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It was shown that the chain length of the aliphatic substituent in the alkyl derivative of 3-(1-indenyl)propionic acid of C60 and C70 fullerenes affects the efficiency of photovoltaic cells with the PTB7-Th:fullerene-derivative bulk heterojunction (BHJ). A series of new C60 and C70 fullerene derivatives containing the n-alkyl ester of 3-(1-indenyl)propionic acid were synthesized using the Diels–Alder reaction. The synthesized fullerene derivatives had aliphatic side chains of 4 to 12 carbon atoms in the ester group. All synthesized compounds were successfully used in the BHJ solar cell, achieving energy conversion efficiencies (PCEs) ranging from 0.8 to 3.9%. We observed an increase in solar cell open-circuit voltage of 30 meV for the 60IPH acceptor material. Long aging measurements of the solar cells with the new fullerene derivatives show long lifetimes for C60 derivatives and shorter for C70. The lifetime significantly depends on the aliphatic chain length. The longest 80% decay period, T80, was about 200 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Jenkinson and Collison method, originally used to automate the weather type classification developed by Lamb for the British Isles, was used to develop a catalog of atmospheric circulation types in Poland. Sixteen directional atmospheric circulation types (ACTs) from this method were used for the characterization of circulation conditions in Poland. They were determined based on the direction of the geostrophic wind and the distinction between cyclonic and anticyclonic circulation based on shear vorticity. Both circulation indices were calculated based on data from ERA5 reanalysis, namely the 850 hPa geopotential height. Atmospheric circulation types were determined for a total of 195 grid points, including 109 located in Poland. The study presents an analysis of spatial and temporal changes in circulation conditions in the years 1950-2021 in Poland, which indicates an increase in the frequency of anticyclonic circulation in Poland since the 1980s, notably W and NW advection. The Sc, SWc and Wc types stand out among the cyclonic types with the greatest decrease in frequency across the entire territory of Poland. The anticyclonic west circulation stands out for its statistically significant increase in frequency in winter throughout the analyzed area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progressing globalisation and suburbanisation are driving dynamic changes in land management, particularly in suburban zones. Green infrastructure and its impact on human quality of life are playing an increasingly important role in appropriate spatial management, because of human activities that are changing the natural environment. Therefore, monitoring and assessing the proportion of green spaces is essential for environmental, urban and social balance. The purpose of the study is to develop a method for measuring and monitoring the diversity of land cover classes, including green spaces as representatives of natural land cover classes. The proposed method describes the current state of land in quantitative and qualitative terms based on spatial data on land cover. The study employs Shannon's Diversity Index (SHDI) to empirically investigate land cover homogeneity. The intensity of the phenomenon was visualised in space using statistical hot spot analysis. The case study involves two cities in eastern Lesser Poland and districts adjacent to them. The results have demonstrated that the investigated areas have a highly heterogenic land cover. Basic assessment fields have exhibited homogeneity only towards large, green, agricultural, environmentally valuable and, often, protected areas. The results concerning urban green spaces comprise a set of data that constitute a valuable source of information to aid the development of informed urban-planning solutions under the sustainable development paradigm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fullerene derivatives offer great scope for modification of the basic molecule, often called a buckyball. In recent years, they have been the subject of numerous studies, in particular in terms of their applications, including in solar cells. Here, the properties of four recently synthesized fullerene C60 derivatives were examined regarding their optical properties and the efficiency of the charge transfer process, both in fullerene derivatives themselves and in their heterojunctions with poly (3-hexylthiophene). Optical absorption, electron spin resonance (ESR), and time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) techniques were applied to study the synthesized molecules. It was shown that the absorption processes in fullerene derivatives are dominated by absorption of the fullerene cage and do not significantly depend on the type of the derivative. It was also found by ESR and TRPL studies that asymmetrical, dipole-like derivatives exhibit stronger light-induced charge transfer properties than their symmetrical counterparts. The observed inhomogeneous broadening of the ESR lines indicated a large disorder of all polymer–fullerene derivative blends. The density functional theory was applied to explain the results of the optical absorption experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop, characterize, and evaluate antibacterial and cytotoxic properties of novel fullerene derivative composed of C60 fullerenol and standard aminoglycoside antibiotic–gentamicin (C60 fullerenol-gentamicin conjugate). The successful introduction of gentamicin to fullerenol was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy which together with thermogravimetric and spectroscopic analysis revealing the formula of the composition as C60(OH)12(GLYMO)11(Gentamicin)0.8. The dynamic light scattering (DLS) revealed that conjugate possessed ability to form agglomerates in water (size around 115 nm), while Zeta potential measurements demonstrated that such agglomerates possessed neutral character. In vitro biological assays indicated that obtained C60 fullerenol-gentamicin conjugate possessed the same antibacterial activity as standard gentamicin against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli, which proves that combination of fullerenol with gentamicin does not cause the loss of antibacterial activity of antibiotic. Moreover, cytotoxicity assessment demonstrated that obtained fullerenol-gentamicin derivative did not decrease viability of normal human fibroblasts (model eukaryotic cells) compared to control fibroblasts. Thus, taking into account all of the results, it can be stated that this research presents effective method to fabricate C60 fullerenol-gentamicin conjugate and proves that such derivative possesses desired antibacterial properties without unfavorable cytotoxic effects towards eukaryotic cells in vitro. These promising preliminary results indicate that obtained C60 fullerenol-gentamicin conjugate could have biomedical potential. It may be presumed that obtained fullerenol may be used as an effective carrier for antibiotic, and developed fullerenol-gentamicin conjugate may be apply locally (i.e., at the wound site). Moreover, in future we will evaluate possibility of its applications in inter alia tissue engineering, namely as a component of wound dressings and implantable biomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the beginning of the 21st century, the heat waves in Europe have become more frequent, severe and longer lasting, especially in the southern region. The longer duration of heat waves may be partly attributed to wave‐amplification, high‐amplitude waves in the mid‐latitudes, favouring the longer‐lasting blocking systems. The primary objective of the paper was to examine the long‐term changes of hot days and heat wave events and to identify the atmospheric circulation condition that prevails its occurrence. The other object was to investigate the correlations between hot days' occurrence in Poland and sea‐ice cover and sea surface temperature changes in the Arctic and its surroundings. Over the past few decades, Central and Southern Poland have experienced a considerable rise in maximum temperatures, which has led to an increase in the number of hot days. This increase is particularly prominent during the summer months (June, July and August) but also in May and September, which extends the hot season. Although heat waves have become more frequent and persistent since 2006, their mean intensity has remained unchanged. During all heat waves in Poland, the high‐pressure centre was located over the country or its close neighbourhood, mainly in the eastern sector but also in the south, southwest or over Scandinavia. The blocking systems were mainly related to the extended ridge of the Azores High, but also to strong blocking over the North Pole and Greenland reaching Scandinavia or anomalous high pressure in the East Arctic. The longest‐lasting heat waves were usually preceded by air masses advection from the Atlantic, but the highest potential temperature along the trajectories was observed for the southern direction of inflow. The growing number of hot days is statistically significantly related to the decreasing sea‐ice cover and increasing sea surface temperature in Arctic and Subarctic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Short Hopelessness Scale in an undergraduate student sample. The scale was originally developed as a brief measure of hopelessness for large scale epidemiological surveys and is based on two commonly used measures of hopelessness. participants and procedure A total of 4098 students from different Polish universities took part in the study. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to test the model fit. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to investigate the relationship between hopelessness scale and criterion variables. results Due to the lack of fit of the initial congeneric, unidimensional model, the lowest loading item was removed, and a tau-equivalent model with three items was tested. The tau-equivalent model showed a good fit to the data. The scale had adequate reliability. Hopelessness was positively related to anxiety, depression, and stress and negatively related to the quality of life, health, and self-esteem. conclusions The study provides evidence of good psychometric properties in terms of factorial structure, reliability and criterion validity of the shortened 3-item Polish version of a hopelessness scale. Future studies should investigate its predictive value, especially in terms of suicidal ideation and behaviour, as well as other health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TEMPO functionalized C60 fullerene bearing phosphonic acid anchoring group was successfully synthesized and characterized using cyclic voltammetry and the following spectroscopic techniques: ESI-MS, NMR, ESR, and FT-IR. The obtained fullerene derivative was grafted onto the surface of oleic acid stabilized magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles using the ligand exchange reaction. The resulting nanocomposite material was characterized by means of TEM, EDX, XPS, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and TGA. Subsequently, the obtained catalyst was employed for the selective oxidation of various primary and secondary alcohols to their corresponding aldehyde or ketone analogues and its activity was examined. The results showed high activity of the described catalyst; the reported procedure enables the oxidation of selected alcohols with chemoselectivity and good yields at mild conditions. Moreover, the magnetic properties of the presented catalyst allow easy control and removal of the catalyst using external magnetic field. High stability of the catalyst along with a simple removal method and no disposal problems, and allowing multiple reuse without noticeable loss of efficiency demonstrates the potential value of the reported catalyst in the application of primary and secondary alcohol oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Surface vibrational spectroscopies, PM-IRRAS and SERS, give direct insight into anion binding by self-assembled monolayers. • Three surface-attached, charge neutral diamidocarbazoles were demonstrated to act as sulphate anion receptors. • The relative sulphate binding affinities of the metal-supported receptors were estimated from the PM-IRRAS studies. • Partial hydrolysis of the amide bonds in the surface-attached receptors was observed in aqueous solutions. Abstract In this paper we demonstrate the applicability of surface vibrational spectroscopy techniques in sensing sulphate anions, using self-assembled monolayers of hydrogen bonding receptors. Three uncharged, diamidocarbazole receptors were synthesised and attached to gold and silver surfaces via one or two disulphide arms. Their ability to bind anions on the metal surfaces was investigated with polarization modulation infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (PM-IRRAS) and surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy. Contrary to other techniques applied in optical sensors, such as UV–vis absorption, fluorescence or surface plasmon resonance, surface vibrational spectroscopy techniques used in this work not only display spectral changes proportional to the concentration of sulphate, but also provide an insight into the state of the receptor monolayer and its interactions with the analyte. While SERS measurements confirm the formation of anion-receptor complexes on metal surfaces, PM-IRRAS spectra were further employed to quantify the optical response of the sensor. The system can detect SO 4 2− anions within a concentration range of 10-6 – 10-1 M (in acetonitrile). An effect of the hydrogen bonds formed at the binding site of the diamidocarbazole molecules on the symmetry of sulphate anions is observed, which ultimately proves the anion-receptor binding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are two aims of this paper: First, the relationship between daily and hourly precipitation extremes and air temperature is investigated for the validity of Clausius–Clapeyron (C–C) scaling; second, the impact of the atmospheric circulation and transport of humidity on the extreme precipitation events occurrence in Poland is analysed based on data obtained from 26 stations across Poland in the period 1951–2015. It was shown that daily‐scale extreme rainfall is less sensitive to changes in local atmospheric temperature but the hourly intensities reveal a similar behaviour at all stations showing a robust signal over the entire country. Regarding the impact of the large‐scale atmospheric circulation, three types were distinguished in cool part