Different Parts Of Poland Research Articles

Sustainability by Polish designers – owners of small, independent fashion brands

Implementing sustainable development goals defined by UNESCO encompasses diverse activities and spheres of contemporary life, including the issues of responsible production and consumption (goal 12). The fashion sector is often mentioned in this context and considered both ethically and environmen[1]tally problematic, especially taking into account clothing overproduction coupled with decreasing of its quality and offshoring to non -European countries. Fashion designers – owners of independent fashion brands based in specific local contexts – seem to be especially well prepared to implement in practice the idea of sustainable fashion often also referred to as responsible, ethical or slow fashion. The paper presents results of a qualitative exploratory research among Polish small, independent fashion firms. Analysing in -depth interviews with creative entrepreneurs based in different parts of Poland (Kraków, Łódź, Bytom, Warsaw, other cities and towns), the investigation considers issues such as: how do they understand the concept of sustainable fashion, how do they implement it in their entrepreneurial activities, what challenges and opportunities do they see in this respect, especially taking into account that their entrepreneurial activities situate them between the more symbolic -economy oriented creative sector and the more practically -oriented traditional garment and apparel sector?

Dendrochronological Analysis of One-Seeded and Intermediate Hawthorn Response to Climate in Poland

Although the hawthorn is not a forest-forming species, and it has no high economic significance, it is a very valuable component of forests, mid-field woodlots or roadside avenues. The literature, however, lacks information on the growth rate, growth phases, or growth–climate–habitat relationship for trees of this genus. This work aimed to establish the rate of growth of Craraegus monogyna and C. xmedia Bechst growing in various parts of Poland, in various habitats; analyze the growth–climate relationship; and distinguish dendrochronological regions for these species. Samples were taken using a Pressler borer from nine populations growing in different parts of Poland, from a total of 192 trees (359 samples). The tree-ring width was measured down to 0.01 mm. The average tree-ring width in the studied hawthorn populations ranged from 1.42 to 3.25 mm/year. Using well-established cross-dating methods, nine local chronologies were compiled with tree ages between 45 and 72 years. Dendroclimatic analyses (pointer year analysis, correlation and response function analysis) were performed for a 33-year period from 1988 to 2020, for which all local chronologies displayed EPS > 0.85. The tree-ring width in the hawthorn populations depended mostly on temperature and rainfall through the May–August period. High rainfall and the lack of heat waves through these months cause an increase in cambial activity and the formation of wide tree rings. Conversely, rainfall shortages through this period, in conjunction with high air temperatures, caused growth depressions. Cluster analysis enabled the identification of two dendrochronological regions among the hawthorn in Poland: a western and eastern region, and a single site (CI), whose separation was most likely caused by contrasting habitat and genetic conditions. The obtained results highlight the need for further study of these species in Poland and other countries.

Survey of the enniatins and beauvericin in raw and UHT cow's milk in Poland.

The enniatins A, A1, B and B1 (ENNs) and beauvericin (BEA) are structurally related compounds produced by Fusarium species. They occur as contaminants in cereals, such as wheat, barley and maize. They are called "emerging mycotoxins", because they have been reported in feed and food and their toxic effects are not fully known. Data on their levels in food (especially in milk) are limited. The study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of ENNs and BEA in milk. A total of 103 bovine milk samples (76 of raw milk and 27 of UHT milk) were collected from different parts of Poland and analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Among the 76 raw milk samples, 31 (41%) and 15 (20%) samples were contaminated with ENN B and with BEA, respectively. No contamination with other enniatins was found. The highest concentration of BEA was found in raw milk and was 6.17 μg kg-1. Out of the 27 samples of UHT milk, 16 (59%) were contaminated with ENN B at concentrations ranging from 0.157 μg kg-1 to 0.587 μg kg-1 (limit of quantification (LOQ) 0.098 μg kg-1). Beauvericin was detected in 9 UHT milk samples (33%) at concentrations ranging from 0.101 μg kg-1 to 1.934 μg kg-1 (LOQ 0.095 μg kg-1). This study demonstrated constant but low milk contamination in Poland with ENN B and BEA. The analysis of milk samples revealed that the emerging mycotoxins ENN B and BEA were measured in trace amounts. It does not suggest any immediate risk to milk consumers; however, it is unknown whether long-term exposure to low levels of toxins may be harmful.

