bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost effectiveness of treatment with percutaneous Kirschner wires versus volar locking plate for adult patients with a dorsally displaced fracture of the distal radius
Authors: Tubeuf S. , Yu G. , Achten J. , Parsons N. R , Rangan A. , Lamb S. E. , Costa M. L.
Published: July 2015

We present an economic evaluation using data from the Distal Radius Acute Fracture Fixation Trial (DRAFFT) to compare the relative cost effectiveness of percutaneous Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation and volar locking-plate fixation for patients with dorsally-displaced fractures of the distal radius.

The cost effectiveness analysis (cost per quality-adjusted life year; QALY) was derived from a multi-centre, two-arm, parallel group, assessor-blind, randomised controlled trial which took place in 18 trauma centres in the United Kingdom. Data from 460 patients were available for analysis, which includes both a National Health Service cost perspective including costs of surgery, implants and healthcare resource use over a 12-month period after surgery, and a societal perspective, which includes the cost of time off work and the need for additional private care.

There was only a small difference in QALYs gained for patients treated with locking-plate fixation over those treated with K-wires. At a mean additional cost of £714 (95% confidence interval 588 to 865) per patient, locking-plate fixation presented an incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER) of £89 322 per QALY within the first 12 months of treatment. Sensitivity analyses were undertaken to assess the ICER of locking-plate fixation compared with K-wires. These were greater than £30 000.

Compared with locking-plate fixation, K-wire fixation is a ‘cost saving’ intervention, with similar health benefits.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1082–9.
The accuracy and safety of fluoroscopically guided percutaneous pedicle screws in the lumbosacral junction and the lumbar spine
Authors: Chiu C. K. , Kwan M. K. , Chan C. Y. W. , Schaefer C. , Hansen-Algenstaedt N.
Published: July 2015

We undertook a retrospective study investigating the accuracy and safety of percutaneous pedicle screws placed under fluoroscopic guidance in the lumbosacral junction and lumbar spine. The CT scans of patients were chosen from two centres: European patients from University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany, and Asian patients from the University of Malaya, Malaysia. Screw perforations were classified into grades 0, 1, 2 and 3. A total of 880 percutaneous pedicle screws from 203 patients were analysed: 614 screws from 144 European patients and 266 screws from 59 Asian patients. The mean age of the patients was 58.8 years (16 to 91) and there were 103 men and 100 women. The total rate of perforation was 9.9% (87 screws) with 7.4% grade 1, 2.0% grade 2 and 0.5% grade 3 perforations. The rate of perforation in Europeans was 10.4% and in Asians was 8.6%, with no significant difference between the two (p = 0.42). The rate of perforation was the highest in S1 (19.4%) followed by L5 (14.9%). The accuracy and safety of percutaneous pedicle screw placement are comparable to those cited in the literature for the open method of pedicle screw placement. Greater caution must be taken during the insertion of L5 and S1 percutaneous pedicle screws owing to their more angulated pedicles, the anatomical variations in their vertebral bodies and the morphology of the spinal canal at this location.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:1111–17.
Decreasing spine implant costs and inter-physician cost variation
Authors: Oren J. , Hutzler L. H. , Hunter T. , Errico T. , Zuckerman J. , Bosco J.
Published: July 2015

The demand for spinal surgery and its costs have both risen over the past decade. In 2008 the aggregate hospital bill for surgical care of all spinal procedures was reported to be $33.9 billion. One key driver of rising costs is spinal implants. In 2011 our institution implemented a cost containment programme for spinal implants which was designed to reduce the prices of individual spinal implants and to reduce the inter-surgeon variation in implant costs. Between February 2012 and January 2013, our spinal surgeons performed 1493 spinal procedures using implants from eight different vendors. By applying market analysis and implant cost data from the previous year, we established references prices for each individual type of spinal implant, regardless of vendor, who were required to meet these unit prices. We found that despite the complexity of spinal surgery and the initial reluctance of vendors to reduce prices, significant savings were made to the medical centre.

Cite this article: 2015; 97-B:1102–5.
Function of the extensor mechanism of the knee after using the ‘patellar-loop technique’ to reconstruct the patellar tendon when replacing the proximal tibia for tumour
Authors: Pilge H. , Holzapfel B. M. , Rechl H. , Prodinger P. M. , Lampe R. , Saur U. , Eisenhart-Rothe R. , Gollwitzer H.
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was to analyse the gait pattern, muscle force and functional outcome of patients who had undergone replacement of the proximal tibia for tumour and alloplastic reconstruction of the extensor mechanism using the patellar-loop technique.

Between February 1998 and December 2009, we carried out wide local excision of a primary sarcoma of the proximal tibia, proximal tibial replacement and reconstruction of the extensor mechanism using the patellar-loop technique in 18 patients. Of these, nine were available for evaluation after a mean of 11.6 years (0.5 to 21.6). The strength of the knee extensors was measured using an Isobex machine and gait analysis was undertaken in our gait assessment laboratory. Functional outcome was assessed using the American Knee Society (AKS) and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scores.

