastrointestinal tract. They may alter the course of these disorders and constitute unfavorable factor of the treatment.

The biodegradation of wood and wood products caused by fungi is recognized as one of the most significant problems worldwide. To extend the service life of wood products, wood is treated with preservatives, often with inorganic compounds or synthetic pesticides that have a negative impact on the environment. Therefore, the development of new, environmentally friendly wood preservatives is being carried out in research centers around the world. The search for natural, plant, or animal derivatives as well as obtaining synthetic compounds that will be safe for humans and do not pollute the environment, while at the same time present biological activity is crucial in terms of environmental protection. The review paper presents information in the literature on the substances and chemical compounds of natural origin (plant and animal derivatives) and synthetic compounds with a low environmental impact, showing antifungal properties, used in research on the ecological protection of wood. The review includes literature reports on the potential application of various antifungal agents including plant extracts, alkaloids, essential oils and their components, propolis extract, chitosan, ionic liquids, silicon compounds, and nanoparticles as well as their combinations.

Edible nuts are an important component of a healthy diet, and their frequent consumption has beneficial impact on human health, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, various factors, including cultivar, climate, soil characteristic, storage and treatment have influence on the chemical composition of nuts. Therefore, nine tree nut types and peanuts commonly available on Polish market were evaluated for phenolic profile and mineral elements content. The concentration of individual phenolic compounds, including flavonoids, aromatic acids and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) was determined by ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography, while the content of macro-elements and trace minerals was analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry. The phenolic profile of analyzed nuts substantially varied depending on the type of nut. The highest total content of all analyzed flavonoids was determined in walnuts (114.861 µg/g), while the lowest in almonds (1.717 µg/g). In turn, the highest total content of all tested aromatic acid was determined in pecans (33.743 µg/g), and the lowest in almonds (0.096 µg/g). Epicatechin and cinnamic acid were detected in the highest concentration in tested nuts. Moreover, in examined nuts (except walnuts and Brazil nuts), the presence of CAPE was confirmed. The tested nuts were also characterized by wide variation in element concentrations. Almonds contained high concentration of macro-elements (13,111.60 µg/g), while high content of trace elements was determined in pine nuts (192.79 µg/g). The obtained results indicate that the tested nuts are characterized by a significant diversity in the content of both phenolic compounds and minerals. However, all types of nuts, apart from the well-known source of fatty acids, are a rich source of various components with beneficial effect on human health.

The aim of the study was to evaluate emulsion systems prepared on the basis of blended fat in different ratios (watermelon seed oil and mutton tallow) stabilised by orange fibres and xanthan gum. Emulsions were subjected to stability testing by Turbiscan and were assessed in terms of mean droplet size, colour, viscosity, texture, skin hydration and sensory properties. The most stable systems were found to be the ones containing a predominance of mutton tallow in a fat phase. For these emulsions the lowest increase in mean particle size during storage was observed. The study also confirmed the synergistic effect of the thickeners used. The presented emulsions despite favourable physicochemical parameters, did not gain acceptance in sensory evaluation.

Introduction : Undescended testes are recognised in 1% to 2% of boys during the first year of life, and about 20% of them are impalpable. Ultrasonography (US) may establish the localisation of the testis but the final diagnosis is usually determined laparoscopically. Aim : To evaluate long-term results of laparoscopic treatment of boys with impalpable testes and sensitivity of preoperative ultrasound. Material and methods : Between 2011 and 2015, we operated on 545 boys with undescended testes. Sixty-two of them with 65 impalpable testes were treated laparoscopically – the study group. Mean age was 3.5 years. The study group was divided into 5 groups according to type of treatment. The volume and position of the operated gonad were assessed manually and by ultrasound. Results : In group 1 testicular agenesis was observed in 19 patients. In group 2 revision of the inguinal canal revealed testicular agenesis in 7 and atrophy in 4 patients. In group 3 conversion to classic orchiopexy was performed in 10 patients. In group 4 one-stage orchiopexy was performed in 9 patients on 12 testes. In group 5 a two-stage F-S procedure was performed in 13 patients. Ten testes in group 4 had a volume in the normal range (84%) and also 10 testes in group 5 (77%). Conclusions : Laparoscopy in impalpable testes is the procedure of choice and allows definitive management, even when conversion to open procedure is necessary. Sensitivity of preoperative ultrasound is generally about 60% for true intra-abdominal testes, so diagnostic laparoscopy is necessary.

