bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pattern of presentation of breast cancer in Missan's women
Authors: Alhelfi Haider S. Q. , Alhashimi Redha A. H.
Published: March 2015

The purpose of the study is to study the pattern of presentation of breast cancer in Missan's women regarding clinical, histopathological and immunological features of malignant breast tissue and focusing on the common presenting pattern and compare it to the neighboring area results. Across sectional study was done. The period of data collection extended from August 2013 to of March 2014. Eighty and five women were involved in the study which was conducted at Al-Shafaa Oncology Center in Missan province. Most frequently of the breast cancer patients were diagnosed at age group of 35-44 years under the stage II. History of lactation was reported in 65.9%, 83.5% were housewives, 69.4% were married. Positive family history was recorded in 32.9%. 52.9% were with stage II. 40.0% of these patients presented in advanced stages III and IV. Most of the cases have history of normal age of menarche and menopause. About 81.2% came from urban areas. Hormonal therapy was reported in approximately 32.9% of cases. The study concludes that the breast cancer is the most common malignancies in women in Iraq and the most of our women with breast cancer do not have risk factor for their disease.
Localização de bases de assistência técnica de um prestador de serviços de manutenção de bombas de combustível
Authors: Sellitto Miguel Afonso , Oliveira Leandro de , Pereira Giancarlo Medeiros , Borchardt Miriam
Published: March 2015

O objetivo deste artigo é calcular a localização de bases de assistência técnica a postos de combustíveis de uma rede de distribuição de combustíveis fósseis e biocombustíveis no estado do Paraná. O método de pesquisa foi a modelagem quantitativa. O método de trabalho incluiu a separação dos municípios do estado do Paraná em aglomerados, pelo método k-médias. Foram obtidos sete aglomerados mais a capital. Cada aglomerado foi tratado como mercado local. Depois, pelo método do baricentro, foram calculadas as coordenadas cartesianas dos centros de gravidade das regiões. As cidades mais próximas das coordenadas calculadas foram escolhidas para sediar as bases de assistência técnica. O método minimizou o custo e o tempo de transporte até cada município. A principal contribuição de pesquisa foi a localização dos sete centros de assistência técnica.
Proposta de modelo para mensuração da qualidade dos serviços prestados por pequenas empresas de usinagem e manutenção industrial
Authors: Netto Morvam dos Santos , Freitas André Luís Policani
Published: March 2015

Serviços de usinagem e manutenção industrial englobam reparação (manutenção corretiva) de equipamentos, envolvendo desmontagem, diagnóstico de falhas, operações de usinagem, operações de conformação, processos de soldagem, montagem e teste dos equipamentos manutenidos. Este artigo propõe um modelo para avaliação da qualidade dos serviços prestados por pequenas empresas de usinagem e manutenção industrial, tendo em vista a existência desta lacuna na literatura e a compreensão da importância das pequenas empresas do setor de serviços no desenvolvimento sócio econômico do País. O modelo é uma adaptação do instrumento SERVQUAL, onde os critérios determinantes da qualidade dos serviços foram concebidos de acordo com o ciclo de serviço típico das pequenas empresas de usinagem e manutenção industrial. Neste sentido, os momentos da verdade foram levados em consideração na elaboração de dois questionários. O primeiro questionário contém vinte e quatro afirmativas que refletem as expectativas dos clientes, e o segundo contém vinte e quatro afirmativas que mensuram as percepções de desempenho dos serviços. Um item foi acrescentado a cada questionário para mensurar, respectivamente, a expectativa geral com o serviço e o desempenho global da empresa. Portanto, é um modelo que considera as interfaces do relacionamento cliente/fornecedor, as peculiaridades do setor de serviço de usinagem e manutenção industrial e o porte da empresa.
Avaliação de desempenho ambiental industrial: elaboração de um referencial metodológico
Authors: Rodrigues Andréia Marize , Zeviani Caio Henrique , Rebelato Marcelo Giroto , Borges Lucas
Published: March 2015

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo a elaboração de um referencial metodológico para avaliação de desempenho ambiental em empresas industriais de forma ampla. O referencial metodológico desenvolvido é constituído por nove aspectos de avaliação, quais sejam: Gestão Organizacional, Recursos Humanos, Produto, Processo Produtivo, Instalações Físicas, Emissões, Desenvolvimento Social, Aspecto Econômico Financeiro e Mídia. Para cada um destes aspectos foram criados indicadores de avaliação, num total de 35 indicadores. Cada indicador é acompanhado de uma identificação numérica, uma descrição, uma meta genérica, sua métrica e unidade de medida e uma escala para mensuração do atendimento de cada indicador. Como ilustração, o referencial proposto foi aplicado para a avaliação em uma empresa industrial do setor metal-mecânico, tendo esta alcançado um desempenho ambiental de 84,0%.
Geração de valor no contexto da estratégia de manufatura: uma análise em manufaturas calçadistas
Authors: Silva Sergio Evangelista , Fernandes Flávio César Faria , Nogueira Edemilson
Published: March 2015

A função manufatura tem como propósito oferecer produtos que gerem valor para os clientes. Todavia, esta não é uma tarefa exclusiva desta função, para esse fim ela deve atuar de forma conjunta com as funções marketing e vendas (M&V) e pesquisa e desenvolvimento (P&D). Este artigo denomina estas três funções de geradoras de valor e discute o seu papel mútuo no processo de geração de valor dos produtos de uma empresa. A validação deste modelo é realizada por meio de três estudos de caso comparativos, realizados em manufaturas calçadistas (MCs) com diferentes estratégias de geração de valor. O estudo empírico permitiu comprovar o papel mútuo das funções estudadas de geração de valor do produto, bem como verificar que a configuração e o papel relativo de cada função muda conforme a estratégia adotada pela empresa.
O uso de tecnologias para o processo de preparação de pedidos: implicações e proposições
Authors: Troche Escobar Jorge Arnaldo , Soares de Carvalho Maria do Sameiro Faria Brandão , Mendonça Freires Francisco Gaudêncio
Published: March 2015

