bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dapagliflozin Improves Glycemic Control and Reduces Body Weight as Add-on Therapy to Metformin Plus Sulfonylurea: A 24-Week Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Matthaei Stephan , Bowering Keith , Rohwedder Katja , Grohl Anke , Parikh Shamik ,   for the Study 05 Group
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled with metformin and sulfonylurea.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients with HbA1c of 7.0% (53 mmol/mol) to 10.5% (91 mmol/mol) receiving sulfonylurea and metformin were randomized to receive dapagliflozin 10 mg/day (n = 109) or placebo (n = 109) for 24 weeks.

RESULTS

HbA1c (baseline: dapagliflozin 8.08% [65 mmol/mol]; placebo 8.24% [67 mmol/mol]) and fasting plasma glucose (baseline: dapagliflozin 167.4 mg/dL [9.29 mmol/L]; placebo 180.5 mg/dL [10.02 mmol/L]) significantly improved from baseline with dapagliflozin (placebo-subtracted change –0.69% [–7.5 mmol/mol], P < 0.0001; –33.5 mg/dL [–1.86 mmol/L], P < 0.0001, respectively). More patients achieved a therapeutic glycemic response (HbA1c <7.0% [53 mmol/mol]) with dapagliflozin (31.8%) versus placebo (11.1%) (P < 0.0001). Body weight and systolic blood pressure were significantly reduced from baseline over 24 and 8 weeks, respectively, with dapagliflozin (placebo-subtracted change –2.1 kg, P < 0.0001; –3.8 mmHg, P = 0.0250). Patients receiving dapagliflozin showed placebo-subtracted increases in total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol (11.4 mg/dL, P = 0.0091; 11.4 mg/dL, P = 0.0030; 2.2 mg/dL, P = 0.0172, respectively) with no change in LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio (0.1; P = 0.2008) or triglycerides (–16.5 mg/dL; P = 0.1755). Adverse events occurred in 48.6% of patients receiving dapagliflozin and 51.4% receiving placebo. Significantly more patients with dapagliflozin compared with placebo experienced hypoglycemia (12.8 vs. 3.7%; P = 0.024) and genital infections (5.5 vs. 0%; P = 0.029). Events of urinary tract infection were reported by 6.4% of patients in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Dapagliflozin was well tolerated and effective over 24 weeks as add-on to metformin plus sulfonylurea. Adverse effects included hypoglycemia and genital infections.
Dietary Diabetes Risk Reduction Score, Race and Ethnicity, and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in Women
Authors: Rhee Jinnie J. , Mattei Josiemer , Hughes Michael D. , Hu Frank B. , Willett Walter C.
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate racial and ethnic differences in the association between a dietary diabetes risk reduction score and incidence of type 2 diabetes in U.S. white and minority women.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We followed 156,030 non-Hispanic white (NHW), 2,026 Asian, 2,053 Hispanic, and 2,307 black women in the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) (1980–2008) and NHS II (1991–2009). A time-updated dietary diabetes risk reduction score (range 8–32) was created by adding points corresponding with each quartile of intake of eight dietary factors (1 = highest risk; 4 = lowest risk). A higher score indicates a healthier overall diet.

RESULTS

We documented 10,922 incident type 2 diabetes cases in NHW, 157 in Asian, 193 in Hispanic, and 307 in black women. Multivariable-adjusted pooled hazard ratio across two cohorts for a 10th–90th percentile range difference in dietary diabetes risk reduction score was 0.49 (95% CI 0.46, 0.52) for NHW, 0.53 (0.31, 0.92) for Asian, 0.45 (0.29, 0.70) for Hispanic, 0.68 (0.47, 0.98) for black, and 0.58 (0.46, 0.74) for overall minority women (P for interaction between minority race/ethnicity and dietary score = 0.08). The absolute risk difference (cases per 1,000 person-years) for the same contrast in dietary score was −5.3 (−7.8, −2.7) for NHW, −7.2 (−22.9, 8.4) for Asian, −11.6 (−26.7, 3.5) for Hispanic, −6.8 (−19.5, 5.9) for black, and −8.0 (−15.6, −0.5) for overall minority women (P for interaction = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

A higher dietary diabetes risk reduction score was inversely associated with risk of type 2 diabetes in all racial and ethnic groups, but the absolute risk difference was greater in minority women.
Evaluating the Effect of U-500 Insulin Therapy on Glycemic Control in Veterans With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Granata Joseph A. , Nawarskas Ann D. , Resch Nina D. , Vigil Justina M.
Published: January 2015

IN BRIEF This article describes a single-center, retrospective chart review to determine the glycemic effect of converting from U-100 to U-500 regular insulin in veterans with type 2 diabetes and the effect of this change, if any, on the frequency of provider contacts. Results showed that U-500 insulin improved glycemic control without significantly increasing the risk of hypoglycemia or total daily insulin dose, even when follow-up contacts with providers were not structured or frequent.
Mycotoxicoses in children
Authors: Peraica Maja , Richter Darko , Rašić Dubravka
Published: January 2015