Infections in immunocompromised patients after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation can have a severe and atypical course. Some opportunistic pathogens are difficult to detect in microbiological tests, and that is why treatment success depends on an accurate clinical diagnosis. This article presents a case of a 7-year-old girl with severe aplastic anemia treated with bone marrow transplantation with post-transplantation period complicated by persistent, hectic fever, with peak episodes of 39–40°C, lasting several weeks. Repeated microbiological tests failed to reveal the etiological agent, and empirical anti-infective treatment was ineffective. In the fourth week of fever, imaging showed multiple foci resembling abscesses in the patient’s internal organs and, subsequently, in soft tissues. The characteristics of these changes and data concerning environmental exposure led to the clinical diagnosis of cat scratch disease (bartonellosis) with multi-organ involvement and enabled the targeted treatment to be implemented. Fever subsided and organ lesions regressed. In this case, repeated ultrasound imaging was the basic diagnostic tool that helped arrive at a correct diagnosis and implement effective treatment of this life-threatening complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

The subject of the study was emulsions based on enzymatically modified fats and stabilized with polysaccharides (xanthan gum and scleroglucan). Emulsion oil phases (blends of mutton tallow and hemp seed oil in a ratio of 3:1, 3:2, 3:3, 2:3 and 1:3) were characterized in the terms of acid value, melting point and mono- and diacylglycerols content before and after the modification. Emulsions containing modified fat blends and various amount (0.6, 0.8 and 1.0% w/w) of polysaccharides were investigated in the terms of their color, rheological properties, microstructure, droplet size and stability. The obtained results confirmed that enzymatic modification allowed to produce new fats, which can successfully be applied as an emulsion oil phases equipped with a sufficient amount of emulsifiers. The use of a variable amount of texture modifier in the proposed formulations did not show clear differences in the stability of the systems. Therefore, it does not seem justified to use greater amounts of a modifier (above 0.6% w/w) in this type of emulsions. The proposed formulations could be of interest to the cosmetics, food or pharmaceutical industry.

Propolis is a natural bee product with various beneficial biological effects. The health-promoting properties of propolis depend on its chemical composition, particularly the presence of phenolic compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between extraction solvent (acetone 100%, ethanol 70% and 96%) and the antifungal, antioxidant, and cytoprotective activity of the extracts obtained from propolis. Concentrations of flavonoids and phenolic acids in the propolis extracts were determined using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography. The antioxidant potential of different extracts was assessed on the basis of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH·) free-radical-scavenging activity, Fe3+-reducing power, and ferrous ion (Fe2+)-chelating activity assays. The ability of the extracts to protect human red blood cell membranes against free-radical-induced damage and their antifungal activity was also determined. The results showed that the concentration of flavonoids in the propolis extracts was dependent on the solvent used in the extraction process and pinocembrin, chrysin, galangin, and coumaric acid were the most abundant phenols. All extracts exhibited high antioxidant potential and significantly protected human erythrocytes against oxidative damage. On the other hand, the antifungal activity of the propolis extracts depended on the solvent used in extraction and the fungal strains tested. It needs to be stressed that, to the best of our knowledge, there is no study relating the effect of solvent used for extraction of Polish propolis to its phenolic profile, and its antifungal, antioxidant, and cytoprotective activity.

Cellulose nanocrystals were prepared using ionic liquids (ILs), 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [EMIM][Cl] and 1-propyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [PMIM][Cl], from microcrystalline cellulose. The resultant samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The XRD results showed that nanocellulose obtained by treatment with both ILs preserved basic cellulose I structure, but crystallinity index of samples (except for Sigmacell treated with [EMIM][Cl]) was lower in comparison to the starting microcrystalline cellulose. The DLS results indicated noticeably smaller particle sizes of prepared cellulose for material treated with [PMIM][Cl] compared to cellulose samples hydrolyzed with [EMIM][Cl], which were prone to agglomeration. The obtained nanocellulose had a rod-like structure that was confirmed by electron microscopy analyses. Moreover, the results described in this paper indicate that cation type of ILs influences particle size and morphology of cellulose after treatment with ionic liquids.

The study aims to investigate the physicochemical properties and stability of the dispersion systems containing structured fats as a fatty base. In this work, calf tallow and pumpkin seed oil blends were chemically interesterified at various ratios (9:1, 3:1, 3:2, 3:3, 2:3, and 1:3) to produce structured lipids. Fatty acids composition, polar and nonpolar fraction content, and acid value were determined for the raw fats and interesterified blends. Afterwards, selected blends were applied in emulsion systems. Stability, microstructure, color and texture of emulsions were evaluated. The chemical interesterification had an effect on the modified blends properties, and caused an increase in polar fraction content and acid value, and a decrease in nonpolar fraction content. No effect on the fatty acids composition has been found. The evaluation of the prepared emulsions results allowed us to select two of the most stable and favorable samples—both containing chemically interesterified calf tallow and a pumpkin seed oil blend in a ratio of 1:3 as a fatty base, and xanthan gum or carboxymethylcellulose as a thickener. The obtained dispersions, containing fatty bases with improved physicochemical properties and desirable functionality, can be applied as food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical emulsions.