Na atualidade, são inúmeros os desafios enfrentados pelas empresas no que diz respeito à sua competitividade num mercado global e complexo, sendo necessária uma permanente revisão e reavaliação dos seus processos de gestão. O processo de preparação de pedidos (picking) em armazéns é um dos mais críticos, quer pela sua complexidade quer pelo seu custo elevado, pelo que elevados níveis de eficiência são necessários e desejáveis. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar os resultados de uma pesquisa sobre as tecnologias de preparação de pedidos em armazéns. Foi desenvolvido um modelo conceptual e uma metodologia para suportar a escolha de soluções tecnológicas para a estratégia de picker-to-part. A abordagem proposta incorpora as várias dimensões do processo de decisão sobre avaliação e seleção das tecnologias de preparação de pedidos com base tanto na revisão bibliográfica, quanto a partir de contribuições empíricas obtidas junto de uma empresa fornecedora de tecnologias de preparação de encomendas. No processo de decisão destaca-se a elevada complexidade, pois envolve vários níveis de decisão e várias dimensões que passam pelo layout do armazém, a metodologia de preparação de pedidos, o nível de rastreabilidade a atingir, o modelo de codificação dos produtos, entre outros fatores determinantes, para além do custo da própria solução tecnológica.
O estudo do marco regulatório para produção sustentável
Authors: Shinohara Ana Carolina , Navarro Hundzinski Leandro , Pinheiro de Lima Edson , Gonçalves Machado Carla
Published: March 2015

A pressão da sociedade em relação às empresas a respeito de negócios que considerem o desenvolvimento sustentável tem impulsionado o surgimento de novas leis, regulamentações, compromissos internacionais e também normas, que estão compondo um marco regulatório direcionado pelos princípios da sustentabilidade. O presente artigo busca definir uma metodologia de análise de conteúdo para o estudo do marco regulatório para produção sustentável. A metodologia apresentada baseou-se nas estratégias da análise de conteúdo e utilizou o software Atlas.TI para operacionalizar o processo. Os resultados apresentam um framework proposto para análise dos documentos e a aplicação do modelo em um conjunto de normas, diretrizes e relatórios relacionados à produção sustentável. O estudo busca também contribuir no campo da Engenharia de Produção aprofundando a análise do conteúdo do marco regulatório, procurando identificar diretrizes, recomendações e indicadores para a sustentabilidade nas operações. De forma adicional, através das visões de cadeia de valor e níveis de maturidade, os documentos analisados podem ser associados com necessidades das operações sustentáveis, evidenciando orientações gerais e enfoques estratégicos dados pela análise de conteúdo das normas, diretrizes e relatórios voltados à sustentabilidade, auxiliando a vinculação desses documentos com a estratégia organizacional.
O que está à sombra na carga de trabalho de estivadores?
Authors: Motter Arlete Ana , Santos Marta , Guimarães Ana Tereza Bittencourt
Published: March 2015

O objetivo do estudo é o de analisar as diferentes dimensões da carga de trabalho do estivador e sua influência nos processos de saúde/doença. O estudo caracteriza-se como transversal, descritivo e exploratório e desenvolveu-se entre 2010 a 2013 em Paranaguá, Paraná. A amostra foi composta por 300 sujeitos do sexo masculino, estivadores sindicalizados e pertencentes ao OGMO (Órgão Gestor de Mão de Obra) do Estado do Paraná. Os instrumentos de coleta incluíram: um questionário relativo ao perfil dos trabalhadores entrevistados, questionário para avaliação do risco de lombalgia, questionário Nórdico e observações em terreno. A análise mostrou que são trabalhadores com uma média de 20 anos de antiguidade, numa atividade marcada por relações de parentesco ou amizade, em que existem exigências físicas importantes, mas também exigências mentais não negligenciáveis. Há muitos problemas de saúde como altíssimo risco de lombalgia (74, 7%), sensação de cansaço físico e mental ao final da jornada de trabalho muito frequente. Aqueles que se sentem mais cansados, também são os que apresentam mais queixas osteomusculares em diversas regiões do corpo. Os dados apontam para uma associação entre organização do trabalho e carga mental do trabalho.
Modelagem e análise da confiabilidade do processo de transformação de polímeros de uma unidade de produção de saneantes
Authors: Alcantara Murilo Leite , Sartori Isabel , Embiruçu Marcelo
Published: March 2015