Mycotoxicoses are acute and chronic poisonings caused by mould toxins called mycotoxins. Although acute mycotoxicoses, caused by high mycotoxin levels in food are rare nowadays, they need to be described in order to inform physicians and other health care workers about their symptoms. Children are more sensitive to mycotoxins because of their lower body mass, higher metabolic rate, and underdeveloped organ functions and detoxication mechanisms. Some mycotoxicoses appear only in children, and some are more pronounced in children than in adults. Acute mycotoxicoses in children are reported poorly, mostly because they occur in the tropical regions with poor healthcare coverage. In developed countries healthcare authorities are more concerned about child exposure to low levels of mycotoxins with immunotoxic, genotoxic or carcinogenic properties
Atmospheric Deposition of Copper and Zinc in Maramures County (Romania)
Authors: Buteana Claudia , Berinde Zoita M. , Mihali Cristina , Michnea Angela M. , Gavra Anamaria , Simionescu Mirela
Published: January 2015

The need to reduce pollution to levels that minimize adverse effects on human health involve the monitoring of air quality, including dry depositions and their metal content. The analysis of these parameters aims to investigate the air quality in Maramures County (with nonferrous mining activities) and in the Romanian - Ukraine transboundary area. The paper presents the experimental results obtained for dry atmospheric deposition of copper and zinc using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The samples were collected from four location/cities of Maramures County (Baia Mare, Sighetu Marmatiei, Viseu de Sus and Borsa) during May-October 2014. The highest average values of copper concentration in the dry depositions were found in Baia Mare (199.88 μg/g), that is the most important industrial centre in Maramures County, followed by Borsa (111.49 μg/g), that used to be a nonferrous mining centre. In Viseu de Sus and Sighetu Marmatiei the average concentrations of copper in the dry depositions were lower: 75.63 μg/g and 64.26 μg/g, respectively. Zn average concentrations in dry depositions were 6.4-12 times higher than Cu concentrations. In Viseu de Sus and Borsa relative high values of Pearson correlation coefficients between the logarithm of Cu and Zn content in the dry deposition were found (0.702 and 0.737, respectively) estimating that both pollutants in the ambient air have the same sources, probably the re-suspension of the dust from the tailing ponds. This study is implemented within the frame of ENPI Cross-border Cooperation Programme Hungary-Slovakia-Romania-Ukraine 2007-2013, in the project Clean Air Management in the Romania-Ukraine Transboundary Area - (CLAMROUA), financed by the European Union
Myofibroblasts in Normal and Fibrotic Liver in Different Animal Species
Authors: Vladimir Kukolj
Published: January 2015

Myofibroblasts, cells sharing characteristics with fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, may have a very heterogeneous origin. The myofibroblasts may be derived from a variety of sources including resident mesenchymal cells, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, as well as from circulating fibroblast-like cells called fibrocytes that are derived from bone-marrow stem cells, or derived from bone marrow precursors. In normal conditions, fibroblastic cells exhibit a low extracellular matrix production ability. After tissue injury, they become activated by cytokines locally released from inflammatory and resident cells to migrate into the damaged tissue and to synthesize extracellular matrix components. The investigation of cytoskeletal and cell surface markers showed a certain degree of heterogeneity of these cells. The reason for this is that markers these cells express to a large extent depend on the type of animal, age and stage of development of fibrosis. A better knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in the appearance of differentiated myofibroblasts in different pathological situations will be useful for understanding the development of fibrosis, its prevention and therapy
Experimental Assessment of a New Type of Vascular Prostheses with Adiponectin (Adipograft Ra 1Vk 7/350) on Sheep
Authors: Jiří Podlaha , Kräuff Schwanhaeuser
Published: January 2015

Despite medical advancements, the development of an ideal vascular prosthesis still poses a great challenge. In this study the researchers tried to test and verify the characteristics of a new type of vascular prosthesis, using adiponectin (Adipograft Ra 1vk 7/350) developed at the Knitting Research Institute, a.s. Brno. Two types of vascular prostheses (12 with adiponectin and 6 as a control without adiponectin) were implanted in nine healthy 4-year-old Merino sheep. The implantation site was the common carotid artery and the length of the implant was 10 cm. We applied the theory of the protected coagulum, whereby all sheep received antibiotics as a prophylactic measure. A Doppler U.S. was performed before finishing each operation, in order to verify the patency of the prostheses. Each animal was followed up during the whole study and the prostheses were extirpated on days 30 and 100 (1 and 3 months). It was observed that all prostheses coated with adiponectin showed patency after extirpation. The lumen implants were of a consistent thickness of 7 mm. Histological study of the implanted prostheses confirmed a quick, high quality, healing. Experimental vascular prostheses coated with adiponectin appeared to be successful in clinical practice. The researchers think that Adipograft Ra 1vk 7/350 can be a turning point in the development of vascular prostheses, due to its patency and quick healing.
Cardiorespiratory and Hemodynamic Effects of Medetomidine or Xylazine with Atropine and Diazepam Premedication for Total Intravenous Anesthesia Induced and Maintained with Propofol/Fentanyl in Dogs Undergoing Surgery
Authors: Tomáš Lipták , Igor Capík , Valent Ledecký , Oskar Nagy , Mária Kuricová , Csilla Tóthová , Aladár Maďari , Jana Farbáková , Vladimír Petrovič , Slavomír Horňák
Published: January 2015