Urtnowska Katarzyna, Bułatowicz Irena, Radzimińska Agnieszka, Woźniak Magdalena, Wiśniewski Jacek, Zukow Walery. Fizjologiczne zmiany w układzie ruchu ciężarnej oraz związane z tym dolegliwości bólowe odcinka lędźwiowo - krzyżowego – badanie stopnia odczuwania bólu kręgosłupa w trakcie prawidłowo przebiegającej ciąży = Physiological changes in the locomotor system of a pregnant and related lumbar-sacral pain - examination of the degree of feeling back pain during properly running pregnancy. Journal of Education, Health and Sport. 2015;5(7):105-116. ISSN 2391-8306. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.19324 http://ojs.ukw.edu.pl/index.php/johs/article/view/2015%3B5%287%29%3A96-104 https://pbn.nauka.gov.pl/works/578814 http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19324 Formerly Journal of Health Sciences. ISSN 1429-9623 / 2300-665X. Archives 2011 – 2014 http://journal.rsw.edu.pl/index.php/JHS/issue/archive Deklaracja. Specyfika i zawartość merytoryczna czasopisma nie ulega zmianie. Zgodnie z informacją MNiSW z dnia 2 czerwca 2014 r., że w roku 2014 nie będzie przeprowadzana ocena czasopism naukowych; czasopismo o zmienionym tytule otrzymuje tyle samo punktów co na wykazie czasopism naukowych z dnia 31 grudnia 2014 r. The journal has had 5 points in Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Poland parametric evaluation. Part B item 1089. (31.12.2014). © The Author (s) 2015; This article is published with open access at Licensee Open Journal Systems of Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz, Poland and Radom University in Radom, Poland Open Access. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial License which permits any noncommercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author(s) and source are credited. This is an open access article licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/) which permits unrestricted, non commercial use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the work is properly cited. This is an open access article licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/) which permits unrestricted, non commercial use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the work is properly cited. The authors declare that there is no conflict of interests regarding the publication of this paper. Received: 21.04.2015. Revised 28.05.2015. Accepted: 30.06.2015. Fizjologiczne zmiany w układzie ruchu ciężarnej oraz związane z tym dolegliwości bólowe odcinka lędźwiowo - krzyżowego – badanie stopnia odczuwania bólu kręgosłupa w trakcie prawidłowo przebiegającej ciąży Physiological changes in the locomotor system of a pregnant and related lumbar-sacral pain - examination of the degree of feeling back pain during properly running pregnancy Katarzyna Urtnowska, Irena Bułatowicz1, Agnieszka Radzimińska1, Magdalena Woźniak2, Jacek Wiśniewski2, Walery Zukow3 1. Katedra Fizjoterapii Zakład Kinezyterapii i Masażu Leczniczego Collegium Medicum Uniwersytet Mikołaja Kopernika w Toruniu 2. Katedra Kosmetologii i Dermatologii Estetycznej Collegium Medicum Uniwersytet Mikołaja Kopernika w Toruniu 3. Wydział Kultury Fizycznej, Zdrowia i Turystyki, Uniwersytet Kazimierza Wielkiego w Bydgoszczy Część I: Zmiany w układzie ruchu Part I: Changes in the locomotor system Słowa kluczowe: ciąża, układ ruchu, ból pleców. Streszczenie W trakcie ciąży w organizmie kobiety dochodzi do szeregu modyfikacji mających na celu zapewnienie miejscowych warunków do rozwoju i wzrastania płodu. Dzięki funkcji, początkowo ciałka żółtego, a następnie łożyska oraz szeregom zjawisk hormonalnych dochodzi do przekształceń w całym organizmie. Celem rozwoju płodu ciało kobiety musi ulec między innymi wielu mechanicznym zmianom adaptacyjnym, które obejmują układ ruchu: mięśniowo - więzadłowy i kostno - stawowy. W prawidłowo przebiegającej ciąży to właśnie one są najbardziej zauważalne i mimo, iż całkowicie prawidłowe, często dają objawy bólowe. Key words: pregnancy, musculo-skeletal system, low-back pain. Summary During pregnancy a woman's body passes through a series of anatomical changes, whose purpose is to ensure local conditions for the development and growth of the fetus. A number of modifications throughout the whole woman organism occurs thanks to initially corpus luteum, and then placenta, and a series of hormonal transitions. As to provide proper conditions for the development of the fetus, a woman’s body must go through a number of mechanical adaptive changes, which includes the changes of the motor system: ligament - muscular system and bone – joint system. In a properly running pregnancy this adjustments are the most noticeable and although completely correct, often produces symptoms of pain. Część II: Dolegliwości bólowe odcinka lędźwiowo - krzyżowego kręgosłupa w trakcie ciąży Part II: Aches and pains lumbar-sacral spine during pregnancy Słowa kluczowe: ciąża, układ ruchu, ból pleców. Streszczenie Wprowadzenie: Dolegliwości bólowe odcinka lędźwiowo - krzyżowego kręgosłupa, są bardzo istotnym problemem medycznym i występują u 45 - 56% kobiet w ciąży. Główną przyczyną bólu pleców u ciężarnych są dysfunkcje stawowe, więzadłowe i mięśniowo-powięziowe, powstałe na skutek zmiany statyki ciała spowodowanej nagłym i dużym przyrostem masy ciała zlokalizowanym w okolicy brzucha. Cel badania: Celem badania było wykazanie czy i w jakim stopniu u kobiet w ciąży występują dolegliwości bólowe odcinka lędźwiowo - krzyżowego kręgosłupa, oraz określenie czy istnieje zależność pomiędzy stopniem ich odczuwania, a wiekiem ciężarnej, zaawansowaniem ciąży i kolejnymi ciążami. Metody i materiały: W sondażu diagnostycznym udział wzięło 180 kobiet będących w ciąży, które udzieliły odpowiedzi na 30 pytań. Wyniki: Zdecydowana większość ciężarnych w mniejszym, lub większym stopniu odczuwała dolegliwości bólowe odcinka lędźwiowo - krzyżowego kręgosłupa. Odczuwalność bólu pleców wzrastała wraz ze stopniem zaawansowania ciąży, a dodatkowo stwierdzono, iż częściej doświadczały go młodsze panie niż starsze. Wnioski: Uzyskane wyniki potwierdzają, iż dolegliwości bólowe odcinka lędźwiowo – krzyżowego kręgosłupa są bardzo częstym problemem kobiet w ciąży Key words: pregnancy, musculo-skeletal system, low-back pain. Summary Indroduction: Lower back pain is a very important medical problem and occur in 45 - 56% of pregnant women. The main cause of pregnancy back pain are dysfunctions of joints, muscle and ligaments, resulting from changes in the posture, which is caused by a sudden and large increase of the body mass located mostly in the abdomen. Objective: The aim of the study was to determine whether and to what extent, pregnant women are suffering from low back pain, and to determine whether there is a correlation between the degree of the pain, and the age of the pregnant woman, pregnancy progresses and a number of pregnancies before. Materials and methods: A number of 180 pregnant women participated in a survey and responded to a number of 30 questions. Results: The vast majority of pregnant women more or less suffered from low back pain. Sensibility of back pain increased with the progress of the pregnancy, and additionally younger women experienced it more often than older ones. Conclusions: The results confirm that the lower back pain is a very common problem for women during pregnancy.