Uma das etapas mais importantes para a maioria dos processos de produção de saneantes é a fabricação dos frascos (embalagens primárias) dos produtos, comumente realizada através de transformação de polímeros, tais como extrusão e sopro. Um crescimento na produção de forma segura requer o uso de meios para reduzir a ocorrência de falhas. O estudo sobre confiabilidade de sistemas de produção pode ser utilizado como uma ferramenta para compreender e prever o comportamento da confiabilidade das unidades industriais. O presente trabalho estuda o comportamento da confiabilidade de uma unidade industrial de saneantes com foco na produção dos frascos. Os estudos feitos neste trabalho foram baseados em três métodos de modelagem: Global Life Distribution (GLD, distribuição de vida global), Composite Life Distribution (CDL, distribuição de vida composta) e Optimum Composite Life Distribution (OCDL, distribuição de vida composta ótima). As distribuições utilizadas neste trabalho foram: exponencial, Weibull, normal, lognormal, q-exponencial e q-Weibull. Os resultados obtidos pelos três métodos foram comparados com os dados experimentais. A metodologia OCLD herda as potencialidades, mas supera as limitações, de ambas as metodologias GLD e CLD, pois, além de representar bem o comportamento do sistema global, possibilita também uma representação dos subsistemas, ou modos de falha, que o compõem. Neste trabalho foi realizada uma análise da contribuição dos modos de falha para a probabilidade de falha do sistema global. O valor calculado para o lucro cessante demonstra a oportunidade de benefício financeiro que pode ser obtido com possíveis aprofundamentos e desdobramentos futuros do estudo realizado.
An application of elementary real analysis to a metabelian group admitting integral polynomial exponents
Authors: Gaglione Anthony M. , Lipschutz Seymour , Spellman Dennis
Published: March 2015

Let
Linear Generalized Synchronization Using Bidirectional Coupling
Authors: Nandan Mauparna , Bhowmick Sourav K. , Pal Pinaki
Published: March 2015

We present a bidirectional coupling strategy to establish targeted linear generalized synchronization between two mismatched continuous chaotic dynamical systems. The strategy is based on Routh–Hurwitz stability criterion. Using the proposed coupling scheme we are able to achieve stable linear generalized synchronization between two mismatched chaotic dynamical systems. The coupling strategy is illustrated using the paradigmatic Lorenz, Rössler and Sprott systems.
Quasi-Hadamard differentiability of general risk functionals and its application
Authors: Krätschmer Volker , Schied Alexander , Zähle Henryk
Published: March 2015

We apply a suitable modification of the functional delta method to statistical functionals that arise from law-invariant coherent risk measures. To this end we establish differentiability of the statistical functional in a relaxed Hadamard sense, namely with respect to a suitably chosen norm and in the directions of a specifically chosen “tangent space”. We show that this notion of quasi-Hadamard differentiability yields both strong laws and limit theorems for the asymptotic distribution of the plug-in estimators. Our results can be regarded as a contribution to the statistics and numerics of risk measurement and as a case study for possible refinements of the functional delta method through fine-tuning the underlying notion of differentiability.
Handheld Echocardiography Versus Auscultation for Detection of Rheumatic Heart Disease
Authors: Godown Justin , Lu Jimmy C. , Beaton Andrea , Sable Craig , Mirembe Grace , Sanya Richard , Aliku Twalib , Yu Sunkyung , Lwabi Peter , Webb Catherine L. , Ensing Gregory J.
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND:

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains a major public health concern in developing countries, and routine screening has the potential to improve outcomes. Standard portable echocardiography (STAND) is far more sensitive than auscultation for the detection of RHD but remains cost-prohibitive in resource-limited settings. Handheld echocardiography (HAND) is a lower-cost alternative. The purpose of this study was to assess the incremental value of HAND over auscultation to identify RHD.

METHODS:

RHD screening was completed for schoolchildren in Gulu, Uganda, by using STAND performed by experienced echocardiographers. Any child with mitral or aortic regurgitation or stenosis plus a randomly selected group of children with normal STAND findings underwent HAND and auscultation. STAND and HAND studies were interpreted by 6 experienced cardiologists using the 2012 World Heart Federation criteria. Sensitivity and specificity of HAND and auscultation for the detection of RHD and pathologic mitral or aortic regurgitation were calculated by using STAND as the gold standard.

RESULTS:

Of 4773 children who underwent screening with STAND, a subgroup of 1317 children underwent HAND and auscultation. Auscultation had uniformly poor sensitivity for the detection of RHD or valve disease. Sensitivity was significantly improved by using HAND compared with auscultation for the detection of definite RHD (97.8% vs 22.2%), borderline or definite RHD (78.4% vs 16.4%), and pathologic aortic insufficiency (81.8% vs 13.6%).

CONCLUSIONS:

Auscultation alone is a poor screening test for RHD. HAND significantly improves detection of RHD and may be a cost-effective screening strategy for RHD in resource-limited settings.
Medical Providers’ Understanding of Sex Trafficking and Their Experience With At-Risk Patients
Authors: Beck Megan E. , Lineer Megan M. , Melzer-Lange Marlene , Simpson Pippa , Nugent Melodee , Rabbitt Angela
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Sex trafficking (ST) victims have unique medical and mental health needs and are often difficult to identify. Our objectives were to evaluate knowledge gaps and training needs of medical providers, to demonstrate the importance of provider training to meet the pediatric ST victim’s specific needs, and to highlight barriers to the identification of and response to victims.

METHODS:

A survey was sent to providers in specialties that would be most likely to encounter victims of ST. Participants included physicians, nurses, physician assistants, social workers, and patient and family advocates at multiple hospitals and medical clinics in urban, suburban, and rural locations.

RESULTS:

Of ∼500 survey recipients, 168 participants responded. In 2 clinical vignettes, 48% correctly classified a minor as an ST victim, and 42% correctly distinguished an ST victim from a child abuse victim. In all, 63% of respondents said that they had never received training on how to identify ST victims. Those with training were more likely to report ST as a major problem locally (P ≤ .001), to have encountered a victim in their practice (P ≤ .001), and to have greater confidence in their ability to identify victims (P ≤ .001). The greatest barriers to identification of victims reported were a lack of training (34%) and awareness (22%) of ST.