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of different premedication protocols followed by a propofol/fentanyl TIVA on cardio-respiratory and hemodynamic changes in twenty-four dogs randomly divided into two groups (AMD-group: medetomidine, atropine and diazepam; AXD-group: xylazine, atropine and diazepam). Cardiorespiratory variables, acid-base indices, quality of sedation, induction, intubation and recovery were recorded throughout the experiment. Significant changes were observed for the pO2 level, which was increased in the AMDgroup from 90 min. (*P< 0.05) to 120 min. (**P< 0.01) of anesthesia. This can be explained by a reduction of the administration rate of propofol/fentanyl TIVA and oxygenation initiated due to excessively deep anesthesia detected by an anesthetsiologist, leading to improved ventilation and increased pO2. The pCO2 (*P < 0.05) reached more preferable values during the first 30 min. and pH (**P< 0.01) was significantly improved within the first 60 min. in the AXD-group thanks to less depressant effects of xylazine. Within the first 30 min. of anesthesia a significant heart rate difference between the groups was accompanied with significantly higher BP (hypertension) in the AXD-group (10 min. ***P< 0.001, 30 min. **P< 0.01). This points to the possibility of atropine application only in the case of a tendency to bradycardia followed by hypotension. It can be concluded that xylazine is a better option for the premedication of a propofol/ fentanyl TIVA in dogs undergoing a prolonged surgical intervention, in spite of the fact that lower sedation scores were attained. We have detected significantly less adverse cardio-respiratory and hemodynamic effects of xylazine, and a shorter recovery time when compared to medetomidine
Reproductive Health of Youth in the World and Serbia / Reproduktivno Zdravlje Mladih U Svetu I Srbiji
Authors: Radulović Olivera , Babić Slađana , Veljković Milena , Stefanović Ana , Šagrić Čedomir , Bulatović Katarina
Published: January 2015

Reproductive health implies that people are able to have a responsible, satisfying and safe sex life and that they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide about it. It is directly conditioned by social, cultural and behavior factors.

One in every five people in the world is an adolescent, and 85% of them live in developing countries. In many countries, taboos and norms about sexuality pose strong barriers to providing information, health services and other forms of support needed by young people to safeguard their sexual and reproductive health.

The regulation of fertility is the most important factor that affects the reproductive health. Adolescents are not sufficiently aware of the possibility of contraception or sexually transmitted infections. In Serbia, 84% of boys and 65% girls (adolescents) have had sexual experience. Worldwide, 36-70% of adolescents do not use contraception and unwanted pregnancies are the reason for 90% of unwanted births and 89% of unsafe abortions.

There are many programs in the world which aim to increase the knowledge about preservation of reproductive health. There are not any national programs in our country for family planning and preservation of reproductive health in youth population. In national strategy for youth are given different ways of youth education in the field of health promotion, including promotion of reproductive health.

In order to ensure that adolescents have the ability to achieve good health, we must provide information and education in a timely manner, and we need to provide life skills and choices.
Unfolded Protein Response and Triad Formation in Skeletal Muscles of Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia Mouse / Odgovor Razvijenog Proteina I Formiranje Trijada U Skeletnim Mišićima Miševa Sa Kateholaminergičkom Polimorfnom Ventrikularnom Tahikardijom
Authors: Bakiu Rigers
Published: January 2015

Isoform 2 of calsequestrin (CASQ2) is the main calcium-binding protein of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), expressed both in cardiac and in skeletal muscles. CASQ2 acts as an SR calcium (Ca2+) sensor and regulates SR Ca2+ release via interactions with triadin, junctin, and the ryanodine receptor. Various mutations of the csq2 gene lead to altered Ca2+ release and contractile dysfunction contributing to the development of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death in young individuals affected by catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT).

Recently, a transgenic mouse carrying one of the identified CASQ2 point-mutations (R33Q) associated to CPVT was developed and a drastic reduction of the mutated protein was observed. Following a biomolecular approach, several analysis were performed using different antibody treatments in order to identify when the reduction of CASQ2 begins in skeletal muscles, unveil the mechanism involved in the reduction of CASQ2 in slow-twitch and fast twitch muscles and verify if other proteins are affected by the presence of the mutated protein.

Mutated CASQ2 decreased soon after birth. Up-regulation of proteins associated to the unfolded protein response (UPR) was also observed. Important proteins in skeletal muscle triads formation were analyzed and increased protein levels were observed in adult knock-in CASQ2-R33Q/R33Q mice.

