The Risk of Orthorexia and the Prevalence of Emotional Eating Behaviours among Polish Military Flying Personnel in Relation to Body Mass Index (BMI) and Sociodemographic Factors.

BACKGROUND: Proper nutrition has a positive impact on health. Paradoxically, excessive preoccupation with healthy eating may lead to the emergence of abnormal eating behaviours and increase the risk of developing disorders. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of orthorexia (ON) and the prevalence of emotional eating (EE) in military flying personnel of the Polish Air Force in relation to BMI and sociodemographic factors. METHODS: This study included 760 soldiers (including 60 females) taking part in the National Health Programme 2021-2025. The ORTO-15 questionnaire and EEQ were used to assess the risk of ON and EE. RESULTS: The risk of ON occurred in 28.9% of military flying personnel and was significantly more frequent in soldiers with a normal weight (46.4%), under 40 years of age (42.7%), and with higher education (42.7%). The prevalence of EE was found in approximately 12.3% of the respondents and was significantly more common in soldiers with diagnosed obesity (17.5%), women (21.7%), and soldiers with higher education (13.6). Other sociodemographic variables did not differentiate the results of the ORTO-15 questionnaire and EEQ. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results indicate that the problem of eating disorders also occurs in military populations. The necessity of continuing research in this area is discussed.

Negative Association of Lignan and Phytosterol Intake with Stress Perception during the COVID-19 Pandemic-A Polish Study on Young Adults.

BACKGROUND: There has been an increasing global prevalence of depression and other psychiatric diseases in recent years. Perceived stress has been proven to be associated with psychiatric and somatic symptoms. Some animal and human studies have suggested that consuming foods abundant in lignans and phytosterols may be associated with lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. Still, the evidence is not yet strong enough to draw firm conclusions. Thus, we investigated the association between dietary intake of these phytochemicals and the level of stress experienced by adult individuals. METHODS: Diet was assessed using self-reported 7-day dietary records. The intakes of lignans and phytosterols were estimated using databases with their content in various food products. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was implemented to measure the level of perceived stress. A logistic regression analysis was used to test for associations. RESULTS: The odds of elevated PSS were negatively associated with dietary intake of total phytosterols, stigmasterol, and ß-sitosterol, with evidence of a decreasing trend across tertiles of phytochemicals. The analysis for doubling the intake reinforced the aforementioned relationships and found protective effects against PSS for total lignans, pinoresinol, and campesterol. CONCLUSIONS: Habitual inclusion of lignans and phytosterols in the diet may play a role in psychological health. To address the global outbreak of depression and other mental health issues triggered by stress, it is important to take a holistic approach. There is a need to develop effective strategies for prevention and treatment, among which certain dietary interventions such as consumption of products abundant in lignans and phytosterols may play a substantial role.

Nutritional Status, Intentions and Motivations towards Adopting a Planetary Health Diet-A Cross-Sectional Study.

The planetary health diet is a proposition of a diet that is healthy for both people and the environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the nutritional behaviours among people who follow the planetary health diet and those who do not and assess the source of motivation that drives a willingness to follow sustainable diet guidelines. Using a self-administered questionnaire, data were collected from Polish adult volunteers. For analysis, respondents were divided into the following two groups: those following a planetary health diet (PD) and those who were not (O). Of the 216 respondents, 39.4% followed the PD. Non-adherence to the PD was linked to a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. Taste was the most important factor for both groups during grocery shopping. However, sustainable agriculture and the health benefits of products were significantly more important for the PD followers. It can be concluded that adherence to the planetary diet is associated with lower body mass. This highlights the need for increased awareness and education about a diet's health benefits and environmental impact.

Could vitamin D concentration be a marker of a long hospital stay in older adults patients?

