bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Content Management Systems Viewed From A Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism & Connectivism Perspective
Authors: Giurgiu Luminiţa , Bârsan Ghiţă
Published: May 2018

The knowledge based organization is the organization in which production and consumption of knowledge is the most important type of activity, knowledge is recognized as a key resource, information and communication technologies are core technologies and information environment, together with the social and the ecological ones, constitute the human existence. The information society allows broad access to information for its members, becoming a new way of working and knowledge. The new digital technologies essential reduce the cost of access, storage and transmission of information. IT systems play an important role in processes that speed up the exchange of information within the organization and between organizations and in effective dissemination of information to the consumer or, if we are talking in the context of education, student. In this context, where there is an ongoing need for education and training, the Web has become a new medium for publishing the information. So, websites are used to promote businesses and products, provide services and information, and facilitate communication. For medium and large sites, the question of their content management occurs. Therefore content management systems have been implemented (CMS). The system inputs are information to be published, and the outputs are the pages that will be seen by visitors. Content management is the systematic and structured supply, creation, processing, management, presentation, publishing and content reuse. There is a wide range of CMS, but no solution is able to manage all types of content. Referring this in the field of education and learning, the article aims to analyze the types of CMS systems consistent with known theories and models of learning: behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism & connectivism.
Geospatial Data Reliability, Their Use In Crisis Situations
Authors: Hošková-Mayerová Šárka
Published: May 2018

Spatial data are used not only for basic orientation in space but also as data for solving tasks connected with actual decisions, e.g. geographic impact on combat and non-combat army activities in given environments, predictions of landscape damage under extreme meteorological conditions or emergencies, in cases of military threats to the state, etc. in many tasks the source data are combined and based on mathematically or procedurally described processes, new data are created. Currently, computer equipment, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, computer cartography, etc. in the hands of professionals, along with expert systems, can help much faster, more reliable and more efficient leadership of crisis management. When employing spatial data and information in decision-making processes, complex knowledge of their values is the prerequisite for assessing the credibility and accuracy of decisions made. By implementing the methods of value analysis and mathematical modeling it is possible to create an assessment system of spatial data complex usability. By comparing costs necessary for different variants of enhancement or for adjustment of database quality it is possible to optimize both the total usability and the costs put in securing the required data quality. Paper describes one possible way of creation of cost map.
Comparative Preliminary Ionospheric Forecasting In Romania With Data From The European Ionosonde Service Versus Data Extracted From The International Reference Ionosphere Model
Authors: Miclaus Simona , Bechet Paul , Stanic Mircea , Iftode Cora
Published: May 2018

Radiocommunications in the HF band depend on the ionospheric parameters of radiowaves reflexion, though the quality of a radio link depends on: the time of day; season; solar cycle; geographical position. Taking into account the ionosphere characteristics over Romania, a forecasting is made over four cities in our country in order to provide the values of the critical frequency foF2 of the F2 ionospheric layer over a 24 hours cycle. A comparative analysis of this parameter is applied by using the International Reference Ionosphere model and interpolated experimental data collected from the European Ionosonde Service. Results show that the f0F2 values are slightly underestimated in all four locations in the model versus measurements, sustaining the necessity of own measurements in order to prepare quality data links in Romania if HF band is to be used for emergency data communications.
Pluralism, Pragmatism and Functional Explanations
Authors: Shaw Jamie
Published: May 2018

While many philosophers speak of ‘pluralism’ within philosophy of biology, there has been little said about what such pluralism amounts to or what its underlying assumptions are. This has provoked so me anxiety about whether pluralism is compatible with their commitment to naturalism (Cussins 1992). This paper surveys three prominent pluralist positions (Sandra Mitchell and Michael Dietrich’s (2006) ‘integrative pluralism’, and both Peter Godfrey-Smith’s (1993) and Beth Preston’s (1998) pluralist analyses of functional explanations in evolutionary biology) and demonstrates how all three are committed to a form of pragmatism. This analysis both clarifies the justification and grounding of pluralism and allows these pluralisms to avoid the criticisms of Cussins. I close by making some more general points about pluralism and its relationship to history and integration.
Influence of Light Intensity and Temperature on Cultivation of Microalgae Desmodesmus Communis in Flasks and Laboratory-Scale Stirred Tank Photobioreactor
Authors: Vanags J. , Kunga L. , Dubencovs K. , Galvanauskas V. , Grīgs O.
Published: May 2018