Probably, R33Q mutation induced the decrease of CASQ2 by activation of the UPR and subsequently degradation through proteasome.
Comparing the Current and Desired Situation of Midwifery Students' Clinical Evaluation from Tutors' and Students' Viewpoints of Mashhad School of Nursing & Midwifery / Poređenje Trenutne I Željene Situacije U Pogledu Kliničke Evaluacije Studenata Akušerstva Sa Stanovišta Asistenata I Samih Studenata Mašhad Fakulteta Za Obrazovanje Akušerskih I Medicinskih Sestara
Authors: Jafarnejad Farzaneh , Hoseini Bibi Leila , Mazloum Seyed Reza
Published: January 2015

Evaluation is the most important field of efficacy in clinical education. Since knowledge of the current situation is one of the most essential requirements for planning a desirable one and students' and tutors' viewpoints act as a facilitator in this regard, we conducted this study to compare the current and desirable situation of clinical evaluation from the students' and tutors' point of view at Mashhad Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery.

In this cross-sectional study, midwifery students and tutors of the Mashhad University of medical sciences were assessed. The researcher - designed questionnaires "current and desirable situation of criteria and methods in clinical evaluation" were approved by content validity and Cronbach's alpha. Descriptive and analytic statistics were used.

Total score means of current and desirable criteria in clinical evaluation were: 55.2± 18.0 and 68.4±19.3 (of 100) from students' view, respectively; and: 47.0±18.3 and 72.3± 20.4 (of 100) from tutors' view, respectively. Mean total scores of current and desirable methods in clinical evaluation from students' point of view were: 51.5±17.9 and 56.5±18.3, respectively, and tutors': 55.6±16.0 and 69.5±14.4 (of 100), respectively.

The findings showed that the current situation of criteria and methods in midwifery clinical evaluation differs from the desirable situation, i.e. the current status score of criteria and methods is lower than the desirable ones. Therefore, we can improve the current situation with criteria and methods in clinical evaluation by using desirable situation.
Extensive Bone Marrow Involvement in Hodgkin Lymphoma Patient / Ekstenzivno Zahvatanje Koštane Srži Kod Bolesnika Sa Hočkinovim Limfomom
Authors: Petković Ivan , Krstić Miljan , Stojnev Slavica , Pejčić Ivica , Vrbić Svetislav
Published: January 2015

Bone marrow involvement is rare in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Its incidence varies with respect to risk factors from 4% to 14%. Low risk patients do not need trephine biopsy according to some research. In the era of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) staging prior to therapy, the role of trephine biopsy as a part of staging procedures becomes debatable. Many institutions worldwide created their own guidelines in the application of trephine biopsy in staging of the (HL) patients. Our institution prefers performing trephine biopsy in all risk group patients, except those who underwent PET/CT staging before therapy and if no active bone sites were found. Most of our patients are staged using multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and we perform PET/CT in the follow up after completing the induction protocol. That is why we propose the trephine biopsy to the most of our patients. A Greek group of authors have derived a clinical prediction rule for the possibility of the bone marrow involvement, which is named the Z score (Zs), and if it is ≥10, patients are at high risk for bone marrow involvement.

We present a case of a neglected, advanced (HL) patient, with the defined high risk for bone marrow involvement (Zs=25). He was clinically suspected to have affected bone marrow, which was later histologically confirmed. Unilateral trephine biopsy was performed.
Osteomalacia or Osteoporosis - Case Report / Osteomalacija Ili Osteoporoza - Prikaz Slučaja
Authors: Živković Nela , Stojanović Sonja
Published: January 2015

The aim of the paper was to show the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to a patient suffering from osteomalacia, as well as differential diagnosis with osteoporosis.

Osteomalacia (OM) is a metabolic disease of bones which appears as a result of defective mineralization of newly formed bone matrix in adults. Diagnosis of disease may represent a big problem. A 67-year-old female patient from Pirot was examined in an outpatient unit by a rheumatologist in the Niška Banja Institute in December 2012. The patient reported pain along the vertebral column and inability to get out of bed. Radiography showed vertebral compression fractures and the patient had previously received surgical care at Orthopedics Ward of General Hospital Pirot due to the left femur fracture. Orthopedist, neurologist, physiatrist and practicing rheumatologist suspected osteoporosis. The diagnosis of osteomalacia was established in February, 2013. The treatment was initiated by introducing large doses of vitamin D and advising bisphosphonates. After eighth months, the patient's general condition was improved. This was demonstrated by her independent mobility.
MEROMORPHIC FUNCTIONS SHARE TWO VALUES WITH ITS DIFFERENCE OPERATOR
Authors: Jiang Yeyang , Chen Zongxuan
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we investigate the uniqueness problem related to a mero- morphic function f(z) and its difference operator Δf(z) = f(z + n) - f(z), and we prove that Δf(z) and f(z) share a,b CM, where f(z) is a meromorpnic function with N(r,f) = S(r,f), then f(z + η) = 2f(z).
Alternative Approaches to a Calibration of Rainfall- Runoff Models for a Flood Frequency Analysis
Authors: Valent Peter , Szolgay Ján , Výleta Roman
Published: January 2015

