Maria Curie-Skłodowska University

Background Migratory birds serve as potential hosts for ticks and can be reservoirs of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs). The aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence of TBPs in juvenile Ixodes ricinus collected from Erithacus rubecula, Turdus merula, and Turdus philomelos passing through the Vistula River Valley, Poland — one of the most important European north-south routes for migratory birds. Methods To detect TBPs in collected ticks we used a high-throughput microfluidic real-time PCR method. In addition, we performed a phylogenetic analysis of Borreliella garinii flaB and Rickettsia helvetica ompB sequences, considering haplotype diversity through a Median Joining Network. Results Our results showed a high prevalence and wide spectrum of TBPs in both larvae and nymphs of I. ricinus. Overall, including co-infections, 47.41% of the tested tick specimens were infected with at least one TBP. Borreliaceae spirochetes were detected in ticks collected from all examined bird species. Ticks (larvae and nymphs) collected from T. merula showed the highest prevalence of Bo. garinii (33.33%), Bo. burgdorferi s.s. (7.69%) and Borrelia miyamotoi (2.56%), while the highest number of ticks infected with Bo. valaisiana were collected from T. philomelos (8.11%). In turn, the highest prevalence of R. helvetica (20.00%) was observed in ticks collected from E. rubecula. Additionally, infections with A. phagocytophilum (5.00%), Ehrlichia spp. (2.50%), Ba. divergens (2.50%) and Ba. venatorum (2.50%) were only confirmed in ticks collected from this bird species. The phylogenetic analysis of Bo. garinii revealed that the detected haplotype circulates widely across various hosts and is geographically widespread, while the haplotype of R. helvetica is mainly detected in ticks in Central Europe. Conclusions Ticks carried by T. merula, T. philomelos, and E. rubecula migrating along the Vistula River Valley, Poland are characterized by a high prevalence and a wide spectrum of detected TBPs. Tested ticks carry widespread strains of Bo. garinii, in contrast to R. helvetica, which is mainly found in Central Europe. Therefore, further research on the possible role of birds as reservoirs of TBPs is needed.

The results of the determination of bedload sediments in spring peatlands were used to determine the time of complete degradation of Weichselian permafrost at 13 spatially and geologically differentiated sites in Poland. Taking into account significant temporal differences in the termination of this process (from the end of the Late Glacial to the end of the Boreal phase of the Holocene), it was shown that, apart from climatic determinants, the value of the terrestrial heat flow and the effective porosity of the rocks, which control the maximum volume of frozen water, are decisive for the preservation versus degradation of per-mafrost. This second parameter was calculated for rock profiles drilled near the spring-fed fens studied. The highest absolute value (0.81) of the Pearson correlation coefficient was obtained for the relationship between the time of permafrost degradation and the effective porosity down to a depth of 200 m, with the exception of one southernmost site. For the same set of sites and the relationship between time of permafrost degradation and heat flow density, the Pearson coefficient (0.62) indicates a moderate degree of correlation.

The post-socialist transformation in Poland was a challenge for the whole of society but also a new situation for sociology. It was supposed to provide an understanding and evaluation of the on-going processes. The status of the sociological profession is traditionally quite strong in Poland. It has a long genealogy and strong institutional infrastructure. In communist times, it maintained relative autonomy from the political system and intellectual independence from official ideology. Since the fall of communism, sociological reflection has developed in four subsequent stages: the discourses of transition, post-communism, European integration, and a critical approach. All these issues have been considered essential to society’s development. Nevertheless, over time, the role of sociology diminished similarly to the position of academia in new capitalist and free-market reality, but sociologists have maintained their aspirations as leaders and experts in important issues of public discourse in Poland. In general, the main role of Polish sociologists comes closest to being activators. The transformative aspect of Polish sociology is still connected with the role of public intellectuals engaging with wider audiences.

Past research in developmental psychology has revealed close links between affect and planning ability over the life-span. However, such links have rarely been studied in children from non-clinical samples. To address this gap, the present study investigates whether negative affect, understood as a temperamental trait, affects planning ability in 5-year-old children. Moreover, it examines whether selected cognitive processes, that is inhibition, verbal working memory, and cognitive flexibility, mediate this relationship. A total of 103 children aged M = 5 years 4 months, SD = 2.7 months, and their parents participated in the study. The analyses, which employed a path mediation model, revealed that negative affect's influence on planning was entirely mediated by flexibility. Moreover, flexibility partially mediated the relationship between inhibition and planning, and verbal working memory had a direct effect on planning. The results provide a new insight into the relationship between negative affect and planning ability in non-clinical preschool children.