Optimization of the microalgae cultivation process and of the bioprocess in general traditionally starts with cultivation experiments in flasks. Then the scale-up follows, when the process from flasks is transferred into a laboratory-scale bioreactor, in which further experiments are performed before developing the process in a pilot-scale reactor. This research was done in order to scale-up the process from a 0.4 1 shake flask to a 4.0 1 laboratory-scale stirred-tank photobioreactor for the cultivation of Desmodesmus (D.) communis microalgae. First, the effect of variation in temperature (21-29 ºC) and in light intensity (200-600 μmol m-2s-1) was studied in the shake-flask experiments. It was shown that the best results (the maximum biomass concentration of 2.72 g 1-1 with a specific growth rate of 0.65 g g-1d-1) can be achieved at the cultivation temperature and light intensity being 25 °C and 300 μmol m2s-1, respectively. At the same time, D. communis cultivation under the same conditions in stirred-tank photobioreactor resulted in average volumetric productivities of biomass due to the light limitation even when the light intensity was increased during the experiment (the maximum biomass productivity 0.25 g 1-1d-1; the maximum biomass concentration 1.78 g 1-1).
Study of Copper Nitride Thin Film Structure
Authors: Kuzmin A. , Kalinko A. , Anspoks A. , Timoshenko J. , Kalendarev R.
Published: May 2018

X-ray diffraction and x-ray absorption spectroscopy at the Cu K-edge were used to study the atomic structure in copper nitride (Cu3N) thin films. Textured nanocrystalline films are obtained upon dc magnetron sputtering on substrates heated at about 190 °C, whereas amorphous films having strongly disordered structure already in the second coordination shell of copper are deposited in the absence of heating.
A New Synchronization Method for Direct Sequence Spectrum Spread Based Systems
Authors: Knapp Ádám , Pap László
Published: May 2018

For precise indoor localization accurate synchronization is necessary. In this paper we propose a new synchronization method for direct sequence spread spectrum modulation based systems, which enables a more accurate correlation peak detection. We provide comprehensive statistical analysis and numerical results for the decision error probability assuming both coherent and non-coherent receiving via an AWGN channel. The essence of the proposed method is the two overlapping correlators, which allows taking into account the statistically not independent noise components to reduce the error probability of the correlation peak detection.
Redesigning the marketing mix for eco-friendly product consumption among non-purchasers in India
Authors: Chockalingam Senthil Nathan , Isreal Densingh Joshua
Published: May 2018

The present study was created in order to customise the marketing mix for non-purchasers of eco-friendly products by studying their perspectives on the introduction of eco-friendly variants of the regular products that they are using in particular product categories (personal care and home care). Overall previous literature reviews in this area imply that there is a gap in the scientific literature on the marketing mix formulation for converting non-purchasers into purchasers of eco-friendly products to augment eco-friendly product sales and adopt green marketing. As literature reviews had clearly indicated that green purchasers have a very low percentage when compared to non-purchasers, the purpose is to create new opportunities for successful green marketing as the study tries to convert non-purchasers into purchasers. We used descriptive research design to study a sample of 885 respondents, who were surveyed in 2 cities in the Tamil Nadu state in India, to acquire an in-depth understanding of consumer behaviour that would enable the consumption of eco-friendly products among non-purchasers. The results reveal the marketing mix requirement and the eco-friendly aspects needed by the non-purchasers in order to buy the eco-friendly variants. The research sheds light on the product, price and promotion components that will attract non-purchases of eco-friendly products to buy eco-friendly products, thus facilitating green marketing mix adaptation. The study will provide valuable input for further research in formulating the marketing mix necessary to enable consumption of eco-friendly products in different geographical locations and various product categories.
Current Status in Management of Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) in Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Pavkovic Marica , Genadieva-Stavric Sonja , Amzai Gazmend , Sotirova Tatjana , Cevreska Lidija , Stankovic Svetlana , Stojanovic Aleksandar
Published: May 2018

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most commonly diagnosed type of leukemia in Western Europe and North America, and represents about 30% of all leukemias in adults. CLL is a disease of elderly, who often have multiple comorbidities. These factors affect further treatment decisions, despite the great progress in the therapy of CLL in the last two decades.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the current status in the management of patients with CLL in the Republic of Macedonia and to compare it with CLL patients in other western countries.

We analyzed 102 patients with CLL referred to our Institution for control and/or treatment in the period from January 2015 to October 2015. Median age of our group of patients at the time of diagnosis was 62.7 years with almost 40% of patients older than 64 years. Male to female ratio was 1.3:1 and 54% of patients were diagnosed in stage “0” according to Rai staging system. Watch and wait was the most common treatment approach (58.8%) at the time of diagnosis, but at the moment of analysis only 33% of patients were still with-out treatment. The most common treatment in this group of CLL patients was FCR protocol with 39.5% of patients treated with an average of 5 cycles of this immunochemotherapeutic regimen. The average time of progression free survival (PFS) in all treated patients was 32.8 months with range between 2-72 months.