Jüdische Stadtdeputierte in der Zweiten Polnischen Republik: Projekte – Strategien – Dynamiken[The Jewish city councilors in the Second Polish Republic: Plans, strategies, dynamic

Jüdische Stadtdeputierte in der Zweiten Polnischen Republik: Projekte – Strategien – Dynamiken[The Jewish city councilors in the Second Polish Republic: Plans, strategies, dynamic

Variation in Bird Eggs-Does Female Factor, Season, and Laying Order Impact the Egg Size, Pigmentation, and Eggshell Thickness of the Eggs of Capercaillie?

Simple SummaryBirds eggs are unique in the animal kingdom thanks to their different shapes, colours, sizes, and maculation patterns. Generations of people have been fascinated by their variety, thus, egg collecting by scientists and collectors has, in the past, been quite a popular pursuit. Nowadays, this activity is illegal in many jurisdictions, but egg variation has not lost its fascination. Despite extensive research, scientists are yet to determine why birds eggs are so varied, not only between species, but in one species. There are many possible sources of intraspecies egg diversity, such as female factor, laying order, season, and many others. In the presented work, we investigate egg variation and its sources for Capercaillie. We found that size, shape, and pigmentation were not connected to laying order, nor season, but egg traits were highly consistent for individual females. This conclusion indicates that, in the case of Capercaillie, visual identification can be useful in identifying the eggs of different females.Despite numerous studies, intra-species variation in bird eggs is still not well explained. In the presented studies, we investigated the possible sources of this variation: female factor, laying order, and season, using the following traits of Capercaillie eggs as an example: egg size and shape, eggshell lightness, and thickness. Samples were collected for three years from three Capercaillie breeding centres located in different parts of Poland, where birds are kept in conditions close to their natural habitat and have a similar diet. The obtained results showed no significant impact of laying order on egg size, shape, pigmentation, nor eggshell thickness. This indicates that the provided nutrition ensures an adequate supply of minerals for the entire laying period. Most results did not show statistically significant differences between eggs from different breeding centres, but in one breeding centre, eggshells had lighter pigmentation. We assume the observed differences may result from females’ individual features or local environmental conditions. Egg traits were highly consistent for individual females, proving that visual identification can be useful in identifying the eggs of different females.

Pathogens with potential impact on reproduction in captive and free-ranging European bison (Bison bonasus) in Poland - a serological survey

BackgroundThe European bison is an endangered species, and as such it is extremely important to monitor herds for pathogens which can lead to reproductive failure. The aim of the present study was to determine the current prevalence of antibodies to pathogens known to potentially influence reproduction in European bison. Serum samples from 183 bison, originating from different parts of Poland, were tested using commercial ELISA tests for antibodies to Chlamydia spp., Coxiella burnetti, Leptospira interrogans, Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii; the findings were compared between captive and main free-ranging herds, and with regard to the influence of demographic factors such as age and sex. The prevalence of seropositivity was also checked with regard to location and the animal species sharing it.ResultsChlamydia spp. antibodies were present in 48 out of 130 (36.9%) tested samples. Coxiella burnetii was found in one sample out of 178 (0.58%). N. caninum in 36 out of 172 (20.9%) and T. gondii in 23 out of 172 (13.4%). No sample was positive for leptospirosis. Neither sex nor age appeared to have a significant effect on the occurrence of antibodies to the identified species. The prevalence of Chlamydia spp. in the samples varied significantly according to location; however, similar frequency ranges were observed between free ranging and captive herds. In contrast, antibodies to N. caninum were more common in free-ranging herds than captive herds, with the highest frequency observed in the Bieszczady Mountains.ConclusionsChlamydia spp., N. caninum and T. gondii might have a similar impact on the reproductive potential of European bison as they have on cattle. The high occurrence of antibodies to N. caninum in bison from the Bieszczady Mountains may be associated with the relatively high density of the wolf population in the area.