One of the tools which are currently being used in flood frequency analysis (FFA) is rainfall-runoff (RR) modelling. Its use in FFA often confronts the problem of how to correctly calibrate RR models to extreme flows. Since FFA only deals with extreme flows, traditional calibration techniques using simple objective functions such as the Nash-Sutcliffe model’s efficiency criterion are not sufficient. In this paper we have focused on proposing alternative approaches for calibration techniques of RR models in order to enhance the description of extreme flows. We have selected the HBV type conceptual, lumped model HRON as an RR model. We have suggested two alternative calibration approaches: 1) the use of a new optimization function that compares only values higher than the 95th percentile of observed flows and 2) using two sets of parameters to separately simulate low and high flows. Each of these improvements has enhanced the simulation of extreme flows, which has been demonstrated in the empirical cumulative distribution function calculated for the simulated and observed annual maximum series of flows. The results of this paper show that improvement can be obtained by both approaches, which give good agreement between observed and simulated extreme flows, while preserving a good simulation of low and medium flows
Enzyme-Assisted Extraction of Polyphenols From Rose (Rosa Damascena Mill.) Petals
Authors: Kalcheva-Karadzhova Krasimira , Shikov Vasil , Mihalev Kiril , Dobrev Georgi , Ludneva Danka , Penov Nikolai
Published: January 2015

: The efficiency of enzyme-assisted extraction for the recovery of polyphenols from rose (Rosa damascena Mill.) petals was evaluated performing a simplex centroid experimental design for mixture with three components (pectinolytic, cellulolytic and hemicellulolytic preparation). The ternary enzyme combinations leaded to the highest contents of total polyphenols, reaching 43% higher average value as compared to the control (without enzymatic treatment) sample. Enzymatic treatments also enhanced (9−25%) the extractability of total anthocyanins. The results obtained demonstrate that enzyme-assisted extraction improves the recovery of polyphenolic antioxidants from rose petals, especially using ternary enzyme combinations, comprising pectinolytic, cellulolytic and hemicellulolytic preparation.
Identification of Probiotic Strains from Human Milk in Breastfed Infants with Respiratory Infections
Authors: Neamtu Bogdan , Tita Ovidiu , Neamtu Mihai , Tita Mihaela , Hila Mirela , Maniu Ionela
Published: January 2015

Isolation and industrial exploitation of probiotics from human milk is a goal for worldwide milk biotechnology centres because of their modulation effect on the immune system in infants and adults. In the proposed study we have analysed fermentation patterns of Lactobacilli isolated from human milk, the reliability of API 50 CH carbohydrate fermentation system and a possible link between lactose concentrations and fermentation profiles on carbohydrates. We had succesfully identified three species of Lactobacillus (paracasei ssp paracasei, fermentum, acidophilus) and one unsatisfactory identification of Lactoccocus lactis ssp lactis. These strains had different carbohydrate fermentation patterns but with common characteristics and showed no statistically significant correlations between their carbohydrate metabolic trends and lactose concentrations in the milk samples.
Tribology Considerations Regarding the Replacement of The Olc45 Material,Without Heat Treatment, with OL52 in Order to Improve the Product Conveyor Rollersupport Pin
Authors: Bâtiu Ciprian Dan
Published: January 2015

The experimental approach to the galling process of the materials used in machinery industry is a very important point in determining the durability of the contact surfaces of two materials. This paper is an experimental study designed to analyze the contact surface of a metallic material such as OL52, and also the wear of the material after the application of force. For the study there was used a test stand which has attached a weight, sliding on a certain ruler, an electric motor and a dial indicator which can identify the amperage value. There were used charts, graphics, and also photographic images and corresponding tables
The Effects of High Temperature on Gessoes with Different Admixtures
Authors: Budu Ana-Maria , Sandu Ion , Cristache Raluca Anamaria
Published: January 2015

This paper presents the effects of temperature on gessoes that have different substances added, usually used in painting or restoration to enhance the flexibility of the ground layer or to create a suitable gesso for the specific painting technique. Five samples of gesso were made and applied on Balsa wood (a dry, stable wood that is used in restoration for completing the missing elements of the panel). After the thermal treatment, the samples were analyzed optical, by microscopy and colorimetry. The results showed small differences in colour, but no cracks of the gessoes
Industrial Applications of Image Processing
Authors: Ciora Radu Adrian , Simion Carmen Mihaela
Published: January 2015

The recent advances in sensors quality and processing power provide us with excellent tools for designing more complex image processing and pattern recognition tasks. In this paper we review the existing applications of image processing and pattern recognition in industrial engineering. First we define the role of vision in an industrial. Then a dissemination of some image processing techniques, feature extraction, object recognition and industrial robotic guidance is presented. Moreover, examples of implementations of such techniques in industry are presented. Such implementations include automated visual inspection, process control, part identification, robots control. Finally, we present some conclusions regarding the investigated topics and directions for future investigation
Seasonal Variability of Climatic Conditions for Tourism and Recreation Along the Southern Coast of the Baltic Sea
Authors: Świątek Małgorzata
Published: January 2015