of the year: one connected with the positive phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), second with a low‐pressure zone in the north and high‐pressure in the south of Europe and the northern Atlantic and third with a low over central Europe. Each time high precipitation in Poland was connected with the advection of humid air from the western sectors (SW, W or NW). In the warm part of the year three types were distinguished too, Poland was always in the scope of low‐pressure systems with the advection of warm air from the southern sectors or when the warm air from the south meets the colder air from the north. Similar localizations of low centres have been found in the case of local‐scale atmospheric circulation types during events with extreme precipitation. Both in cool and warm part of the year such events are connected with the increase of water vapour in the air. In cool season the wet and warm air masses inflow to Poland the most often from Atlantic, in the warm season—from Mediterranean and/or Black Seas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Images of different sections of the examined tissue, and in the result, the spatial image of the examined organ on the flat screen of the monitor, are obtained using the mobile apparatus head, which is moved by the physician over the patient's body surface. The obtained image exactly reproduces the reality, but its interpretation always depends on the physician. Only the proficient knowledge of anatomy enables the correct interpretation of the image. For example, a cyst looks like a homogeneous dark spot with regular shape and smooth edges, while the tumour has a heterogeneous structure, visible as different shades of grey and ragged edges. Of course, the interpretation of the image is not always as simple as that, and therefore, among the professionals it is considered, that good diagnostics is more important than even the most modern equipment. However, the technology and methodology of processing and visualization of images is not without significance. By using the wavelet filtration to transform original images - their photointerpretation becomes easier, and more accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CTEMPO catalytic system linked to a microspherical gold support through a covalent S-Au bond was developed. The CTEMPO@Au composite catalyst had a particle size of 0.5-0.8 μm and was covered with the fullerenes derivative of 2.3 nm diameter bearing ten nitroxyl groups; the organic film showed up to 50 nm thickness. The catalytic composite allowed for the oxidation under mild conditions of various primary and secondary alcohols to the corresponding aldehyde and ketone analogues with efficiencies as high as 79-98%, thus giving values typical for homogeneous catalysis, while retaining at the same time all the advantages of heterogeneous catalysis, e.g., easy separation by filtration from the reaction mixture. The catalytic activity of the resulting system was studied by means of high pressure liquid chromatography. A redox mechanism was proposed for the process. In the catalytic cycle of the oxidation process, the TEMPO moiety was continuously regenerated in situ with an applied primary oxidant, for example, O/Fe system. The new intermediate composite components and the final catalyst were characterized by various spectroscopic methods and thermogravimetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes warm spells in Northern Europe and determines the synoptic situations that cause their occurrence. In this article, a relatively warm day was defined as a day when the maximum temperature exceeded the 95th annual percentile, and a warm spell (WS) was considered to be a sequence of at least five relatively warm days. In the analysed multiannual period and within the investigated area, 24 (Kallax) to 53 (Oslo) WSs were observed. The occurrence of WSs was mainly connected with positive anomalies of sea level pressure and a 500-hPa isobaric surface, displaying the presence of high-pressure systems. This occurrence was also accompanied by positive T850 anomalies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of study is verification of three indirect methods used to define of the phase precipitation. There methods are based on empirical data of thermal conditions in the vertical profile and surface layer of troposphere. Three methods can be used to forecast of precipitation phase. Verification of selected methods was based on statistic attempt counting the 400 data. To define the precipitation phase in the methods there were used data from aerological station Legionowo and meteorological station Warszawa-Bielany. The same control was executed on the basis of data coming from reanalysis. Consistency of precipitation phase with criteria used in the selected methods is slightly weaker in case of data that come from reanalysis than in case of using data from aerological soundings. The consistency of indirect methods reached in case of rainfall up to 86% of cases, and in case of snow up to 99%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Krakow is one of the most polluted cities in Poland. The dust fraction of 2.5 μm (PM2.5) has a significant impact on human health. The greatest concentration of PM2.5 was found for the cold half year (especially in February and December) and in the most densely built-up area of the city center. The worst air quality occurs in the evening and morning (peak traffic) hours. In the cold half year the highest concentration of PM2.5 was observed for the south-western and southern air masses advection, while in the warm half year for the south eastern and southern advection. The increase in wind speed is followed by a considerable decrease of the concentration of PM2.5 in all monitoring sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. Recently, the IL-7 receptor (IL-7R) C>T (rs6897932) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), which causes a Thr244Ile substitution in the IL-7R α-chain, has been suggested as a risk factor for SLE. Material and Methods. Using high-resolution melting curve analysis we studied the distribution of the IL-7R C>T polymorphism in SLE patients (n = 281) and control subjects (n = 541) in the Polish population. Results. We did not find significant differences in the distribution of the IL-7R C>T genotype and alleles between SLE patients and controls. However, in the dominant model (T/T and C/T vs C/C genotypes), we observed a protective effect of the IL-7R C>T polymorphism against the presence of neurological manifestations of SLE [OR = 0.3631 (95% CI = 0.1895-0.6954), p = 0.0017, pcorr = 0.0323] and the presence of anti-Scl-70 antibodies (Ab) [OR = 0.3141 (95% CI = 0.1503-0.6561), p = 0.0014, pcorr = 0.0266]. Conclusion. Our studies suggest that the IL-7R C>T (rs6897932) polymorphism might be involved in the neurological manifestations and the presence of anti-Scl-70 Abs in patients with SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three C 70 fullerene derivatives, namely, C70-BTB and C70-MTB with thiophene or C70-MTP thiophene and pyrrolidyne moieties were synthesized and compared with synthesized C70-IPH containing indene moieties. Moreover, C70-BTB was compared with C60-BTB to analyse in deep the influence of fullerene football and rugby balls on the selected opto-electrical properties of new fullerene