CONCLUSIONS:

Health care providers demonstrate gaps in knowledge and awareness of ST, specifically of pediatric victims, that correlate with their limited experience and training. Training is crucial to improve identification of these victims and provide appropriate care for their specific needs.
Lung Ultrasound for the Diagnosis of Pneumonia in Children: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Pereda Maria A. , Chavez Miguel A. , Hooper-Miele Catherine C. , Gilman Robert H. , Steinhoff Mark C. , Ellington Laura E. , Gross Margaret , Price Carrie , Tielsch James M. , Checkley William
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Pneumonia is the leading cause of death of children. Diagnostic tools include chest radiography, but guidelines do not currently recommend the use of lung ultrasound (LUS) as a diagnostic method. We conducted a meta-analysis to summarize evidence on the diagnostic accuracy of LUS for childhood pneumonia.

METHODS:

We performed a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, Global Health, World Health Organization–Libraries, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature of studies comparing LUS diagnostic accuracy against a reference standard. We used a combination of controlled key words for age <18 years, pneumonia, and ultrasound. We identified 1475 studies and selected 15 (1%) for further review. Eight studies (765 children) were retrieved for analysis, of which 6 (75%) were conducted in the general pediatric population and 2 (25%) in neonates. Eligible studies provided information to calculate sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios. Heterogeneity was assessed by using Q and I2 statistics.

RESULTS:

Five studies (63%) reported using highly skilled sonographers. Overall methodologic quality was high, but heterogeneity was observed across studies. LUS had a sensitivity of 96% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 94%–97%) and specificity of 93% (95% CI: 90%–96%), and positive and negative likelihood ratios were 15.3 (95% CI: 6.6–35.3) and 0.06 (95% CI: 0.03–0.11), respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.98. Limitations included the following: most studies included in our analysis had a low number of patients, and the number of eligible studies was also small.

CONCLUSIONS:

Current evidence supports LUS as an imaging alternative for the diagnosis of childhood pneumonia. Recommendations to train pediatricians on LUS for diagnosis of pneumonia may have important implications in different clinical settings.
13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13) in Preterm Versus Term Infants
Authors: Martinón-Torres Federico , Czajka Hanna , Center Kimberly J. , Wysocki Jacek , Majda-Stanislawska Ewa , Omeñaca Felix , Bernaola Iturbe Enrique , Blazquez Gamero Daniel , Concheiro-Guisán Ana , Gimenez-Sanchez Francisco , Szenborn Leszek , Giardina Peter C. , Patterson Scott , Gruber William C. , Scott Daniel A. , Gurtman Alejandra
Published: March 2015

OBJECTIVES:

This study evaluated the immune response and safety profile of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) in preterm infants compared with term infants.

METHODS:

This Phase IV, open-label, 2-arm, multicenter, parallel-group study enrolled 200 healthy infants (preterm, n = 100; term, n = 100) aged 42 to 98 days. All subjects received PCV13 at ages 2, 3, 4 (infant series), and 12 (toddler dose [TD]) months, together with routine vaccines (diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis, hepatitis B, inactivated poliovirus, and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine and meningococcal group C conjugate vaccine).

RESULTS:

Most subjects achieved an anticapsular immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody concentration ≥0.35 μg/mL for all serotypes: >85% after the infant series (except preterm infants for serotypes 5, 6A, and 6B) and >97% after TD (except for serotype 3). Preterm infants had overall lower IgG geometric mean concentrations compared with term infants; however, geometric mean fold increases after TD were similar for all serotypes. Opsonophagocytic activity results were consistent with IgG results and titers increased after TD in both groups for all serotypes, including serotype 3. PCV13 was generally well tolerated, with similar safety profiles in all preterm subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Immune responses were lower in preterm infants than in term infants. However, the majority of subjects in both groups achieved both pneumococcal serotype-specific IgG antibody levels after the infant series that exceeded the World Health Organization–established threshold of protection and functional antibody responses. Responses were uniformly higher after TD, reinforcing the importance of a timely booster dose. PCV13 was well tolerated regardless of gestational age.
Differences in Outcomes and Indications between Sapien and CoreValve Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Prostheses
Authors: Noorani Alia , Bapat Vinayak ,   Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Papworth Hospital, Cambridge,   Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, St. Thomas’ Hospital, London SE1 7EH, UK. E: vnbapat@yahoo.com
Published: March 2015

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a suitable alternative to surgical valve replacement for patients with severe, symptomatic, calcified aortic stenosis and a background of co-morbidities, which can make surgery a high-risk option. It has also evolved as an alternative for degenerative prosthetic heart valve disease. Since the inception of TAVI in 2002, the two main devices in routine clinical use are the Edwards Sapien valve (since 2006) and the Medtronic CoreValve (since 2007). The more recent Sapien XT valve and Sapien 3 have been in clinical use since 2010 and 2013, respectively. In addition to registry data on these devices, there are a number of completed and ongoing randomised controlled trials, including one comparing the two devices. The aim of this article is to discuss the differences in indications and outcomes between these two prostheses.
Comparative dissolution test of modified release pharmaceutical products for potassium replacement
Authors: Herényi Bulcsu , Mikó Péter
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Oral potassium replacement is still inevitable. To reduce the irritation of the gastric and intestinal mucosa, pellet and matrix based formulations ensuring extended release of potassium chloride are used. The dissolution tests may help to understand the in vivo steps of the release of potassium chloride and the absorption of potassium. Aim: Using dissolution tests extended to 12 hours the authors evaluated potassium chloride release characteristics of pellet and matrix tablet based formulations used for potassium replacement. Method: The tests were performed in line with the CPMP/EWP/QWP/1401/98 guideline at nine time points (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9 and 12 hours) in three dissolution media (0.1 M hydrochloric acid, pH 1.2; acetate buffer, pH 4.5; phosphate buffer, pH 6.8). Results: Similar results were found in all three dissolution media. Conclusions: It is conceivable, that the release of potassium chloride begins already in the stomach (pH = 1.2) and at an average speed of gastrointestinal transit – in about 6–7 hours – 80% of the potassium chloride content of both formulations is dissolved by the time of the entrance to the large bowel. It seems likely, that in vivo in the proximal section of the gastrointestinal tract more potassium chloride is dissolved out of the matrix based formulation, than from the pellet based one. Both formulations meet the clinical requirements of the effective potassium chloride release. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(12), 479–482.
Relationships between psychological well-being, lifestyle factors and fertility
Authors: Lakatos Enikő , Szabó Gábor , F. Szigeti Judit , Balog Piroska
Published: March 2015