The gait pattern of the patients differed in ground contact time, flexion heel strike, maximal flexion loading response and total sagittal plane excursion. The mean maximum active flexion was 91° (30° to 110°). The overall mean extensor lag was 1° (0° to 5°). The mean extensor muscle strength was 25.8% (8.3% to 90.3%) of that in the non-operated leg (p < 0.001). The mean functional scores were 68.7% (43.4% to 83.3%) (MSTS) and 71.1 (30 to 90) (AKS functional score).

In summary, the results show that reconstruction of the extensor mechanism using this technique gives good biomechanical and functional results. The patients’ gait pattern is close to normal, except for a somewhat stiff knee gait pattern. The strength of the extensor mechanism is reduced, but sufficient for walking.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1063–9.
Reconstruction of chronic abductor deficiency after revision hip arthroplasty using an extensor mechanism allograft
Authors: Drexler M. , Abolghasemian M. , Kuzyk P. R. , Dwyer T. , Kosashvili Y. , Backstein D. , Gross A. E. , Safir O.
Published: July 2015

This study reports the clinical outcome of reconstruction of deficient abductor muscles following revision total hip arthroplasty (THA), using a fresh–frozen allograft of the extensor mechanism of the knee. A retrospective analysis was conducted of 11 consecutive patients with a severe limp because of abductor deficiency which was confirmed on MRI scans. The mean age of the patients (three men and eight women) was 66.7 years (52 to 84), with a mean follow-up of 33 months (24 to 41).

Following surgery, two patients had no limp, seven had a mild limp, and two had a persistent severe limp (p = 0.004). The mean power of the abductors improved on the Medical Research Council scale from 2.15 to 3.8 (p < 0.001). Pre-operatively, all patients required a stick or walking frame; post-operatively, four patients were able to walk without an aid. Overall, nine patients had severe or moderate pain pre-operatively; ten patients had no or mild pain post-operatively.

At final review, the Harris hip score was good in five patients, fair in two and poor in four.

We conclude that using an extensor mechanism allograft is relatively effective in the treatment of chronic abductor deficiency of the hip after THA when techniques such as local tissue transfer are not possible.

Longer-term follow-up is necessary before the technique can be broadly applied.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1050–5.
Potential Use of Native Fungi for Value-Added Spalting in Chile
Authors: Galleguillos Felipe , Hernández Vicente A. , Hernández Victor , Palfner Goetz , Figueroa Fabian , Robinson Sara C.
Published: July 2015

Chile is host to several types of temperate forests, many of which are plantations of moderate- to low-value woods. In an effort to explore potential methods of adding value to radiata pine and southern beech, these woods were inoculated with native Chilean fungi to determine if spalting could be induced under a reasonable time frame. Results showed that pine spalted more readily than beech, both internally and externally. Ophiostoma sp. and Phialocephala sp. performed the best in terms of spalting. In addition, a new red-staining fungus was discovered: Eurotium sp. Both wood species did show some level of spalting, and all the captured fungi produced some visual effects. It is concluded that two of the major plantation trees of Chile, radiata pine and southern beech, are suitable for controlled spalting and that native Chilean fungi can be used for this process. These results open a new method for increasing the value of Chilean plantation timber and can be done entirely on a local scale, without reliance on materials or organisms from North America.
Design Without Final Goals: Getting Around Our Bounded
Rationality
Authors: Chua Jude
Published: July 2015

Herbert Simon’s theory of design welcomes those unintended consequences
of one’s original design intention, with a view to integrating them as new
final goals of one’s design. Seen this way, design and design education has
the powerful potential to broaden human preferences and unconceal new
cultures, like a kind of liberal education. The basis of such an account of
design is in the recognition of our rationality’s boundedness and with that,
the need to search for what we cannot too easily know – an idea for which he
acknowledges a depth to James March. Indeed, March’s own writings
instantiate the same insight that we need to find strategic ways of
exploring and searching for ideas that we are often blind to because of our
cognitive limitations. Yet Simon’s attentiveness to bounded rationality and
the need for searching discovery is equally, if not more, indebted to Ludwig
von Mises and F A Hayek. Hayek’s ideas critical of Cartesian constructivism
and the need to appreciate institutions such as the free market which are
the result of human action rather than design parallels many aspects of
Simon’s theory of design without final goals. All three thinkers, Simon,
March and Hayek, were painfully cognizant of the fact that human beings are
not as smart as they think they are, and that we had to design strategies
for outsmarting ourselves.
Mads Nygaard Folkmann: The Aesthetics of Imagination in Design
Authors: Vihma Susann
Published: July 2015

By Susann Vihma, Professor emerita, Aalto University
Sucrose and Cytokinin Interactions in Relation to Ethylene and Abscisic Acid Production in the Regulation of Morphogenesis in Pelargonium × hortorum L.H. Bailey In Vitro
Authors: Wojtania Agnieszka , Węgrzynowicz-Lesiak Elżbieta , Dziurka Michał , Waligórski Piotr
Published: July 2015