In summary, clinical characteristics of CLL patient in our clinical settings and the most common therapeutic approach at our Institution do not differ significantly from the characteristics of the average CLL patient in other studies.
Determination of Fetal Maturity Using Signal Transformations of Fetal Thalamus Estimating Fetal Maturity by Ultrasound
Authors: Dzikova Elena , Dimitrov Goran , Stojceva-Taneva Olivera , Dimitrov Gligor
Published: May 2018

Introduction. The complications associated with preterm birth are still the primary cause of death in children below 5 years of age, leading to nearly 1 million death cases in 2013. We performed our study to examine a new non-invasive method for prediction of fetal maturity.

Methods. The study was designed asa prospective observational-interventional clinical study, conducted at the University Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical Faculty, University Ss. Cyril and Methodius Skopje, Republic of Macedonia.

Ninety pregnant patients were examined, 48 with preterm birth used as examined cases and 42 women above 37 completed weeks of gestation and delivered at term, used as control cases. The investigation was performed before and 72 hours after administration of the therapy protocol for fetal lung maturation. The measurement was done with an ultrasound histogram software, measuring the density of thalamus and surrounding brain tissue. The results were followed up to 72 hours and then compared with the postpartum respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). If the patient was not delivered within 72 hours of measurement, she was excluded from the study.

Results. In the first and in the second gestational age group, we noticed significant fetal maturation. All groups according to nationality and religionshowed high significance before and after treatment. The correlation among the thalamus density vs. surrounding brain tissue and postpartum RDS in all three groups according to gestational age, nationality and religion was high.

Conclusion. Measuring the density of fetal thalamus vs. surrounding brain tissue may become the new non-invasive technique for determination of fetal maturity.
Bilateral Serous Retinal Detachment in Preeclampsia: Case Report
Authors: Kjaev Ivo , Nivicka Jana Kjaeva , Kjaeva Sasha , Karadjova Dafina , Aleksioska Irena , Daneva Ana , Dimitrov Goran
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Preeclampsia presents a medical condition in pregnancy that is manifested with increased blood pressure and protein urine. Ocular involvement is rare. Retinal detachment in preeclampsia is a rare complication; it only occurs in 1-2% of severe preeclampsia but in 10% of those with eclamptic seizures.

Case report. A pregnant patient G1P0 visited the outpatient clinic of the University Clinic for Ophthalmology complaining on visual disturbances. The chief complaint was blurred vision and headaches. She was in 31 week of gestation and complained that she had increased blood pressure over the last month. After initial assessment she was suspected of central serous retinal ablation (CSCR). Ocular ultrasound and posterior segment OCT (optical coherence tomography) confirmed the diagnosis.

Treatment and outcome. Obstetric examination confirmed high blood (TA180/130) pressure with dipstick urine showing(+++). Unfortunately, the ultrasound showed an eutrophic pregnancy in 31 g.w. with fetus mortus inutero. The patient was administered to the intensive care unit. She had an ophthalmologic check-upat 2 weeks and one month post-partum that showed regression and visual acuity was getting better. The final check-up after 6 months revealed that retina was in place with no subretinal substantial fluid and no macular edema.

Conclusion. Serous retinal detachment is a rare complication of preeclampsia. In most case it resolves spontaneously few weeks post delivery.
Role of Information Science in Sustainable Development: Sierra Leone as a Case Study
Authors: Jackson Emerson Abraham
Published: May 2018

IS / ICT is dictating the world in terms of service provision, and more so in education and the financial sector such as electronic money transfer. The article has provided a review of Information Science (IS) in the light of its wider interpretation in different walks of life. The current state of IS / ICT provision is also addressed, with the need to focusing attention in improving the country's capacity in meeting global demand for services. Qualitative interpretation of themes was used in helping to provide critical approach in unravelling issues for the good of the nation. Recommendations pointed to an enhancement in the infrastructural capacity, and also human resources to address on-going demands. IS / ICT capacity around the world is changing and so too is the need for the country to build on its human resource potential to address threats posed, from within and outside of the country, while at the same time focusing attention in enhancing the green economy.
A Novel Symmetrical Split Ring Resonator Based on Microstrip for Microwave Sensors
Authors: Alahnomi Rammah A. , Zakaria Z. , Ruslan E. , Bahar Amyrul Azuan Mohd
Published: May 2018