Introduction: 10 to 15% of the Hungarian fertile age population struggles with reproductivity problems. Previous researches have shown that psychological well-being and lifestyle factors play a pivotal role in overall health status, which is closely related to fertility. Aim: The aim of the study was to examine fertility-related psychological and lifestyle factors in a Hungarian sample. Method: 194 women (115 infertile and 79 fertile) took part in the study. Standardized, validated questionnaires were used for the assessment of psychological factors and self-administered questions were used for exploring lifestyle factors. Results: The results show that infertile women are younger (33.98±4.89 vs. 36.43±5.81 years, p<0.005) and their psychological status is significantly worse compared to their fertile counterparts. The number of their depressive (BDI 14.00±12.21 vs. 7.79±9.17, p<0.005) and anxiety symptoms is higher (STAI-T 48.53±10.56 vs. 40.25±10.65, p<0.005) compared to fertile women. Findings related to lifestyle factors show that lower level of fluid consumption (1.71±0.67 vs. 1.95±0.68, p<0.05) and diet (31.30% vs. 18.42%, p<0.05) is significantly related to infertility. In this sample higher level of fluid consumption was associated with the fertile group (OR = 1.65, CI = 2.58–1.06), independently of body mass index and age. Conclusions: The results confirm the findings of international researches showing that women struggling with infertility are in worse psychological condition than their fertile counterparts. The authors conclude that the findings demand further investigations and follow-up studies in order to more specifically determine the relationship between fluid consumption and fertility. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(12), 483–492.
Critical issues of the biopsychosocial treatment of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Kincses Péter , Kovács Norbert , Karádi Kázmér , Kállai János
Published: March 2015

This paper is a summary report on the basic questions of the biopsychosocial approach to Parkinson’s disease. It deals with cognitive, affective and psychological health issues which significantly influence the outcome of the physical rehabilitation. In spite of the unchanged cognitive status, the psychological burden of the changes in the quality of life, the obstruction, the change in the affective tone, and the shrinking ability to fulfil social roles decrease the patient’s quality of life. An interdisciplinary approach is best suited for mitigating these effects. Not only the patient but also his/her family and environment is seriously affected by the disease and its consequences. Treatment and rehabilitation options for increasing or maintaining the quality of life of the affected patients are diverse, and significantly depend on the features of the health care system. The authors believe that the following review emphasizing health psychological principles may contribute to the work of professionals working in clinical and rehabilitational fields and through them may increase the quality of life of patients and their family. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(12), 472–478.
Influence of nanoparticle morphology on reaction kinetics, particle size and rheology in acrylic latex
Authors: Hernandez-Vargas Mireya L. , Romo-Uribe Angel , Baghdachi Jamil
Published: March 2015

Organic/inorganic (O/I) composite latexes combine the best attributes of inorganic solids with the processability, lightweight and handling advantages of organic polymers. There are common methods to produce polymer nanocomposites: melt compounding, in-situ polymerization and solution mixing. Emulsion polymerization is an unique chemical process widely used to produce waterborne resins with various colloidal and physicochemical properties. This free radical polymerization process involves emulsification of the relatively hydrophobic monomer in water by an oil-in-water emulsifier, followed by the initiation reaction with a water insoluble initiator. This research focuses on the synthesis and reactions kinetics of polyacrylic latex with the incorporation of various nanospheres (SiO2, TiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3), and layered silicate (Bentonite nanoclay) nanoparticles via emulsion polymerization. The influence of nanoparticle concentration on reaction kinetics was also investigated. The results showed that the concentration of nanoparticles has significant influence on the monomer conversion, particle size, coagulum content and viscosity of the emulsion. Furthermore, the nanostructured emulsions were shear thinning, exhibiting a power-law behavior, and the viscosity was influenced by the nanoparticle morphology.
Organized Molecular Assemblies based on Ferrocenyl Derivatives
Authors: Lazo-Jiménez Rosa E. , López- Cortés José G. , Chávez-Carvayar José A. , Ignés-Mullol Jordi , Sagués Francesc , Ortega-Alfaro María C. , Carreón-Castro María Pilar
Published: March 2015

Organic films with a thickness of few nanometers are potentially useful components in many practical and commercial applications such as sensors, detectors, displays and electronic circuit components. In this context, the Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) method is one the most promising techniques for preparing these films.