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of exogenous sucrose and cytokinin on ethylene production and responsiveness in relation to the shoot formation of Pelargonium × hortorum ‘Bergpalais’ in vitro. Increasing the concentration of sucrose from 15 to 40 g L−1 in medium containing meta-topolin (mT) resulted in a two-fold decrease in the number of shoots and leaves as well as a reduction in ethylene production. The addition of ethylene synthesis inhibitor (AVG) to mT-medium significantly reduced the ethylene production and the shoot growth, but it had no significant influence on the shoot formation. The mT-induced shoot formation was, however, significantly reduced in the presence of ethylene action inhibitor (AgNO3), in a manner dependent on sucrose levels. At the end of the subculture period, increased sucrose concentrations (15–40 g L−1) in the presence of mT and AgNO3 resulted in a 3.7-fold increase in ethylene emission. At the same time, the supply of sucrose caused a 2.8-fold increase in the level of endogenous abscisic acid (ABA). Our results may suggest that the inhibitory effect of high sucrose concentration (30 and 40 g L−1) may depend on its influence on ethylene sensitivity. It also suggests that sucrose-regulation of the shoot formation of Pelargonium in vitro is mediated by ABA.
Equity Market Reaction to Sharp Price Changes: Evidence from Poland
Authors: Rezvanian Rasoul , Krysiak Zbigniew , Klaczynska Ewelina
Published: July 2015

We examine investors’ reaction to sharp price changes using two equity market indices in Poland: WIG and WIG20. Using daily market returns for the two indices from April 1991 and April 1994 to November 2012, we identify the event days as the days where market indices exhibited positive or negative daily price changes of 3 percent or more as well as two and three standard deviations from the mean of the market returns. By following the market behaviour through price trend for 30 days after the event days, two conclusions can be reached: (a) The arrival of unexpected news that cause sharp price changes impacts volatility of market indices, and (b) the subsequent price adjustments after the initial sharp price changes take an upward corrective pattern only after the initial negative price changes, but not after positive price changes.
Contribution to the Research of Sustainable Tourism Development Concept in the Example of Istria (Croatia)
Authors: Ružić Pavlo , Demonja Damir
Published: July 2015

Tourism is a phenomenon which affects the entire economic and social life, and the implications of its development can be observed in different spheres (economic, psychological, behavioral, and others). Taking into account the simplistic interpretation of the economic development of tourism on the one hand, and social development of tourism on the other hand, it is justified to highlight the problem of so-called “social costs of tourism” as the need for more precise determination of the character of the consequences of its development. In the field of “social costs of tourism” there is a need to the overall tourist development closer approaches and with increased responsibility. This tendency is particularly noticeable in the last decades of the 20th and the early 21st century, when tourism has entered a phase of maturity, which basically requires a change in its interpretation and treatment. The aim of this paper is to identify, evaluate and predict factors that support the sustainable development of tourism in Istria (Croatia). The research used comparative and SWOT analysis, and the results of the research will confirm the application elements of the concept of sustainable development in tourism of Istria, which is introduced with different intensity activities of all stakeholders in the surroundings.
The Influence of the Banking Sector Functions on Economic Activity in Macedonia
Authors: Naumovska Elena , Jovanovski Kiril , Gockov Gorgji
Published: July 2015

The subject of this paper is the way in which the banking sector in Macedonia contributes to the economic growth by performing five basic functions: savings mobilization, risk diversification, resource allocation, corporate control and easing exchange. The basic purpose of this paper is, through assessment of the relative importance of each of the functions of the banking sector and analysis of the relationship existing between the banking sector intermediation and economic growth (as measured by GDP) to investigate the impact of the banking sector on the real sector performance in the Macedonia. According to the obtained results the paper provides conclusions for opportunities and directions for increasing the efficiency of the banking sector in the Republic of Macedonia.
Effects of Tourism Seasonality at Local Level
Authors: Petrevska Biljana
Published: July 2015

The paper underlines the importance of identifying seasonality effects over tourism development. The study applies a simple test for examining the presence of seasonality in tourism demand in the line of exploring its concentration and strength at local level. The investigation is covered by calculating some commonly applied indicators for measuring tourism seasonality, like Gini coefficient, Seasonality Indicator and Coefficient of Variation. The data set addresses the total tourist arrivals between 2000-2013 and elaborates the case of Ohrid, as the most famous tourist destination in Macedonia. The research results point to high level of tourism seasonality with significant flow distribution to tourism development. Finally, the study may serve as a base for identifying measures and activities necessary for creating comprehensive local and regional tourism policy.
Model Of Eco-Efficiency Assessment Of Mining Production Processes
Authors: Czaplicka-Kolarz Krystyna , Burchart-Korol Dorota , Turek Marian , Borkowski Wojciech
Published: July 2015