Studies on Physicochemical Properties of Selected Apiproducts as Materials for Preparation of Protein Spheres

The main purpose of this work was to determine the impact of the location of bee apiaries in diff erent parts of Poland on the physicochemical properties of selected bee honeys. Studies focused on the determination of the antioxidant properties of apiproducts. Th e water content in honeys as well as their pH values were also analyzed. Four types of honeys (honeydew, linden, buckwheat, acacia) originating from various parts of Poland were selected for the research. Based on the obtained results, it can be stated that the examined honeys differed in physicochemical properties, which was related to the diff erences in their chemical composition. All honeys tested showed antioxidant properties. It can also be found that the water content in analyzed products was related to their origin and variety. Analyzing pH measurements, it can also be observed that all tested samples were characterized by acidic properties.

Regional variation of beekeeping in Poland

Beekeeping is of great significance for the development of agriculture. On the one hand, it may be considered in the context of the acquisition of bee products by beekeepers, and on the other, in terms of the role bees play in the natural environment , i.e. their contribution to the production of higher and better crops. The aim of the paper is to present the beekeeping sector across Poland's regions and to describe the changes it underwent in the studied period. The research was conducted in 2012, 2016 and 2019. The study uses secondary data from reports produced by the Apicultural Division of the Apicultural Division of the Research Institute of Horticulture in Puławy that relate to selected issues concerning the beekeeping sector in Poland. The differences in beekeeping in different parts of Poland were subject to one- and two-dimensional analysis. The latter was performed using methods based on the measurements of the depth of observations in the sample. The research demonstrates that the number of bee colonies and the number of beekeepers were on the rise in the studied years. The largest number of bee colonies was observed in Lubelskie, Małopolskie, Podkarpackie and Warmińsko-Mazurskie voivodships, while the largest production of honey was registered in Lubelskie Voivodship.

Impact of the current local spatial development plans on the activity of investor on the Polish residential real estate market

The local spatial development plan is an instrument of spatial policy which aims at shaping spatial order. The local plan includes solutions ensuring protection against emerging pollutants, as well as restoring the environment to its proper condition and setting the conditions for the implementation of projects, enabling optimal effects in the field of environmental protection. Land use and land development should also ensure the preservation of all landscape values as much as possible. When creating and adopting a local spatial development plan, a municipality as a local government unit must take into account both public and private interests. The paper attempts to answer the question whether city planning has an impact on investors’ activity on the real estate market. Four selected cities located in different parts of Poland were analysed. The authors proposed determining the investor activity indicator as a measure of this impact.

New Records of the Subfamilies Cylloceriinae and Microleptinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from Eastern Europe.

The Ichneumonidae species belonging to the subfamilies Cylloceriinae Wahl, 1990 and Microleptinae Townes, 1958 collected in different parts of Poland and Ukrainian Carpathians are listed. Allomacrus longecaudatus (Strobl, 1903) and the genus Rossemia Humala, 1997 with a species, R. longithorax Humala, 1997, are recorded for the first time from Ukraine, representing the third records of species for a European country after the original description. The genus Entypoma Förster, 1869 with two species, E. robustator Aubert, 1968 and E. suspiciosum (Förster, 1871) is the first reliable modern record of the genus for Poland. The subfamily Microleptinae is reliably recorded for the first time from Ukraine. A key to European species of the genus Allomacrus Förster, 1869 is also provided.

Internal parasites and associated histopathological changes in deceased white storks from Poland

The aim of this study was to analyze the parasitic fauna of dead white storks in nesting sites in different parts of Poland and the associated histopathological changes. Samples from thirty-eight white storks aged 3 weeks to 5 years were examined after their arrival at a stork sanctuary. The presence of Cathaemasia hians, Chaunocephalus ferox, Choanotaenia infundibulum, Railletina tetragona and Syngamus trachea was confirmed in 17 out of 38 (47.73 %) individuals. Cathaemasia hians and Chaunocephalus ferox flukes are not endemic to the studied area. The frequency of C. ferox was significantly higher in the youngest storks from group I (3–4 weeks old) compared to groups II (11–15 weeks old) and III (older than 2 years). Fluke eggs were only detected with sedimentation method in three samples (group III), while no adult flukes at all were found in the intestines. Chaunocephalus ferox was shown to be the most common pathogen in all storks studied when compared to other parasites. A histopathological examination of the jejunum and ileum revealed atherosclerotic changes in the muscular layer, lymphoid infiltration in the mucosa, the presence of adult flukes of C. hians and C. ferox in the intestinal lumen, and lymphoid infiltration in the muscular layer. Intense lymphoid infiltration in the mucosa was also observed in storks whose intestines were heavily infested with R. tetragona and C. infundibulum. Parasitic infections compromise the birds’ health status and affect the duration of flights, and they can increase the risk of other diseases.

Potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray, 1843) in Polish waters − its mitochondrial haplotype and role as intermediate host for trematodes

The New Zealand mud snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum (Gray, 1843)) is on the list of one hundred worst invasive species. Researchers point out that genetic variation between populations of P. antipodarum manifested in differences in life-history traits. The main objective of our investigation was to gain pioneer knowledge about mitochondrial haplotypes of P. antipodarum in Polish waters on the background of these haplotypes recorded in the world and confirmation of the main role of P. antipodarum in the life cycle of digenean trematodes. We examined 1000 individuals of P. antipodarum from five water bodies in three different parts of Poland for the presence of larval stages of digenean trematodes. For several randomly selected individuals we carried out DNA sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene as marker of this non-indigenous mollusk. Only one 16S rRNA haplotype of P. antipodarum was recorded in Polish waters, defined in this study as haplotype 1 which turned out to be the most widespread in Europe. Potamopyrgus antipodarum is a source of trematode metacercariae belonging mainly to the family Echinostomatidae. As a result, we can demonstrate that it plays a role as the second intermediate host of digenean trematodes in European waters.

Allergenic Ambrosia pollen grains in the air of some Polish cities in 2019

Ambrosia is regarded as the most dangerous allergy-related plant posing a considerable threat to human health with its highly allergenic pollen. In Europe, there are 4 Ambrosia species originating from North America; they most often colonize ruderal habitats and agricultural fields. The aim of the study was to compare Ambrosia pollen seasons in 9 cities located in different parts of Poland in 2019. Aerobiological tests were conducted in Bialystok, Bydgoszcz, Lublin, Olsztyn, Piotrkow Trybunalski, Sosnowiec, Szczecin, Warsaw, and Wroclaw. The investigations were carried out with the volumetric method using Burkard or Lanzoni pollen samplers. The 98% method was used to determine the duration of the pollen season. The earliest onset of the pollen season was recorded in Szczecin (August 7th) and Sosnowiec (August 9th), whereas the latest beginning was noted in Wroclaw (August 22nd) and Bydgoszcz (August 21st). The longest pollen season was recorded in Sosnowiec (52 days) as well as Lublin and Szczecin (50 days), while the shortest pollen season was noted in Wroclaw (10 days). The highest mean daily concentrations of Ambrosia pollen grains were recorded in Sosnowiec (104 P/m3) and Wroclaw (77 P/m3), whereas the lowest value was obtained in Szczecin (18 P/m3). Peak days were noted mostly during the last 10 days of August. The highest value of Ambrosia annual pollen sum was reported from Sosnowiec (326) and Lublin (310), while the lowest sum was noted in Szczecin (69). The multimodal course of the graph presenting the pollen seasons in the analysed cities and literature data indicate that the pollen originated not only from local sources but also from long-distance transport. The highest risk of Ambrosia pollen-induced allergy in sensitive subjects was demonstrated in Lublin, Piotrkow Trybunalski and Warsaw. The concentration of Ambrosia pollen in the air of the analysed Polish cities was substantially lower than the values indicated by measurement stations located in other parts of Europe.

POPULATION GENETICS ANALYSIS OF Garlic virus A, Garlic virus B, Garlic virus C AND Garlic virus X

Garlic virus A (GarV-A), Garlic virus B (GarV-B), Garlic virus C (GarV-C) and Garlic virus X (GarV-X) are members of the genus Allexivirus in the family Alphaflexiviridae. In this study, we collected 10, 30, 10 and 14 isolates of GarV-A, GarV-B, GarV-C and GarV-X, respectively, from different parts of Poland. All sequences of coat protein (CP) and nucleic-acid binding protein (NABP) regions of Allexivirus isolates available in GenBank were also included in this study. The nucleotide and amino acid sequences identities within each population differed substantially depending on the region of the genome and virus species. The results of selection pressure analysis showed that populations of each Allexivirus underwent negative selection, but the extent of the negative selection varied. It was also concluded that the GarV-A and GarV-C populations underwent a decrease in population size or balancing selection, while the GarV-B and GarV-X populations underwent an increase in population size. It was concluded that both populations of GarV-X evolved independently in each respective area, in contrast to populations of GarV-A, GarV-B and GarV-C.

