FUNCTION, DIVISION AND QUALITATIVE CLASSIFICATION OF BOTTOM SEDIMENTS IN WATER BODIES

The importance of small water bodies for the environment consists in keeping it's biocenotic diversity and affecting the biocycle by damming nutrients and other substances. They also have econonomical and recreational significance. Forming of ponds took place through various different processes, and they are a subject of ever-changing environmnent. Since bottom sedmiments of small water bodies can accumulate contaminating nutrients and heavy metals, they are considered to be a relatively simple indicator of environment pollution. This paper aims to present an overview of small water bodies features and significance with emphasis on bottom sediments and their various classifications

CONTAMINATION OF SOILS ADJACENT TO STARGARD (S10) AND NOWOGARD (S6) ROAD BYPASSES BY SELECTED HEAVY METALS

In the following article, two two-lane expressways were studied: S6 - bypass of Nowogard and S10 - bypass of Stargard, both located in Western Pomerania, Poland. Soil samples were taken from 0-30 cm deep layer from direct surrounding of a roadway (up to 1 meter) - D, aswell as in a 20 meter distance from a roadway - K, in previously set places. In taken samples, the concentrations of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn are evaluated. Based on the chemical analysis, it has been shown that analysed soil samples from studied by-passes are characterized by diversified average concentrations of heavy metals, depending on the place of sampling. However, none of the concentrations of chosen heavy metals have exceeded threshold values, according to Regulation of the Minister of Environment dated 09 September 2002 on soil quality standards and quality standards of soil (Journal of Laws 2002 No 165, item 1359) for industrial areas, mining grounds and transportation areas

The statistical impact of experimental result scatter of asphalt mixtures on their numerical modelling

The paper presents selected test results of asphalt mixture conducted in low temperatures. The obtained parameters are highly diverse. It concerns ultimate breaking loads, stiffness parameters related to Young's modulus but also the fracture course. Statistical analysis upon the results makes it possible to relevantly estimate the material-defining parameter values. Such a random approach leads to the mean values of breaking and fracture-triggering loads, dealing with their dispersion too. The estimated parameters allow to form appropriate numerical models of asphalt mixture specimens. This type of analysis supports the laboratory tests. The paper presents the authors' simplified model considering non-uniform material features. The results reflect the scatter of real laboratory test outcomes. In order to do so an algorithm to calibrate the numerical model parameters was created

Monte Carlo simulations of the fracture resistance degradation of asphalt concrete subjected to environmental factors

The paper presents the results of laboratory tests of SCB (semi-circular beam) samples of asphalt concrete, subjected to the destructive effect of water and frost as well as the aging processes. The determined values of material parameters show significant dispersions, which makes the design of mixtures difficult. Statistical analysis of the test results supplemented by computer simulations made with the use of the proprietary FEM model was carried out. The main distinguishing feature of the model is the assignment of material parameters of coarse aggregate and bituminous mortar to randomly selected finite elements. The parameters of the mortar are selected by trial and error to match the numerical results to the experimental ones. The stiffness modulus of the bituminous mortar is, therefore, a substitute parameter, taking into account the influence of many factors, including material degradation resulting from the aging and changing environmental conditions, the influence of voids, and contact between the aggregate and the bituminous mortar. The use of the Monte Carlo method allows to reflect the scattering of the results obtained based on laboratory tests. The computational algorithm created in the ABAQUS was limited only to the analysis of the global mechanical bending response of the SCB sample, without mapping the failure process in detail. The combination of the results of laboratory tests usually carried out on a limited number of samples and numerical simulations provide a sufficiently large population of data to carry out a reliable statistical analysis, and to estimate the reliability of the material designed

Atopic dermatitis – clinical phenotypes and related therapeutic possibilities

Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease. It is characterized by damaged epidermal barrier, skin dysbiosis and pruritus. It affects up to 20% of the population of developed countries. AD represents a heterogeneous condition belonging to the spectrum of atopic diseases. It occurs in the form of multiple phenotypes with varied pathogenesis requiring different therapeutic strategies.  Aim of the study: To summarize the current state of knowledge on AD phenotypes and related therapeutic options.  Methods and materials: A review of the literature available in PudMed and Google Scholar databases was conducted. The following keywords were used: "atopic dermatitis", "atopic dermatitis phenotypes", "atopic dermatitis current treatment".  Results: There are many phenotypes of AD. However, due to the lack of a consistent classification system, identifying phenotypes is greatly hindered. It is possible to use the division of phenotypes into groups based on age, lesion topography, lesion morphology and patient ethnicity. Various drugs are available for the treatment of AD, but therapeutic strategies for specific phenotypes are sparse and insufficiently understood due to the problem of identifying phenotypes and the complexity of the endotypes behind them. Treatment of AD is not currently based on phenotype-specific targeted therapy.  Conclusion: Development of personalized therapy for the treatment of AD requires additional research using uniform definitions of phenotypes and endotypes. It is necessary to create a classification system for AD phenotypes