Background and aims: Vitamin D plays a pleiotropic role in the human body. Some studies have suggested that hypovitaminosis D may serve as a marker of comorbidity severity and length of hospital stay. Hospitalized older adults patients with a higher comorbidity burden tend to have lower vitamin D status, which negatively impacts the length of their hospital stay. Vitamin D deficiency has been identified as a significant risk factor for a prolonged hospital stay. This study aimed to investigate the link between vitamin D status and prolonged hospital stays, focusing on geriatric patients, and to assess the variation in hospitalization duration among geriatric patients with different vitamin D statuses. Methods: The study sample comprised of 422 patients aged over 60 years admitted to the geriatric department. Blood samples were collected in the morning on the day of admission. According to the diagnostic threshold defining serum 25(OH)D concentration approved for Central Europe, patients were divided into two groups (deficiency group and suboptimal group). Patients were divided into two groups based on hospitalization duration: the first, "shorter hospitalization," included stays up to 11 days, whereas the second, "longer hospitalization," encompassed stays of 12 days and above. Results: In total, 242 Caucasian patients, primarily women (172 women and 70 men), were recruited in the study. Patients with vitamin D deficiency had extended hospital stays compared with those with vitamin D levels below 49.92 nmol/L: 10.0 (8.00-13.00) days vs. 9.00 (8.00-11.00) days, P = 0.044. Hospitalization length (in days) had a negative correlation with vitamin D blood status (nmol/L) (P = 0.0005; R = -0.2243). ROC analysis indicated that patients with vitamin D levels below 31.2 nmol/L had a 47% higher chance of extended hospitalization, whereas those with levels above 31.2 nmol/L had a 77% higher chance of avoiding it. A significant majority of patients with suboptimal 25(OH)D levels experienced shorter hospital stays (≤11 days) than those with vitamin D deficiency (64.6%), P = 0.045. Conclusion: The study findings indicate that lower serum levels of 25(OH)D in hospitalized patients within the geriatric department are linked to extended hospital stays. Vitamin D holds potential as a predictor of hospitalization duration in geriatric patients. Nonetheless, further research is imperative to account for additional factors affecting health status and hospitalization duration in older adults individuals.

Body Composition and Cardiovascular Risk: A Study of Polish Military Flying Personnel.

(1) Background: Military personnel worldwide exhibit high rates of obesity. Obesity, and especially visceral obesity, contribute to various health issues, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). While BMI is commonly used to diagnose obesity, it has limitations and does not consider factors like fat distribution or muscle mass. This study aims to assess the relationship between BMI, percent body fat, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and cardiovascular risk factors in Polish military flying personnel. Methods: This study involved 200 men from the Polish Air Force aged 38.8 ± 8.5 years. Anthropometric tests, body composition tests, and tests of biochemical markers of CVD were conducted. (2) Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity varied based on the evaluation criterion; they were present in 63.5% of soldiers by BMI and in 52.5% by percent body fat; abdominal obesity was present in almost half (47%) of the surveyed soldiers according to WC and in 62.5% according to WHtR. All markers of obesity correlated positively with various biochemical markers of CVD, and 8.5% of subjects met the criteria for metabolic syndrome. (3) Conclusions: The prevalence of obesity in Polish military flying personnel, regardless of the evaluation criterion, is associated with significant metabolic complications in the form of lipid disorders and insulin resistance.

Association of dietary intake of polyphenols, lignans, and phytosterols with immune-stimulating microbiota and COVID-19 risk in a group of Polish men and women.

