Search Results (28)

The concept of Nash equilibria in pure strategies for quantum extensions of the general form of the Prisoner’s Dilemma game is investigated. The process of quantization involves incorporating two additional unitary strategies, which effectively expand the classical game. We consider five classes of such quantum games, which remain invariant under isomorphic transformations of the classical game. The resulting Nash equilibria are found to be more closely aligned with Pareto-optimal solutions than those of the conventional Nash equilibrium outcome of the classical game. Our results demonstrate the complexity and diversity of strategic behavior in the quantum setting, providing new insights into the dynamics of classical decision-making dilemmas. In particular, we provide a detailed characterization of strategy profiles and their corresponding Nash equilibria, thereby extending the understanding of quantum strategies’ impact on traditional game-theoretical problems. Full article

Telomere shortening has been linked to type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its complications. This study aims to determine whether leukocyte telomere length (LTL) could be a useful marker in predicting the onset of complications in patients suffering from T2D. Enrolled study subjects were 147 T2D patients. LTL was measured using a quantitative PCR method. Key subject’s demographics and other clinical characteristics were also included. T2D patients with the shortest LTL had higher TC and non-HDL levels, compared to subjects with the longest LTL (p = 0.013). Also, T2D patients suffering from diabetic nephropathy showed significant differences in LDL levels (p = 0.023). While in the group of T2D patients with diabetic retinopathy, significant differences were observed for parameters, such as duration of diabetes (p = 0.043), HbA1c (p = 0.041), TC (p = 0.003), LDL (p = 0.015), Non-HDL (p = 0.004) and TG (p = 0.045). Logistic regression analysis confirmed a significant risk of association of TC and Non-HDL levels with LTL in the 3rd tertile LTL for the crude model adjusted for sex and age, with respective odds ratios of 0.71 (95% CI 0.56–0.91) and 0.73 (95% CI 0.58–0.91). No significant associations were found between LTL in T2D patients and the prevalence of common T2D complications. Nevertheless, a significant association was demonstrated between LTL and some markers of dyslipidemia, including in T2D patients with either diabetic nephropathy or retinopathy. Therefore, analysis of LTL in T2D patients’ leukocytes demonstrates a promising potential as a marker in predicting the onset of complications in T2D. This could also help in establishing an effective treatment strategy or even prevent and delay the onset of these severe complications. Full article

In response to environmental issues and the intensive degradation of parts, the civil and military aviation industries have shown increasing interest in developing more sustainable materials and technologies; therefore, this paper proposes the regeneration of structural components by cold spraying. As part of this research, Ti–Al composite powder was deposited by low-pressure cold spraying and then heat treated to obtain a Ti–Al3 intermetallic phase. The Ti–Al3 intermetallic phase is characterized by high hardness and abrasion resistance. The research has shown that at appropriately selected heat treatment parameters, this phase is formed in a certain area of the Ti–Al coating. The presence and morphology of the Ti–Al3 phase were confirmed by X-ray, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. It has been found that the presence of this phase increases the hardness of coatings and reduces the friction coefficient. Full article

Using the example of III–V nitrides crystallizing in a wurtzite structure (GaN, AlN, and InN), this review presents the special role of hydrostatic pressure in studying semiconductor properties. Starting with a brief description of high-pressure techniques for growing bulk crystals of nitride compounds, we focus on the use of hydrostatic pressure techniques in both experimental and theoretical investigations of the special properties of nitride compounds, their alloys, and quantum structures. The bandgap pressure coefficient is one of the most important parameters in semiconductor physics. Trends in its behavior in nitride structures, together with trends in pressure-induced phase transitions, are discussed in the context of the behavior of other typical semiconductors. Using InN as an example, the pressure-dependent effects typical of very narrow bandgap materials, such as conduction band filling or effective mass behavior, are described. Interesting aspects of bandgap bowing in In-containing nitride alloys, including pressure and clustering effects, are discussed. Hydrostatic pressure also plays an important role in the study of native defects and impurities, as illustrated by the example of nitride compounds and their quantum structures. Experiments and theoretical studies on this topic are reviewed. Special attention is given to hydrostatic pressure and strain effects in short periods of nitride superlattices. The explanation of the discrepancies between theory and experiment in optical emission and its pressure dependence from InN/GaN superlattices led to the well-documented conclusion that InN growth on the GaN substrate is not possible. The built-in electric field present in InGaN/GaN and AlGaN/GaN heterostructures crystallizing in a wurtzite lattice can reach several MV/cm, leading to drastic changes in the physical properties of these structures and related devices. It is shown how hydrostatic pressure modifies these effects and helps to understand their origin. Full article