In this work, we report the synthesis and characterization of three new amphiphilic organometallic compounds with ferrocene units, which consist of one ferrocenyl aminocarbene with the general formula FcC=Cr(CO)5NH(CH2)15CH3, and two ferrocenyl amides with the general formula FcC=MNH(CH2)15CH3 where M = S or Se. These new derivatives have been synthesized to study the influence of long alkyl side chain and the hydrophilic head on the film organization behavior at the air-water interface.

The Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) technique was focused for building ordered nanostructures in molecular assemblies of ferrocenyl derivatives, which are apt to form a stable and transferable monolayer film. The π-A isotherm, hysteresis, Brewster angle microscopy (BAM) and film stability were used to characterize the behavior of a monolayer film at the air-water interface. Z- type LB films were prepared from molecular monolayers which were transferred onto glass substrates. These films were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV-Visible spectra and X-ray diffraction (DRX) techniques.
Dynamic mechanical analysis and morphology of nanostructured acrylic coatings
Authors: Castillo-Pérez Rubén , Romo-Uribe Ángel , Baghdachi Jamil
Published: March 2015

The addition of nanoparticles into polymeric materials has changed dramatically the properties of the host polymers, promising a novel class of composite materials with different properties and added functionalities. This research focuses on the influence of inorganic nanospheres particles such as SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, TiO2 and nanoplatelets, such as Bentonite nanoclay, on the thermo-mechanical properties of a polyacrylic latex (utilized in commercial coatings). The analysis of the thermal and mechanical properties showed a decrease of Young's modulus and glass transition temperature Tg in the presence of spherical nanoparticles. However, there was an increase of these properties in the presence of nanoplatelets (Bentonite), as demonstrated by the dynamic mechanical analysis and uniaxial tensile analysis. Moreover, water contact angle measurements demonstrated significant increase in hydrophobic behavior when incorporating nanosphere particles as compared to nanoplatelets. These results showed that the metallic oxides nanoparticles greatly influenced the physical and mechanical properties of the neat polyacrylic matrix.
Using Low Concentrations of Nano-Carbons to Induce Polymer Self-Reinforcement of Composites for High-Performance Applications
Authors: Song Kenan , Zhang Yiying , Minus Marilyn L.
Published: March 2015

The current study focuses on the influence of low nano-carbon loading in polymer based composite fibers to modify matrix microstructure. With regards to the processing–structure–property relationship, post-spinning heat treatments (i.e., drawing, annealing without tension, and annealing with tension) was used to track microstructural development and associated mechanical property changes. Drawing and annealing procedures were found to influence the interphase volume fraction, fibril dimensions, sub-fibrillar lamellae, and sub-lamellae grain size for each sample. Annealing at 160 °C was found to have the largest impact on interphase percentage, fibril length, and grain packing density. These improvements corresponded to excellent mechanical properties for both control and composite fibers. Understanding the relationship between processing and property provides a novel perspective for producing high-performance composite materials from flexible polymers by only minimal amounts of carbon nano-fillers.
Determination of the Physical Properties of Oil Sands Components using Scanning Probe Microscopy
Authors: Gaikwad Ravi , Abraham Tinu , Hande Aharnish , Bakhtiari Fatemeh , Das Siddhartha , Thundat Thomas
Published: March 2015

Atomic force microscopy is employed to study the structural changes in the morphology and physical characteristics of asphaltene aggregates as a function of temperature. The exotic fractal structure obtained by evaporation-driven asphaltene aggregates shows an interesting dynamics for a large range of temperatures from 25°C to 80°C. The changes in the topography, surface potential and adhesion are unnoticeable until 70°C. However, a significant change in the dynamics and material properties is displayed in the range of 70°C - 80°C, during which the aspahltene aggregates acquire ‘liquid-like’ mobility and fuse together. This behaviour is attributed to the transition from the pure amorphous phase to a crystalline liquid phase which occurs at approximately 70°C as shown by using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Additionally, the charged nature of asphaltenes and bitumen is also explored using kelvin probe microscopy. Such observations can lead to the development of a rational approach to the fundamental understanding of asphaltene aggregation dynamics and may help in devising novel techniques for the handling and separation of asphaltene aggregates using dielectrophoretic methods.
Implementation of CVD Diamond Growth Methods for Selective and Efficient Formation of Color-Centers in Diamond
Authors: Gay Stefano , Reina Giacomo , Cianchetta Ilaria , Tamburri Emanuela , Angjellari Mariglen , Terranova Maria Letizia , Orlanducci Silvia
Published: March 2015

We report here on the chemical methodologies that are being settled in our labs for the insertion in diamond of foreign atoms and consequent creation of fluorescent defects. The inclusion of Si, Cr, Ge, able to produce color centers, is directly obtained during the process of diamond synthesis by means of a CVD technique. The deposition of the diamond films takes place on substrates of different nature, treated following procedures specifically settled to control the insertion of the different species. The photoluminescence emission from a series of diamond samples grown on different substrates (Si, Ge and Ti) has been investigated and is discussed with reference to the morphological/structural features of the diamond phase and to the experimental procedures adopted for substrate preparation.
Evolution of correlated electron behavior from the surface to the bulk in SrxCa1-xVO3
Authors: Laverock J. , Chen B. , Kuyyalil J. , Singh R. P. , Balakrishnan G. , Qiao R. M. , Yang W. L. , Adell J. , Karlin B. , Woicik J. C. , Smith K. E.
Published: March 2015