Do istotnych zadań prasy należy informowanie czytelników o ważnych problemach społecznych oraz kształtowanie opinii publicznej na ich temat. Niewątpliwie jednym z najistotniejszych zagadnień społecznych jest edukacja młodego pokolenia. Od jej jakości i dostępności zależy przygotowanie młodych do dorosłego życia i pracy dla dobra narodu. Redakcja i publicyści „Głosu Koła”, ukazującego się w przeddzień odzyskania niepodległości w 1918 r. i w pierwszych tygodniach tworzenia odrodzonej Rzeczypospolitej, dobrze to rozumieli i dlatego na łamach czasopisma często pojawiały się artykuły dotyczące organizacji szkolnictwa, zwłaszcza najniższego szczebla oraz problemów, na jakie napotykano w tym trudnym dla wszystkich okresie. „GłOs KołA" (1918-1919) Towards the Problems of Educating Children and Youth in the Reborn Polish State: The important tasks of the press include informing readers about essential social problems and shaping public opinion about them. Undoubtedly, one of the most important social issues is the education of the young generation. The preparation of young people for adult life and work for the good of the nation depends on its quality and availability. The editors and publicists of “Głos Koła”, published on the eve of regaining independence in 1918 and in the first weeks of the creation of the reborn Republic of Poland, understood this well and that is why the magazine often published articles on the organization of education, especially at the lowest level, and the problems encountered during this difficult period for everyone.

In this article we focus on the politician’s brand and how it develops in the voter’s mind. Specifically, we examine how priming a candidate’s image or issue traits influences how individuals update their beliefs about a candidate, and in what way the consistency of image traits and issue traits affects this evaluation. The results from a two-factor design (message: consistent vs. inconsistent) × (information order: image first vs. issue first) suggest that sequential dissemination of information about the candidate’s issue positions, followed by image information (consistent with the program or not) results in a more positive evaluation of the candidate.

Sawdust from deciduous trees was used as a raw material for the preparation of carbonaceous adsorbents. Microwave-assisted chemical activation with K2CO3 and H3PO4 was used to produce materials with a well-developed porous structure. The obtained activated biocarbons were characterized in terms of their porous structure, elemental composition, morphology, thermal stability, as well as surface and electrokinetic properties. The sorption abilities of both materials towards synthetic (poly(acrylic acid)) and natural (lysozyme) polymers in the process of their removal from aqueous systems were determined. Both single adsorbates and mixed solutions of two polymeric adsorbates were tested. The stability of aqueous suspensions containing activated biocarbons and one or two polymers was also determined. As a result of microwave-assisted chemical activation two carbonaceous adsorbents were obtained, characterized by a very well-developed specific surface area (1093–1777 m²/g), a completely different type of porous structure (mesoporous or microporous), and the acidic nature of the surface. The maximum adsorption of poly(acrylic acid) was obtained from a mixed solution of both polymers and it reached values of 379 mg/g (for the sample activated with H3PO4 with mean pore diameter 3.04 nm and minimal contribution of micropores—0.3%) and 259 mg/g (for K2CO3 activated material characterized by the mean pore diameter equal to 1.72 nm and large contribution of micropores—77.4%). In the case of lysozyme, the adsorption efficiency was two times lower (sorption capacity of 127–166 mg/g). Based on the collective data analysis, it can be stated that the most probable mechanisms of polymeric destabilization (highly desirable in separation from the multicomponent solutions) are surface charge neutralization at pH 3 and bridging flocculation at pH 11 (especially for the systems containing material activated with H3PO4 and poly(acrylic acid)).

Several studies have recently focused on personality traits associated with consensual non-monogamy (CNM). Ambiguity tolerance may be one of such traits, however there is a lack of research in this area. The survey was conducted on a group of 355 participants (188 women, 147 men and 20 persons who reported ‘other gender’) aged 18 to 60 years (M = 29.56, SD = 8.52). At the time of the study, 127 participants had experience in practicing CNM, 87 expressed a desire to practice CNM, and 141 did not desire to form a CNM relationship. The MSTAT-II was used to measure ambiguity tolerance. The current findings suggest that individuals with experience in CNM and those who desire to engage in CNM are less stressed by ambiguous (i.e. new, complex and unfamiliar) situations. Individuals with experience in open relationships and swinging are more comfortable with ambiguous situations compared to those with experience in polyamory. However, individuals with a desire to get involved in open relationships and swinging are less comfortable with ambiguous situations compared to those with a desire to get involved in polyamory.