In this paper, novel symmetrical split ring resonator (SSRR) is proposed as a suitable component for performance enhancement of microwave sensors. SSRR has been employed for enhancing the insertion loss of the microwave sensors. Using the same device area, we can achieve a high Q-factor of 141.54 from the periphery enhancement using Quasi-linear coupling SSRR, whereas loose coupling SSRR can achieve a Q-factor of 33.98 only. Using Quasi-linear coupling SSRR, the Q-factor is enhanced 4.16 times the loose coupling SSRR using the same device area. After the optimization was made, the SSRR sensor with loose coupling scheme has achieved a very high Qfactor value around 407.34 while quasi-linear scheme has achieved high Q-factor value of 278.78 at the same operating frequency with smaller insertion loss. Spurious passbands at 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th harmonics have been completely suppressed well above -20 dB rejection level without visible changes in the passband filter characteristics. The most significant of using SSRR is to be used for various industrial applications such as food industry, quality control, bio-sensing medicine and pharmacy. The simulation result that Quasi-linear coupling SSRR is a viable candidate for the performance enhancement of microwave sensors has been verified.
Mobbing in Slovenia: Prevalence, Mobbing Victim Characteristics, and the Connection with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Mumel Damijan , Jan Sanja , Treven Sonja , Malc Domen
Published: May 2018

An increasing number of organizations face the problem of mobbing, which represents a serious, widespread problem with numerous consequences for victims, organizations, and society. We also recognize the connection this phenomenon has with the emergence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD poses one of the most critical consequences for victims of mobbing, who mostly consist of employees at lower organizational levels. Our research focuses on the prevalence of mobbing in Slovenia, its correlation to PTSD, and some differences in the subjective and objective assessments of being exposed to mobbing. We found that the prevalence of mobbing in Slovenia can be compared to some previous assessments as well as data from other countries. Among the study's participants, 24% could be classified as regular victims of mobbing. For the first time, we link mobbing with PTSD using a Slovenian sample. We also recorded some interesting differences between subjective and objective assessments of mobbing, thereby indicating the importance of subjective conceptualizations of mobbing acts, which should be investigated in greater detail in future research.
Investigation of 99Mo potential production via UO2SO4 liquid target irradiation in a 5 MW nuclear research reactor
Authors: Gholamzadeh Zohreh , Mirvakili Seyed Mohammad , Davari Amin , Alizadeh Mosoumeh , Joz-Vaziri Atieh
Published: May 2018

The activation method for 99Mo production in comparison to fissionable target irradiation in research reactors is less preferable. Therefore, 99Mo yield using UO2SO4 samples was theoretically investigated. Computational results revealed admirable potential of the liquid samples for 99Mo production. Low-concentrated uranyl sulphate samples could easily be handled by the irradiation box. The sample geometry optimization improves thermal hydraulic conditions and production yield. The optimized geometry including only 0.12 g 235U produced 57Ci99Mo at end-of-irradiation (EOI) with a temperature peak of 72°C during the irradiation.
Degradation and detoxification of 2-chlorophenol aqueous solutions using ionizing gamma radiation
Authors: Basfar Ahmed Ali , Muneer Majid , Alsager Omar Ahmed
Published: May 2018

Chlorophenols are compounds with high toxicity, poor biodegradability, and carcinogenic and recalcitrant properties. This work studies, for the first time, the destruction and detoxification of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) in water using 60Co gamma radiation under different conditions including varied radiation doses, addition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and varied pH values. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ion chromatography (IC) confirmed a successful degradation of 2-CP to primarily yield phenol molecules and chloride anions. A radiation dose as low as 25 kGy achieved approximately 90% removal of 50–150 ppm of 2-CP in neutral water. However, the addition of a strong oxidizer such as H2O2 to 2-CP solutions reduced the required dose to achieve 90% removal to at least 1.3-fold. The reduction in radiation doses was also observed in acidic and alkaline media, reducing the required doses of 90% removal to at least 0.4-fold. It was imperative to study the toxicity levels of the oxidation by-products to provide directions for the potential applicability of this technology in water treatment. Toxicology Microtox® bioassay indicated a significant reduction in the toxicity of the degradation by-products and the detoxification was further enhanced by the addition of H2O2 and changing the pH to more acidic or alkaline conditions. These findings will contribute to the knowledge of the removal and detoxification of such challenging environmental contaminant and could be potentially applied to other biologically resistant compounds.
Quality of life of women with postmenopausal pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Nawrot Julia , Humaj-Grysztar Magdalena , Gniadek Agnieszka , Matuszyk Dorota , Biernat Renata
Published: May 2018

Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate the quality of life of women with pelvic organ prolapse during the postmenopausal period.

Material and methodology. The study group consisted of 45 patients of the Department of Gynecology and Oncology at the University Hospital in Cracow The study was conducted as a diagnostic survey using the following survey techniques: author's questionnaire and the Short Form of Health Status Questionnaire (SF-36v2).