Ks. Johannesa Chrząszcza zapiski o I wojnie światowej. Sylwetka górnośląskiego historyka w 90. rocznicę śmierci

The 90th anniversary of Fr. Johannes Chrząszcz’s death held in 2018 is a good opportunity to bring the figure of this Upper Silesian priest to a wider circle of readers. Fr. Piotr Gorecki in his article presents the figure of Fr. Chrząszcz mentioning the most important events of his priestly life and bringing closer his scientific activity, numbering 172 works, mainly from the history of Upper Silesia. On the basis of the 100th anniversary of the ending of the World War I Gorecki first of all reflects on the attitude of the Silesian priest towards secular power. The chronicle records made by Fr. Chrząszcz in the book about two Upper Silesian towns Toszek and Pyskowice are the source of research. The reading of already older at that time priest’s writings reveals to us the great dilemmas faced by him and his contemporary priests. It seems that his loyal attitude was to avoid any social upheavals and revolts, even at the price of uncompromising loyalty to the secular power and maintenance of “alliance of the altar and the throne” brought out through the ages. This attitude characterised also a large group of priests from different parts of Poland occupied by the invaders. The discourse confirms the thesis that both Fr. Chrząszcz as well as some of his contemporary Church representatives were a kind of epigones of the passing era. They did not notice the dawn of a new era and the birth of a new order, which brought the rebirth of Poland and the new hope for Silesia. This is the reason why the attitude of Fr. Chrząszcz was omitted by his descendants in their historical works. It is a pity, because the awareness of Fr. Chrząszcz’s scientific legacy may help to get a better understanding of Silesian history, as well as to realize rich multicultural heritage associated with Silesians for centuries.

Analysis of Exploitation Damages of the Frame Scaffolding

The analyzes and classifications presented in the article were based on the research carried out in the years 2016 to 2018 on a group of over one hundred scaffoldings assembled and used on construction sites in different parts of Poland. During scaffolding selection process efforts were made to maintain diversification in terms of parameters such as scaffolding size, investment size, type of investment, location and nature of conducted 5works. This resulted in the research being carried out on scaffoldings used for church renovation in a small town or attached to the facades of classic apartment blocks, as well as on scaffoldings used during construction of skyscrapers or facilities of the largest power plants. This variety allows to formulate general conclusions about the technical condition of used frame scaffoldings. Exploitation damages of the frame scaffolding elements were divided into three groups. The first group includes damages to the main structural components, which reduce the strength of the scaffolding elements and hence the whole structure. The qualitative analysis of these damages was made based on numerical models that take into account the geometry of the damage and based on computational nonlinear static analyzes. The second group focuses on exploitation damages such as the lack of a pin on the guardrail bolt which may cause an imminent threat to people using scaffolding. These are local damages that do not affect the bearing capacity and stability of the whole structure but are very important for safe use. The last group consider damages that reduce only aesthetic values and do not have direct impact on bearing capacity and safety of use. Apart from qualitative analyzes the article will present quantitative analyzes showing how frequently given type of damage occurs.

Young University Graduates’ Motivations for Living in the Countryside in the Context of Rural Policies in Poland

This paper focuses on young adults with a university education (aged 25–34) living in rural areas of Poland. Its aim is to analyse their motivations for doing so, as well as the implications of such decisions. The issue is of crucial importance in terms of the future of rural areas in Poland. Current rural policies, although somewhat vague, emphasize the urgent need of further modernization of agriculture and the creation of more nonagriculture jobs in local labour markets. In order to be successful, rural development should be a community-led process which requires well-skilled and dedicated rural residents. The paper is based on qualitative study conducted in ten selected rural municipalities in different parts of Poland. The analysis show that the young university graduates interviewed were motivated mostly by social relationships and attachment to the local area, but economic reasons were also important. Also, the types of motivation correlate with the young adults’ community engagement.