derivatives. All fullerene derivatives were characterized theoretically by using both time-dependent and independent density functional theory with the Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof and Becke-Lee, W. Yang, R.G. Parr. The energy levels of the highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMOs) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (LUMOs) were calculated and compared with corresponding values determined experimentally by cyclic voltammetry (CV). It was found that the LUMO HOMO energy gaps determined by the DFT/B3LYP/6–31G(d) method agree very precisely with the corresponding values obtained in the CV experiments. For the first time a possibility of electropolymeryzation of C60-MTB C70-BTB, C70-MTB and C70-MTP with (E)-1-([2,2′:5′,2′'- terthiophen ]-5-yl)-N-{4-[4-(4- fluorophenyl)-1,3- thiazol -2- yl ]phenyl}methanimine (PV-BLJ-SC14) was shown. All fullerene derivatives and blends with poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) and poly(4,8-bis[(2- ethylhexyl) oxy ]benzo[1,2- b :4,5- b ′]dithiophene-2,6-diyl-alt-3-fluoro-2-[(2- ethylhexyl) carbonyl ]thieno[3,4- b ]thiophene-4,6-diyl) were investigated in deep by UV–Vis spectroscopy in the solution and as the solid layers together with photoluminescence spectra. Structural defects of created layers based on new fullerene derivatives were studied by atomic force microscopy and thermal imaging. To summarize, the investigated fullerene derivatives present much better electrical properties than widely used PC 70 BM. Moreover, the indene and pyrrolidine modifications demonstrated the best stability (thermally and at passing current) and electrical performance for all tested modifications. Additionally, a possible molecule rearrangement was observed resulting in improvement of electric conductivity through the layer. Finally, simple bulk-heterojunction polymer solar cells were constructed based on new fullerene derivatives as acceptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first SERS (surface enhanced Raman scattering) sensor for detection of alkaline and alkaline earth metal cations is presented. System composed of silver nanoparticles functionalized with 2-mercaptoethanesulfonate (MES) anions exhibits high selectivity and sensitivity toward aforementioned cations thanks to high affinity of surface-attached MES monolayer to cations. This interaction results in formation of contact-ion pairs between MES sulfonate groups and metal cations. We demonstrate a big potential of the Ag nanoparticles functionalized with MES in quantitative detection of a great variety of cations, including alkaline and alkaline earth metal cations, down to 10 −8 M in case of Ca 2+ which is unmatched by analogous SERS sensors. We also prove simultaneous determination of calcium and magnesium in physiological concentrations with the nanosensor feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article deals with curatorial popular art projects in Eastern Europe in the 1960s.

Objectives. Numerous studies have been performed with TNF - a -308 G/A (rs1800629) single nuclear polymorphism (SNP) to evaluate the risk of SLE in various ethnicities. However, the significance of TNF-a -308 G/A in both clinical and laboratory studies of the disease remains unclear. Methods. Using a high-resolution melting curve analysis, we assessed the prevalence of TNF-a -308 G/A SNP in SLE patients (n = 2 62) and controls (n = 528) in a Polish population. We also assessed the contribution of this SNP to various clinical symptoms and the presence of autoantibodies in SLE patients. Results. The p-value obtained using a X² test for the trend of TNF-a -308 G/A was statistically significant (p trend = 0.0297). However, using logistic regression analysis for the presence of the HLA-DRB1 * 03:01 haplotype, we observed that the TNF-a -308 G/A SNP may be the DRB1 * 03:01-dependent risk factor of SLE in the Polish population. There was a significant contribution of TNF-a -308 A/A and A/G genotypes to arthritis OR = [2.692 (1.503 - 4.822, p = 0.0007, p corr = 0.0119)] as well as renal SLE manifestation OR = [2.632 (1.575 - 4.397, p = 0.0002, p corr = 0.0034)]. There was a significant association between TNF-a -308 A/A and A/G genotypes and the presence of anti-Ro antibodies (Ab) OR = 3.375(1.711 - 6.658, p = 0.0003, p corr = 0.0051). However, the logistic regression analysis revealed that only renal manifestations and the presence of anti-anti-Ro antibodies remained significant after adjustment to the presence of the HLA-DRB1 * 03:01 haplotype. Conclusion. Our studies indicate that the TNF-a -308 G/A polymorphism may be a DRB1 * 03:01 haplotype-dependent genetic risk factor for SLE. However, this SNP was independently associated with renal manifestations and production of anti-Ro Ab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We found substantial differences in the atmospheric response to sea ice area (SIA) loss depending on sectors and seasons. In the Eurasian sector, the highest SIA reduction occurred in the last 15 years, whereas in the American sector, single years of low SIA were also observed in the last two decades of the 20th century and at the beginning of the 21st century. For years of the lowest SIA in the Eurasian sector, the strong warming in the Barents and Kara Seas (BKS) and cooling in central Asia is created, giving rise to the Warm Arctic Cold Eurasia (WACE) pattern development. The enhancement of high‐pressure centre over Asia and the formation of Ural Blocking follows these anomalies. After the low SIA in May–June in the Eurasian sector, in summer, the very strong Greenland Blocking is created, reaching the North Pole and the whole of Eurasia (only in August), increasing in magnitude with altitude, which gives much warmer conditions in the North American high‐latitude region (NAH), BKS, and Europe. For the years of the lowest SIA in the American sector, the Pacific High is much more developed and extended in the entire vertical profile. This strong positive anomaly brings colder weather in Alaska and the western United States. It is most apparent after low SIA in summer and autumn and is probably due to significant changes in sea ice cover over the Chukchi Sea during that time. At the same time, the Aleutian Low is deepened in the Kamchatka neighbourhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. A significant increase in DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) transcript levels has recently been demonstrated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients as compared to healthy individuals. Methods. Employing high resolution melting curve analysis (HRM) and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis, we assessed the frequency of five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of this gene: rs2289195, rs7590760, rs13401241, rs749131 and rs1550117, situated in different linkage disequilibrium blocks of the DNMT3A gene in two hundred and fifty seven women with SLE and six hundred and twenty five controls. Results. The lowest p values of the trend test were observed for the DNMT3A -448A> G (rs1550117) SNP ( ptrend = 0.0111). We also found that, in a dominant inheritance model, the DNMT3A -448A> G SNP may protect from SLE development [odds ratio (OR) = 0.494 (0.294-0.830), p = 0.0068, pcorr = 0.034]. Furthermore, we observed that the DNMT3A -448A > G SNP in dominant inheritance models may protect from immunologic manifestations of SLE [OR = 0.1753 (95% CI = 0.04976-0.6176, p = 0.0026, pcorr = 0.0468). Conclusions. Our study demonstrates that the DNMT3A -448A> G SNP might protect from SLE and its immunologic manifestations in a sample from the Polish population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Laparoscopic trainers have gained recognition for improving laparoscopic surgery skills and preparing for operations on humans. Unfortunately, due to their high price, commercial simulators are hard to obtain, especially for young surgeons in small medical centers. The solution might be for them to construct a device by themselves. Aim: To make a relatively cheap and easy to construct laparoscopic trainer for residents who wish to develop their skills at home. Material and methods: Two laparoscopic simulators were designed and constructed: 1) a box model with an optical system based on two parallel mirrors, 2) a box model with an HD webcam, a light source consisting of LED diodes placed on a camera casing, and a modeling servo between the webcam and aluminum pipe to allow electronic adjustment of the optical axis. Results: The two self-constructed simulators were found to be effective training devices, the total cost of parts for each not exceeding $100. Advice is also given for future constructors. Conclusions: Home made trainers are accessible to any personal budget and can be constructed with a minimum of practical skill. They allow more frequent practice at home, outside the venue and hours of surgical departments. What is more, home made trainers have been shown to be comparable to commercial trainers in facilitating the acquisition of basic laparoscopic skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the first use of 3-amino-5-mercapto-1,2,4-triazole (AMT) to construct a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based pH nano- and microsensor, utilizing silver nanoparticles. We optimize the procedure of homogenous attachment of colloidal silver to micrometer-sized silica beads via an aminosilane linker. Such micro-carriers are potential optically trappable SERS microprobes. It is demonstrated that the SERS spectrum of AMT is strongly dependent on the pH of the surroundings, as the transformation between two different adsorption modes, upright (A form) and lying flat (B form) orientation, is provoked by pH variation. The possibility of tuning the nanosensor working range by changing the concentration of AMT in the surrounding solution is demonstrated. A strong correlation between the pH response of the nanosensor and the AMT concentration in solution is found to be controlled by the interactions between the surface and solution molecules. In the absence of the AMT monomer, the performance of both the nano- and microsensor is shifted substantially to the strongly acidic pH range, from 1.5 to 2.5 and from 1.0 to 2.0, respectively, which is quite unique even for SERS-based sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The Fcrl3 −169T>C (rs7528684) polymorphism has been shown to be a risk factor of various autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); however, these results are inconsistent between distinct ethnicities. Methods. Using PCR-RFLP we studied the distribution of the FCRL3 −169T> C polymorphism in SLE patients ( n = 263) and controls ( n = 528) in a sample from the Polish population. Results. We found no significant differences of FCRL3 −169T>C genotypes and alleles between patients with SLE and healthy individuals. However, in the dominant model we found a significant association between the FCRL3 −169T> C polymorphism and the presence of anti-Scl-70 antibody (Ab) [OR = 4.747 (95 % CI = 1.639-13.749), p = 0.0011, pcorr = 0.0198]. Moreover, in the dominant model we observed a significant contribution of FCRL3 −169T>C to the presence of either anti-La or anti-Scl-70 Abs [OR = 4.378 (95 % CI = 1.793-10.690, p = 0.0003, pcorr = 0.0054)]. Conclusions. Our study demonstrated that the FCRL3 −169T>C polymorphism is not a risk factor of SLE in the Polish population, but this polymorphism may contribute to autoantibody production in this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are several studies on the association of TLR9 polymorphisms with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in different ethnicities; however, the results are inconsistent. Therefore, we studied the distribution of the TLR9 C > T (rs352140) polymorphism in patients with SLE ( n = 254) and controls ( n = 521) in a Polish population. We did not observe significant differences in the prevalence of the TLR9 C > T genotype and alleles between patients with SLE and controls. However, we found a contribution of the T/T and T/C genotypes to renal [OR = 2.949 (95 % CI = 1.523-5.711, p = 0.001), ( p = 0.017)] and immunologic disorders [OR = 2.938 (95 % CI 1.500-5.755, p = 0.0012), ( p = 0.0204)] in SLE patients. Moreover, we observed a significant association between the TLR9 T/T and T/C genotypes and the presence of anti-dsDNA Ab [OR = 3.682 (1.647-8.230, p = 0.001), ( p = 0.017)]. Our studies suggest that the TLR9 C > T (rs352140) polymorphism might contribute to renal and immunologic disorders and to the presence of anti-dsDNA Ab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is conflicting evidence on the contribution of the MCP-1 -2518 A>G (rs 1024611) polymorphism to SLE incidence and clinical manifestations. We examined the prevalence of the MCP-1 -2518 A>G polymorphism in SLE patients (n = 199) and controls (n = 250) in Poland. We did not observe a significant difference in the distribution of MCP-1 -2518 A>G polymorphic variants in patients with SLE and healthy individuals. However, we found an association between the GG versus AG and AA genotypes as well as the AG and GG versus AA genotypes with renal manifestations of SLE OR = 3.614 (1.123-11.631, P = 0.0345) and OR = 2.297 (1.301-4.057, P = 0.0046), respectively. We also observed that the MCP-1 AG and GG -genotypes contribute to the occurrence of thrombocytopenia in SLE patients OR = 2.618 (1.280-5.352, P = 0.0089). Our observations indicate that either MCP-1 -2518 G variant can be associated with some clinical findings in patients with SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the one hand the ideology could serve (more or less) as a common platform for any comparative art studies in Central-Eastern Europe, a common point of departure, a sort of framework of art historical narrative there between 1945 and 1989. On the other hand, however, such an instrument is useless if we would like to go deeper and draw a sort of map of Central-Eastern Europe. Aiming at the above-mentioned tasks, it is argued, we should take into consideration particular political practices, rather than the ideological discourse, or at least that what Luis Althusser called Ideological State Apparatuses, understood as different processes in different countries, producing different meanings of comparable art in comparable historical moments in the region, rather than classical concept of ideology. To show how the problem works in analytical praxis three case studies have been chosen: Clara Mosch Gallery in the GDR, Foksal Gallery in Poland, and the Balatonboglar Gallery in Hungary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on the legacy of the political change in 1956 East European art. Joseph Vissarionovich Stalin has influenced the development particularly of Eastern Europe's artistic culture and his death was the start of the decline in the conquering system of Eastern Europe where art played a significant role.