Results. The results showed that the respondents rated their quality of life as lower than the norm set by the authors of the SF-36v2 questionnaire. A statistically significant (p<0.05) correlation between the age of the subjects and the quality of life was found.

Conclusions. The quality of life of the women with the pelvic organ prolapse was low. The reason of the subjective assessment of quality of life was age. The most common symptom associated with pelvic organ prolapse was feeling the urge to urinate.
Diagnostic tests in women attempting pregnancy
Authors: Hynder Wioleta , Piskorz-Szymendera Małgorzata , Zielińska Aleksandra , Plagens-Rotman Katarzyna , Dymek-Skoczyńska Agnieszka , Ulatowska Agnieszka
Published: May 2018

Introduction.Diagnosis of infertility usually begins after a year of waiting for pregnancy without any effect. Although it is usually woman who first reports to the doctor, the diagnostic tests should be conducted simultaneously with a woman and a man.

Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic tests performed in women seeking an offspring.

Material and methods. The survey was conducted from February to April 2014 in the gynaecological wards of the Gynaecology and Obstetrics Clinical Hospital of the Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences in Poznan. The study included 104 patients during diagnosis and treatment of infertility. The research tool was the author's questionnaire.

Results. The largest group comprised of women aged from 31 to 35 years (44%), the least numerous group – of women under 25 years of age (1%). The most commonly proposed trial was a detailed obstetric interview together with the general one (64%), then gynaecological examination (36%) and transvaginal ultrasound (30%). In 96% of the respondents diagnostic tests included conducted medical history, as well as physical gynaecological and ultrasound examination. Diagnostic methods, like hormonal profile, assessment of ovulation, laboratory tests were performed in 70% of patients. The survey also included questions concerning the diagnostic methods used in the partners of the respondents. In 35% of men one diagnostic test was performed, in 34% two tests and in more than 10% – 4 tests.

Conclusion. Those who decide for the diagnosis of infertility are usually couples aged from 26 to 30 who do not an have offspring. Medical history, physical examination, gynaecological ultrasound and hormonal profile are the most commonly performed diagnostic tests for women applying for posterity.
Cultural competence in nursing – basic conceptualisation and tools for scientific assessment
Authors: Ślusarska Barbara , Zarzycka Danuta , Majda Anna , Dobrowolska Beata
Published: May 2018

Introduction.The ongoing process of globalisation is contributing to the reconfiguration of social behaviour, even in small and relatively stable communities. The increased migration of people has led to more-varied groups of patients. The provision of nursing care which is consistent with a given culture, and adjusted to the particular needs of its recipient, is becoming a necessity. The development of cultural competence in the nurse's education, aimed at responding to the needs and demands of the global community, constitutes a current challenge for nursing.

Aim.The aim of this paper is to describe the assumptions put forward within the selected theoretical models of transcultural nursing, the nurses' cultural competences arising from them, and the possibility of their scientific evaluation.

Method.A non-systematic review of the literature based on the thematic selection of content and authors.

Results.The paper presents four basic theories and theoretical models of transcultural nursing which are well described in the literature on nursing, i.e. theories by M. Leininger, L. Purnell, J. Campinha-Bacote, J.N. Giger and R.E. Davidhizar, and their related cultural competences. The theoretical models constitute a foundation for the provision of nursing care to various populations, providing resources to overcome obstacles and challenges in situations where nurses care for patients with various cultural backgrounds. The article also presents the most important tools for the assessment of cultural competences based on the basic theoretical models of transcultural nursing.

Conclusions.Cultural competences in nursing set the direction for investment in self-development for both nurses-theorists and nursing practitioners. Understanding the components of cultural competences and their assessment plays an important and necessary role in the implementation of the concept of multiculturalism in nursing.
Selected issues of oral diseases in the work of a district nurse and primary care nurse
Authors: Migut Małgorzata , Lewandowski Bogumił
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Oral health condition and its influence on general health is widely known and does not raise any doubts.

Aim. The study presents some selected problems of oral diseases and dental issues, which, according to the authors, can be useful or even necessary in the work of an environmental nurse.

Material and methods. A Polish literature review was made concerning broad subject of oral diseases. Online research included the following databases: PubMed, Google Scholar PL, Termedia, Viamedica, Polish Medical Bibliography. The searched terms included: “health education”, “dental caries”, “nurse”, “environment”, “periodontal diseases”, “focal infection”. The analysis was based on the Polish articles from the years 1998-2016.