We present a detailed depth-sensitive study of the evolution in correlated electron behavior from the surface of the prototypical correlated oxide, SrxCa1-xVO3, to its bulk. Photoemission measurements of varying surface sensitivity are employed to directly compare both the spectral weight and energetics of the correlated electron features, and resonant soft x-ray emission spectroscopy is used as a bulk-sensitive reference. The surface component, which still contributes significantly to photoemission at 2.2 keV, is characterized by a transfer of spectral weight into the incoherent lower Hubbard band and the corresponding shift of these states towards lower binding energy.
Thermal rectification of porous semiconductor materials
Authors: Geist Brian L. , Zaynetdinov Madrakhim , Myers Kirby , Robinson Hans D. , Kochergin Vladimir
Published: March 2015

Thermal rectification in nanostructured materials is an active topic of research and development. Here it is suggested that porous semiconductor materials can offer an unmatched tailoring of its structural properties, resulting in both the ability to study the effects of nanoscale morphology on thermal rectification phenomenon, and the perspective to achieve large thermal rectification over a wide temperature range in combination with other beneficial properties, such as a wide tunability of thermal conductivity, or optical transparency of the thermally rectifying structure. In this contribution we are presenting the first to our knowledge experimental demonstration of thermal rectification in mesoporous silicon. The influence of pore morphology controlled via Si substrate crystallographic orientation and etching conditions on thermal rectification are studied. The effect of oxidation of the porous material is presented as well. Experimental results are further compared with several recently published theoretical predictions of thermal rectification in similar structures.
INVESTIGATION OF BEE BREAD AND DEVELOPMENT OF ITS DOSAGE FORMS
Authors: Barene Ilze , Daberte Irena , Siksna Sanita
Published: March 2015

The aim of the study. The objective of this study was to investigate microscopic, physical and chemical properties of bee bread collected in three regions of Latvia in order to compare the quality and to investigate the possibility of producing granules containing bee bread. Material and methods. Microscopic analysis of bee bread samples was performed. Plant herbaria, special literature and internet sources were used for identification of pollen. Thin layer chromatography was used for identification of carotenoids and flavonoids. Granules were prepared by wet granulation method. Lactose, calcium lactate, calcium carbonate, potato starch and purified water were used as excipients. Appearance, loss on drying, pH of aqueous solution and content of carotenes were estimated. Results. Microscopic analysis showed mostly native pollen identified as willow pollen. Beta-carotene identified and 2 carotenoids found by thin layer chromatography. Two zones of flavonoids found on chromatograms at day light and 6 zones at ultra violet light. The comparison of bee bread samples of 3 regions of Latvia showed insignificant differences in appearance and consistency, hydrogen ion concentration 3.93–4.23, loss on drying 7.72–11.07 %; content of carotenes calculated to bcarotene 6.77–9.35 mg%. Stability study of bee bread samples showed greater changes after storage at 40ºC temperature. All compositions of granules showed appropriate appearance and flowability. Quality of granules: loss on drying 5.48–13.5%, content of carotenes calculated to b-carotene 5.77–6.75 mg%. Conclusions. Pollen of willow can be considered as an indicator of the origin of bee bread in Latvia. Bee bread samples of three regions of Latvia have insignificant differences in physical, chemical parameters.
10 YEARS RESULTS OF SUTURE REPAIR FOR ISCHEMIC MITRAL REGURGITATION AND PREDICTORS OF RECURRENT MITRAL REGURGITATION
Authors: Uždavinytė-Gatelienė Eglė , Uždavinys Giedrius , Norkūnienė Jolita , Valaika Arūnas , Petrulionienė Žaneta , Kalinauskas Gintaras , Uždavinytė-Šemetienė Giedrė
Published: March 2015

Darbo tikslas. Įvertinti kombinuotos aortos vainikinių jungčių operacijos su mitralinio vožtuvo chirurgine korekcija siūlėmis operacijos rezultatus, nustatyti prognostinius atsinaujinusio >II° IMN žymenis. Medžiaga ir metodai. Retrospektyviai išanalizuoti 77 pacientų, kuriems Vilniaus širdies chirurgijos centre 2000–2007 metais altiktos kombinuotos aortos vainikinių arterijų ir plastinės mitralinio vožtuvo korekcijos siūlėmis operacijos, duomenys. Vertinti pacientų bendrieji klinikiniai duomenys, Niujorko širdies asociacijos funkcinė klasė, echokardiografinio tyrimo duomenys iki operacijos, po 1 metų, viduriniuoju (vid. stebėjimo laikas 34,5 ± 16,9 mėnesio) ir vėlyvuoju (vidutinis stebėjimo laikas 71,5 ± 27,6 mėnesio arba 5,96 ± 2,3 metų) laikotarpiais. Rezultatai. Išeminės kilmės mitralinio vožtuvo nesandarumas reikšmingai sumažėjo nuo 2,7 ± 0,40 prieš operaciją iki 1,38 ± 0,90 (p 0,001) vėlyvuoju laikotarpiu, kairiojo skilvelio išstūmimo frakcija kito nuo 31,74 proc. ± 8,71 iki 35,87 proc. ± 9,14 (p 0,001), Niujorko širdies asociacijos funkcinė klasė – nuo 3,55 ± 0,55 iki 2,61 ± 0,89 (p 0,001). Atsinaujinęs >II° išeminės kilmės mitralinio vožtuvo nesandarumas pastebėtas 25 proc. pacientų po 1 metų, 39,47 proc. – vėlyvuoju stebėjimo laikotarpiu. Grįžtama remodeliacija pastebima tik iki 1 metų po operacijos, o vėliau kairiojo skilvelio remodeliacija progresuoja, nepriklausomai nuo išeminės kilmės mitralinio vožtuvo nesandarumo korekcijos rezultatų. Bendras išgyvenamumas po 1 metų – 75,3 proc., po 5 metų – 42,85 proc., o po 10 metų – 27,3 proc. Atsinaujinęs reikšmingas >II° išeminės kilmės mitralinio vožtuvo nesandarumas sąlygoja 2,5 karto prastesnį išgyvenamumą. Skirtingos chirurginės mitralinio vožtuvo korekcijos siūlėmis technikos neįtakojo operacijos rezultatų, nepaisant priešoperacinių skirtumų tarp grupių. IMN korekcija Alfieri siūle gali būti saugiai ir efektyviai taikoma net labai aukštos rizikos pacientams. Prognostiniai reikšmingo atsinaujinusio >II° išeminės kilmės mitralinio vožtuvo nesandarumo žymenys prieš operaciją yra kairiojo skilvelio galinis diastolinis diametras (p = 0,046) ir kairiojo skilvelio išstūmimo frakcija (p = 0,016), o po 1 metų po operacijos – kairiojo skilvelio išstūmimo frakcija (p = 0,022) ir Niujorko širdies asociacijos funkcinė klasė (p = 0,028). Išvados. Išeminės kilmės mitralinio vožtuvo nesandarumo korekcijos siūlėmis rezultatai tiek artimu, tiek vėlyvuoju laikotarpiu geri: mažėjant vožtuvo nesandarumui (p 0,001), gerėjant kairiojo skilvelio išstūmimo frakcijai (p 0,001), kartu gerėja ir Niujorko širdies asociacijos funkcinė klasė (p 0,001), bet pastebimas didelis hospitalinis mirštamumas, prastas vėlyvas išgyvenamumas ir progresuojanti kairiojo skilvelio remodeliacija, nepriklausomai nuo išeminės kilmės mitralinio vožtuvo nesandarumo korekcijos rezultatų.
SOLID PSEUDOPAPILLARY TUMOUR OF THE PANCREAS: TWO CASE REPORTS AND LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Narušaitė Gintarė , Trainavičius Kęstutis
Published: March 2015