The ongoing technological advancements and industrial growth over the past few decades have resulted in significant environmental challenges, with one of the most notable being water pollution caused by the improper disposal of organic and inorganic pollutants [...]

A simple voltammetric procedure for direct determination of nitrites in natural water samples is described. Measurements are carried out in an inert medium of 0.1 M KCl. The procedure is based on the oxidation of N(III) to N(V) as a result of a change in electrode potential from +0.40 V to +0.96 V. The use of a combined electrode consisting of approximately 800 gold microelectrodes enables undisturbed determinations to be performed in the presence of high concentrations of organic compounds at a level of 20 mg l⁻¹. The calibration plot for NO2⁻ was linear in the range from 2 × 10⁻⁶ to 8 × 10⁻⁴ M with a detection limit of 6 × 10⁻⁷ M. The proposed procedure was successfully applied to nitrate determination in three natural water samples with passable results.

We study the quasiparticle spectrum of a hybrid system, comprising a correlated (Anderson-type) quantum dot coupled to a topological superconducting nanowire hosting the Majorana boundary modes. From the exact solution of the low-energy effective Hamiltonian, we uncover a subtle interplay between Coulomb repulsion and the Majorana mode. Our analytical expressions show that the spectral weight of the leaking Majorana mode is sensitive to both the quantum dot energy level and the repulsive potential. We compare our results with estimations by Ricco et al (2019 Phys. Rev.B 99 155159) obtained for the same hybrid structure using the Hubbard-type decoupling scheme, and analytically quantify the spectral weight of the zero-energy (topological) mode coexisting with the finite-energy (trivial) states of the quantum dot. We also show that empirical verification of these spectral weights could be feasible through spin-polarized Andreev spectroscopy.

Background/Objectives: Low-dose ionizing radiation (LDIR) is commonly used in medical diagnoses and certain professions, but its long-term effects on noncancer diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease (CVD), remain uncertain. While LDIR has recognized diagnostic benefits, its influence on CVD mortality and disease progression is still debated, with some suggesting that low doses may even have beneficial effects, as per the hormesis theory. Methods: This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of LDIR on cardiovascular health outcomes. The study followed a systematic approach, using the PRISMA guidelines to select and analyze relevant studies from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Out of 167 identified studies, 8 were chosen for analysis, including 6 cohort studies and 2 experimental studies. Results: The findings indicated a significant link between LDIR exposure and increased CVD mortality and progression, though some studies also noted potential benefits of LDIR in certain conditions, aligning with the hormesis theory. Conclusions: These mixed results raise questions about the specific conditions under which LDIR might be beneficial or harmful. Overall, the study emphasizes the need for strict radiation control measures and health monitoring for individuals regularly exposed to LDIR, both in clinical and occupational settings.

The developmental stages (larva, pupa) of Anthonomus brunnipennis are fully described for the first time. Despite great similarities of the adults of A. brunnipennis and A. rubi the differences between immature stages of both species could be demonstrated. Two different habitats of A. brunnipennis in Germany are described, and host plant data are critically reviewed. The only well-documented host plant of A. brunnipennis is Potentilla erecta.

Background Learning contributes to adaptive performance needed in today’s business. A key challenge is workplace disengagement which can lead quiet quitting. Past studies indicate the compatibility when examining critical issues of learning in either a workplace or a classroom. Objective The case study examines the impacts on disengaged learners by outside participation. The business community’s participation focuses on providing continuous direct feedback and creating expectation (or subjective norms) at one upper secondary school where the feeling of disengagement has been prevalent. Methods The study’s construct adapts Theory of Planned Behavior and the Double-loop Learning Concept. The survey is completed by 171 current (Grade 12) and former students who have had two-year interactions with the business community from a group of 200 students. Statistical analysis is applied to examine the impacts on learning intention and behavior. Results The findings show the positive influence from direct feedback and subjective norms on intention to learn and attitude of disengaged learners which result in positive learning actions and behavior. Conclusions Dealing with disengagement should recognize consistency and continuity of feedback when involving outside participants. Feedback design to challenge the learners’ mindset and importance of subjective norm and informal learning are part of this consideration.