Results. Issues concerning dentistry should be known not only to dental teams but also to all members of medical staff: nurses, midwives, general practitioners, pediatricians, and emergency medical workers. In the study there discussed the most frequent - carious disease and related issues concerning oral disease prevention.
Parental attitudes and parentification of children in families with limited parental care competencies
Authors: Błażek Magdalena
Published: May 2018

Parentification describes the taking on of an adult role by a child or adolescent before they are emotionally and developmentally ready to face the tasks and challenges that come with it (Boszormenyi–Nagy & Spark, 1973). I It is viewed in the literature from the perspective of the functioning of the family system in the context of development, and as a pathology of parental functioning (Schier, 2014). The consequences of parentification on the functioning of a child can be particularly seen in the emotional sphere and in the area of mental disorders (Hooper et al., 2011). The research presented in the article involves 272 families facing the limitation or termination of parental rights. Analyses focused on the sociodemographic features of the family, such as the parents’ addictions and psychological problems and their psychological functioning in terms of parental attitudes which resulted in the parentification of the children. The results show that there is a connection between pathological functioning of parents, characteristics of their parental attitudes and the parentification of the first child.
The cooperation between orthodontists and surgeons in treating facial skeletal deformities
Authors: Tomaszewski Tomasz , Baran Marcin , Lasota Agnieszka , Dunin-Wilczyńska Izabella , Samczyk Bartosz , Mitura Iwona , Wojciechowicz Jolanta
Published: May 2018

Face skeletal deformities have been confusing both doctors and patients for ages. The harmony of the face exerts huge influence not only on one’s psyche but also the behavior and the individual’s social and professional status. In this study we present a procedure of treating skeletal malocclusion. It was performed using various orthodontic methods, like the alteration of the growth of jaws and camouflage applied in appropriate age groups. We paid special attention to the close cooperation between the orthodontist and the surgeon, which hugely facilitates curing the most complex, multi-dimensional deformities. In this study, we present our own materials concerning the effects of cooperation between two departments of Medical University of Lublin, namely the Chair and Clinic of Maxillofacial Surgery and Department of Jaw Orthopedics.
Sexual activity of women – selected issues
Authors: Słopiecka Aleksandra
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Today, a lot of people’s dreams are about attaining a sense of satisfaction from sexual life, staying sexually transmitted diseases (STD) – free or avoiding any infirmity and sexual violence. The overall change in people’s attitudes toward sexuality and numerous hazards involved in risky behaviors calls for some scientific research focused on sexual life to be undertaken.

Aim. The aim of this study was to present selected issues concerning sexual activity of women.

Material and methods. 210 women aged 18 to 73 years with a diagnosis of a disease of the reproductive organ. The participants were being hospitalized at one of four gynecological departments. A diagnostic survey using the author’s own questionnaire was performed.

Results. On average, the respondents had sex for the first time at the age range of 19 to 22 (45.7%). Most respondents have had one partner during their life (67.0%). Some 39.3% of the respondents admitted to have sex on a regular basis.

Conclusions. 1. Early sexual onset was mostly preferred by both younger women and respondents reporting the lowest level of education. 2. Irregular and sporadic sexual contacts were common for women holding a primary or vocational education degree. 3. It is recommended that selected characteristics of sexual activity of women, particularly regarding the number of partners and sexual initiation, were subject to periodic epidemiological analysis as the potential health risk factors.
Nurse care quality and hospital-acquired infections: adhering to aseptic techniques
Authors: Dziewa Agnieszka , Ksykiewicz-Dorota Anna , Kos Marek , Drop Bartłomiej
Published: May 2018

Introduction. The quality of medical services can be regarded as an indication of the changes being implemented at a given moment. At the same time, improving the care quality remains essential, regardless of the current situation. This makes upgrading employees’ skills a necessity, for instance by preventing undesired events, like hospital acquired infections which are quite common.

Aim. The aim of this study was to measure the quality of nursing care delivered to patients who contracted a hospital-acquired disease, with special attention paid to the adherence by aseptic procedures.

Material and methods. The authors of this research study want to assess the quality of nursing care, looking through the lens of adherence by aseptic techniques.

Results. The study was conducted in hospitals of three different referral levels. Both the highest (=95.7%) and the lowest (=84.7%) rates in the field of quality of nursing care were reported in provincial hospitals.

Conclusion. 1. There is a 10% deficit in terms of adherence to aseptic procedures. 2. Constant supervision and upgrading nursing staff skills is essential.
Knowledge of contraceptive methods among adolescents/young adults
Authors: Skrzeczkowska Agnieszka , Heimrath Jerzy , Surdyka Justyna , Zalewski Jerzy
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Family planning methods let one make an informed decision about having children at the right time. People have been trying to adopt the right family planning methods for centuries, mainly through using various contraceptives. These used to be very diverse over the time, yet the goal remained the same – preventing pregnancy.

Aim. Assessment of the factors affecting the knowledge and prevalence of contraceptive methods, as well as the factors affecting sexual behavior of adolescents/young adults.