The paper presents an author’s method of eco-efficiency assessment of mining production processes in hard coal mines, which enables integrating results of evaluating both environmental and economic aspects. The proposed method uses life cycle approach to assess environmental efficiency and the result of operating activities to assess economic efficiency. The comprehensive method of assessing mining production processes was proposed as the Key Performance Indicator (KPI) in hard coal mines in Poland to be used to support decision making in mining companies.
Post-Critical Mechanical Properties Of Sedimentary Rocks In The Upper Silesian Coal Basin (Poland)
Authors: Bukowska Mirosława
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we present the results of a study of the Upper Carboniferous sedimentary rocks of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin (USCB) in Poland. We examined the hard coals, which belong to various stratigraphic units of Upper Carboniferous coal-bearing strata, and waste rocks, i.e., sandstones, mudstones, claystones. We present the results of tests of their post-critical mechanical properties. These results are from tests of the post-critical modulus, residual stress and residual deformation from experiments using a servo-controlled testing machine (MTS) with uniaxial compression and conventional triaxial compression. We applied confining pressures of up to 50 MPa at a strain rate of 10−5− 10−1s−1(0.003-6.0 mm/sec). The confining pressure applied in the triaxial compression tests reflected the conditions of current and future mining activities in the USCB at depths exceeding 1.300 metres. The strain rate applied in the tests reflected the values observed in the rockmass surrounding the mine workings and the rate of certain geodynamic phenomena occurring in the Carboniferous rockmass in the USCB, e.g., rock bursts. We present the values of the sub-critical modulus of coals and waste rocks, the functional relationships between the post-critical modulus and uniaxial compression strength, which are described using an exponential function of high correlation coefficients of the given rocks, and an exponential relationship between the post-critical modulus and the longitudinal elasticity modulus (Young’s modulus). Based on the results of tests of the post-critical properties of the Carboniferous rocks under triaxial compression and at various strain rates, we devised the functional relationships between the properties of the rocks and the confining pressure. The dependence of the post-critical modulus of the sandstones and claystones on the confining pressure is described using a polynomial function of degree 2, and that of the coals is described using an exponential function. The relationship between the residual stress and residual deformation in the rocks and the confining pressure was described using a linear function. The obtained results of tests have a practical application in forecasting behaviour of rocks located deep, and designing safe exploitation of mineral deposits. Confining pressures of up to 50 MPa used in the conventional triaxial compression tests allowed us to predict the behaviour of the rock mass at large depths. These data provide general knowledge of the tendencies in behaviour of rocks at substantial depths and the ability to design safe methods of mining deposits of various raw materials, including energy sources. These deposits are mined from increasingly great depths as the reserves are gradually exhausted and collieries of the largest European coal basins are continuously reconfigured.
Changes In Cross-Sectional Area Of Gateroads In Longwalls With Roof Caving, Ventilated With “U” And “Y” Systems
Authors: Prusek Stanisław
Published: July 2015

Content: In the paper results of measurements of underground gateroad deformations are presented. The measurements were conducted in seven collieries in the Upper Silesian Coal Basin. Altogether 28 gateroads were analysed:12 longwalls with „Y“ and 4 longwalls with „U“ ventilation system. Based on results of measurements, changes in cross-sectional area of gateroads were calculated and then referred to their original dimensions (when they were developed). Values of cross-sectional area of gateroads in front of and behind the longwall face are presented. Differences in deformation of gateroads in longwalls with the “U” ventilation system, surrounded by unmined coal, and/or goaf on one side were determined. Changes in cross-sectional area of reused gateroads, and newly driven ones (with a coal pillar separating the goaf from the working), were estimated. For gateroads of the longwalls with “Y” ventilation system their deformations at a distance of 200 metres behind the longwall face was determined. For selected gateroads their convergence was calculated with numerical modeling and a method developed at GIG. Calculations were made with Phase2 software based on the finite element method (FEM). Accuracy of forecasted gateroad deformations were assessed through comparing them with the results of underground measurements.
Safety Problem Of Cavity Under Open Pit Bench
Authors: Liu Xiling , Li Xibing , Gong Fengqiang , Liu Kewei
Published: July 2015

Some open pits in China are severely threatened by hidden cavities under benches which are always inaccessible and unmapped. The first thing to be well considered is safe and precise cavity detection, as the conventional detection methods cannot output a clear cavity vision, a three-dimensional laser measurement system is employed to perform detection, which is deployed from the surface through boreholes. The results from the scanner demonstrated very well the detailed level of information that can be collected in a cavity using this method, with the cavities’ layout under various benches being fully mapped. As detected cavities are always in horizontal and vaulted roof shape, two different theoretical calculation methods are proposed to analyze the cap rock stability for different roof shape. And also, the three-dimensional solid model generated through scanned laser data is used for stability numerical simulation by converting the data format into the one that recognized in corresponding software. Furthermore, acoustic emission technique is adopted to carry out long term real time rupture monitoring in cap rock, and four kinds of typical monitoring results are discussed which represent the rupture behavior in cap rock of unstable cavity, stable cavity, cavity with large working drill above and cavity beside explosion site. Thus, a complete safety evaluation system for such cavity will be established to ensure safe operation above.
Evaluation Of Load Capacity Of Shaft Collar Subject To Unintended Exceptional Loads
Authors: Wałach Daniel , Dybeł Piotr , Cała Marek , Jaskowska-Lemańska Justyna
Published: July 2015

The article presents an evaluation of the technical conditions of the shaft collar as well as its load capacity in which the consequences of uncontrolled displacement of part of the ventilation drift could have caused additional stress to occur. On the basis of comprehensive diagnostic examination undertaken by the authors, a comprehensive analysis of the static resistance of the shaft collar, which takes into consideration the exceptional unintended load. Examinations as well as calculations carried out have allowed for the evaluation of the practical degree of danger for shaft objects (constructions) as well as their infrastructure.
Evaluation of Bacillus subtilis and Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic supplementation on reproductive performance and noxious gas emission in sows
Authors: Jeong Jinsuk , Kim Jongkeun , Lee Sangin , Kim Inho
Published: July 2015