This comprehensive review article examines the complex overlap of affective disorders, psychoses, addictions, anxieties, post-traumatic stress disorder, and somatic symptom disorder in the context of cancer patients, and highlights the intricate interplay between psychiatric and oncological diagnoses. Based on extensive literature, it highlights the profound socioeconomic burdens that result from the coexistence of these disorders. The analysis includes the increased healthcare costs, impaired adherence to treatment, and reduced quality of life for individuals struggling with the co-occurrence of psychiatric and cancer-related problems. By synthesizing the available data through a narrative inquiry, the report aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the multiple socioeconomic challenges faced by this vulnerable patient population. The synthesis of information provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers alike. The aim is to promote the development of more effective and integrated care strategies tailored to the specific needs of people navigating the complicated environment of psychiatric and cancer diagnoses. Ultimately, this review should enable progress in the provision of holistic, patient-centered care for this complex intersection of health conditions. Full article

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of mental disorders in a group of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) during outpatient treatment. Additionally, an attempt was made to assess the influence of parameters related to patients and their clinical status on the prevalence of mental disorders. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted between 2017 and 2018 in a group of 103 patients with MS who underwent treatment at the Outpatient Clinic of Neurology at the Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Zabrze, Poland. Sociodemographic data were collected, and the course of the underlying disease and comorbidities underwent assessment. The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) and psychiatric examination were used to assess the occurrence of mental disorders. Results: In this study, female subjects accounted for 67.96% of patients (mean age: 43 years). Of all patients, 67% of subjects were clinically diagnosed with mental disorders during their lifetime. The results of the MINI Questionnaire showed that 33% of MS patients had a history of a major depressive episode, while 8.7% of patients met the criteria for a depressive episode. The same number of patients were treated for recurrent depressive disorders. Generalized anxiety disorder was diagnosed in 10.7% of patients, agoraphobia in 8.7% and panic disorder in 7.8%. Most patients (94.2%) had a low risk of suicide, according to the MINI Questionnaire. This study did not show a significant influence of age, sex, duration of MS symptoms or severity of symptoms as expressed by the Expanded Disability Status Score (EDSS) on the prevalence of mental disorders (p = 0.05). However, a significantly higher median EDSS score was found in patients with a history of mental disorders (p = 0.03). Additionally, a significant negative correlation was found between having a family and a psychiatric diagnosis (p = 0.01). A statistically significant negative correlation was found between the level of education and the suicide risk as assessed by the MINI Questionnaire (p = 0.03). Conclusions: This study showed a high prevalence of mental disorders in patients with MS, of which depressive episodes and anxiety disorders were the most commonly reported. There may exist a relationship between the degree of disability of MS patients and a higher prevalence of mental disorders. Patients with MS who do not have a family may be more susceptible to mental disorders. In turn, patients with a lower level of education may show a higher risk of suicide. This suggests the need for psychological and psychiatric support for patients with MS, with particular consideration given to those who are alone, those with more severe disability and patients with a lower level of education. Full article

Background: Psychosis is defined as a series of symptoms that impair the mind and lead to a kind of loss of reference to reality. Development of psychosis is usually preceded by the appearance of prodromal symptoms. Numerous attempts have been made to find out how psychoactive substances can influence the onset and development of psychotic disorders, but to date there are no studies that show a link between the onset of prodromal symptoms and the use of psychoactive substances. Methods: A survey consisting of epidemiological and demographic questions, the Drug Use Disorders Identification Test (DUDIT), and the Prodromal Questionnaire Brief Version (PQ-B) was conducted on social media among users of illegal psychoactive substances, covering 703 study participants. Results: A total of 39.8% of the respondents had been treated by a psychiatrist, and the most popular drugs used by respondents in their lifetime were tetrahydrocannabinol-containing products, MDMA, amphetamines, and LSD. A significant correlation was found between the DUDIT and the PQ-B values. Conclusions: Intensity of psychoactive substance use correlated positively with the risk of appearance and intensity of prodromal symptoms of psychosis. Early exposure to psychoactive substances increased the risk of heavy substance use in adulthood and led to more frequent prodromal states. Full article