The transcription of human endogenous retrovirus E (HERV-E) clone 4-1 was determined in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the contribution of HERV-E clone 4-1 expression in the development of SLE remains unclear. Blood plasma and PBMC from 55 patients with SLE and a control group of 35 healthy individuals were collected. Blood plasma concentration of five antinuclear antibodies including anti-U1 ribonucleoprotein (RNP), anti-Sm, anti-Scl-70, anti-single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), and anti-double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Total RNA was isolated from PBMC and reverse transcribed into cDNA. The number of copies of HERV-E clone 4-1 gag transcript in PBMC was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RQ-PCR) analysis. Spearman statistical analysis indicated that blood plasma concentrations of anti-U1 RNP and anti-Sm antibodies may correlate with PBMC transcript levels of HERV-E clone 4-1 gag sequence ( R=0.775, p<0.000001; R=0.698, p<0.000001, respectively). Our observations suggest that the expression of HERV-E clone 4-1 might be associated with production of anti-U1 RNP and anti-Sm antibodies in patients with SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to make an initial assessment of new PEG (polyethylene glycol)-functionalized C60 fullerene derivative for potential bone tissue engineering applications. Thus, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and cyclic voltammetry measurement were performed. Moreover, cell culture experiments in vitro were carried out using normal human osteoblasts. Cell viability and proliferation were evaluated using colorimetric 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test as well as by fluorescent staining. It was demonstrated that resultant derivative possessed good solubility in water, high temperature stability, and retained favorable electron accepting properties of C60 fullerene core. Most important, new fullerene derivatives at low concentrations did not exhibit cytotoxic effect and supported osteoblast proliferation compared to control. Thanks to all mentioned properties of new PEG-functionalized C60 fullerene derivative, it seems that it could be used as a component of polymer-based bone scaffolds in order to enhance their biological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we report the successful synthesis and characterization of six (two new) fullerene mono- and di-pyrene derivatives based on C60 and C70 fullerenes. The synthesized compounds were characterized by spectral methods (ESI-MS, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, UV-Vis, FT-IR, photoluminescence and photocurrent spectroscopy). The energy of HOMO and LUMO levels and the band gaps were determined from cyclic voltammetry and compared with the theoretical values calculated according to the DFT/B3LYP/6-31G(d) and DFT/PBE/6-311G(d,p) approach for fully optimized molecular structures at the DFT/B3LYP/6-31G(d) level. Efficiency of solar cells made of PTB7: C60 and C70 fullerene pyrene derivatives were analyzed based on the determined energy levels of the HOMO and LUMO orbitals of the derivatives as well as the extensive spectral results of fullerene derivatives and their mixtures with PTB7. As a result, we found that the electronic and spectral properties, on which the efficiency of a photovoltaic cell is believed to depend, slightly changes with the number and type of pyrene substituents on the fullerene core. The efficiency of constructed solar cells largely depends on the homogeneity of the photovoltaic layer, which, in turn, is a derivative of the solubility of fullerene derivatives in the solvent used to apply these layers by spincoating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt and iron dopants in semiconductors are killers of excitonic photoluminescence. In particular, photoluminescence of quantum wells doped with Co and Fe poses a challenge and has not been reported so far. Here, we show molecular beam epitaxy growth and photoluminescence studies of (Cd,Co)Te and (Cd,Fe)Te quantum wells in (Cd,Mg)Te. We compare the results to well-known structures: CdTe and (Cd,Mn)Te quantum wells, and we conclude that 0.2% of Fe reduces photoluminescence intensity by 3 orders of magnitude, and similar concentration of Co reduces PL intensity by about 5 orders of magnitude. We also present the influence of the dopant's concentration on emission efficiency in external magnetic field. Structures with low doping levels require weaker fields to reduce the quenching effect. Image 1 • Cobalt and iron ions are successfully introduced into CdTe quantum wells. • Excitonic emission of the structures with various content of Co and Fe is presented. • Magnetic ions quench photoluminescence of quantum wells more than in quantum dots. • Doping the buffer with magnetic ions facilitates photoluminescence studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents an analysis of generally available (open access) online sources of information - such as geoportals - in order to assess how valuable they are to the work of a real estate property appraiser. As a result of the analysis, it was determined what information is available in geoportals about a specific real estate property, which would be relevant in the valuation process. The property in question is located in the Dolnośląskie (Lower Silesian) region, Średzki district, Środa Śląska municipality. It is a property of a historic-cultural value. Two nation-wide geoportals were examined, as well as regional and local geoportals from the Lower Silesia region, where the valued object is located. Three categories of geoportal assessment were applied in this study, namely: functionality, transparency, and the availability of information about the valued property; the latter being the most important from the property appraiser's point of view. The analysis showed that geoportals provide information relevant to the real estate property in the valuation process. The levels of information availability in the studied map portals were shown to have varied. Of course, this kind of information requires verification, because not all portals provide the date and time of the last information update. That notwithstanding, they still constitute valuable sources of information about the real estate property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precise localization is considered one of the most salient features of Industry 4.0 manufacturing facilities. For this reason, multiple solutions have already been proposed. The method presented in this paper entails the use of double-band radio and optical technologies for near-real-time location tracking and remote reporting, with a final tracking accuracy of 0.5 meters. To preserve low-energy operations, the system infrastructure part is deployed on passive radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags, whereas the part installed on tracked assets implements energy-saving mechanisms. The system was deployed in an automotive production plant which allowed us to draw practical