Objectives: Devastating consequences of COVID-19 disease enhanced the role of promoting prevention-focused practices. Among targeted efforts, diet is regarded as one of the potential factors which can affect immune function and optimal nutrition is postulated as the method of augmentation of people's viral resistance. As epidemiological evidence is scarce, the present study aimed to explore the association between dietary intake of total polyphenols, lignans and plant sterols and the abundance of immunomodulatory gut microbiota such as Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli and the risk of developing COVID-19 disease. Methods: Demographic data, dietary habits, physical activity as well as the composition of body and gut microbiota were analyzed in a sample of 95 young healthy individuals. Dietary polyphenol, lignan and plant sterol intakes have been retrieved based on the amount of food consumed by the participants, the phytochemical content was assessed in laboratory analysis and using available databases. Results: For all investigated polyphenols and phytosterols, except campesterol, every unit increase in the tertile of intake category was associated with a decrease in the odds of contracting COVID-19. The risk reduction ranged from several dozen percent to 70 %, depending on the individual plant-based chemical, and after controlling for basic covariates it was statistically significant for secoisolariciresinol (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11-0.61), total phytosterols (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.22-0.95) and for stigmasterols (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.14-0.72). We found an inverse association between increased ß-sitosterol intake and phytosterols in total and the occurrence of Escherichia coli in stool samples outside reference values, with 72% (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.08-0.86) and 66% (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.10-1.08) reduced odds of abnormal level of bacteria for the highest compared with the lowest tertile of phytochemical consumption. Additionally, there was a trend of more frequent presence of Enterococcus spp. at relevant level in people with a higher intake of lariciresinol. Conclusion: The beneficial effects of polyphenols and phytosterols should be emphasized and these plant-based compounds should be regarded in the context of their utility as antiviral agents preventing influenza-type infections.

Lifestyle Changes during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic as Predictors of BMI Changes among Men and Women in Poland.

BACKGROUND: Social isolation during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic affected people's body weight, therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the association between lifestyle elements and the change in BMI during lockdown. METHODS: This retrospective observational study involved 290 questionnaires completed by adult participants divided into three groups according to BMI change during isolation. The structured questionnaire included a general description of the study objective and collected data regarding sociodemographics, anthropometrics, physical activity, sedentary behaviour, sleep duration, and food intake pre- and during COVID-19 lockdown. RESULTS: A decrease or increase in BMI was found in 23.6% and 47.8% of women and 18.5% and 42.6% of men, respectively. Among those who lost weight, 46.5% of women and 40% of men followed a diet of their own choice, 30.2% of women and 25% of men changed their product mix and reduced their intake, 40% of men stopped eating outside the home. An increase in BMI was associated with increased food intake (32.2% of women and 28.3% of men), increased sleep duration on weekdays (49.2% of women and 43.5% of men) and, in more than 50% of subjects, decreased physical activity. In women, increased BMI was associated with the highest frequency of snacking (p = 0.0003), the highest intake of sweets (p = 0.0021), and in men with the highest intake of alcohol (p = 0.0017). CONCLUSIONS: The observed changes in BMI during social isolation were the result of lifestyle modifications including dietary behaviour and differed by gender.

The effect of deep tissue massage on respiratory parameters in healthy subjects-A non-randomised pilot study.

Background: Deep tissue massage (DTM), based on deep palpation and elimination of fascia restrictions, can reduce symptoms resulting from fascial disorders. The goal of this study was the analysis of the DTM effect on respiratory parameters in healthy people. Material and methods: The study involved a group of 40 people divided into two subgroups. The experimental group underwent a single DTM session. Classic massage was performed in the control group. Before and after treatment the chest circumference and oxygen saturation were measured and a spirometry test was performed. Results: The chest expandability significantly increased in both groups with greater effect in DTM group. Vital capacity and saturation, significantly increased in the experimental group. No significant changes in dynamic parameters were noticed in the control group, while FVC slightly decreased in the experimental group. Conclusions: In this study, deep tissue massage appeared to improve chest expendability and vital capacity with simultaneous decrease of FVC in healthy subjects. Further studies are needed to specify the effect of DTM on the respiratory system.