The impacts of probiotics supplementation on reproduction performance and noxious gas emission in sows was evaluated in an experiment with a total of thirty sows (second-parity), from 4 weeks prior to farrowing, to day 21 of lactation. The gestation and lactation diets of sows were supplemented with probiotics containing Bacillus subtilis (1.2 × 107 cfu/g) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (1.15 × 106 cfu/g). Treatment included: basal diet (CON), basal diet + 0.1% probiotics (PB0.1), and basal diet + 0.2% probiotics (PB0.2). The supplementation of dietary probiotics significantly improved average daily feed intake during the lactation period (quadratic, P = 0.0429), sow backfat thickness during the weaning period (linear, P = 0.0385), and initial body weight of piglets (linear, P = 0.0054) as compared with CON, respectively. Furthermore, the supplementation of dietary probiotics reduced noxious gas emission as compared with CON (linear, P<0.05 for day 5 and day 10), respectively. In conclusion, dietary probiotics containing B. subtilis and L. acidophilus improved the growth performance of sows, resulted in increased weaning body weight of piglets, and induced an effective and significant reduction in fecal noxious gas emission in lactating sows, as compared with CON.
Some biological data on cactus roach, Rutilus virgo (Heckel), in rivers of the Transcarpathian region of Ukraine
Authors: Talabishka Evgeniy , Didenko Alexander , Velykopolskiy Igor
Published: July 2015

The occurrence of Rutilus virgo (Heckel) has been confirmed in the Transcarpathian region of Ukraine, where it was caught in the lower stretches of the Latorica and Borzhava rivers. The comparison of selected morphometric features of R. rutilus and R. virgo showed that 26 of 40 of them were significantly different and the largest differences were observed for features such as head length, maximum body depth, pectoral fin length, pectoral fin thickness, pelvic fin length, head depth at eye level, maximum head depth, and preorbital length. The comparison of R. virgo of two size groups showed a number of changes in fish body proportions during fish growth, where 29 of 38 features were different. Length-weight relationship for mixed sexes was a = 0.0157, b = 3.088. The fecundity of R. virgo depended on age and varied from 6775 eggs (age 4+) to 51535 eggs (age 8+). R. virgo inhabiting the rivers of the Transcarpathian region is characterized by relatively rapid growth rate, and the results are within growth rate limits reported in the literature.
Effects of vitamins E and Riboflavin (B2) and combinations of them on the hematological parameters of common carp, Cyprinus carpio L., fingerlings
Authors: Sharifzadeh Seyedeh Atefeh , Khara Hossein , Ghobadi Shayan
Published: July 2015

In the present study, the effects of vitamins E, B2 and combinations of them on hematological parameters of common carp, Cyprinus carpio L., were investigated during a 56-day experiment. The various dietary levels of vitamins E, B2 and their combination were used as experimental treatments, as follows: T1: vitamin E (80 mg), T2: vitamin E (160 mg kg diet-1), T3: vitamin E (240 mg kg diet-1), T4: vitamin B2 (7 mg kg diet-1), T5: vitamin B2 (15 mg kg diet-1), T6: vitamin B2 (20 mg kg diet-1), T7: vitamin E (80 mg kg diet-1) + vitamin B2 (7 mg kg diet-1), T8: vitamin E (160 mg kg diet-1) + vitamin B2 (15 mg kg diet-1), T9: vitamin E (240 mg kg diet-1) + vitamin B2 (20 mg kg diet-1). One group not given vitamin supplements was the control. The values of red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) were higher in T7 than in the other experimental treatments. The values of white blood cells (WBC) were higher in T2 than in the other treatments. The concentration of immunoglobulin (IgM) was also lower in T10 than in the other experimental treatments. The highest values of mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were observed in T2. No significant differences were noted among experimental groups in the values of mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). This study showed that vitamin E and B2 supplements alter the hematological parameters of common carp.
Infective Endocarditis – An Observational Study
Authors: Tilea Brindusa , Teches Simona , Voidazan S. , Brinzaniuc Klara , Tilea I.
Published: July 2015

Introduction: Despite all the progresses made in the management of infectious and cardiovascular diseases, the incidence of infective endocarditis remains high. Aim: the assessment of etiological, clinical, therapeutic aspects in patients with endocarditis.

Material and method: A retrospective observational study in 40 patients with infective endocarditis was conducted, over a period of 5 years. Parameters related to demographic, risk factors, clinical aspects, nature and location of valve damage, bacteriological and therapeutic parameters were assessed. Echocardiography was used to confirm the location of the endocarditis; the aetiology of the disease was identified through the isolation of bacteria from blood cultures by using an automatic BacT/ALERT® system.