This study compared physiological, perceptual and neuroprotective hormone and metabolite responses and changes in coordination as an effect of aerobic exercise with and without a face mask in people with mild symptoms of COVID-19. Forty men took part in this study. Half declared mild symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the 6 months before the study (Declared) and the other half did not (Non-declared). In a random order, with a 7-day interval, they performed a 30-min walk on a treadmill at a speed of 6 km/h wearing a surgical face mask (Masked) and without it (Unmasked). The heart rate, heart rate variability, oxygen saturation, lactate concentration and rate of perceived exertion were recorded. The reaction time and balance were measured before and after the exercise. The concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, testosterone, cortisol, epinephrine and antibodies in the blood serum were determined. Physiological and perceptual responses, reaction times, and balance did not differ between the tested conditions. Three-way RM-ANOVA with post hoc Bonferroni analysis revealed lower post-exercise cortisol concentrations in the Masked and Unmasked conditions in both groups (p ≤ 0.001). Asymptomatic infection with this virus is prevalent, and mild COVID-19 causes similar responses to aerobic exercise with a surgical face mask and does not lead to impaired coordination. Full article

Background and Objectives: PolDrugs is the largest Polish naturalistic nationwide survey to present basic demographic and epidemiological data that could potentially prevent harm from illicit substances intake in drugs users. The most recent results were presented in 2021. The goal of this year’s edition was to re-present the above data and compare it to the previous edition’s data to identify and describe the differences. Materials and Methods: The survey included original questions about basic demographics, substance use, and psychiatric treatment. The survey was administered via the Google Forms platform and promoted via social media. The data was collected from 1117 respondents. Results: People of all ages use a variety of psychoactive substances in many situations. The three most commonly used drugs are marijuana, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, and hallucinogenic mushrooms. The most common reason for seeking professional medical help was amphetamine use. A total of 41.7 percent of respondents were receiving psychiatric treatment. The three most common psychiatric diagnoses among the respondents were depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and ADHD. Conclusions: Key findings include increases in the use of psilocybin and DMT, increases in the use of heated tobacco products, and a near doubling in the percentage of individuals receiving psychiatric help in the past two years. These issues are discussed in the discussion section of this paper, which also addresses the limitations to the article. Full article

Olfactory obsessions (OOs) are rarely described in the medical literature. The features of OOs appear consistent with characteristics of a typical obsession, but since they do not involve the realm of thought, it is questionable to term them obsessions per se. Olfactory Reference Syndrome (ORS) presents OOs inconsistently and is a distinctive diagnostic category related to OCD. Therefore, the primary objectives of our study were not only to assess the prevalence of OOs in OCD patients, but also to demonstrate their phenomenological consistency with other OCD symptoms. The study group consisted of 75 patients already diagnosed and treated for OCD. Hence, a comparison was made between OCD patients with and without OOs in terms of: symptom severity, level of insight and comorbidities. Olfactory obsessions (OOs) were found in 21.33% (n = 16). OOs induced compulsive behavior in more than 93% of subjects. The presence of OOs did not significantly differentiate the studied groups in terms of OCD severity (p = 0.876), level of insight (p = 0.680), depression (p = 0.746), mania (p = 0.525) and OCDP traits (p = 0.624). However, a comparison of the two groups showed that OOs patients presented higher levels of hostility (p = 0.036), cognitive impulsivity (p = 0.039), magic-type obsession (75% vs. 35.59%), and contamination obsession (87.50% vs. 67.80%). Conclusions: OOs frequently occur in the course of OCD, and their phenomenology is typical of this disorder. OOs are not a symptom of thought content disorders and are sensory in nature, which is not included in the definition of obsession. The presence of OOs in OCD provokes hostility and cognitive impulsivity. It can be assumed that the Olfactory Obsessions Questionnaire accurately identifies olfactory obsessions. Full article

Sexuality is the one of the most important parts of human life. The aim of our study was to identify the factors influencing the onset and age of sexual initiation in students and drawing attention to the need to improve access to sexual education in Polish schools at a sufficiently high level. An original questionnaire with 31 questions was used for the study. Data were collected using the Google Forms tool. A total of 7528 students participated in the study and 5824 underwent sexual initiation. The mean age at sexual initiation was 18.1 years. Logistic regression analysis was performed to show factors influencing the onset of sexual activity, while linear regression analysis was used for factors influencing the age of sexual initiation. Religion, drug use, smoking, alcohol consumption, type of housing, and conversations with parents about contraception or sex affect the onset of sexual activity. The age of sexual initiation is affected by religion, the age of the first viewing of pornography, quality of life, the size of the city of residence, smoking and drug use. Full article