Evaluation of health behaviours of Polish Army soldiers in relation to demographic factors, body weight and type of Armed Forces.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this article is to assess the health behaviors of Polish Army soldiers participating in the National Health Programme 2016-2020 in relation to types of armed forces, BMI and selected demographic factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Anthropometric and questionnaire data were obtained in a group of 1229 soldiers of the Polish Armed Forces (PAF) from military units from all over Poland. Health behaviors patterns were assessed using the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI), developed by Juczynski. RESULTS: The HBI of PAF soldiers was 79.9±12.68, indicating an aver- age score. Statistically significant differences were found in the HBI values and in the individual categories of health behaviors according to the type of armed forces. The highest scores in each category of health behaviors were obtained by the Air Force (AF) soldiers. The lowest HBI score was obtained by the Land Forces and Territorial Defence Forces soldiers. Soldiers with higher education obtained significantly higher scores in such health categories as proper eating habits, preventive behaviors and health practices, compared to respondents with secondary education. Soldiers residing in cities had statistically significantly higher health behaviors intensities in all categories, compared to village residents. A significantly higher score in all health categories was noted in soldiers with normal body weight compared to those with diagnosed obesity. There was no significant relationship between the age of the respondents and health behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: The study found that factors such as type of armed forces, BMI, place of residence and education level were significant for the adoption of health behaviors by PAF. The level of health practices was significant- ly higher among AF soldiers compared to other types of armed forces. It seems necessary to further disseminate education on pro-health behaviors, especially among soldiers with obesity through participation in organized training and psychodietetic consultations as part of the National Health Programme. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2023;36(4):437-49.

Fluid Intake and the Occurrence of Erosive Tooth Wear in a Group of Healthy and Disabled Children from the Malopolska Region (Poland).

Background: The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between the type and amount of fluid intake and the incidence of erosive tooth wear in a group of healthy children and children with disabilities. Methods: This study was conducted among children aged 6-17 years, patients of the Dental Clinic in Kraków. The research included 86 children: 44 healthy children and 42 children with disabilities. The prevalence of erosive tooth wear using the Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE) index was assessed by the dentist, who also determined the prevalence of dry mouth using a mirror test. A qualitative-quantitative questionnaire on the frequency of consumption of specific liquids and foods related to the occurrence of erosive tooth wear, completed by the children's parents, was used to assess dietary habits. Results: The occurrence of erosive tooth wear was determined for 26% of the total number of children studied, and these were mostly lesions of minor severity. The mean value of the sum of the BEWE index was significantly higher (p = 0.0003) in the group of children with disabilities. In contrast, the risk of erosive tooth wear was non-significantly higher in children with disabilities (31.0%) than in healthy children (20.5%). Dry mouth was significantly more frequently identified among children with disabilities (57.1%). Erosive tooth wear was also significantly more common (p = 0.02) in children whose parents declared the presence of eating disorders. Children with disabilities consumed flavoured water or water with added syrup/juice and fruit teas with significantly higher frequency, while there were no differences in quantitative fluid intake between groups. The frequency and quantity of drinking flavoured waters or water with added syrup/juice, sweetened carbonated, and non-carbonated drinks were associated with the occurrence of erosive tooth wear for all children studied. Conclusions: The group of studied children presents inappropriate drinking behaviours regarding the frequency and amount of beverages consumed, which, especially in a group of children with disabilities, may contribute to the formation of erosive cavities.

Development and validation of new predictive equations for resting energy expenditure in physically active boys.

Measurement or estimation of resting energy expenditure (REE) should be the first step in determining energy demand in physically active boys. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate new equations for resting energy expenditure in male children and adolescents practicing soccer. The cross-sectional studywas carried out among 184 boys in the derivation group and 148 boys in the validation group (mean age 13.20 ± 2.16 years and 13.24 ± 1.75 years, respectively). The calorimeter and device for assessing body composition by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) were used. Model of multiple regression showed that REE can be predicted in this population with Eq. (1) (with height and weight data) or Eq. (2) (with age, height, and fat free mass data). Predictive Eq. (1) had an average error of 51 ± 199 kcal and predictive Eq. (2) - 39 ± 193 kcal. Cohen's d coefficient was 0.2, which confirms the small difference. The bias was 4.7% and 3.9%, respectively. The accuracy was 61.2% in the population for predictive Eq. (1) and 66.2% for predictive Eq. (2). Therefore, the new equations developed and validated in this study are recommended for the estimation of REE in physically active boys, when the use of IC is not feasible or available.