Hair loss after SARS-CoV2 Infection

Introduction:Since the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in China, more than 3.8 million people have died. A big problem is the long-term effects and complications of this disease. The pathogenesis of these long-term effects is not fully known. Significant increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines have been observed among people with complications. Their dermatological manifestations are due to the presence of receptors for angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 in the skin and other tissues. Aim of the study: Summary of current knowledge on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment of hair loss after Covid-19. Methods and materials: A review of the literature available in the PubMed database, using the following terms: “Hair loss after Covid”, “Tellgoen Effluvium covid”, “Alopecia areata covid”, “androgenetic alopecia covid”. Results: The most commonly reported among the dermatological manifestations is hair loss, the predominant type of which is telogen alopecia, which involves a prolongation of the resting phase of the hair most likely due to an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines and depletion of anticoagulant proteins, leading to microthrombosis. There has also been a significant increase in the incidence of alopecia areata, in the development of which, in addition to autoimmunity, psychological and physiological stress factors are also highly influential and are higher during the course of the disease including SARS-CoV2. Androgenetic alopecia results from excess androgens and increased sensitivity of hair follicles to them, transmembrane serine protease 2 facilitates the "entry" of the virus into the body by facilitating the binding of viral particles to ACE-2 receptors, which acts as a gateway.  Conclusion: Hair loss is not life-threatening however it has serious psychological and social implications, so it is very important to educate patients about the mechanism and treatment of this phenomenon

Endometriosis - Pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment

Introduction: Endometriosis is defined as a chronic gynecological disease characterized by endometrial tissue outside the uterus. The condition affects 5-10% of women of reproductive age worldwide and is associated with pelvic pain and infertility. Despite its prevalence, diagnosis is usually delayed for many years which postpones the introduction of appropriate treatment. Aim of the study: Summary of the current state of knowledge on endometriosis, analyzing the pathogenesis, the current diagnostic approach, highlighting the problem of fertility in this disease entity and presenting treatment options. Methods and materials: A review of the literaturę available in the PubMed database and GoogleScholar from the last 5years was conducted,using the following keywords: endometriosis”, „endometriosis pathogenesis”, „endometriosis diagnosis”, „infertility in endometriosis”, „endometriosis treatment” Results: Among the etiological factors mentioned are congenital, environmental, epigenetic, autoimmune and allergic factors. The main theory for the formation of the condition is retrograde menstruation through the fallopian tubes into the peritoneal cavity and implantation of endometrial cells. Laparoscopy is nowadays the gold standard for diagnosis, but less invasive methods that can shorten the time to diagnosis are being sought. Current treatment is limited to surgery, hormonal treatment and analgesics which are associated with many side effects. Conclusion: Endometriosis is the cause of infertility, chronic pain and reduced quality of life in many women. Non-invasive diagnostic tests such as imaging studies, genetic tests, biomarkers or miRNAs have diagnostic potential but more analysis is needed to be applied in daily clinical work. Future research should focus on learning and understanding the pathogenesis, identifying subtypes of the disease, and a modern approach to diagnosis and comprehensive treatment taking into account concomitant general symptoms

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - problematic rare lung disease. Pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis

Introduction: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, fatal lung disease most often affecting people over the age of 50. Causes and pathogenesis of the disease are not fully understood. The non-specific symptoms of the disease prolongs diagnosis. It translates into a reduced chance of survival for patients. Treatment options for patients with IPF remain limited and sometimes lung transplantation is indicated. The prognosis of untreated IPF is 2 to 3 years. Aim of the study: Summary of current knowledge on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Methods and materials: A review of the literature available in the PubMed database, using the following  keywords:  „Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis”, „Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis current treatment”, „Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Pathogenesis”. Results: The pathogenesis of IPF has been understood to some extent, but is still not described in detail. A chest CT scan and a lung biopsy are procedures that allow us to confidently diagnose IPF. We have two drugs at our disposal - pirfenidone and nintedanib, but their effect is not satisfactory. The prognosis of the disease is poor, and lung transplantation is the only way to improve it significantly. Conclusion: IPF is a severe lung disease in which the main problem is its difficult diagnosis and rapidly progressive course. We have drugs that delay the decline in lung function, but they do not improve the quality or prolong the life of the patient. It is also known that lung transplantation is the best solution, but it is rarely performed. The prognosis of the disease is poor, often worse than the prognosis of many cancers. It is possible that knowing the exact pathogenesis of the causes of the IPF would enable more effective treatment and diagnosis

3D bioprinting as a future of regenerative medicine and hope for transplantology

Introduction: 3D bioprinting is a continuously refined technology that enables tissue structures to be faithfully reproduced, using specially developed bioinks and 3D printers. Thanks to its versatility, it is possible to use it in regenerative medicine and transplantation, which could have a positive impact on the survival and comfort of patients with injuries and those awaiting transplantation. Aim of the study: Summarise the current state of knowledge on the use of 3D bioprinting technology in the field of regenerative medicine and transplantation, to present the extent of the method's capabilities and examples of its applications, and to outline what role it will play in the future of medicine. Methods and materials: A review of the literature available in the PubMed database and Google Scholar from the last 5 years was conducted, using the following keywords: 3d bioprinting, regenerative medicine, tissue biofabrication. Results: Significant progress has been made in the field of bioprinting and various types of tissue are now being printed and tested. Current research into the printing of skin tissue leads us to believe that in the coming years, 3D bioprinting using stem cells will make it possible to significantly improve the treatment of skin injuries. Researchers are also working on using this technology in the field of neurology and bone damage.  Conclusion: The dynamic development of 3D bioprinting technology offers the hope of eliminating the main transplantation problem related to donor availability. However, the road to wider clinical application of this technology is still a long one, due to the numerous technological difficulties associated with the development of bioprinters, advanced printers and a thorough understanding of human tissue architecture. With the current intensified research in this field, it is expected that these problems will be eliminated in time and the technology will gain more interest from clinicians. &nbsp