PROBABILITY OF OCCURRENCE OF HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS ON SCAFFOLDING CAUSED BY NOISE EXPOSURE

The paper presents the results of measurements for one hundred and ten scaffolds located in five cities in different parts of Poland. Measurements were made between April of 2016 and October of 2017. The environmental tests performed on scaffoldings were focused mainly on the sound level. The parameters on which we base our analysis are the value of C-weighted peak sound levels and daily noise exposure level. The noise that affects construction workers on scaffolding may influence the behaviour of workers and increase the risk of accidents. And at the same time, noise exposure laws facilitate identification of high noise-emitting activities and provide effective preventive measures that reduce noise pollution and improve work environments. The analyses carried out confirmed the qualitatively expected dependencies, and allowed us to quantify the impact of noise to which scaffolding workers are exposed. In summary, noise measurements on scaffoldings can be a valuable aid in improving working conditions. The analysis of research results allows understanding hazards related to noise in an accessible way. They provide the opportunity to modify the professional environment so that it is more employee-friendly and does not expose them to problems occurring in a noisy work environment.

Antimicrobial resistance and genotypic characteristics of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from food in Poland

The aim of the study was to determine antimicrobial resistance and genotypic characteristics of L. monocytogenes isolated from food of animal origin from different parts of Poland during years 2013–2016. A total of 146 isolates were tested using a microbroth dilution method, whereas virulence genes and molecular serogroups were identified by PCR. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) methods were used to analyze the genotypic relationship of the strains. Altogether, 102 pulsotypes grouped into 7 clusters and 24 sequence types, including 3 new types, were identified. Most of the strains clustered into individual patterns were originated from different food products and were isolated in different geographical regions at various time. L. monocytogenes was mostly resistant to oxacilin (90.4% strains), clindamycin (54.1%) and ceftriaxone (49.3%). A multiresistance patterns, mainly to ceftriaxone, oxacillin together with other antimicrobials, were observed among 27.4% strains. Antimicrobial resistance and presence of virulence genes suggest that food of animal origin contaminated with L. monocytogenes may present a risk for public health.

Prevalence of intestinal helminths of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in central Europe (Poland): a significant zoonotic threat

BackgroundThe red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is widely distributed in the world; in central Europe, it is the most numerous wild species of the family Canidae. It can play the role of a definitive host for many intestinal parasites, including zoonotic helminths. Poland, with its geographical location (central Europe), is an interesting area for parasitological investigations of this species. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the prevalence of intestinal helminths in red foxes in different regions of Poland.MethodsIntestines of 473 red foxes from four different regions were examined using the sedimentation and counting technique (SCT). In addition, 344 samples of faeces were examined using flotation.ResultsOverall, intestinal helminths were found in 98.9% of red foxes. The average prevalence of detected parasites was as follows: Mesocestoides spp. (84.1%); hookworms (67.9%); Alaria alata (61.5%); Toxocara/Toxascaris (49.5%); Taenia spp. (42.5%); Echinococcus multilocularis (25.6%); and Trichuris vulpis (2.3%). The prevalence of the majority of parasite species was similar in each region. Significant differences between regions were observed in the case of E. multilocularis: a low prevalence in the south-western and northern regions (0% and 0.9%, respectively) and a high prevalence in the south-east and northeast (39.3% and 42.7%, respectively). In the case of A. alata, important differences were found between northern (96.5% and 93.7% in northern and northeast regions, respectively) and southern regions (15.2% and 24.7% for south-western and south-east regions, respectively). The percentage of positive samples obtained with coproscopic examination (except for Trichuris) was significantly lower than that obtained with SCT. Analysis of the prevalence estimated in individual regions with the use of both methods (flotation and SCT) showed a high correlation for all parasite species (except for Mesocestoides spp.). The flotation method also allowed us to detect the eggs of the lung nematode Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila) (76.2% of positive foxes).ConclusionsThis study showed a very high percentage of red foxes infected with intestinal helminths in different parts of Poland. Depending on the location, some differences were observed regarding the prevalence of dangerous zoonotic parasites, which should be considered in the assessment of infection risk for humans.