Results: Patients’ age ranged between 31 - 84 years old. The disease was present predominantly in male patients (67.5%). 70% of the patients were positively diagnosed with endocarditis and 30% with possible endocarditis; the most frequent localization was the native valves in 75% of the cases, compared to the localization in the prosthetic valves, 25%; the aortic valve was involved in 60% of the cases, mitral valve in 40% of the patients. Aetiology of endocarditis was confirmed in 55% of cases as follows: Enterococcus fecalis, speciae, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus gallolyticus, coagulase-positive methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, coagulasepositive methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus lungdunensis, coagulase-negative staphylococci, Streptococcus gordonii, viridans, agalactiae.

Antibiotic treatment was administered according to the antibiogram in 55% of the cases. Conclusions: Staphylococcus speciae was the most frequent etiologic agent both in case of native and prosthetic valve endocarditis, with aortic valve predominance.
Nuclear morphometric study of prostatic atrophy
Authors: Enciu Manuela , Aschie Mariana , Chisoi Anca , Poinareanu I. , Tuta Liliana Ana
Published: July 2015

The prostatic atrophy is a lesion with small glands that can mimic adenocarcinoma, commonly diagnosed in the elderly and whose preneoplastic role is controversial. Over time several classifications have been developed for this lesions according to its architectural and cellular aspects.

Materials and Methods: Aim of the study is morphometrically assessment of epithelial component nuclei in prostatic atrophy. We evaluated parameters represented by nuclear area (NA), nuclear perimeter P (μm) Elongation factor (E), average diameter (DEQ), maximum diameter (Dmax), Minim diameter (Dmin). The control group was represented by adenomatous hyperplasia component of benign hyperplasia of the prostate.

Results: Morphometric analysis revealed significantly higher values of nuclear parameters in atrophy compared with adenomatous component in controls (p <0.05) which can signify nucleomegaly and a potential preneoplastic role.
Effects of Wood Ash on the Chemical Properties of Soil and Crop Vitality in Small Plot Experiments/ Fahamu hatása a talaj kémiai jellemzőire és a termény vitalitására egy kisparcellás kísérletben
Authors: Füzesi István , Heil Bálint , Kovács Gábor
Published: July 2015

Wood-burning power plants and heating plants produce a great amount of wood ash as a by-product of the combustion process. In 2009 we launched an experiment in which we examined the composition of ash, the nutrient supplying capacity of soil mixed with ash, and the availability of its constituents. In the spring of 2010, we conducted small plot experiments using wood ash applications equivalent to 0; 1; 2.5; 5 and 10 t of wood ash/ha, on slightly acidic clay loam soil using white mustard and rye grass as the test plants. The pH value of the soil rose in a statistically verifiable way as a result of the ash treatments. After the application of ash, the P2O5 and K2O-content of the soil rose significantly; the treatments also increased the magnesium and sulphur content of the arable soil as well as the level of Zinc among the microelements. However, none of the wood ash applications caused verifiable changes in the number of shoots, in the green mass, or in the height of test plants. The increased nutrient supply of the soil through the treatments was not reflected in the nutrient content of the plants during the first year.
A geography graduate’s transition into the labour market in Poland: a quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the process
Authors: Piróg Danuta
Published: July 2015

Transition, i.e. the education-to-work shift, is considered one of the most important processes in human life. The characteristics of transition hinge on, first of all, the labour market situation, the economic climate in the region, the educational services market and the aspirations of society. Virtually unlimited access to education at an academic level and the growing appetite of young people for degrees have resulted in a rapid increase in the number of university graduates. Consequently, there has been a high supply of employees with university degrees. However, the speed and type of transition among recent graduates is one of the least investigated processes on the labour market in Poland.

The article presents the results of a survey on how Polish geographers enter the job market. The study compares geographers’ professional qualifications, aspirations and plans about their future job at the time of graduation with the actual fulfilment of those plans six months later. Quantitative analysis of the process shows that half the graduates have succeeded in finding employment. Qualitative analysis of the type of jobs shows that the university-to-work transition was unsatisfactory in many respects. For example, the new position was unlikely to require the graduates to use the competences acquired during the course of study, the job offered limited career development opportunities and had a low remuneration. All the above raise concerns regarding the limited opportunity for successful transition and the respondents’ low satisfaction level.
Restructuring the geography of domestic tourism in South Africa
Authors: Rogerson Christian M.
Published: July 2015

Domestic tourism is relatively under-represented in tourism scholarship. This article attempts to analyse the role of domestic tourism in one of the ‘emerging world regions’ of tourism. In the case of South Africa domestic tourism represents a significant element of the country’s tourism economy. The objectives are to provide (i) an analysis of the growth, contemporary spatial patterns and restructuring of domestic tourism in South Africa; and (ii) an assessment of emerging policy debates issues taking place about domestic tourism. Using a detailed local level data base on tourism flows this paper provides fresh insight into the character and changing geography of domestic tourism in South Africa. The nature and dynamics of domestic tourism are shown to have shifted since democratic transition. The restructured geography of domestic tourism exhibits a number of continuities and changes with earlier times. Government is seeking to use domestic tourism as a basis for addressing spatial unevenness in patterns of tourism development. In terms of recent spatial change it is revealed the most significant developments are the strengthening of Ethekwini as the country’s leading domestic tourism destination and the relative demise of Cape Town as a hub for domestic tourists.
Diatoms in an extreme euxinic environment (Rogoznica Lake, eastern Adriatic coast)
Authors: Malešević Nikola , Ciglenečki Irena , Bura-Nakić Elvira , Carić Marina , Dupčić Iris , Hrustić Enis , Viličić Damir , Ljubešić Zrinka
Published: July 2015