Metabolic Deregulations in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) contributes to endocrine and metabolic complications for women worldwide. The aim of this study was to establish the usefulness of new anthropometric indices and atherogenic indices in the evaluation of metabolic disorders, in particular, glucose and insulin abnormalities in the profiles of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In the study, a total of 49 women with PCOS aged between 18 and 39 years were recruited. All patients were tested for fasting glucose and insulin, lipid parameters, oral-glucose administration, and biochemical parameters. All of them underwent anthropometric measurements, such as BMI (body mass index), WHR (waist-to-hip ratio), WHtR (waist-to-height ratio), BAI (body adiposity index), VAI (visceral adiposity index), LAP (lipid accumulation product), BRI (body roundness index), ABSI (A body shape index), AIP (atherogenic risk of plasma), AC (atherogenic coefficient), Castelli risk index-I, Castelli risk index-II and (LCI) lipoprotein combine index, TG/HDL-C ratio, METS-IR (The metabolic score of insulin resistance), triglyceride glucose index (TyG index), triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI index) and triglyceride glucose-waist circumference index (TyG-WC index) were calculated. The analyzed anthropometric measurements/indices and atherogenic indices demonstrated significant correlations in PCOS women. T A strong relationship was found between fasting glucose, fasting insulin, glucose after 60 min, HOMA-IR index in the patients with PCOS. There was no significant relationship between HbA1c and other analyzed parameters and indices. Most of the analyzed anthropometric and atherogenic indices may be useful tools in evaluating metabolic disorders, and, in particular, glucose and insulin abnormalities in PCOS women.

The Association of the Oral Microbiota with the Effects of Acid Stress Induced by an Increase of Brain Lactate in Schizophrenia Patients.

The altered cerebral energy metabolism central to schizophrenia can be linked to lactate accumulation. Lactic acid is produced by gastrointestinal bacteria, among others, and readily crosses the blood-brain barrier, leading to the brain acidity. This study aimed to examine the association of the oral microbiota with the effects of acid stress induced by an increase of brain lactate in schizophrenia patients. The study included patients with a diagnosis of acute polyphasic psychotic disorder meeting criteria for schizophrenia at 3-month follow-up. Results: Individuals with a significantly higher total score on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale had statistically significantly lower lactate concentrations compared to those with a lower total score and higher brain lactate. We observed a positive correlation between Actinomyces and lactate levels in the anterior cingulate cap and a negative correlation between bacteria associated with lactate metabolism and some clinical assessment scales. Conclusions: Shifts in the oral microbiota in favour of lactate-utilising bacterial genera may represent a compensatory mechanism in response to increased lactate production in the brain. Assessment of neuronal function mediated by ALA-LAC-dependent NMDA regulatory mechanisms may, thus, support new therapies for schizophrenia, for which acidosis has become a differentiating feature of individuals with schizophrenia endophenotypes.

Effects of a Diet Containing Sources of Prebiotics and Probiotics and Modification of the Gut Microbiota on the Reduction of Body Fat.

In 2022, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) report, overweight and obesity have reached epidemic proportions in the WHO European Region, affecting almost 60% of adults. Based on the assessment of BMI (Body Mass Index), a group of 56 women aged 25-45 years (31 women group A average BMI 34.9 ± 4.86 kg/m2 and 25 women group B average BMI 33.4 ± 4.02 kg/m2) were qualified for the study. In a multi-center, two-arm, parallel, non-randomized study, two types of weight-reduction diets (A and B) were used over a 3-month period. In group A, a standard low-energy diet was used with individually adjusted caloric intake of 1100-1300 kcal, with an increase in the amount and frequency of consumption of sauerkraut and groats and a daily intake of fermented milk drinks (300-400 g), fermented cucumbers (100 g), mineral water (1 L) and cod liver oil (5 mL). In group B, a standard low-energy diet with individually adjusted caloric intake of 1100-1300 kcal with daily intake of fermented milk products (150 g), highly mineralized water (0.5 L), once a week fermented cucumbers, and once a week buckwheat groats was used. The following measurements were taken: body weight, body fat mass, water content, body height, waist circumference, and hip circumference. Body weight and body composition were measured using the Tanita MC-780 MA and TANITA BC-601 analyzer using the bioelectric bioimpedance method. The stool samples were analyzed in the microbiology laboratory where quantification of Bifidobcaterium spp., Bacteroides spp., Faecalibacterium prausnitzii species, Akkermansia muciniphila and total bacterial count (TBC) was performed. Under the influence of the introduced nutritional intervention, a statistically significant reduction in body weight, body fat, waist circumference, and hip circumference was demonstrated after 3 months. Under the influence of weight reduction, as well as dietary changes, there was an increase in the number of Akkermansia muciniphila bacteria in the women studied. The low-energy diet containing sources of natural prebiotics and probiotics had a more favorable effect on the number of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii bacteria compared to the standard diet.