[b]introduction and objective[/b]. Numerous epidemiologic studies have reported increased risk of allergic rhinitis and asthma in relation to ‘western life-style’, which represents diversity of factors. We hypothesized that residential proximity to major roadways, reflecting an exposure to traffic-related air pollution, is associated with prevalence of allergic respiratory symptoms in children. [b]materials and methods[/b]. A total of 8290 individuals of two age groups: 16 year olds and 7 year olds from Krakow, Poland were included. We used the Polish version of the International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Childhood supplemented with a question concerning the distance between a responder’s house and a high traffic density road: below 200 m, from 200–500 m, or more than 500 m. [b]results[/b]. Children and adolescents with a residential proximity closer to a major roadway had more frequent asthma-related symptoms in the last 12 months and at any time in the past. Consistent with the increased frequency of asthmatic symptoms, responders residing within 200 meters complained more often of sneezing, runny or blocked nose accompanied by itchy-watery eyes and hay fever in comparison to responders who resided 200–500 meters from a major roadway. The lowest rate of nasal symptoms was observed in residents living in the distance to major roads (> 500 meters). The rate of positive answers decreased in a distant-dependent manner. [b]conclusions[/b]. Our findings suggest an important spatial relationship between the distance from a major roadway and the evaluated respiratory symptoms. The results emphasize the need for more comprehensive air quality policies within urban areas with increased motor vehicle density.