remarks on such aspects as the separation of onboard Ultra High Frequency (UHF) antennas; proper electromagnetic isolation of radio modules to prevent signal blocking; the placement and mechanical securing of RFID tags on the floor; as well as how to implement procedures to decrease the duty cycle, allowing for a trade-off between system sensitivity and energetic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: During laparoscopy, the monitor is usually placed near the operating table, at eye level, which significantly affects hand-eye coordination. First, it is impossible for the surgeon to simultaneously observe the operative field and hand movement. Second, the axis of view of the endoscope rarely matches the natural axis of the surgeon's sight: it resembles a direct view into the operative field. Finally, as the arms of the tools act as levers with a fulcrum at the site of the skin incision, the action of the tool handles is a mirror image of the movement of the tool tips seen on the monitor. Studies have shown that a neutral position with the head flexed at 15-45° is the most ergonomically suitable. Aim: To evaluate whether the level of monitor placement exerts an influence on laparoscopic performance. Material and methods: A group of 52 students of medicine were asked to pass a thread through 9 holes of different sizes, placed at different levels and angles, using a self-made laparoscopic simulator. Each student performed the task four times in two monitor positions: at eye level, and placed on a simulator. The order of monitor placement was randomized. Results: The task was performed more quickly when the monitor was placed on the simulator and the sight was forced downwards. Lower placement was also found to be more beneficial for students with experience in laparoscopy. Conclusions: New technologies which place the display on the patient, thus improving the ergonomics of the operation, should be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We describe a new and simple method for one-pot synthesis of gold nanoparticles of spherical shape densely coated with unpaired electrons. The gold nanoparticles have a narrow size distribution (1.90±0.54nm) and even coverage of nitroxide spins per particle and are soluble both in non-polar and polar organic solvents. The one-pot synthesis consists of direct grafting of nanoparticles by ligand substitution with an in situ generated bisnitroxide radical-containing thiol nucleophile. The obtained nanoparticles are stabilized by two types of ligands: covalently attached nitroxide radicals and tetraoctylammonium bromide ions pairs weakly bound to the gold surface. The average number of ligands per core was derived from X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) as well as from thermogravimetric and bromine concentration analyses. The proposed procedure can be a powerful tool for the preparation of spin-labeled gold nanoparticles soluble in non-polar and polar organic solvents which should be useful for applications in various fields including biochemistry, catalysis and electrochemistry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Non-isothermal oxidation of a model saturated lipid (stearic acid) in the bulk phase in the presence of fullerene C60 at concentrations of 1–8mM was monitored by differential scanning calorimetry in order to determine the kinetic parameters that describe the global first order oxidation process. The activation energies, pre-exponential factors, and rate constants calculated by the Ozawa–Flynn–Wall method for the first detectable exothermic effect of oxidation, indicate the antioxidant behavior of C60 over a wide range of temperatures that makes it a non-corrosive agent effectively increasing the oxidative stability of lubricants and biolubricants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To evaluate mechanisms involved in mevastatin-induced inhibition of proliferation of ovarian theca–interstitial cells. Design: In vitro study. Setting: Academic laboratory. Animal(s): Immature Sprague-Dawley female rats. Intervention(s): Ovarian theca–interstitial cells were cultured without and with mevastatin in the presence and absence of serum, mevalonic acid, and/or insulin. Main Outcome Measure(s): Proliferation was assessed by determination of DNA synthesis by thymidine incorporation assay. Activation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase (Erk1/2) and of Akt/protein kinase B (PKB) was determined by ELISA. Result(s): Mevastatin induced a concentration-dependent inhibition of theca–interstitial cell proliferation in the absence and in the presence of serum. Inhibitory effects of mevastatin were partly abrogated by mevalonic acid and by insulin. Mevastatin blocked basal and insulin-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2. In contrast, mevastatin had no significant effect on either basal or insulin-induced phosphorylation of Akt/PKB. Conclusion(s): Mevastatin inhibits proliferation of theca–interstitial cells by a mechanism that involves depletion of mevalonic acid and selective inhibition of basal and insulin-induced activity of Erk1/2 pathway, but not Akt/PKB pathway. These effects of mevastatin may be a result of decreased isoprenylation of small GTPases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

CO2 is a compound of high stability which proves useful in some organic syntheses as a solvent or component decreasing explosivity of gases. It is also a good carbonylating agent for aliphatic amines although not for aromatic ones, the latter being carbonylated with phosgene or, as in our previous works, with CO/O2 in the presence of Pd(II) complexes. In this work we have used the mixture of CO/O2 and CO2 for carbonylation of aniline to N,N'-diphenylurea. After optimization of the reaction conditions (56% of CO2 in CO2/CO mixture) we studied the activity of three kinds of pre-catalysts: (a) Pd(II) complexes, (b) Pdblack, and (c) palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) in the presence of derivatives of pyridine (XnPy). The highest conversion of aniline (with selectivity towards N,N-diphenylurea ca. 90%) was observed for PdNPs. The results show that catalytic cycle involves Pd(0) stabilized by pyridine ligand as active species. Basing on this observation, we put the hypothesis that application of PdNPs instead of Pd(II) complex can efficiently reduce the reaction time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial concentration and quantitative spatial density of anthropogenic elements were assessed. The authors used original parameters of standing and progressive anthropogenic pressures in individual hexagons in a grid based on a land cover database and the current population structure. The calculated values of relative entropies for both parameters were similar. The relative entropy based on both pressures for the whole area was high (0.89). In peri-urban zones it was 50% less and in cities about 80% greater. A juxtaposition of standing and progressive pressure values revealed a trend towards a slight decrease in the values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As consumer awareness increases in Poland, fish consumption is on an upward trend. While new technologies permit meeting increasing demand, they significantly increase the pressure on fish supplies. As a result, many fish stocks are over-exploited, which