This paper aims to indicate the periods within the year that are most and least suited to outdoor recreation along the southern coast of the Baltic Sea. The author indicates these periods based on the analysis of annual variability of several meteorological and bioclimatic parameters from the years 1981-2010 in Greifswald and Świnoujście, and from 1985 to 2010 in Hel and Gdynia. Passive recreation is favoured in July and the first half of August. The whole of the summer season has the most favourable conditions for active recreation. Good conditions frequently occur in May, and to a lesser degree in September. The advantages of May are that it has the highest sunshine duration and the lowest frequency of precipitation.
Geotourist Potential Of Post-Mining Regions In Poland
Authors: Nita Jerzy , Myga-Piątek Urszula
Published: January 2015

The current article will attempt to confirm that Polish post-mining areas are characterized by high cognitive and aesthetic values and that they have great geotourism potential, which has been little used so far. Tourism is regarded to be one of the most dynamically growing sectors of the global economy and is a phenomenon that occurs in the landscapes of all ecological and altitudinal zones. Geotourism is among the relatively recent types of tourism. Poland is a highly attractive country for geotourism. The aim of this article is to analyze the distribution and size of post-mining areas in Poland and, based on these analyses, to assess the geotourist potential of selected post-mining regions. Based on the distribution of natural resource mining sites and their potential and actual use in geotourism, the authors selected 20 actual and potential geotourist regions in Poland. These regions were divided into three basic categories based on their attractiveness.
Trends in the gameplay of European football players
Authors: Soroka Andrzej
Published: January 2015

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of footballers who participated in the 2008 and 2012 European Championships. The study was conducted by analysis of basic technical and tactical game.

Material/Methods: The observation method in the form of a kinematic game analysis system was used to collect necessary data. The research material was based on analysis of 304 players participating in the 2008 European Championships and 277 players in the 2012 European Championships, with each tournament consisting of 31 matches. Statistica software was used to apply the Student’s t-test for the independent groups.

Results: Higher values of indicators determining player’s efficiency were found in the teams participating in the 2012 tournament; significant differences were found in the total number (p = 0.048) and accuracy (p = 0.034) of shots taken by the most successful teams, in the number (p = 0.044), efficiency (p = 0.002) and accuracy (p < 0.001) of passes as well as in the length of distance covered (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: A systematic increase in the efficiency of passes in subsequent tournaments points to an upward trend of this element in the game. An increase was also noted in the number of shots taken, which was accompanied by a decrease in shot accuracy. Modern football has become a fast team game with lots of passes of high reliability. Thus, training of young players should be focused on the development of playing techniques and motor skills
Evaluation of analgesic effectiveness of infrared radiation and interference currents in degenerative diseases
Authors: Kawa Malgorzata , Muszynska Ewa , Kowza-Dzwonkowska Malgorzata
Published: January 2015

Background: The aim of this research is to evaluate analgesic effectiveness of infrared radiation and interference currents in degenerative diseases of joints. On the grounds of current practical and theoretical experience, the following hypothesis was formed: Application of interference currents and infrared radiation constitutes effective analgesic therapy in degenerative diseases, and in the case of the applied treatment, its effectiveness is long-term.

Material/Methods: Tests were conducted on a group consisting of 32 women and men in the age range of 65-87 years of age suffering from a degenerative disease of the knee joint. The patients were applied a series of 10 treatments with application of the Sollux lamp for 15 minutes and interference currents of 50-100 HZ frequency for 5 minutes and 90- 100 Hz for 10 minutes during treatment. Evaluation of the efficiency of therapy was checked by means of the VAS scale and the Laitinen scale.

Results: The results indicate an efficient analgesic effect according to the VAS scale immediately after treatment p = 0.002 and a month after treatment p = 0.000 as well as according to the Laitinen scale immediately after treatment p = 0.004 and a month after treatment p = 0.004.

Conclusions: Application of infrared radiation and interference currents indicates an analgesic effect. These treatments may be alternative or supportive to pharmacological treatment in the case of degenerative changes in people who are over 65 years of age. Results of the research suggest continuation of further research on the effectiveness of the above-mentioned therapy and the length of preserving analgesic results in people with degenerative diseases of joints
Students’ attitude to and motivation for outdoor life
Authors: Liepina Inga , Krauksta Daina
Published: January 2015

Background: The aim of the research was to find out how the process of the study course Tourism at the Latvian Academy of Sport Education affects the formation of the students’ attitude towards outdoor life education.

Material/Methods: In order to find it out, first of all, we clarified the students’ previous knowledge, understanding of outdoor education, as well as their previous outdoor life experience. The total number of participants was 97 students. Both theoretical and practical classes, as well as a five-day outdoor camp with various outdoor activities were included in the study course Tourism. The method of inquiry was used in the research.

Results: The results of the first inquiries showed that students have very small previous outdoor life experience. The study course Tourism helped students develop a positive attitude and at least short-time motivation for the development of further outdoor experience.