Pancreatic cancer is a very unusual neoplasm of childhood. Most pancreatic tumours do not secrete hormones and there are no signs or symptoms of the disease. Solid pseudopapillary tumour is a rare exocrine neoplasm of uncertain pathogenesis, which rarely metastasize and usually occurs in girls and young women, and extremely rarely in boys. Surgery is the treatment of choice. It depends on the pancreatic tumour localization. The prognosis and five-year survival rate is good. We report two solid pseudopapillary tumour of the pancreas cases, treatment solutions and a short literature review.
Cryptorchidism: current concepts
Authors: Bilius Vytautas , Biliuvienė Jolita , Jankauskienė Augustina , Verkauskas Gilvydas , Makevičius Jurijus , Klepšytė Evelina
Published: March 2015

Cryptorchism is a common anomaly of masculine genitalia affecting up to 5 % fullterm and up to 45 % preterm male newborns. The incidence of congenital cryptorchism is 1,1–1,4 % among infants aged 1 year and does not significantly change until adulthood. The process of normal testicular descent is divided into two stages mediated by androgens and other factors with involvment of various molecular mechanisms. Palpation remains the main diagnostic method but development of radiological techniques stimulates the research of optimal strategy of accurate diagnosis and the choice of treatment. The recommended age for surgical treatment has gradually decreased and approaches 6 to 9 months in many centres. Hormonal treatment of cryptorchidism is more controversial, but increasing evidence suggests the necessity of hormonal intervention for the prevention of complications of cryptorchidism such as infertility and testicular cancer.
The Stress Respond, Related To the Opioid Abstinence And Detoxification: literature review
Authors: Badaras Robertas , Dragelytė Gabija , Vaitekonytė Indrė , Ivaškevičius Juozas , Šipylaitė Jūratė
Published: March 2015

Materials and Methods. Published articles on the opioid abuse and methods of opioid detoxification were identified by searching medical databases, using corresponding literature and were also searched manually for applicable papers. The search was limited to articles published from 1985 through 2014. Results. Opioid dependence determine pathophysiologic changes in the dopaminergic pathways of the organism, as well as the alterations in the stress-responsive hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The usage of opioid antagonists in the early stages of withdrawal, can lead the effectiveness of opioid detoxification to 100%. Rapid opioid detoxification do not remove all the symptoms of abstinence. Negative aspects, concerning the procedure, while using prevention, can be reduced to the minimum risk. Rapid opioid detoxification, comparing it with Ultrarapid opioid detoxification procedure, diverges as less financial resources and a lower risk containing technique. Conclusions. Use of antagonists may reduce the duration of withdrawal, thus reducing the overall severity of withdrawal and increasing the chances of successful completion. This technique facilitates commencement of naltrexone treatment. Dosing regimens used in clinical trials vary. Subsequent results do not correlate with the methods of detoxification.
INCREASING EFFICIENCY OF THE STATE FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF CORE ENTERPRISES IN SINGLE INDUSTRY TOWNS
Authors: Ryakhovskaya A. N. , Кovan S. E. , Kryukova O. G. , Arsenova E. A.
Published: March 2015

Main threat to the state and society’s interests is not the bankruptcy of town-forming enterprises, as often considered, but their business destruction that leads to further production and economic activities being impossible to perform, existing business unit disintegration into constituent parts or liquidation. Taking certain measures to prevent threats of business destruction or enterprise insolvency depends on the level of financial stability risk. Depending on the enterprise financial state, the article suggests various strategies for realizing business sport measures.