Material and methods. 219 individuals (111 women and 108 men) between 17-21 years of age, attending secondary schools, participated in this voluntary and anonymous study. A survey questionnaire prepared by the authors was used as a study tool. Statistical analysis of the data obtained was performed using the SPSS 17.0 software.

Results. 81% of the adolescents/young adults stated that their knowledge of contraception is sufficient for them to be in charge of their own sexual lives, whilst some 9% mentioned that they lacked such knowledge, 85% of the young people studied stated that they were interested in contraception. The main sources of knowledge about contraception are the Internet (35%) and peers (22%). The survey showed that 59% of the individuals correctly answered the question regarding the length of a woman’s menstrual cycle, 77% correctly defined the first day of the cycle, and 49% correctly determined the time of ovulation. The studied group of people had difficulties determining menstrual cycle phases; 23% considered them as fixed, 27% – that they are variable, and 29% gave the correct answer. The surveyed people thought that contraceptive method effectiveness (43%), availability (33%) and ease of administration (17%) are most important when choosing the method. Condoms are the most common (72%) contraceptive method among the surveyed people while hormonal contraceptives and interrupted intercourse are poorly known (12% and 11%, respectively). The respondents deemed the hormonal method (50%), and intrauterine contraceptive methods (21%) and condoms (21%) the most effective modes of contraception. They thought that interrupted intercourse (53%) and natural birth control methods (34%) are the least effective. The age at which most of the respondents started their sexual life ranged between 16 and 18; with the age of 16 being the most common (24.2%). Some 40% of the surveyed called their sexual intercourse occasional.

Conclusions. Adolescents consider both the Internet and their peers the primary source of information about sexuality, family planning or birth control methods. The average age of the first sexual experiences has been gradually decreasing and the condom remains to be the most common method of contraception for adolescents/young adults. The knowledge concerning family is insufficient and frequently inaccurate. Education in the fields of sexuality, contraceptive and family planning methods should be included in primary school curriculum.
Independent public healthcare unit as an entrepreneur – considerations based on the Act on Medical Activity
Authors: Szereda Kamil , Szymańska Jolanta
Published: May 2018

An entrepreneur is someone that engages in a business activity on their own behalf. An entrepreneur might be a natural person, legal person and an organizational unit without legal personality, to which the legal capacity is given by a separate act. Regarding the current legislation, Supreme Court rulings and opinions contained in publications, the authors discuss the legal aspects of entrepreneur’s running an autonomous public health care facility. Since the act on medical activity has become law, both the status of health care facilities and the case law concerning their status as enterprises changed.
Social support for pregnant women
Authors: Skurzak Agnieszka , Kicia Mariola , Wiktor Krzysztof , Iwanowicz-Palus Grażyna , Wiktor Henryk
Published: May 2018

This paper is a review of the literature concerning the importance of social support during pregnancy. Being pregnant is a special event in every woman’s life, since it is associated with physical and mental changes. In addition to being a physiological event, pregnancy creates a burden for the body and induces stress. Pregnant women tend to suffer from fear of the unknown, especially regarding: baby, themselves, course of delivery, the need for a new role – of a mother, economic, professional, emotional situations and relationship with partner. The diagnosis of high-risk pregnancy and the need for hospitalization increase the incidence of negative emotions and experiences such as: permanent anxiety about the child’s life, anger, sadness, doubts about the diagnosis, fear of pregnancy complications, frustration and dissatisfaction with the implementation of the functions of maternal concerns during the stay in the hospital. Anxiety and fear that appear during pregnancy affect the attitude of women in pregnancy and after childbirth.

Various authors frequently use the term “pregnancy-specific stress”. There is a relationship between concerns, stress in the mother during pregnancy and lifestyle, duration of pregnancy, and the possible complications during intrauterine and neonatal life. Social support significantly influences the quality of coping with stress in pregnant women. If a pregnant woman receives strong social support from her network, the negative emotions and concerns would be reduced. Receiving support also boosts the chances of successful pregnancy completion. The people from the immediate social network of a pregnant woman, like their partner, spouse, family, friends, midwife, doctor, are the most vital source of support.
The quality of medical services in primary healthcare centres in selected communes of the Lubelskie Voivodeship, as assessed by patients – preliminary reports
Authors: Przybylska Daria , Przybylski Piotr , Drop Bartłomiej , Czarnocki Krzysztof , Przybylski Wojciech , Drop Katarzyna , Quinton Magdalena
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Family medicine has a growing responsibility for the health of an individual, and therefore of society as a whole. Establishing an efficient primary healthcare system requires devising an appropriate management strategy. Surveying the quality assessment of medical services is an important element that influences the future shape of the development and management strategy in communes due to the dynamically changing demographic and economic trends, which are leaving their mark on the functioning of local communities.