Conclusions: Research shows that Latvian Academy of Sport Education students’ prior outdoor living experience compared to experiences of other country students, such as Norway, the Czech Republic, or Sweden, is very small. The study course program Tourism increased students outdoor living experience. The course comprised a positive attitude and at least a temporary motivation for further formation of an outdoor experience. However, to ensure long-term motivation, further studies are required
The Curious Chasidic Pilgrimage to Lelov, Poland
Authors: Morawska Lucia
Published: January 2015

This paper discusses a Chasidic pilgrimage movement focused on Lelov, which lies south of Cracow. Pilgrimage has always been a major part of Jewish tradition, but for many years during the Cold War it was possible only for a devoted few to return to Poland. With the collapse of Communism, however, pilgrimage sites in Central and Eastern Europe have become much more accessible and consequently ultra-orthodox Jews have created a ‘return movement’.
The Conflicts of Identity: Nationalism in Post-Yugoslavian Macedonia
Authors: Clark James D.
Published: January 2015

This article looks at the challenges faced by Macedonia in creating a national identity since independence. After briefly reviewing the region’s history since the 7th century, the revolt for independence at the end of the 19th century, the interwar period when it was part of Serbia, and the Yugoslav era when Macedonia first attained a separate political existence, the article addresses the challenges the Slav Macedonians faced in creating an identity for the new state. Some of those challenges came from Serbia and Bulgaria, which claimed that the Macedonian Slavs were actually part of their respective nations, and from Greece, which objected to the symbols and the name they had adopted. The greatest resistance inside Macedonia to an exclusively Slavic national identity, however, came from the Albanian community, located mainly in the eastern reaches of the country and in Skopje. An unwillingness to share power or to make concessions by the Slav nationalists eventually resulted in armed insurrection by the Albanians in 2001. Though the Ohrid Accords signed the same year ended the fighting, tension between the two communities has continued on and off until the present, despite some examples of peaceful coexistence.
The League of Nations and Armenian Refugees. The Formation of the Armenian Diaspora in Syria
Authors: Gzoyan Edita
Published: January 2015

The League of Nations played an important role in securing the Armenian community after the 1915 genocide of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey. Nonetheless, the Armenian Question, which had a definite political accent during the First and Second Assembly of the League of Nations, remained unresolved. Afterwards, the League reformulated its policy towards the Armenian case, which involved an explicit shift from a political to a humanitarian point of view.

The humanitarian actions had a number of different aspects: the liberation of the Armenian Genocide survivors from Turkish and Islamic institutions, the provision of Nansen passports to Armenian refugees, the settlement of Armenian refugees in Soviet Armenia and the establishment of Armenian communities in Syria and Lebanon.

This article touches upon these initiatives, concentrating on the settlement of the Armenians in Syria. The League of Nations elaborated a massive program for the settlement of Armenian refugees there, which laid a foundation for the establishment of the huge Armenian diaspora in that country.
Proinnovative Policy and the National Innovation System a case study from Poland
Authors: Kwieciński Leszek
Published: January 2015

The article explores the main elements of the creation a proinnovation policy in Poland as a new case of public policy. It analyses the current status of proinnovation policy in Poland and the relationships implicit in the Polish National Innovation System. The findings support the conclusion that Polish proinnovation policy and the system through which it is enacted are at an early stage of development which is characteristic of co-called ‘catching-up’ countries. The findings show that there is a need for the strategic and holistic management of this type of sub-functional system to enable it to support SMEs in the development of their capacity for innovation. This should include a wide range of public and private institutions in the context of multi-stage governance.
Load Carrying Capacity of Metal Dowel Type Connections of Timber Structures
Authors: Gocál Jozef
Published: January 2015

This paper deals with the load-carrying capacity calculation of laterally loaded metal dowel type connections according to Eurocode 5. It is based on analytically derived, relatively complicated mathematical relationships, and thus it can be quite laborious for practical use. The aim is to propose a possible simplification of the calculation. Due to quite a great variability of fasteners’ types and the connection arrangements, the attention is paid to the most commonly used nailed connections. There was performed quite an extensive parametric study focused on the calculation of load-carrying capacity of the simple shear and double shear plane nail connections, joining two or three timber parts of softwood or hardwood. Based on the study results, in conclusion there are presented simplifying recommendations for practical design.
Economic Functions Proposal of Urgency Prioritization of Investment Projects of Operated Railway Bridges
Authors: Pitoňák Martin
Published: January 2015

The main objective of the article is to describe the proposals of economic functions within the prioritization of urgency investments of operated railway bridges within a comprehensive evaluation of existing bridges. The purpose of the paper is a comprehensive assessment of existing bridges and to define determinants and determinants of decision-making and designing a mechanism of decision-making procedures of prioritized infrastructure measures in the form of repairs and reconstructions of bridges resulting from the records of supervising activities based not only on technical but also economic aspects to the railway infrastructure manager.
The Usability of Different Skid Resistance Characteristics in Road Assessment
Authors: Kováč Matúš , Kotek Peter
Published: January 2015