No single effective therapy for alcohol abuse has been found, despite it being a serious sociological and economic problem for hundreds of years. It seems difficult to find a single drug as a panacea for the alcohol problem due to the complexity of the pathophysiology of alcohol dependence. The purpose of this narrative review is to review existing and potentially future pharmaceuticals for the treatment of alcohol dependence in the most affordable way possible. Psychotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for alcoholism, while few drugs approved by legislators are available in the augmentation of this treatment, such as acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone, approved by the FDA, and nalmefene by the EMA. There are recent reports in the literature on the possibility of using baclofen, topiramate, varenicline, and gabapentin in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Moreover, the results of recent clinical trials using psychoactive substances such as psilocybin and MDMA appear to be a breakthrough in the modern treatment of alcohol abuse. Despite this initial optimism, a lot of scientific effort is still needed before new pharmacological methods supporting the treatment of alcohol dependence syndrome will be widely available. Full article

Background: Frequency Rhythmic Electrical Modulated System (FREMS) is a method of transcutaneous treatment based on frequency-modulated electromagnetic neural stimulation. Its efficacy in neuropathic pain in diabetes mellitus still lacks enough research. Methods: A randomized, single-blind, sham-controlled trial in individuals with symmetric distal polyneuropathy (SDPN) as an add-on therapy compared to standard therapy with alpha-lipoic acid. Participants were randomized to FREMS and standard of care (SOC) versus SOC only. The primary outcome was a change from baseline in perceived pain assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) after 5 days of treatment and after 8 weeks of follow-up between treatment groups. Results: After 5 days of treatment, patients in both groups felt significant reduction in pain as measured by VAS, although only FREMS treatment lasted for 8 weeks and induced a significant improvement in quality of life measured by EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L) and Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGI-C) questionnaires. There were non-significant differences observed in the instrument pain assessment. No relevant side effects were recorded during the study. Conclusions: FREMS as an addition to alpha-lipoic acid therapy occurred to be a beneficial method of treatment in individuals with SDPN and was associated with improvements in pain severity, quality of life and clinical global improvement. Full article

Ego-resiliency is a set of traits that promotes positive adaptation to life’s vicissitudes. High ego-resiliency helps in upholding one’s personality system when facing adversity and in adjusting it to new environmental demands. Our study aimed at evaluating the connections between ego-resiliency, the severity of anxiety and depressive symptoms as well as life satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. A total of 604 Polish citizens aged 16 to 69 years participated in the online survey. Ego-resiliency was measured with the Ego Resiliency Scale (ER89-R12), anxiety and depression with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and life satisfaction with the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Statistical analyses were performed using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient. The results revealed correlations between the intensity of depressive and anxiety symptoms, life satisfaction, and the intensity of ego-resiliency. Individuals with a high level of ego-resiliency tended to experience a lower intensity of anxiety and depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, individuals with a high level of ego-resiliency exhibited a higher level of life satisfaction. Our conclusions might assist in better understanding the close link between levels of ego-resiliency, the occurrence of depressive and anxiety symptoms, and satisfaction with life among Polish individuals experiencing crises. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health of most of the world’s population. The authors of this study decided to identify differences in the intensity of anxiety, aggression and alcohol consumption within the study population. The study was conducted via an Internet survey. It uses Polish adaptations of international scales to assess anxiety (GAD-7), aggression (Buss and Perry Aggression Scale) and alcohol consumption (AUDIT test). A total of 538 people were examined. The surveyed group of respondents does not reflect the structure of Polish society. The group of surveyed women scored higher than men in terms of anxiety, as well as anger and hostility. The examined men were characterized by higher results of alcohol consumption and physical aggression. People between 18 and 49 years of age consumed significantly more alcohol than people aged 50 and over. People aged 18–29 obtained statistically significantly higher scores in generalized aggression and hostility. The relationships between the studied parameters do not differ significantly from those presented in other studies. People under the age of 50 are the group most exposed to the harmful effects of alcohol. Women between the ages of 30 and 49 are most vulnerable to the negative mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need for further research studies in which the studied group will obtain a greater degree of compliance with the structure of Polish society. Full article