Aim. Evaluation of quality of medical services in primary healthcare centres in communes of Lubelskie Voivodeship.

Material and methods. The anonymous survey was conducted among 60 patients benefitting from the medical services provided in healthcare centres in Niemce (Niemce Commune, Lublin District). An original questionnaire in the form of a poll was used to assess the quality of services provided in primary healthcare centres.

Results. The results of surveys carried out among the patients of medical centres providing services in the field of primary healthcare (PHC) demonstrated the high level of satisfaction with the received services among the respondents. However, the accessibility of primary healthcare services outside the business hours of PHC centres and the functioning of prevention and health-education programmes need improvement.

Conclusions. Based on the survey results we can conclude that the quality assessment of medical services provided by PHC centres, carried out through the ongoing monitoring of patients’ satisfaction, should be the most important indicator of changes in the management of primary healthcare.
The impact of professional activity on the health status of healthcare managers
Authors: Romanova Anna , Novitskaya Svetlana , Tishchenko Evgeny , Meshcharakov Yurij
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Currently, the work of managers is characterized by a number of factors having an unfavorable impact on human health. Stress as the main risk factor related to the professional activity is considered to be the major cause of possible poor health among the managers. Depression may result from a stress overload of managers.

Aim. The authors wanted to determine the vulnerability to depression related to professional stress among healthcare managers and to assess gender and managerial work experience-specific differences.

Materials and methods. A total of 235 healthcare managers working in the Republic of Belarus with various length of managerial work experience (women n=142, men n=93; mean age 45.7±1.21 years) underwent a psychological testing aimed at determining their vulnerability to depression. The results of the study were analyzed using the STATISTICA 7.0 software.

Results. The vulnerability to depression in men differed from that in women (p=0.002). The predisposition to depression had significant differences between the groups with various experience of managerial work (p=0.03). The vulnerability to depression among healthcare managers increased with the length of managerial work. The highest level of vulnerability to depression was in healthcare managers with >20 years of experience (p=0.02) both in men (p=0.003) and in women (p=0.04).

Conclusion. Thus, acquiring professional competences as a factor contributing to stress resistance, skills of coping with stress and alleviating its impact on the health status is very important through the whole professional activity. Healthcare managers with the length of work experience of 1-5 years are especially in need of the appropriate knowledge and skills.
Assessment of the severity of nausea and vomiting among women during pregnancy vs. selected risk factors
Authors: Cisek Anna , Bucholc Marzena
Published: May 2018

Introduction. It is estimated that 90% of pregnant women suffer from nausea and vomiting (NVP). The severity of NVP may vary and the first symptoms tend to appear between the 4th and 9th week of pregnancy, reaching their peak around 7th-12th week and disappear around 16th-20th week of pregnancy. The etiology of both nausea and vomiting is yet to be discovered, yet there is a number of factors that may contribute to it. These symptoms usually accompany the increase of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and most intensive ailments associated to the highest rate of this hormone appear around the 10th week of pregnancy.

Aim. Assessing the severity of nausea and vomiting in pregnant women and selected risk factors.

Material and methods. The study group consisted of 150 women hospitalized in the Independent Public Teaching Hospital No 4 in Lublin. The head of the Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology Agreement has agreed for the studies to be conducted. The authors used a research tool named modified scale Pregnancy Unique Quantification of Emesis which allowed to investigate the incidence and severity of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Demographic data and information on the conditions of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy were collected using a questionnaire survey of the authors’ own making. Database and statistical tests were conducted using 10.0 STATISTICA software (StatSoft, Poland).

Results. The analysis revealed that 108 women (72.00%) experienced nausea or vomitting during pregnancy. Taking into consideration the first trimester of pregnancy, a moderate severity of nausea and vomiting (NVP) occurred with an average of 6.51±3.17 pt. It was found that 82 respondents had light intensity of NVP, whereas 68 moderate. In the second trimester an average intensity of nausea and vomiting (NVP) came to 4.82±2.45 pt, i.e. 117 women had mild symptoms while 33 had moderate symptoms. During the third trimester NVP severity dropped to 3.88±1.67. The majority of respondents stated that nausea and vomiting was of light intensity (92.00%), while 8% declared that it was moderate.

Conclusions. The severity of nausea and/or vomiting varies in the course of pregnancy, with significantly more moderate than mild symptoms occurring in the first compared to other trimesters of gestation. The degree of the severity of NVP in the third trimester of pregnancy is significantly affected by risk factors occurring before pregnancy (migraine headache, nausea or vomiting), and co-morbidities. However, the number of pregnancies, the fact whether the pregnancy was planned or not, motion sickness do not have major significance in this matter.