The widespread retreat of Svalbard glaciers has been frequently interrupted by short-lived surge advances. In the case of marine-terminating glaciers this is often expressed in the remodelling of coastal zones. Here, we analyzed the coastal zone changes in front of the recently surging Recherchebreen. The glacier advanced ca 1200 m since 2018 and suddenly stopped in June 2020 followed by the rapid formation of a delta system in front of its subglacial meltwater outlet. The delta advanced by ca 450 m with probably the fastest progradation rate ever detected in the Arctic region (ca 7 m/day). The synchroneity of the final slow-down of the glacier with the delta building indicates that this event records the release of stored water and sediments from beneath the glacier and thus provides direct evidence of drainage reorganisation at the termination of a surge. Such behaviour is likely common among Svalbard surging glaciers, but it only rarely leaves any direct geomorphic evidence.

The effect of short-term high (+ 40 °C, 2 h) (HT) and positive low-temperature (+ 4 C, 2 h) (LT) stresses on leaf micromorphology and ultrastructure of mesophyll cells in winter rye was investigated. After HT, leaf blade relief became reticulate, while under control conditions and after low-temperature stress, leaf blade relief was folded. The ultrastructure of the leaf mesophyll cells of control plants was nominal: in the chloroplasts of regular lenticular shape, a well-developed thylakoid system immersed in a fine-grained stroma was clearly visible. Short-term HT caused the destruction of thylakoid membranes. A wave-like packing of granal thylakoids, a significant expansion of the lumenal spaces, and a disruption of the structural connection between the granal and stroma thylakoids were noted. There was an accumulation of lipid drops in the cytoplasm. LT stress caused intensive formation of plastoglobules, a decrease in the number and size of starch grains in the chloroplasts. Destruction of thylakoid membranes was not seen. After HT stress, the mitochondria noticeably "swelled", and the membranes of the cristae became less contrasting. After LT stress, significant changes occurred in the morphology of organelles: some of the mitochondria kept a round shape, but some acquired a lenticular or "dumbbell" shape. It was found that, depending on the type of temperature exposure, various adaptive programs are implemented in plant cells, which are accompanied by a complex of ultrastructural changes, thanks to which plants are able to successfully tolerate short-term exposure to stressful temperatures during active vegetation.

The article presents an analysis of the approach to nuclear energy and prospects for development in the countries that are members of the Three Seas Initiative. The author presents an analysis of the demographic and economic potential of the region in the context of a convergent history, conditioning the current infrastructural deficiencies compared to Western and Northern Europe. The paper employs a comparative analysis of the energy policies of the Initiative countries, concluding that the solution to the decarbonisation of the region is the development of nuclear energy potential and cooperation – due to its emission-free nature and guarantee of stable electricity production, together with the development of renewable energy sources. Such solutions guarantee significant progress towards decarbonisation and the achievement of international and EU climate targets, while ensuring energy security. The energy policy analysis is contextualised in the conditions of the new security architecture in Europe related to Russia’s war in Ukraine.

The degree of knowledge of Thysanoptera in the various ranges of the Carpathian Mountains is uneven. The aim of this research was to identify the Thysanoptera fauna in the Góra (Mount) Bucze natural-landscape complex. Three meadow–pasture complexes were selected for the study. Various indicators were used to assess the evenness of the thrips assemblages. A total of 30 thrips species from Aeolothripidae, Thripidae, and Phaeolothripidae were collected, including 26 herbivorous taxa and 4 zoophages. Among herbivores, 11 species were associated with monocotyledonous plants, 12 chose flowers of dicotyledonous herbaceous plants, and 3 preferred leaves, including 2 species which were dendrophilous. The most abundant grass-living species among them were Chirothrips manicatus, Aptinothrips rufus, Chirothrips hamatus, and Anaphothrips obscurus. Flower-living species collected from all sites included Frankliniella intonsa, Neohydatothrips gracillicornis, and species of the genus Thrips: T. fuscipennis, T. major, and T. physapus. All reported species, except Limothrips cerealium, were found in various mountain ranges of the Polish Carpathians. Neohydatothrips abnormis, considered rare and found only at the Babia Góra massif, was caught in site 2. The values of the biodiversity indices are indicated for the three study sites.