threatens marine ecosystems. Declining fisheries, increasing fishing operating costs, and the necessity of making longer fishing expeditions at greater distances that often end with catches of fewer or less valuable fish mean that in some fisheries sectors are currently running at the margins of profit or at a loss. At the same time, the European Union's fisheries policy aims to create more selective and sustainable fisheries, to implement limitations through fishing quotas, and to ban the recognition of discards. The aim is to ensure that individual fish species are protected while providing the European Union with stable, secure supplies of fresh fish. The FindFish Knowledge Transfer Platform project was launched to provide solutions for challenges facing commercial fisheries. Its purpose is to provide fishers with a knowledge transfer platform and a numerical forecasting system for the marine environment of the Gulf of Gdansk. By combining in-situ research, environmental data, fish catch data, and numerical calculations, this tool will improve the accuracy of targeted fishing while reducing by-catch. The system will provide more reliable data on fish stocks and facilitate more efficient resource management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease characterized by excessive proinflammatory cytokine production and damage to multiple organ systems. To investigate the potential association between cytokine gene polymorphisms and SLE, we performed a case-control study based on Polish population. SLE patients and controls, were examined forIL-23Ars11171806 G/A andIL-23R(rs1884444 G/T, rs10489629 G/A) by TaqMan SNP genotyping assay, forIL-17Frs763780 A/G and rs2397084A/G using the PCR– RFLP method. An increased frequency of AG genotype as well as G allele of the IL-17F rs763780 was found in patients with SLE, as compared with healthy subjects (OR = 3.947;p = 0.001 and OR = 3.538;p = 0.002, respectively). Frequencies of the rs1884444 TT genotype (OR = 138.1) and the rs1884444 T allele (OR = 2.176) were also higher in SLE patients (bothp < 0.0001). Overall, weak LD was observed between theIL-17Frs763780 A/G and rs2397084 A/G polymorphisms (D'-0.003,r2– 0.000). From four possible haplotypes, frequencies of AG showed differences between both examined groups (p < 0.0001). We also observed a weak LD between theIL-23Rrs10489629G/A and rs1884444 G/T (D'-0.199,r2–0.026). The genotype–phenotype analysis showed significant association between the IL-17F rs2397084 and mean value of the hemoglobin (p = 0.01), the IL-17F rs763780 and age (p = 0.008) and lupus anticoagulant (p = 0.09), the IL-23 rs11171806 and urea (p = 0.08) and C3 complement (p = 0.03), and the IL-23R rs1884444 G/T and activated partial thromboplastin time (p = 0.06). Present findings indicated that IL-17F rs763780 A/G and IL-23R rs1884444 G/T polymorphisms may be involved in susceptibility to SLE in the Polish population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to present an automatic monitoring system for the 3D CEMBS model in the operational version. This predictive, eco hydrodynamic model is used as a tool to control the conditions and bio productivity of the Baltic sea environment and to forecast physical and ecological changes in the studied basin. Satellite-measured data assimilation is used to constrain the model and achieve higher accuracy of its results. 3D CEMBS is a version of the Community Earth System Model, adapted for the Baltic Sea. It consists of coupled ocean and ice models, working in active mode together with the ecosystem module. Atmospheric forecast from the UM model (Interdisciplinary Centre for Mathematical and Computational Modelling of the Warsaw University) are used as a forcing fields feed through atmospheric data model. In addition, river inflow of freshwater and nutrient deposition from 71 main rivers is processed by land model. At present, satellite data from AQUA MODIS, processed by the SatBałtyk project Operational System are used for the assimilation of sea surface temperature and chlorophyll a concentration. In the operational mode, 48-hour forecasts are produced at six-hour intervals, providing a wide range of hydrodynamic and biochemical parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fullerenols (water-soluble derivatives of fullerenes), such as C60(OH)36, are biocompatible molecules with a high ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), but the mechanism of their antioxidant action and cooperation with endogenous redox machinery remains unrecognized. Fullerenols rapidly distribute through blood cells; therefore, we investigated the effect of C60(OH)36 on the antioxidant defense system in erythrocytes during their prolonged incubation. Methods: Human erythrocytes were treated with fullerenol at concentrations of 50–150 µg/mL, incubated for 3 and 48 h at 37 °C, and then hemolyzed. The level of oxidative stress was determined by examining the level of thiol groups, the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione transferase), and by measuring erythrocyte microviscosity. Results: The level of thiol groups in stored erythrocytes decreased; however, in the presence of higher concentrations of C60(OH)36 (100 and 150 µg/mL), the level of -SH groups increased compared to the control. Extending the incubation to 48 h caused a decrease in antioxidant enzyme activity, but the addition of fullerenol, especially at higher concentrations (100–150 µg/mL), increased its activity. We observed that C60(OH)36 had no effect on the microviscosity of the interior of the erythrocytes. Conclusions: In conclusion, our results indicated that water-soluble C60(OH)36 has antioxidant potential and efficiently supports the enzymatic antioxidant system within the cell. These effects are probably related to the direct interaction of C60(OH)36 with the enzyme that causes its structural changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diglycolamide ligands are widely applied in the analysis of radionuclides, especially lanthanides and actinides. They are used in liquid-liquid extraction procedures or in solid-phase extraction sorbents where they are adsorbed on the surface of hydrophobic polymers. The main objective of this study was to synthesize the N , N , N'N ′-tetrahexyl diglycolamide with one vinyl terminating group (vTHDGA) for further covalent immobilization on the polystyrene-divinylbenzene polymeric support. The obtained complexing resin (THDGA) was employed for the mechanized sample pretreatment in the Sequential Injection Analysis - Lab-on-Valve (SIA-LOV) flow system for the determination of 239Pu using ICP-MS detection. The analytical procedure was optimized in terms of selectivity towards several other radionuclides and elements forming potentially isobaric interferences in mass spectrometry. For 100 mL volume of sample to be analyzed, the method detection limit (MDL) was 96 mBq L−1 (42 pg L−1). The developed method was employed for the determination of 239Pu in real samples of a nuclear reactor coolant and spent fuel pool water from a nuclear reactor. Image 1 • Computer-controlled SIA-LOV setup with an exchangeable sorbent bed • New complexing sorbent for actinides • ICP-MS detection with examination of numerous interferences • Pu-239 determination in samples from nuclear industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]