The article was created as a reaction on the request of the Slovak Road Administration, whether it would be possible to evaluate level of friction on the road network only by using laser equipped device Profilograph GE, instead of by using longitudinal friction coefficient measuring device Skiddometer BV11, which is slow, much more difficult on operation and it is necessary to fulfil the water tank for measurements. In order to find out the answer, there were evaluated measurements performed on road sections in Slovakia for the past few years. The main goal was to compare results obtained by both devices, and to find a relevant correlation between them. For better understanding of the problematic and for the demonstration of disadvantages of some texture characteristics, there are performed a comparisons of the different parameters evaluated on model surface profiles in the end of this work.
Experimental Analysis of Stiffness of the Riveted Steel Railway Bridge Deck Members’ Joints
Authors: Gocál Jozef , Hlinka Richard , Jošt Jozef , Bahleda František
Published: January 2015

The paper deals with the real behaviour of the riveted steel railway bridge deck members’ connections with respect to their bending stiffness. Attention is paid to the stringer-to-cross beam connection as well as the cross beam-to-main girder connection. The stiffness of the two connections is investigated on the basis of evaluation of the experimentally determined stress response of the observed structural members to the actual traffic load on an existing railway bridge.
Economic Development And Transfrontier Shipments Of Waste In Poland – Spatio-Temporal Analysis
Authors: Antczak Elżbieta
Published: January 2015

The aim of the paper is to apply the spatio-temporal Environmental Kuznets Curve (SpEKC) to test the relationship between economic growth and the amount of collected mixed municipal waste. The analysis was conducted at the level of sixty-six Polish sub-regions. The study contained selected environmental indicators. The dependent variable - the amount of municipal waste generated in kilograms per capita characterized the state of the environment. The GDP per capita in constant prices (as an explanatory variable) presented the level of economic development of the sub-regions. In the empirical part of the research there were used spatial panel data models based on EKCs. It determined the levels of economic development, at which the amount of produced wastes has fallen or increased, depending on the wealth of the region. The application of different types of spatial weight matrices was an important element of this modelling. Data obtained the years 2005-2012. Models were estimated in the RCran package.
Transport Accessibility In Light Of The DEA Method
Authors: Górniak Joanna
Published: January 2015

The development of transport infrastructure and increasing the efficiency of transport services are major factors of economic growth. The concept of transport accessibility can be analysed in various aspects. This article focuses on the accessibility of freight transport by road and rail, measured with infrastructure equipment. The primary objective of this study is to determine the efficiency of selected European countries in 2000, 2005 and 2010 in terms of transport accessibility for given expenditures and results. The efficiency will be measured with the Data Envelopment Analysis, which assesses the efficiency with which a given economy transforms expenditures into results. The hypothesis assumes the existence of differences between the efficiency in terms of transport accessibility in European countries and a possibility to increase this efficiency by using the experience of countries with a high efficiency level.
The Effect Of Omitted Spatial Effects And Social Dependence In The Modelling Of Household Expenditure For Fruits And Vegetables
Authors: Łaszkiewicz Edyta , Dong Guanpeng , Harris Richard
Published: January 2015

As is well known, ignoring spatial heterogeneity leads to biased parameter estimates, while omitting the spatial lag of a dependent variable results in biasness and inconsistency (Anselin, 1988). However, the common approach to analysing households’ expenditures is to ignore the potential spatial effects and social dependence. In light of this, the aim of this paper is to examine the consequences of omitting the spatial effects as well as social dependence in households’ expenditures. We use the Household Budget Survey microdata for the year 2011 from which we took households’ expenditures for fruits and vegetables. The effect of ignoring spatial effects and/or social dependence is analysed using four different models obtained by imposing restrictions on the core parameters of the hierarchical spatial autoregressive model (HSAR). Finally, we estimate the HSAR model to demonstrate the existence of spatial effects and social dependence. We find the omitted elements of the external environment affect negatively the estimates for other spatial (social) effect parameters. Especially, we notice the overestimation of the random effect variance when the social dependence is omitted and the overestimation of the social interaction effect when the spatial heterogeneity is ignored.
Spatial Diversification Of The Regional Expenses On Culture In Poland 2003-2012
Authors: Suchecki Adam Mateusz
Published: January 2015

Following the completion of the process of decentralization of the public administration in Poland in 2003, a number of tasks implemented so far by the state authorities were transferred to the local level. One of the most significant changes in the methods of financing and management of the local authorities was the transfer of culture and national heritage-related tasks to a group of the own tasks implemented by local governments. As a result of the decentralization process, the local government units in Poland were given a significant autonomy in determining the purposes of their budgetary expenditure on culture. At the same time they were obliged to cover these expenses from their own revenue. This paper focuses on the analysis of expenditure on culture covered by the provincial budgets, taking into consideration the structure of cultural institutions by their types in the years 2003, 2006, 2010 and 2012. To illustrate the diversity of the expenditure on culture by the type of the institutions in particular provinces, one applied the location quotient (LQ), which reflects a spatial distribution of expenditure on culture in relation to reference expenses incurred by the cultural institutions in Poland.