The Rogoznica Lake marine system is a small, karstic, naturally eutrophic and euxinic marine environment. Abundance and temporal distribution of phytoplankton was investigated in relation to environmental conditions in the period from 1998 to 2013. The 36 determined diatoms contributed 90% of the total phytoplankton abundance. The diatom composition is characterized by low species diversity and high single species abundance (up to 107 cells L-1). There were, on average, 2.6 diatom species per sample (maximum 14 diatom species per sample) reflecting extreme environmental conditions. Dominant diatoms Thalassionema nitzschioides, Cyclotella choctawhatcheeana, Dactyliosolen fragilissimus and Chaetoceros curvisetus occurred repeatedly and were alternately dominant in the lake during the whole research period. Some diatoms were dominant only in limited period, like Cyclotella choctawhatcheeana (evident since 2001), and Pseudo-nitzschia spp. (evident in the period 2002 to 2009). It appears that the interplay of environmental conditions such as variability in thermohaline and redox conditions, nutrient and reduced sulphur concentration influence the phytoplankton development and abundance in the lake.
Organizational, Design and Technology Issues in the Process of Protection of Underground Historic Monuments/ Probelmy Organizacyjne, Projektowe I Technologiczne W Procesie Zabezpieczania Zabytkowych Podziemi
Authors: Bartos Maciej , Chmura Janusz , Wieja Tomasz
Published: July 2015

Underground historic monuments constitute the immanent part of the cultural and natural heritage. Protecting and opening underground historic objects, as the investment aim, is a process of renewed actions taken in objects that are degraded or out of order, contributing to improvement of quality of life of residents, restoring new functions, reconstruction of social bonds. Underground historic buildings should be subjected to processes of protecting and revitalization. Determining the state of a given building and the adjustability of its spatial structure to introducing a new function or making it available to tourist purposes are the basis for these actions.
Renovation of Shaft Mining Building No. 2 in Kłodawa Salt Mine/ Renowacja Budynku Nadszybia Nr 2 Na Terenie Kopalni Soli “Kłodawa” S.A.
Authors: Błaszczyński Tomasz , Wielentejczyk Przemysław
Published: July 2015

The paper presents the renovation process of the shaft mining building No. 2 situated in the Kłodawa Salt Mine. A technical state of the facility required immediate reinforcement of structural elements, which was confirmed by expertise carried out by the authors. A lack of repairs could be the cause of building damage. The progress of corrosion in some steel profiles of columns or floors was very advanced. The state of the building was rapidly worsening due to the very high salinity of the indoor environment, moisture (building not insulated) and vibrating engines of machinery operating on different floors felt throughout the facility. After carrying out the technical expertise, working plans and specifications, and relevant numerical analysis, the modernization process was realized by the reinforcement or rebuilding of structural elements.
Selected Aspects of the Structural Analysis of the North Dome in the "Four Domes Pavilion"/ Wybrane Aspekty Analizy Konstrukcyjnej Kopuły Północnej W Pawilonie Czterech Kopuł
Authors: Jasieńko Jerzy , Raszczuk Krzysztof , Moczko Marta , Piechówka-Mielnik Magdalena
Published: July 2015

The subject of the paper is north dome of the Four Domes Pavilion in Wroclaw, which was erected according to the project by architect Hans Poelzig in 1913. The geometry of the dome (plan, rise, thickness) has an essential influence on the stress distribution in the structure and may be a crucial factor determining the cracking pattern. The results of the study of archival documents and numerical analysis indicate that there is a need for increasing the bearing capacity of the structure. After carrying out 3D FEM analysis, it was decided to apply strengthening technology based on the FRCM system with carbon and P.B.O. fibers on the surface and on the external ring of the dome.
Chemical Soil Degradation n the Area of the Głogów Copper Smelter Protective Forest/ Degradacja Ziemi Na Terenach Byłej Strefy Ochronnej Huty Miedzi Głogów
Authors: Kostecki Jakub , Greinert Andrzej , Drab Michał , Wasylewicz Róża , Walczak Barbara
Published: July 2015

Earth surface is under the continous influence of the environmental factors - both natural and anthropogenic. The significant impact on the environment can be noted in areas adjacent to the metal industry plants, in a consequence of pollutants emission, especially dusts containing the heavy metals, into the atmosphere,. In the surroundings of Głogów Copper Smelter (GCS) elevated amounts of copper and lead has been noted. In the soils of the test sites were found up to 5250 mg・kg-1 Cu and 1290 mg・kg-1 Pb. The forest litter contained 3.3-5.1 more Cu and 3.9-8.6 Pb than the humic horizon of the soil. Analyse of the different soils covering the GCS protective forest area let specify the stabilising role of particle size distribution, TOC content and the soil reaction to Cu and Pb migration in the environment.
Deposition of Nano Tungsten Oxide on Glass Mat Using Hot Filament Chemical Vapor Deposition for High Catalytic Activity
Authors: Shahidi Sheila , Jafari Azadeh , Sharifi Sanaz Dalal , Ghoranneviss Mahmood
Published: July 2015