Validation of FES-I and Short FES-I Scales in the Polish Setting as the Research Tools of Choice to Identify the Fear of Falling in Older Adults.

Fear of falling is associated with a clear hazard to individual self-reliance, reduced physical activity, as well as a sense of shame and loss of self-confidence. The present study aimed to complete the applicable translation and validation protocol for the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) tool, following its prior adaptation to ensure full compatibility with the Polish setting. The FES-I questionnaire, along with its abridged version, was translated in line with the recommended standards of the MAPI Institute, taking into account both the cultural fabric and pertinent language specifics of the country. The survey was attended by 740 individuals (N = 740; 463 women, 277 men), over 60 years old. All respondents were required to complete both the FES-I and FES-I (Short) questionnaires twice, following an intervening period, and subsequently had their responses statistically assessed. The FES-I questionnaire, along with its abridged version, may be recommended as an effective assessment tool for addressing the fear of falling issue among the older adults, consequently allowing the teams of attending physicians, physiotherapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists to complete an unambiguous diagnosis, with a view to helping the patients overcome this particular type of anxiety.

Fetuin-A and Its Association with Anthropometric, Atherogenic, and Biochemical Parameters and Indices among Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) contributes to metabolic and endocrine complications for women of reproductive age. We set out to assess the relationship between fetuin-A and anthropometric parameters, anthropometric indices, body composition, and atherogenic indices, as well as carbohydrate and lipid profile in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS: The study included 49 women with PCOS, aged between 18 and 39 years. All patients were tested for fetuin-A, fasting glucose and insulin, and lipid parameters, after oral-glucose administration were done. All of them underwent anthropometric measurements and body composition analyses such as BMI (Body Mass Index), WHR (Waist to Hip Ratio), WHtR (Waist to Height Ratio), BAI (Body Adiposity Index), VAI (Visceral Adiposity Index), LAP (Lipid Accumulation Product), BRI (Body Roundness Index), ABSI (A Body Shape Index), ABSI z-core (ABSI with added mortality risk in correlation with age and gender), AIP (Atherogenic Risk of Plasma), AC (Atherogenic Coefficient), Castelli risk index-I, and Castelli risk index-II. RESULTS: Obesity was diagnosed in 18 patients (36.7%) based on BMI index and 7 patients (14.3%) based on BAI index. Significantly increased risk of metabolic complications was observed among 26 patients (53.1%) based on waist circumferences. Based on VAI index, risk of metabolic disease was observed among 17 women (34.7%). Dyslipidemia such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and mixed hyperlipidemia was detected among 14 patients (28.6%), and insulin resistance was observed among 29 (59.2%). There was a positive correlation between fetuin-A and total cholesterol (r = 0.30, p = 0.0034). There was no statistically significant correlation between fetuin-A and all of the anthropometric measurements and anthropometric indices, atherogenic indices, and other biochemical parameters. CONCLUSION: Fetuin-A correlates with hypercholesterolemia. It is necessary to conduct further research regarding the relationship between fetuin-A concentrations and body composition, anthropometric indices, and metabolic disorders in women with PCOS. Surprisingly, the effects of concentration of fetuin-A and anthropometric indices (BAI, VAI, LAP, ABSI, ABSI z-core) in woman with PCOS have not been closely examined. Future studies that take these variables into account will need to be undertaken. More information on the relationship between fetuin-A concentrations and anthropometric indices would aid us in establishing a greater degree of accuracy on this matter.