Different properties of nanostructured materials such as physical, chemical and catalytic properties based on metal nanoparticles for various applications have been studied extensively on account of their attraction these days. Nanocrystalline tungsten oxide (WO2) can chemically break down adsorbed organic contaminants in sunlight. In this research work, a novel photocatalyst of WO2/glass mat nanocomposite has been prepared by hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) method, which is used for the degradation of dyestuff from dyes wastewater. Morphology of treated mat was observed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The amounts of tungsten oxide on glass mat were examined using the energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) method. Electrical surface resistivity was also measured. It is concluded that oxidant sedimentation has been done physically without any structural changes and increasing of reaction time led to an increase in deposition of tungsten oxide and finally led to a decrease in the electrical resistance of glass mat. The photocatalytic activities of tungsten-oxide-deposited glass mat were assessed by analyzing the decrease in concentration of the methylene blue (MB) as a colorant after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The MB concentration decreases continuously, concomitant with the UV irradiation time up to 240 min. The results show that the WO2/glass mat nanocomposite exhibits high photocatalytic activity and provides a good way in the degradation field of dyes wastewater.
Climate evolution during the Pleniglacial and Late Glacial as recorded in quartz grain morphoscopy of fluvial to aeolian successions of the European Sand Belt
Authors: Woronko Barbara , Zieliński Paweł , Sokołowski Robert Jan
Published: July 2015

We present results of research into fluvial to aeolian successions at four sites in the foreland of the Last Glacial Maximum, i.e., the central part of the “European Sand Belt”. These sites include dune fields on higher-lying river terraces and alluvial fans. Sediments were subjected to detailed lithofacies analyses and sampling for morphoscopic assessment of quartz grains. Based on these results, three units were identified in the sedimentary succession: fluvial, fluvio-aeolian and aeolian. Material with traces of aeolian origin predominate in these sediments and this enabled conclusions on the activity of aeolian processes during the Pleniglacial and Late Glacial, and the source of sediment supply to be drawn. Aeolian processes played a major role in the deposition of the lower portions of the fluvial and fluvio-aeolian units. Aeolian material in the fluvial unit stems from aeolian accumulation of fluvial sediments within the valley as well as particles transported by wind from beyond the valley. The fluvio-aeolian unit is composed mainly of fluvial sediments that were subject to multiple redeposition, and long-term, intensive processing in an aeolian environment. In spite of the asynchronous onset of deposition of the fluvio-aeolian unit, it is characterised by the greatest homogeneity of structural and textural characteristics. Although the aeolian unit was laid down simultaneously, it is typified by the widest range of variation in quartz morphoscopic traits. It reflects local factors, mainly the origin of the source material, rather than climate. The duration of dune-formation processes was too short to be reflected in the morphoscopy of quartz grains.
Transport conditions of mountain-surging glaciers as recorded in the micromorphology of quartz grains (Medvezhiy Glacier, West Pamir)
Authors: Muzińska Agnieszka
Published: July 2015

In order to reproduce the conditions under which sediments were transported in surging glaciers, samples were taken from the margin and foreland of the surge Medvezhiy Glacier situated in West Pamir (Tajikistan). They were subjected to an analysis of rounding and frosting of quartz sand grains (0.8-1.0 mm) and of grain surface micromorphology under scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results obtained showed intense chemical weathering occurred in the majority of quartz grain surfaces, marked in the form of etching and precipitation. Frequencies of microstructures of glacial origin were low; individual microstructures were visible on single grains. A predominance of the crushing process over abrasion in transformation of quartz grains was noted. The commonest microstructures connected with a surge-glacier environment were large and small conchoidal fractures. However, grains with primary features not connected with a glacial environment were equally common. The majority of the grains examined showed features of multiple cycles of mechanical and chemical weathering forming a microtexture under various conditions (overprinting). Common features of grains from surging glaciers are also breakage blocks of >10μm, which depend of the phase of separation of the grain from the rock or on thermal changes in the glacier’s foreland.
Coefficient Estimates and Quasi-Subordination Properties Associated with Certain Subclasses of Analytic and Bi-Univalent Functions
Authors: Goyal S. P. , Kumar Rakesh
Published: July 2015

In the present paper, we obtain the estimates on initial coefficients of normalized analytic function f in the open unit disk with f and its inverse g = f−1 satisfying the conditions that zf′(z)/f(z) and zg′(z)/g(z) are both quasi-subordinate to a univalent function whose range is symmetric with respect to the real axis. Several related classes of functions are also considered, and connections to earlier known results are established.
On the Existence of Solutions of Ordinary Differential Equations in Banach Spaces
Authors: Dutkiewicz Aldona
Published: July 2015

In this paper we prove an existence theorem for ordinary differential equations in Banach spaces. The main assumptions in our results, formulated in terms of the Kuratowski measure of noncompactness, are motivated by the paper [CONSTANTIN, A.: On Nagumo’s theorem, Proc. Japan Acad. Ser. A Math. Sci. 86 (2010), 41-44].