Proposition of a New POLA Index to Assess the Immunomodulatory Properties of the Diet and Its Relationship with the Gut Microbiota, Using the Example of the Incidence of COVID-19 in a Group of People without Comorbidities.

A rise in the incidence of infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has sparked the search for protective strategies against the new pathogen. It is known that individual food components can interact with different immune cells, modulating the immune response of the body. The aim of this study was to develop an index assessing the immunomodulatory potential of diet (POLA index) and to test its utility for the prediction of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a group of healthy young people following a traditional or vegetarian diet. Data on body composition, anthropometric measurements, physical activity, dietary intake, and gut microbiota were obtained from 95 adults (mean age, 34.66 ± 5.76 years). There was a strong correlation between the dietary inflammatory index and the POLA index (r = 0.90; p < 0.0001). Based on Cohen's kappa statistic, there was a good agreement in qualitative interpretation between the two indices (kappa = 0.61; p < 0.0001). People on a diet with beneficial immunomodulatory effects had a lower risk of COVID-19 of approximately 80%, as compared with those on a diet with highly unbeneficial immunomodulatory effects. In daily practice, the POLA index might serve as a useful tool for dietitians to identify individuals whose diet is deficient in ingredients for optimal immune system function and change their dietary behavior to ensure optimal immune function that reduces the risk of infection.

Dynamics of suicidal frequency changes within the Poland rail system - an attempt of epidemiological analyzes. / Dynamika zmian czestotliwosci samobójstw na kolei w Polsce ­ próba analizy epidemiologicznej.

OBJECTIVES: The analysis presented in the article is the first study of suicide on railway tracks in Poland. METHODS: An epidemiological assessment was conducted, study type: case series, population-based with use of the data from the National Police Headquarters. The rates of railway suicides in Poland in the years 2007-2018 were compared to the overall number of suicides in Poland and in the Europe. RESULTS: In 2007-2018, the average share of deaths by railway suicide in the overall number of suicides committed in Poland amounted to 2.06%. Between the years: 1999 -2018 there is a growing number of railway suicide attempts and railway suicide attempts without deaths. Since 2012, an increase of suicide attempts on railway tracks, along with a constant number of suicide deaths, has been observed. In 2017 - 2018, throwing oneself under a train to end one's lifewas the third most commonly chosen method in Poland. Although it accounted for only a small percentage of all methods of suicide, it was chosen relatively more often than in other European countries. CONCLUSIONS: Poland belongs to a small group of European countries where the number of deaths by suicide has displayed an upward tendency in the course of 20 years. There is a growing number of unsuccessful railway suicide attempts. The index of deaths on railway tracks in Poland, was considerably higher than the average index for the EU.

The Number of Fungiform Papillae, Taste Sensitivity and Smell Functions of Children Aged 11-15.

Differences in the ability to identify and perceive tastes and smells might influence food consumption and, ultimately, chronic nutrition-related conditions such as overweightness and obesity. This study aimed to investigate the associations between taste sensitivity and odour function, anthropometry, and quantity of fungiform papillae in children at age 11-15. Taste strips (4 base tastes), U-Sniff sticks (12 selected smells), and a filter paper strip impregnated with 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) were used. The photographic method was used to estimate the number of fungiform papillae (FP) on the tongue. The results showed that the quantity of FP was not related to anthropometry or gender. The taste test total scores were higher for girls, for whom the median score was 14 (12.0-15.0), than for boys, for whom the median score was 12 (9.0-13.0). Of the children, 13.9% had some difficulty in identifying odours. The Mann-Whitney U test showed that children who were most sensitive to bitter taste had more FP (p = 0.0001). The median score for this group (score = 4) was 34.0 (27.0-37.0). For those who had some problems with correctly assessing all bitter taste strips (score = 0-3), the median score was 24.0 (20.0-31.0). Higher numbers of FP were also observed in tasters, that is, people sensitive to PROP, than in nontasters. Only some measures of the taste function correlated with each other, but not very significantly. We concluded that there are multiple perceptual phases of taste, with no single measure able to entirely represent the sense of taste.